When selecting an ID card printer, it’s essential to understand the differences between Direct-to-Card (DTC) printing and Retransfer printing to determine the best solution for your organization’s requirements.
Direct-to-Card (DTC) Printing
DTC printing (SMART-51) is a widely used method where the printhead applies ink directly onto the card’s surface.
Benefits:
- Cost-effective and fast printing process
- Compact design for space-saving operations
- Ideal for standard PVC cards
- Lower consumable costs
Considerations:
- Print quality can be affected by card surface imperfections
- Limited edge-to-edge printing (small border around the card)
- Less durable for high-security applications
- Ideal for on-demand and for large batch printing
Retransfer Printing
Retransfer technology (SMART-81) prints the image onto a clear film, which is then fused onto the card surface, offering superior print quality and durability.
Benefits:
- Over-the-edge printing with vibrant, high-definition colors
- Works with a variety of card materials, including polycarbonate and PET-G
- Increased durability with enhanced resistance to wear and tears
- Superior security features for high-end applications
- Lifetime printhead warranty
Considerations:
- Higher initial investment and consumable costs
- Slightly longer print time compared to DTC
Retransfer Advantages Over Direct-to-Card
- Longer-lasting prints: Resistant to fading and wear
- Superior print & design quality: Vibrant, high-resolution images with crisp details.
- High gloss rich colors: Deep dark colors can be achieved without risk of ribbon wrinkle or breaking.
- Over-the-edge Printing: Infinity-edge technology ensures the entire card surface is printable—even on uneven substrates like smart cards and RFID cards.
- No print head damage: Retransfer technology prints the image onto a film, not a hard card, so there is no risk of print head damage due to debris on the card surface.
IDP’s Patented RRP Technology: Elevating Retransfer Performance
IDP’s exclusive Rapid Retransfer Printing (RRP) Technology delivers the fastest “First-Card-Out” metric in just seconds—while also enhancing traditional retransfer printing by ensuring superior print consistency, extended printhead life, and increased efficiency. With RRP, users experience:
- More precise color matching for brand consistency
- Enhanced reliability with reduced maintenance
- Optimized performance for high-volume printing environments
Choosing the Right Technology for Your Needs
For cost-effective, quick, and reliable printing, DTC is an excellent option. However, if your organization requires high-definition, durable, and edge-to-edge card printing, IDP’s RRP-powered retransfer technology is the ultimate solution.
To learn more about IDP’s industry-leading printing solutions, contact us today!
