How to Choose Thermal Ribbon for Your Label Printer

Pairing the correct Ribbon and Label Roll is crucial to avoid buying incompatible products for your printer and to avoid issues such as the print scratching off easily. This guide explains our recommended Label Roll and Thermal Ribbon pairings for different applications, helping you choose the most suitable option for your business.

Note: This cheat sheet is for Thermal Transfer Printers. Direct Thermal Printers do not require ribbon. For Direct Thermal labels, see here.

What Ribbon Types Are There?

There are 3 types of Thermal Ribbon to choose from. 

• Wax Ribbon
• Wax Resin Ribbon [combination of wax and resin]
• Resin Ribbon

Wax is the most budget friendly, Resin is the highest print durability and Wax Resin is a versatile middle ground.

Important Tip: When choosing ribbon for your printer always make sure the width of the ribbon is wider than the width of your labels.

Thermal Transfer Ribbons For Indoor Use

Thermal Transfer labels made of paper typically last several years in indoor environments when paired with Wax Resin Ribbon. A resin ribbon is usually not necessary for paper labels.

Ribbons compatible with Desktop Printers

Paper Labels + Wax/Resin Thermal Ribbon: TTRCW11074, TTRPWR104300CSO, TTRPWR80300CSO or TTRPWR50300CSO.

Ribbons compatible with Industrial Printers

Paper Labels + Wax/Resin Thermal Ribbon: TTRPWR104300CSO, TTRPWR80300CSO or TTRPWR50300CSO.

Thermal Transfer Ribbons For Outdoor Use

Labels for outdoor use need to be water and heat resistant to last. Choosing a Synthetic label is ideal as they are waterproof - suitable for demanding outdoor environments. Pairing these with a Premium Resin Ribbon will provide maximum resistance to sunlight and heat in the long term.

Ribbons compatible with Desktop Printers

Synthetic Labels + Premium Resin Ribbon: TTRCR11070, TTRR104300CSO or TTRR60300CSO.

Ribbons compatible with Industrial Printers

Synthetic Labels + Premium Resin Ribbon TTRR104300CSO or TTRR60300CSO.

For a no fuss solution with everything included, have a look at our Printer Bundles.

Further Information

Our dedicated sales team at Barcodes Group has years of experience in label printing solutions. For help pairing labels and ribbon for your printing needs, contact us on 1300 800 999 to speak with one of our team members.