
Receipt printers are a crucial component in many businesses, and understanding their basics is essential for smooth operations. They come in various types, including dot matrix, thermal, and impact printers.
Dot matrix printers are known for their affordability and versatility, but they can be slower and noisier than other types. They're often used for low-volume printing.
Thermal printers, on the other hand, are fast and energy-efficient, but they require special paper and can be more expensive upfront. They're commonly used in high-volume environments.
Impact printers are known for their durability and reliability, but they can be slower and more expensive than thermal printers. They're often used in retail and hospitality settings.
For your interest: Thermal Label Printers
POS Systems
When choosing a receipt printer for your POS system, consider the options available.
You can select from a range of receipt printers, including the PLQ-50 Passbook Printer, which costs $1,457.00, and the PLQ-50M Passbook Dot Matrix Printer with MSRW Reader, which costs $1,497.00.
Some receipt printers, like the Epson TM-T88VIBazaarvoice SAP Hybris Integration Version 2.8.2, offer advanced features such as Bazaarvoice SAP Hybris Integration.
A few receipt printers, such as the Mobilink P60II 2" Mobile Receipt or Label Printer, are designed for mobile use.
Worth a look: Mobile Label Printers
POS System for Multiple Platforms
If you're looking for a POS system that can work with multiple platforms, you're in luck. Many POS receipt printers are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux.
You can find POS receipt printers that work with Windows, Mac, Chromebook, and Linux, making it easy to choose the right one for your business. For example, some POS receipt printers come with ESC/POS, which is a standard protocol for POS printers.
Some POS receipt printers, like the PLQ-50 Passbook Printer, come with a high-speed auto-cutter that can last up to 1.5 million cuts. This is a game-changer for businesses that need to print a lot of receipts quickly.
If you're looking for a portable POS receipt printer, consider one that's lightweight and compact, like the IMP006 58mm Mini Bluetooth POS Receipt Printer. This printer has a powerful 1500mAh li-ion battery and comes with a carry case.
Here are some common connectivity options for POS receipt printers:
By considering these options, you can choose the right POS receipt printer for your business's unique needs.
Point-of-Sale Printing

Point-of-Sale Printing is a crucial aspect of any retail business, and for good reason. It's essential to have reliable and efficient printing capabilities to keep your operations running smoothly.
Bixolon Point-of-Sale printers are a great option, offering splash-resistant, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and thermal printing capabilities. Their products are compatible with all major operating systems, including Apple iOS, Android, Windows, and Symbian.
These printers are designed to be easy to use and set up, even with tablet-based applications and smart devices. They're also lightweight and compact, measuring up to 3 inches in size.
If you're looking for a reliable POS printing solution, consider Bixolon's products. They offer a range of options to suit your needs, and their customer support is available to help you get set up and running.
Technology and Evolution
The world of receipt printing is evolving rapidly, and it's exciting to see how technology is adapting to meet the needs of merchants. Merchants are overcoming common challenges of mobile printing.
Mobile Point of Sale (mPOS) systems require specialized printer software to function efficiently. This software is evolving to accommodate the unique demands of mobile printing.
As a result, merchants can now print receipts on the go, making it easier to provide excellent customer service.
For another approach, see: Label Maker Software for Zebra Printers
Printer Options

When choosing a receipt printer, you have two main options: 3 inch and 2 inch printers. BIXOLON offers a wide range of both sizes to cater to different needs.
For retail and hospitality businesses, 2 and 3 inch printers are perfect for all receipt and ticketing applications. They are designed to provide superfast print speeds and excellent reliability.
You can choose between multi-interface Thermal Receipt Printers and Dot-Matrix Printers, depending on your specific requirements. Both options are intuitive and easy to use.
Star Micronics Unveils the Next mC-Print3
Star Micronics has unveiled the next generation of their mC-Print3 thermal receipt printers, featuring two new models: the mC-Print31Ci and mC-Print31CBi.
These printers boast CloudPRNT Next and Ultra-C technology, which set new benchmarks in speed and efficiency. They're a significant upgrade over their predecessors.
The mC-Print31Ci and mC-Print31CBi printers are designed with sustainability in mind, with features that reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. This is a welcome development for businesses looking to reduce their ecological footprint.
The printers are also equipped with contact integration, a feature that allows for seamless communication between the printer and other devices. This can streamline workflows and improve overall productivity.
Itpp047 80mm

The ITPP047 80mm printer is a great option for those who want a compact and efficient printing solution. It features a wall-mount design, allowing you to save valuable counter space.
The ITTP068 80mm Thermal Receipt Printer, which we've seen before, also shares this wall-mount design, making it a great fit for small businesses or retail environments.
One of the standout features of the ITPP047 80mm printer is its auto-cutter, which makes paper changes quick and easy. You can also adjust the cutter and beeper settings without needing a PC.
If you're looking for a printer with a built-in indicator, the ITTP068 80mm Thermal Receipt Printer has a light indicator and beeping sound that can be closed if desired.
Printer Options: SRP-380plus
The SRP-380plus is a premium, ultra-reliable, 3-inch (80 mm) Direct Thermal printing solution for high volume transactions within Retail and Hospitality. It's a top-notch option for businesses that need fast and efficient printing.

This printer is designed for high-volume transactions, which means it's perfect for busy retail or hospitality environments. It's built to handle a lot of printing, so you can rely on it to get the job done.
The SRP-380plus is a 3-inch Direct Thermal printer, which is a type of printer that uses heat to create images on paper. This type of printer is quick, dependable, and inexpensive.
Here are some key features of the SRP-380plus:
This printer is designed to be ultra-reliable, which means it's built to last and can handle a lot of use. It's a great option for businesses that need a printer that can keep up with their demands.
The SRP-380plus is a premium printer, which means it's a high-end option that's designed to provide top-notch performance. It's a great choice for businesses that need a reliable and efficient printer.
Printer Features
Receipt printers are designed to handle high volumes of printing, with some models capable of printing up to 100 receipts per minute.

They often come equipped with a built-in cutter, which allows for easy and clean cutting of receipts after printing.
A receipt printer's connectivity options can vary, but many come with USB and Ethernet connectivity, making it easy to integrate with existing systems.
They are also commonly used in retail environments, where they are often used to print receipts and other documents at the point of sale.
Media Sensors
Our printer is equipped with two types of media sensors that ensure smooth and accurate printing. The full width, moveable reflective/black mark sensor is a game-changer for printing on various paper sizes and types.
The multi-position transmissive/gap sensor is also adjustable, allowing for precise detection of paper thickness and position. This helps prevent paper jams and ensures consistent print quality.
The printer's media sensors work at a speed of 90mm/s, making them fast and efficient.
A fresh viewpoint: Receipt Printer Paper Rolls
Print Command
The Print Command is a crucial feature in most printers, allowing you to print documents and images with ease.

You can print a document by simply typing the "Print" command in the printer's control panel or through the computer's operating system. This command sends the document to the printer, which then prints it out.
Most printers have a default print setting that allows you to print in black and white or color, depending on the printer's capabilities. The "Print" command also allows you to adjust the print quality and paper size.
Printing in high quality can take a bit longer, but it's worth it for documents that require crisp and clear text or vibrant colors.
Print Speed
Print speed is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a printer. Impact printers, for instance, can print at a rate of 3 lines per second on average.
Thermal printers, on the other hand, can print at a much faster pace, with some models capable of producing up to 20 lines per second.
If you need to print customer receipts and card transaction slips quickly, a thermal printer may be the right choice. They're perfect for peak hours when you need to reduce wait times and improve efficiency.
Here's a comparison of the print speeds of impact and thermal printers:
This is especially important for businesses that need to print large volumes of documents quickly.
What to Look For

When buying a printer, consider the type of paper it can handle. Some printers can print on a wide range of paper types, including glossy, matte, and even cardstock.
Look for a printer with a good paper capacity to minimize refills. The article mentioned that the HP OfficeJet Pro 9015 can hold up to 250 sheets of paper at a time.
Consider the printer's connectivity options to ensure it can connect to your devices. The article mentioned that the Canon PIXMA TS6320 has Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity.
Check the printer's print resolution to ensure it meets your needs. The article mentioned that the Epson Expression Home XP-7100 has a print resolution of up to 5760 x 1440 dpi.
Think about the printer's size and weight to ensure it fits in your space. The article mentioned that the Brother MFC-J6930DW is a compact printer that weighs only 23.6 pounds.
Color Capability and Cost
You should consider whether you need single-color or multicolor printing when choosing a printer for your business.

Some receipt printers include customizable features for branding, such as adding logos and quick response codes to receipts.
Your budget will factor into your decision, and you should balance upfront expenses with long-term savings through durability and efficiency.
Opt for eco-conscious printers and receipt rolls if your company is concerned with being environmentally friendly, which can result in significant cost savings over the life of the printer.
Possible Costs
Impact printers can be more budget-friendly upfront, but ongoing costs are higher due to regular ink or toner purchases.
Impact printer cartridges can cost anywhere from $10.99 for a pack of six to as much as $64.74, depending on the brand, device type, and other factors.
Thermal printers have fewer moving parts, which may require less maintenance and part replacements.
However, if something goes wrong with a thermal receipt printer, it's more likely you'll have to replace the whole unit, which can be costly.
A simple fix like a paper jam can cost between $50 to $150 in labor, while more involved repairs like the replacement of a motherboard can run $500 or more.
Troubleshooting and Considerations

Troubleshooting a receipt printer can be frustrating, but there are some common issues to look out for. Make sure the printer is properly connected to your device and that the paper is aligned correctly.
If your receipt printer is not printing, check if it's set to the correct paper size and type. This is especially important for thermal printers, which can jam if the paper is not properly aligned.
To prevent paper jams, always use the correct type of paper for your printer, and make sure it's not too long or too short. This will save you time and frustration in the long run.
If you're still having trouble, try restarting your printer and device, and then try printing again. This often resolves connectivity issues.
Best to Consider
If you're in the market for a new receipt printer, you've got a lot of great options to consider. Top brands like Toshiba, Epson, HP, Zebra, and Star Micronics offer high-quality thermal and impact receipt printers.

Some receipt printers are simple and offer basic features, while others come with more advanced features like double-sided printing and grayscale graphic printing.
If you're on a budget, you might want to consider the Bixolon SRP-275III, which starts at $185. This printer is a great option for those who want a reliable receipt printer without breaking the bank.
Other popular receipt printers include the Epson FX-890II, which starts at $363, and the POS-X EVO Impact, which starts at $340. These printers are great options for those who want a bit more advanced features and a higher level of quality.
Here are some top receipt printer brands to consider:
Ultimately, the best receipt printer for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Be sure to do your research and read reviews before making a decision.
Common Issues
Paper jams can be a real pain, but they can often be resolved with regular cleaning and the use of printer-compatible materials. I've seen it happen to many businesses, and it's a simple fix.

Connectivity issues, such as unstable network links or outdated drivers, can be avoided with adherence to information technology best practices. This includes secure connections and regular firmware updates.
Overheating and supply depletion are common problems with receipt printers, but they can be mitigated by investing in high-duty cycle printers and designating cooling periods.
Here are some common issues with receipt printers and their solutions:
- Poor printing performance: Paper jams and poor print quality can be resolved with regular cleaning and timely replacement and adjustments.
- Connectivity issues: Unstable network links or outdated drivers can be avoided with secure connections and regular firmware updates.
- Overheating and supply depletion: This can be mitigated by investing in high-duty cycle printers, designating cooling periods, and minimizing unnecessary printing.
Brand and Product Information
Star Micronics is a well-known brand that offers a diverse range of thermal receipt printers. They cater to different work environments with unique demands.
Their printers are designed to be stylish, suggesting a focus on aesthetics as well as functionality.
Star Micronics Product Catalog
Star Micronics offers a wide range of products, including thermal printers, mobile printers, and cash drawers. Their products are designed for various industries such as retail, hospitality, and healthcare.
Their thermal printers are known for their reliability and durability, with some models offering a lifespan of up to 200 million prints.

Star Micronics' mobile printers are compact and lightweight, making them perfect for on-the-go printing. They are also energy-efficient, using less power than traditional printers.
Their cash drawers are designed to work seamlessly with their printers, offering a secure and organized way to manage cash and receipts.
Star Micronics' products are compatible with various operating systems, including Android and iOS, making them a popular choice for businesses with mobile point-of-sale systems.
Intriguing read: Star Receipt Printer
Bixolon Exhibits at LogiMAT 2025
Bixolon Exhibits at LogiMAT 2025. BIXOLON Europe GmbH, a subsidiary of BIXOLON, the global manufacturer of advanced Receipt, Label and Mobile printers, invites visitors onto its stand.
The event takes place from March 11-13, 2025, in Stuttgart, Germany. LogiMAT is a leading trade fair for intralogistics solutions and process optimization.
BIXOLON will showcase its leading range of logistics printing solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a receipt printer and a thermal printer?
Receipt printers and thermal printers are often used interchangeably, but technically, a receipt printer is a type of thermal printer specifically designed for printing receipts. Thermal printers are faster and more cost-effective in the long run, but may require special paper.
Why are receipt printers so expensive?
Receipt printers are expensive due to the complex technology and sophisticated printer hardware used, such as thermal print heads. This advanced technology is a significant factor in their cost, similar to why ink cartridges are pricey.
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