Thermal CD DVD Label Printer - Good Option for Text and Simple Graphics

If you're going for simple graphics and text-heavy labels, then a thermal CD DVD thermal printer is a good option to consider.

What are the pros and cons of a thermal CD DVD label printer?

They're a very good choice if you want to print relatively simple graphics, logos and lots of text. They also give a very hard-wearing finish.

But you won't get the sort of photographic results that you will from an inkjet DVD printer, because they don't handle colors well, can only create tones by dithering, and use a relatively low print resolution.

Thermal CD DVD label printers use heat to transfer information via a thin ribbon that runs between the disc and the print head. Their production costs are lower than inkjet label printers when printing one or two colors, and about the same as an inkjet when in full color mode.

Once you get into full color thermal label printers you are into the area of the professional producers. Higher volume machines start at about $4000 and climb steadily as you look for greater speed and throughput.

Two close cousins of the color thermal label printers are thermal re-transfer and dye sublimation, but these technologies require substantial initial investment and are best left to the professional disc duplication companies.

Low Volume Thermal CD DVD Label Printers

For the low volume user, here are some options to weigh up.

CD Dimensions Discprinter

Prints text and graphics and has four color print options available; uses technology inherited from high-volume industrial units.

Comes complete with Stampa software and one black cartridge; other colors available are red, green and blue.

Comes complete with cables and AC power adaptor; is Windows® Vista compatible.

Price: About $90

DiscMakers U-print Title Printer

This is a simple one-color unit for labels and text. Ribbons available in black, red, green and blue.

A compact, lightweight unit that delivers fast-drying discs. Comes with a one-year warranty and label design software. Connects to PC via a USB port.

Price: About $90

Teac P11 CD/DVD printer

Comes with label design software. Prints text and graphics.

Prints at 200 dpi in black, red, green and blue. Connects to PC via a USB port.

AC adaptor included. Has one-year warranty
Price: About $110

Brother PT-80 Thermal Label Printer

This is a handheld unit, completely portable, that is battery-driven (batteries not included).

Prints in one color only on clear, white, green, blue, gold, silver or yellow tape. Offers 6 type sizes and 9 type styles. Print resolution is 230dpi.

Price: About $30 (street price).