Recording Media & Equipment | FAQs Inkjet Printers vs. Thermal Printer

Frequently Asked Questions

Browse through our list of our most frequently asked questions (FAQs). Maybe they will help answer some of your questions. If you have a question that you would like to have answered, please email it to info4@rmeinc.com.

What is the difference between inkjet disc printers and a thermal disc printers?

CD/DVD disc printers are used to print directly onto the surface of discs. This eliminates the need for labels and reproduces crisp pictures and text. However, not all discs have a printable surface. It is important to recognize the type of media needed for your specific disc printer (inkjet or thermal surface). There are two types of disc printers, inkjet printers and thermal printers.

Inkjet printers print by distributing ink directly onto the disc's surface. Inkjet printers are able to print in a wife range of color. However, the ink is susceptible to smudging if it comes into contact with moisture. This problem can be prevented by using the watershield discs. Watershield discs repel water and protects the image from scratches. Inkjet printers can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. Popular inkjet printers include Microboard's PrintFactory PF3 and GX Series and Verity Vision.

Thermal printers, on the other hand, utilizes ribbons to transfer an image onto the disc's surface. The image is imprinted onto the transfer ribbon and then bonded directly onto the disc. The image is protected by the ribbon and can withstand exposure to moisture. Thermal printers can reproduce photo quality pictures and vivid colors. Popular thermal printers are Rimage's Everest AutoPrinter and Teac's P-55.

Before leaving, don't forget to check out RM&E's selection of CD/DVD Printers .


Microboards (HP) PF-3 Inkjet Printer $1,895.00	Taiyo Yuden Watershield Discs CD-R or DVD-R	Rimage AutoPrinter Everest III $6,995.00