Every retailer and restaurant operator needs at least one receipt printer in its POS hardware toolbox. But not every receipt printer is created equal. Different models are best suited to different environments; and prices range from very low ($150) to upwards of $800. To ensure that you select the right receipt printer for your operation, avoid sacrificing features for price—but more importantly, consider these factors:
Printer types and appropriate applications. Receipt printers come in several “flavors”; each is a good choice for a narrow spectrum of retail and restaurant applications and requirements. An impact receipt printer uses a series of small pins to press and transfer ink onto receipt paper and, depending on the model, can print in up to two colors by leveraging a two-tone ribbon, even in high temperatures. Consequently, it makes a good choice for use in restaurant kitchens and other POS environments where duplicate receipts or two-color printing (for coupons, etc.) are
Meanwhile, a direct thermal receipt printer leverages heat to activate an emulsion in special heat-sensitive receipt paper, eliminating the need for additional media when printing. It can reportedly generate receipts at a speed of more than one foot per second, rendering it ideal for high-volume receipt printing in fast-paced retail and restaurant environments, like grocery stores and quick-service eateries. Any operation that needs quieter color printing—for example, upscale boutiques and “white-tablecloth” restaurants–will likely fare well with an inkjet receipt printer. The unit harnesses miniscule nozzles to spray ink onto receipts. Color logos and other elements may be added to receipts, but this may be an expensive proposition because of the high price of replacement inkjet cartridges.
High-volume retailers and merchants whose counter space is at a premium—including, but not limited to, grocery stores, department stores and any establishment that accepts checks—might also consider a multi-functional receipt printer that supports receipt printing, slip printing, check endorsing, MICR, and sometimes even barcode scanning. Finally, a mobile receipt printer is ideal for retail and foodservice businesses that deliver or operate in an entirely mobile fashion (e.g., food and tool trucks), as well as for those where line-busting with mobile devices is a practice. This type of printer harnesses a special cabled interface or a wireless connection to receive print jobs.
Compatibility with POS software. Some POS software has specific hardware and driver requirements. Certain solutions, for example, can only be used with OLE for point of sale (OPOS) drivers. Others work well with Windows or Linux drivers. Many available receipt printer models offer cross-compatibility with major brands and command sets, yielding a wider selection of options in cases where the new potential receipt printer is intended to replace an aging model.
Compatibility with other peripherals. For example, if you intend to connect a receipt printer to a cash drawer, ensure that the former is compatible with the latter. If not, cross the printer off your short list, or you will be wasting valuable time and money on a configuration that will never work.
Capabilities and ancillary features. Printer speed may be less important in some applications (e.g., fine dining) than in others (quick-service restaurants). As for ancillary features, there is the question of whether to opt for a model with an automatic paper cutter rather than a tear bar which would be a bit more costly. However, the higher price tag may be worth bearing. The automated cutter adds convenience when trying to move customers through the queues and eliminates the risk of generating receipts with unattractive jagged edges.
Similarly, look for a receipt printer whose design allows for simple, rapid paper roll replacement (so as to minimize downtime). Also worth exploring is any option that incorporates energy-saving technology—not only for the “earth-friendliness factor,” but because of the potential savings on paper costs.
Vendor support. Select a vendor that offers local support for its receipt printer line and whose support team is familiar with recent and upcoming changes in technology and software development.
While the average receipt printer does not have as many bells and whistles as other types of POS technology, it plays a critical role in retail and foodservice environments. Careful selection of the right model(s) bodes well for a smart hardware investment.
