Tips & info

What is the difference between wax, wax/resin and resin thermal transfer ribbon?

Choosing the right thermal transfer ribbon is crucial in ensuring the success of your labels!

Cohesion Labels
May 3, 2023

A thermal transfer ribbon (TTR) is a roll of film that has an ink coating on one side, for use in a thermal printer. The ink is transferred by heat from the thermal printer to produce images or text. This easy and straightforward method of printing is a great choice for overprinting variable data onto your labels, however it's important to select the right type of TTR for your application. This will ensure your printed data will have the required durability and longevity for the conditions it will be exposed to.

Let's look at the differences between wax/resin and resin TTR, and their suitable applications:

  WAX TTR WAX/RESIN TTR RESIN TTR
MATERIAL
  • Carbon and wax
  • Carbon, wax and resin
  • Carbon and resin
FEATURES
  • Lowest priced
  • Least durable option.
  • Low smudge, scratch, temperature, UV and chemical resistance.
  • Low heat setting can be used due to the high ratio of wax within this formulation. 
  • Suitable for labels that are for short term use.
  • A high print speed can be used.
  • Moderately priced.
  • Can withstand moderate temperature changes.
  • Moderate resistance to scratching, smudging, moisture, and UV fading.
  • Requires a moderate heat setting.
  • Suitable for labels that require a long lifespan NOT exposed to extremely harsh conditions.
  • Require a moderate print speed.
  • More costly (as it's the more durable option).
  • Highly resistant to scratching, smudging, chemicals, moisture, temperature change, and UV fading. 
  • Requires a high heat setting.
  • Long lifespan in harsh conditions, and highly durable.
  • Require a low print speed.
COMMON APPLICATIONS
  • Shipping labels
  • Retail labels and tags
  • Warehouse inventory labelling
  • Barcodes
  • Product labelling (expiry/best before dates)
  • Warehouse inventory labelling
  • Retail price tagging
  • Shipping/logistics labelling
  • Barcodes
  • Product labelling (expiry/best before dates)
  • Warehouse inventory labelling
  • Outdoor labelling that will be exposed to the elements
  • Pharmaceutical labels
  • Chemical packaging labels
  • Medical device labelling
SUITABLE LABEL SUBSTRATE PAIRINGS
  • Uncoated paper stocks
  • Semi-gloss paper labels
  • Synthetic PP and PE labels
  • Coated and uncoated paper stocks
  • Semi-gloss paper labels
  • Synthetic PE and PP labels
  • Polyester labels
  • High gloss labels

It can be difficult to choose your label substrate, printing methods, and materials with confidence - That's where we come in as experienced label manufacturers! If you're interested in refining your thermal transfer printing or need further labelling advice, reach out to us for a chat.


Cohesion Labels is a local Australian label manufacturer you can trust. We might be almost 100 years old, but we’re young at heart! As one of Australia’s most experienced label producers, we combine a history that stretches back to 1925 with the industry’s most modern and innovative mindset. Get in touch with us for a quote - We'd love to see how we could make labelling easy for you!

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