What is the difference between thermal transfer and direct thermal labels?

Thermal labels are printed using thermal printers that apply heat to produce text/an image. There are two different types of thermal labels, thermal transfer and direct thermal. Their similar names make it easy to confuse the two, and often it can be unclear which one would be best suited to your needs. Luckily, we're here to help - Let's break down the differences between the two and what they are best suited for!

Direct thermal labels are chemically treated to make them heat reactive. When the label passes through a direct thermal printer, the printhead applies heat directly to the label. The image or text on the label is created by the label blackening where heated. The upside to this method is that its very cost effective, as it does not require ink or printer ribbons. This also has the benefit of making direct thermal label printers very simple to operate. However, the label's reactive properties mean that they only have a short life span once printed as they will fade with exposure to heat or UV light. They are only suitable for use in applications where labels don't require durability and will not be exposed to the elements.

Direct thermal labels are a great choice for applications such as:

• Shipping labels
• Short term retail pricing labels

Thermal transfer labels are passed through a printhead that applies heat to a printer ribbon which produces an image onto the label. The ink absorbs into the label creating a long-lasting result, on a wide range of label finishes. The quality of the print is sharper than direct thermal, maximising readability and scannability for barcodes. Their more durable printing method makes them suitable for applications where the labels will be exposed to the elements (including moisture) and for labels that need to last longer than six months. The downside of using thermal transfer labels is the ongoing cost of purchasing additional printer ribbon, however thermal transfer printheads will last longer than direct thermal printheads.

Thermal transfer labels are a great choice for applications such as:

• Product packaging labels
• Inventory labels
• Asset labels
• Indoor/outdoor signage
• Long term high density barcodes
• Laboratory specimen labels
• Cold or freezer storage labels

In summary, thermal transfer and direct thermal labels both have their pros and cons, and it's important to understand the conditions in which you plan to use them to know which one is the best choice for you. A good rule of thumb is that if a label will have a short usage life direct thermal is your go-to. And if a label needs to last or have durability against the elements, thermal transfer is your go-to. 

Cohesion Labels is a local Western 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!