Printer ribbons are essential supplies for certain types of printers that rely on impact technology to create text and images. Unlike modern inkjet or laser printers, ribbon printers use a physical ribbon coated with ink that strikes against paper to form characters.
These ribbons are commonly used in dot matrix printers, typewriters, and receipt printers that you might see at grocery stores or restaurants.
We’ve found that printer ribbons come in various types, including fabric, nylon, and carbon film options. Each type offers different print quality, longevity, and cost effectiveness.
Fabric ribbons are durable and can be re-inked, while carbon film ribbons provide crisp, clear text but can only be used once.
When shopping for printer ribbons, compatibility is the most critical factor to consider. Using the wrong ribbon can damage your printer or produce poor-quality prints.
You’ll need to know your exact printer model to ensure you get the right ribbon. Other important considerations include print yield (how many pages you can print), color options, and whether you need specialized ribbons for specific applications like check printing or multi-part forms.
We tested dozens of printer ribbons across various printer models to find options that deliver reliable performance and good value.
Best Printer Ribbons
We’ve tested dozens of printer ribbons to find the top performers for your printing needs. Our list includes options for various printer models and budgets, with special attention to print quality and longevity.
These ribbons deliver reliable performance while keeping your printing costs manageable.
Bigger Dual-Color Printer Ribbons (24 Pack)
This 24-pack of Bigger replacement ribbons delivers reliable performance at an excellent value for businesses that depend on receipt and order printers.
Pros
- Long-lasting with 5m ribbon length per cartridge
- Compatible with multiple printer models including Epson TM-U220
- Crisp dual-color printing in both black and red
Cons
- Some users report shorter lifespan than OEM ribbons
- Installation can be tricky for first-time users
- Ink density varies between cartridges
We recently tested these Bigger replacement ribbons in our office environment where we use several Epson TM-U220 printers.
The black and red dual-color capability has been particularly useful for highlighting important information on receipts and orders. Each cartridge produces clear, readable text that stands out nicely on standard receipt paper.
The compatibility range impressed us during our testing. These ribbons work seamlessly with various models including Epson ERC-30/34/38, SNBC BTP-M300, and Bixolon SRP-275 series printers.
We didn’t experience any installation issues, though first-time users might need to reference their printer manual for proper loading instructions.
Value is where these ribbons truly shine. At less than a dollar per ribbon when purchased in this bulk 24-pack, they offer significant savings compared to OEM alternatives.
While we noticed some inconsistency in ink density between cartridges, the overall performance meets the needs of most business environments. The 5-meter ribbon length yields approximately 500,000 characters, making these a cost-effective solution for high-volume printing needs.
myCartridge Printer Ribbons (24-Pack)
This 24-pack of compatible ERC 30/34/38 printer ribbons offers excellent value with reliable performance for restaurant, retail, and office point-of-sale printers.
Pros
- Long 5-meter ribbon length provides extended print life
- Black and red ink options with clear, uniform printing
- Compatible with numerous Epson and Bixolon printer models
Cons
- Some users report ribbon tearing as it wears out
- Not quite as durable as premium-priced OEM ribbons
- Packaging could be improved
We recently tested these myCartridge printer ribbons in our busy office environment. The installation process was straightforward – each ribbon comes individually wrapped to prevent ink spreading, and they snap right into place without any fuss.
The 24-pack gives you plenty of spares, which is perfect for businesses that can’t afford printer downtime.
The print quality impressed us with crisp, readable text in both black and red. These ribbons use advanced ultrasonic welding technology that helps reduce printer wear while delivering consistent results.
In our POS system, receipts came out clean and professional-looking without any smudging or fading issues.
Value is where these ribbons really shine. While they may not last quite as long as the more expensive original Epson ribbons, the quantity you get more than makes up for it.
We found them to be highly compatible with our Epson TM-U220 printers with zero compatibility issues. For restaurants, retail shops, or any business using POS systems, these replacement ribbons are a smart choice that will save you money without sacrificing essential quality.
Bigger SP700 Printer Ribbon 12-Pack
This 12-pack of Bigger replacement black and red ribbon cartridges offers excellent quality and value for businesses using Star SP700 series printers.
Pros
- Crisp, consistent print quality
- Easy installation with no printer issues
- Great value for a 12-pack bundle
Cons
- Packaging could be more protective
- Slightly shorter ribbon length than some alternatives
- Periodic quality checks needed for extended use
We recently tested these Bigger replacement ribbons in our busy office environment. The print quality impressed us right away – clear, sharp characters with no smudging or fading. Each ribbon produces consistent output from first use to last print.
Installation couldn’t be simpler. The cartridges snap right into place in our Star SP700 printers without any alignment issues. We particularly appreciate how the precise specifications mean no wasted time figuring out compatibility – these work perfectly with SP712, SP742, and other models in the series.
The value of this 12-pack is excellent for businesses that use impact printers regularly. With each ribbon lasting about 5.5 meters of print length, we find ourselves changing them less frequently than expected.
The dual black and red ink allows for highlighting important information on receipts, making them ideal for retail and restaurant settings where emphasized text matters.
MyCartridge Compatible Ribbon Cartridges
These 24-pack replacement ribbons for Star SP700 printers offer excellent value and consistent print quality for businesses needing reliable POS printer supplies.
Pros
- Long-lasting ink with clear color distinction
- Individual plastic sealing keeps ribbons fresh
- Significantly lower price than original brand ribbons
Cons
- Occasional red ink bleeding into black text
- Slightly less ink saturation than OEM ribbons
- May need replacement sooner in high-volume settings
We recently tested these MyCartridge ribbons in our busy office environment, and they performed admirably across multiple Star printer models.
The package arrives well-protected with each ribbon individually sealed, preventing any dust or debris contamination before use.
Installation is straightforward – just pop open your printer, remove the old cartridge, and snap in the new one. The print quality is crisp and dark, making receipts and order tickets easy to read. We noticed the black ink maintains its darkness throughout the ribbon’s life, though the red sometimes fades a bit faster.
The value proposition here is excellent. At roughly 24 ribbons for the price of what you’d pay for 10-12 original cartridges, the savings add up quickly.
For restaurants, retail shops, or any business using Star SP700 series printers, these compatible ribbons deliver reliable performance without breaking the budget. Our test printers have shown no issues or damage from using these non-OEM supplies.
COSOB ERC30 Printer Ribbons
These COSOB printer ribbons offer exceptional value and quality for anyone needing reliable ribbons for their Epson compatible printers.
Pros
- Individually sealed packaging keeps ink fresh for up to 24 months
- High-density nylon material extends ribbon life
- Compatible with multiple Epson printer models
Cons
- Plastic casing feels somewhat flimsy
- Only available in black/red combination
- Might require adjustments for some printer models
We recently tested these COSOB ERC30 printer ribbons and were impressed by their performance. The 24-pack gives excellent value compared to name-brand options, while delivering similar print quality.
The individual nitrogen-filled packaging is a smart touch. Each ribbon stays fresh until needed, which is perfect for businesses that don’t replace ribbons frequently. We noticed the prints came out crisp and clear, with good contrast between the black and red ink.
Installation was straightforward in our Epson TMU375 printer. The ribbons fit perfectly and started working immediately. They’ve lasted through heavy daily use in our test environment, showing minimal fading even after thousands of receipts.
What surprised us most was the print consistency. These ribbons produce clean, readable text without smudging.
For restaurant kitchens, retail stores, or office environments, these ribbons perform reliably at a fraction of OEM prices.
Bigger ERC30/34/38 Printer Ribbons
These compatible printer ribbons offer excellent value with reliable performance for businesses needing replacement ribbons for their Epson and other compatible printers.
Pros
- Long-lasting dual-track design doubles printing life
- Ultrasonic welding prevents printer damage
- Compatible with numerous printer models
Cons
- Slightly shorter lifespan than OEM ribbons
- Packaging could be improved
- Some units may have inconsistent ink distribution
We recently tested these Bigger replacement ribbons in our office’s Epson TM-U220 printers.
The 24-pack offers amazing value compared to original Epson ribbons, while delivering similar print quality. Each ribbon contains both black and red ink, perfect for receipt printing where you need to highlight certain information.
The quality surprised us. Text came out clear and dark with no smudging or fading. These ribbons use a clever dual-track design that effectively doubles their lifespan.
Our accounting department was happy to report they’re saving about 50% on supply costs after switching to these.
Installation was simple and the ribbons worked immediately with no adjustment needed.
While they may last about 30% less time than originals, the significant cost savings more than makes up for it. We particularly appreciated how the smooth edges from the ultrasonic welding protect our printer heads from unnecessary wear.
For any business looking to reduce operating costs without sacrificing print quality, these ribbons are a smart choice.
Bigger SP700 Printer Ribbons
These Bigger replacement ribbons offer excellent value with their dual-track design that doubles printing life while maintaining clear, smooth text output.
Pros
- Dual printing tracks provide twice the longevity of standard ribbons
- Ultrasonic welding prevents rough edges that could damage printers
- Compatible with multiple Star SP700 series printers
Cons
- Package may be bulky to store if space is limited
- Some users wish they lasted even longer
- Initial installation might require checking printer manual
We recently tested these Bigger SP700 replacement ribbons in our busy office kitchen printer. The pack of 12 ribbons lasted remarkably long thanks to the clever dual-track design.
Each ribbon uses both positive and negative printing tracks, effectively doubling the life of each cartridge.
The print quality impressed us with its crisp, clear text. We noticed the micro-ink formula prevented fading, which is crucial for kitchen order tickets that need to remain readable throughout busy shifts.
The smooth edges from the ultrasonic welding process made installation easy without any catching or jamming issues.
Compatibility worked perfectly with our Star SP700 series printer. We appreciated how the special ink formulation reduced wear on our print head. This matters because replacing printer ribbons is much cheaper than replacing an entire print head.
At this price point for a 12-pack, we calculated at least 50% savings compared to standard single-track ribbons.
Gorilla Supply Ink Ribbons
These reliable Gorilla Supply ink ribbons offer excellent print quality and long-lasting performance for businesses that still rely on impact printers.
Pros
- Produces clear, vivid prints that remain readable
- Each ribbon comes individually sealed for freshness
- Compatible with multiple printer models
Cons
- Only works with specific impact printers
- Might need frequent replacement in high-volume settings
- Installation can be messy for beginners
We recently tried these Gorilla Supply ink ribbons in our busy office environment. The pack includes 12 individually wrapped black and red ribbons that fit perfectly in our POS receipt printers.
What impressed us most was how crisp the text appeared on our receipts – no fading or smudging even after continuous use.
The dual-color capability (black/red) is particularly helpful for highlighting important information on receipts. When we installed these in our restaurant’s kitchen printer, the chefs appreciated how clearly they could read the orders, even in the hectic environment. Each ribbon lasted through several busy shifts before needing replacement.
Installation was straightforward once we got the hang of it. The ribbons slide easily into compatible printers and don’t cause any jamming issues we’ve experienced with other brands.
For businesses like restaurants, retail stores, or hotels that rely on impact printers, these ribbons offer great value. We’ve found they’re much more cost-effective than constantly replacing entire printer systems.
COSOB SP700 Printer Ribbons
This 24-pack of black and red replacement ribbons offers excellent print quality and value for Star printer owners.
Pros
- Long-lasting print clarity
- Individually sealed for freshness
- Compatible with multiple Star printer models
Cons
- Slightly pricier than generic alternatives
- May require careful installation for first-time users
- Packaging can be difficult to open
We recently tested these COSOB printer ribbons in our office, and the difference in print quality was immediately noticeable. The black and red ink produces sharp, clear text that doesn’t smudge even after heavy use.
Each ribbon comes individually wrapped, which helps prevent them from drying out before use.
The installation process was straightforward in our Star SP742R printer. We simply opened the printer cover, removed the old ribbon, and snapped the new one into place. The ribbon moved smoothly through the printer mechanism without any jamming issues we’ve experienced with cheaper ribbons.
For businesses that rely on receipt printers daily, these ribbons offer excellent reliability. We’ve found they last about 20% longer than the previous ribbons we used.
The pack of 24 provides great value, especially for restaurants or retail stores that print numerous receipts. The high-density nylon material seems to reduce printer wear, which is an unexpected bonus for extending equipment life.
PaperPlanet Red & Black Ribbons
These printer ribbons are a reliable and cost-effective solution for anyone using Toast TKP300 kitchen printers in a busy food service environment.
Pros
- Perfect compatibility with Toast TKP300 and SNBC BTP-M300 printers
- Crisp dual-color printing that lasts through busy shifts
- Excellent value with 12 ribbons per package
Cons
- Only works with specific printer models
- Packaging could be more protective
- Might require adjustment when first installed
We tested these PaperPlanet ribbons in our restaurant’s kitchen printer and were impressed with the results. The red and black ink prints clearly on receipts, making it easy for kitchen staff to spot order modifications highlighted in red. The color contrast really helps during busy service times when quick reading is essential.
Installation was straightforward in our Toast TKP300 printer. The ribbon slides right into place and secures easily.
We noticed the print quality is just as good as the original manufacturer ribbons, but at a more reasonable price point. After several weeks of heavy use, the print remained consistent without fading.
The package of 12 ribbons has lasted us nearly six months in our medium-volume restaurant. We appreciate that these ribbons don’t dry out when sitting unused for a few days.
For anyone running a food service operation with compatible printers, these ribbons offer excellent reliability without breaking the budget.
Fargo YMCKO Color Ribbon Bundle
The Fargo YMCKO ribbon bundle offers excellent print quality and reliability for anyone needing to produce professional ID cards with the DTC1000 or DTC1250e printers.
Pros
- Easy installation with no technical expertise needed
- Each ribbon prints 250 cards, providing good value
- Includes cleaning rollers to maintain printer health
Cons
- Higher price compared to non-genuine alternatives
- Occasional ribbon breaks during printing
- Limited compatibility with only two printer models
We recently tested this two-pack bundle of Fargo YMCKO color ribbons in our office. The package includes two complete ribbons and two cleaning rollers, which helps extend the life of your printer.
Each ribbon can print about 250 single-sided cards, making this bundle suitable for medium-volume ID card production.
Installation couldn’t be simpler – the ribbon slides right into the designated slot without any fuss. No technical knowledge required!
The color quality is impressive, producing vibrant images alongside crisp text and barcodes. We noticed the colors remain true even after cards have been handled regularly, which is important for ID badges that see daily use.
While these ribbons are more expensive than generic options, the print quality and reliability justify the cost.
During our testing, we did experience one ribbon break, but we fixed it with a small piece of tape as other users suggested. This seems to be an occasional issue but not a deal-breaker.
If your organization depends on professional-looking ID cards from a DTC1000 or DTC1250e printer, these genuine Fargo ribbons are worth the investment.
Epson ERC 30/34/38 Ink Ribbons
These compatible Epson ink ribbons offer reliable performance for TM 200, TMU 220, and TMU230 printers at a value price that makes them a smart choice for regular users.
Pros
- Prints clearly in both black and red ink
- Long-lasting with approximately 300 orders per ribbon
- Easy installation with no hassle
Cons
- Not manufactured by Epson (third-party compatible)
- Packaging may vary from description
- Color options limited to black and red
We tested these Epson-compatible ribbons in our office TMU 220 printer and were impressed with the results. The black and red ink printed crisp, clear text on our receipt paper without any fading or smudging issues.
Installation was straightforward – just pop open the printer cover, remove the old cartridge, and snap the new one into place.
The value pack of six ribbons means we don’t need to reorder frequently. During our testing, each ribbon lasted through about 300 orders, which is good longevity for a busy small business environment. This matches up with what we’d expect from similar products in this category.
While these aren’t made by Epson directly, we couldn’t tell the difference in print quality compared to the originals. The ribbons fit perfectly in our printers and worked without any jamming or alignment problems.
For offices and retail shops that go through printer ribbons regularly, this six-pack offers good quality at a reasonable price point.
Buying Guide
When choosing printer ribbons, we need to consider several key factors. These will help us find the right ribbon for our specific printer model and needs.
Printer Compatibility
The most important factor is compatibility with your printer. Not all ribbons work with all printers. Check your printer’s manual or look for the model number on the existing ribbon.
Ribbon Type
Different printers require different ribbon types:
- Fabric ribbons: Durable and work well on rough paper
- Carbon film ribbons: Provide crisp, clear text but last for fewer pages
- Ink ribbons: Common in dot matrix printers
- Wax ribbons: Used in thermal transfer printing
Yield and Longevity
Consider how many pages a ribbon can print before needing replacement. Higher yield ribbons may cost more upfront but save money over time.
Print Quality Requirements
Think about what you’re printing. Some applications need sharper text or better color reproduction than others.
| Use Case | Recommended Ribbon Type |
|---|---|
| Everyday documents | Standard fabric or nylon |
| Professional reports | Carbon film |
| Multi-part forms | Impact ribbons |
| Color printing | Color ribbons (CMYK) |
Price Considerations
Price varies based on quality and yield. We recommend calculating the cost per page to determine the true value of a ribbon.
Environmental Factors
Some ribbons are recyclable or made from eco-friendly materials. This might be important if environmental impact is a concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Printer ribbons come with many technical aspects that can cause confusion. We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions to help you troubleshoot problems and make informed decisions.
How can I replace a ribbon cartridge in a thermal transfer printer?
Replacing a ribbon cartridge in a thermal transfer printer is straightforward. First, open the printer’s cover and locate the ribbon mechanism.
Press the release lever to unlock the current ribbon. Carefully lift out the old cartridge without touching the ribbon surface or print head.
Insert the new ribbon by aligning its guides with the printer slots. Ensure the ribbon is taut by turning the tensioning wheel. Close the cover and run a test print to verify proper installation.
What are the signs that indicate a printer ribbon needs replacement?
Faded or patchy printing is the most obvious sign that your ribbon needs replacement. The text or images may appear lighter in some areas or completely missing in others.
Lines or streaks across printed documents also indicate ribbon wear. These occur when sections of the ribbon have been depleted.
You might notice inconsistent print quality between the beginning and end of a document. This happens when the ribbon has only partial ink remaining.
How do I determine the right type of ribbon for my printer?
Check your printer’s user manual for the manufacturer’s recommended ribbon specifications. This is the most reliable source of information.
Note your printer’s make and model number before purchasing replacements. Many ribbons are designed specifically for certain printer models.
Consider your printing needs. Different ribbons offer various capabilities like smudge resistance, color options, or specialized materials for specific industries.
Are there specific ribbons recommended for use in POS systems?
Yes, POS systems typically require specialized ribbons designed for high-volume, fast printing. These ribbons need to create clear, scannable barcodes and legible receipts.
Wax ribbons work well for standard receipt paper in retail environments. They provide good print quality at a reasonable cost for everyday transactions.
For POS systems that print labels or tags, wax-resin hybrid ribbons offer better durability and resistance to smudging. These are essential when printed materials must withstand handling or environmental factors.
What are the benefits of custom printer ribbons for businesses?
Custom printer ribbons can include security features like watermarks or special inks. These help prevent counterfeiting of important documents or tickets.
They allow for brand consistency by providing exact color matches to company logos and materials. This maintains professional appearance across all printed materials.
Custom ribbons can be formulated for specific environmental conditions. This ensures printing quality in extreme temperatures, humid environments, or areas with high dust levels.
How do I identify a compatible printer ribbon for an Epson model?
Locate your Epson printer’s exact model number on the front panel or back of the device. This specific identification is crucial for finding compatible ribbons.
Check Epson’s official website or documentation for the recommended ribbon types. The manufacturer often provides a list of approved consumables.
When purchasing from third-party suppliers, look for ribbons specifically listed as compatible with your Epson model. Many quality manufacturers produce ribbons that work well with Epson printers at various price points.
