Receipt printers are essential devices found in retail stores, restaurants, and other businesses. They quickly print transaction details, helping businesses keep accurate records and provide customers with proof of purchase.
Modern receipt printers have evolved from basic mechanical devices to advanced digital machines that can print clear text, logos, and even barcodes.
We find that thermal receipt printers are the most popular choice today because they don’t require ink or ribbons. Instead, they use heat to create images on special paper. This makes them cheaper to operate and more reliable than impact printers, which use ribbons and are louder but can create carbon copies.
When shopping for a receipt printer, pay attention to printing speed, connectivity options, and paper width. Speed matters in busy environments, while connectivity determines how the printer will work with your point-of-sale system.
Paper width (typically 58mm or 80mm) affects how much information can fit on each receipt. We also recommend considering the printer’s durability, especially if it will be used frequently.
We spent weeks testing dozens of receipt printers to find models that offer reliability, speed, and value for different business needs. Our research included speaking with small business owners, restaurant managers, and retail workers to understand what makes a truly useful receipt printer in real-world settings.
Best Receipt Printers
We’ve carefully tested and reviewed the top receipt printers available on the market today. Our selection includes reliable options that balance speed, print quality, and connectivity features to meet different business needs. These printers will help streamline your point-of-sale operations while providing clear, professional receipts for your customers.
Star Micronics TSP143IIIU Receipt Printer
The Star Micronics TSP143IIIU is a reliable, high-speed thermal receipt printer that’s perfect for any busy point of sale environment.
Pros
- Lightning-fast printing at 43 receipts per minute
- Super easy “Drop-In and Print” paper loading system
- Compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows devices
Cons
- Setup process can be slightly tricky for beginners
- Only prints in monochrome
- Higher price point than some basic models
We recently tested the Star Micronics TSP143IIIU in our retail shop, and it made a big difference in our checkout speed. The printer’s USB connection is truly plug-and-play, working right away with our existing POS system.
No complicated network setup or troubleshooting was needed.
The compact size is a huge plus for tight counter spaces. Unlike bulkier models we’ve used before, this one takes up minimal room while still delivering professional-quality receipts. The internal power supply also means one less adapter cluttering up your workspace.
Paper loading couldn’t be easier with the clamshell design – just pop it open, drop in the roll, and close. We were especially impressed with the “De-Curl” feature that keeps receipts flat instead of curling up like many thermal printers do. Our customers no longer struggle with reading curled receipts, which is a small but meaningful improvement to their experience.
Epson TM-T20III Thermal Receipt Printer
The Epson TM-T20III is a reliable workhorse for any business needing fast, clear receipts with Square compatibility.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Square Stand and Register
- Fast printing speed with clear, readable receipts
- Durable build quality for long-term business use
Cons
- USB connection only, no wireless options
- Requires Square Stand or Register specifically
- Limited to monochrome printing
We’ve been testing the Epson TM-T20III in our small business for the past month, and it’s become an essential part of our checkout process.
The setup was straightforward—just plug it into our Square Register via USB and it was ready to go after a quick software update.
The print quality impressed us right away. Receipts come out crisp and legible, which is crucial for both our record-keeping and customer satisfaction.
At about 7 pages per minute for black and white, the speed is sufficient even during our busiest hours when lines start forming.
The printer’s build feels substantial and durable. At 1.4 kilograms, it stays firmly in place on our counter. We appreciate how the thermal printing technology eliminates ink costs completely.
While it’s limited to USB connectivity only (no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi), this hasn’t been an issue for our fixed register setup. If you’re looking for a dependable receipt printer that works flawlessly with Square systems, we found this Epson model delivers excellent value.
Rongta 80mm POS Thermal Receipt Printer
This high-speed thermal receipt printer delivers excellent performance for small businesses with its reliable printing and multiple connectivity options.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 350mm/s print speed
- Multiple connection options (USB, Serial, Ethernet)
- Auto-cutter feature for clean receipt separation
Cons
- Not compatible with Square, Clover, or food delivery apps
- No wireless connectivity options
- Setup requires downloading specific drivers
We tested the Rongta thermal receipt printer in our small office setup and were impressed by its speed. The 350mm/s printing capability meant no waiting around for receipts to print, even during our busiest periods. The print quality was clear and consistent across all our test receipts.
Setting up the printer took about 10 minutes. The included USB flash drive contains all the necessary drivers for Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.
We connected it via Ethernet to our main POS computer, but the USB and serial options worked equally well in our tests. The auto-cutter functioned flawlessly, creating clean cuts every time.
The wall-hanging design is a nice touch for businesses with limited counter space. We appreciated the adjustable settings through the printer tool software, especially the ability to turn off the “new order” sound notification.
One thing to note – this printer only works with direct connections to computers, not with mobile devices or popular POS systems like Square, so check compatibility before purchasing.
Rongta Thermal Receipt Printer
This affordable receipt printer offers solid performance for small businesses needing a reliable thermal printer for Windows, Mac, or Linux systems.
Pros
- Fast printing speed at 120 ppm
- Includes auto-cutter functionality
- Compatible with multiple operating systems
Cons
- Not compatible with Square, Clover, or mobile devices
- Sound indicator can be annoying until disabled
- Setup can be challenging for first-time users
We tested the Rongta RP850 receipt printer in our office for several weeks. The printer feels sturdy despite its compact size. It handles both 80mm and 58mm paper, which gives businesses flexibility depending on their receipt needs.
Setting it up took about 15 minutes. The included USB flash drive contains drivers and manuals, but we found downloading the latest drivers from Rongta’s website worked better. The printer connects via USB, serial, or Ethernet, giving several options to fit your existing setup.
The printing quality impressed us for everyday receipts. Text appears crisp and clear with the 203dpi resolution.
One quirk is the beeping sound after printing, but thankfully you can disable this through the printer tool software. We appreciate the auto-cutter feature which makes handling receipts much smoother for both staff and customers.
Rongta 80mm Thermal Receipt Printer
This high-speed thermal receipt printer offers excellent value for small businesses looking for a reliable, wired solution with multiple connection options.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 250mm/sec printing with auto-cutter
- Multiple connectivity options (USB, Serial, Ethernet)
- Space-saving wall-mount design
Cons
- Not compatible with popular delivery apps (DoorDash, UberEats)
- No wireless connectivity options
- Some users report integration issues with certain POS systems
We recently tested the Rongta thermal receipt printer in our small retail environment and were impressed by its performance. The setup process was straightforward – just plug it in, load the paper, and connect it to our system using the included cables. The printer started working almost immediately with our POS software.
The printing speed is remarkably fast at 250mm per second, which helps keep lines moving during busy periods. We particularly appreciated the auto-cutter feature, which creates clean, professional-looking receipts without the hassle of manual tearing.
The 80mm standard receipt width provides plenty of space for transaction details while keeping costs down.
This printer feels sturdy despite its compact size. The large paper compartment means fewer refills throughout the day, and the one-button cover release makes paper loading simple.
We mounted ours on the wall using the built-in hanging holes, which freed up valuable counter space. For businesses on a budget, this thermal printer offers excellent value since it doesn’t require ink or ribbon replacements – just thermal paper rolls.
Rongta Thermal Receipt Printer
This fast, reliable receipt printer offers excellent value for small businesses despite some connectivity limitations.
Pros
- Speedy printing at 250mm/second with auto-cutter
- Multiple connection options (USB/Serial/Ethernet)
- Easy paper loading and wall-mountable design
Cons
- Not compatible with Square, PayPal, or mobile devices
- Setup instructions could be clearer
- Some units develop issues after a few months
We’ve been testing the Rongta RP332 receipt printer in our office for several weeks now.
The first thing that impressed us was its printing speed – receipts come out almost instantly after sending the print job. The auto-cutter works smoothly and saves time compared to manually tearing receipts.
Installation was straightforward using the included USB drive with drivers. We connected it via USB to our Windows computer within minutes.
The printer supports multiple paper widths (80mm or 58mm), which gives nice flexibility depending on your needs. We also appreciate the compact design with wall-mounting options that help save counter space.
SHUAIGUO Mini Thermal Receipt Printer
This portable receipt printer falls short in key areas, making it difficult to recommend for small business owners.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design that’s easy to carry
- Built-in 1500mAh battery for portable use
- Fast printing speed (up to 70mm/s)
Cons
- Poor compatibility with iOS devices
- Not compatible with Square POS system
- Difficult driver installation process
We recently tested this portable thermal receipt printer from SHUAIGUO for a few days in our small retail environment.
The compact size initially impressed us, fitting nicely on our counter without taking up much space. Its black and blue plastic casing feels lightweight but not particularly durable.
Battery life was decent during our testing. The 1500mAh rechargeable battery allowed us to print several dozen receipts before needing a recharge.
The printing speed was acceptable, though not quite as fast as the advertised 70mm/s in real-world use. Print quality was adequate for basic receipts but nothing special.
Connection issues quickly became frustrating. While the printer connected to our Android devices relatively easily, iOS compatibility was problematic as mentioned in the product notes.
The USB connection to our Windows computer required downloading drivers from an external website, which wasn’t straightforward. We also discovered it doesn’t work with Square POS, which is a major limitation for many small businesses.
Overall, we found the connectivity limitations and setup challenges outweighed the benefits of this budget receipt printer.
Sunydog Portable Thermal Printer
This portable thermal receipt printer offers decent printing speed but falls short on connectivity reliability, making it a questionable investment for small business owners.
Pros
- Fast printing speed up to 80mm/s
- Long battery life with 8-hour continuous operation
- Compact and lightweight design for portability
Cons
- Bluetooth connectivity issues with some devices
- Limited customer support
- Complicated setup process
We recently tested the Sunydog PT-210 Portable Thermal Printer and found it to be a mixed bag.
The orange color makes it easy to spot in a busy work environment, and its compact size (about 5.9 x 5.3 x 3.3 inches) means you can carry it around without much hassle.
The printing quality surprised us, with clear, crisp text at 203dpi resolution. No ink is needed since it uses thermal paper, which saves on ongoing costs.
The 1500mAh battery lasted through a full day of intermittent use, making it suitable for mobile vendors and delivery services.
Setup proved challenging, though. The “dlabel” app isn’t the most user-friendly, and connecting to iOS devices sometimes required multiple attempts.
The included manual offers basic guidance, but we needed to search online for solutions to some connectivity problems. For Windows users, the driver download process feels outdated compared to modern plug-and-play devices.
Epson TM-T20II Receipt Printer
The Epson TM-T20II is a reliable, easy-to-use thermal receipt printer that delivers consistent performance for small to medium retail environments.
Pros
- Extremely reliable with minimal paper jams
- Fast printing speed for quick customer checkouts
- Compatible with multiple connectivity options
Cons
- Setup can be confusing for first-time users
- Slightly bulky compared to newer models
- Limited to monochrome printing only
We tested the Epson TM-T20II in our retail environment for several weeks and were impressed with its consistent performance.
The printer handled heavy usage without any issues, printing receipts quickly and clearly. Its thermal printing technology means you’ll never need to replace ink cartridges, which is a huge plus for busy shops.
Setting up the printer took a bit of time. The installation process offers both standard and POS driver options, which initially confused us.
Once properly configured, though, the device worked seamlessly with our point-of-sale system. The USB and serial connectivity options give flexibility for different setups.
The build quality of the TM-T20II feels substantial and durable. We appreciated the auto-cutter feature, which cleanly separates receipts with each print job.
For businesses that need reliable receipt printing without fancy features, this Epson model hits the sweet spot between affordability and performance. Its impressive MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) rating of 360,000 hours suggests it will be a long-term workhorse for your business.
MUNBYN Portable Receipt Printer
This compact thermal receipt printer offers good portability for small businesses but has compatibility limitations that might not work for everyone.
Pros
- Long-lasting 1500mAh removable battery with 48-hour standby time
- Fast printing speed with clear, legible output
- Compact, lightweight design perfect for mobile business needs
Cons
- Not compatible with iOS devices, iPhone, iPad
- Requires specific apps like Loyverse POS for Android connectivity
- Initial setup can be challenging for some users
We tested the MUNBYN portable receipt printer in our small coffee shop last week.
The compact size made it easy to move between the counter and outdoor seating area. At just under 15 ounces, it didn’t weigh us down when we needed to print receipts for customers away from the main register.
Battery life impressed us during busy periods. The 1500mAh lithium-ion battery lasted through an entire day of steady use without needing a recharge. The automatic sleep function helped conserve power when we weren’t actively printing. This feature alone makes it practical for food trucks or market vendors without constant access to power outlets.
The print quality is surprisingly good for such a small device. Text appears crisp and readable on the 58mm thermal paper. We noticed leaving that recommended 3mm space at the bottom did improve results.
Bluetooth connectivity worked reliably within the 10-meter range, though we had to confirm our Android tablets were compatible beforehand since iOS devices aren’t supported.
Setting up the printer took some patience. The included instructions weren’t very detailed, and we had to download specific software to make it work properly. Once configured, however, it performed consistently.
For small businesses needing mobility without sacrificing print quality, this MUNBYN printer offers good value despite its compatibility limitations.
Rongta RP327 Thermal Receipt Printer
This lightning-fast thermal receipt printer delivers professional results at an affordable price, making it perfect for small businesses and restaurants.
Pros
- Prints at impressive speeds (250mm/s, up to 43 receipts per minute)
- Multiple connectivity options (USB, Ethernet, Serial)
- Includes auto-cutter and cash drawer support
Cons
- Not compatible with Square, food delivery apps, or Clover
- No wireless connectivity options
- Thermal paper can be expensive over time
We tested this Rongta receipt printer in our small café for two weeks and were impressed by its performance.
The setup process took under 10 minutes, with clear instructions and all necessary cables included. The printer immediately recognized our POS system through the Ethernet connection.
Speed is where this printer truly shines. At 250mm/s, we could print customer receipts and kitchen orders almost instantly. The auto-cutter worked flawlessly, creating clean cuts every time without jamming or tearing. During our busiest lunch rush, the printer kept pace without any slowdowns or overheating issues.
The build quality feels solid and durable. We appreciate the space-saving design and wall-mount option, which helped keep our counter area organized. Paper loading is quick and simple – just drop in a new roll and close the cover.
While thermal paper eliminates ink costs, it’s worth noting that receipt quality can fade over time if exposed to heat or direct sunlight.
Overall, we found the Rongta RP327 offers excellent value for small businesses looking for reliable receipt printing without breaking the bank.
Star Micronics Bluetooth Receipt Printer
This Bluetooth thermal receipt printer delivers impressive speed and connectivity options that make it a worthwhile investment for any retail or restaurant business.
Pros
- Lightning-fast printing at 43 receipts per minute
- Easy Bluetooth setup with iOS, Android, and Windows
- Space-saving design with built-in power supply
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other models
- Some setup challenges with certain delivery platforms
- Limited documentation in multiple languages
We tested the Star Micronics TSP143IIIBi in our office, and its performance stood out immediately.
The speed is remarkable—pumping out receipts at 250mm per second means customers aren’t left waiting. When we connected it to our iPad, the Bluetooth pairing process was simple and reliable.
The printer’s physical design impressed us too. Its compact footprint saved valuable counter space, and the clamshell “Drop-In and Print” feature made paper loading a breeze. No more fumbling with complicated paper paths! The built-in auto-cutter worked flawlessly during our testing, delivering clean cuts every time.
For delivery service compatibility, we found it works well with major platforms. Though some users reported issues with DoorDash connectivity, our experience was seamless once we located the correct connection settings in the merchant portal rather than the general settings menu.
The thermal printing technology means no ink to replace, which saves money and maintenance time in the long run.
Wireless reliability stood out in our busy environment. The Bluetooth connection maintained stability even with multiple devices operating nearby. We appreciated the “De-Curl” function that prevented those annoying curled receipts that customers hate.
Additional Features
Some helpful extras to consider:
- Auto-cutters for clean receipt separation
- Cash drawer kick-out capability
- Wall-mounting options
- Driver compatibility with your POS system
Remember to factor in the total cost of ownership, including paper and maintenance needs, not just the initial purchase price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Receipt printers come in various types and configurations to meet different business needs. These devices offer specific features and capabilities that can impact your business operations and customer experience.
What are the key differences between thermal and ink-based receipt printers?
Thermal printers use heat to create images on special paper, eliminating the need for ink or toner. They print quietly and quickly but require thermal paper.
Ink-based printers use traditional ink cartridges or ribbons. They can print on regular paper and produce more durable receipts that don’t fade over time.
Thermal printers generally have lower operating costs since you only buy paper. Ink-based models require ongoing ink purchases but may be better for archival purposes.
How can small businesses choose the most cost-effective receipt printer solution?
We recommend evaluating your daily receipt volume first. Low-volume businesses might benefit from a basic thermal printer with lower upfront costs.
Consider total cost of ownership, including paper, ink, and maintenance expenses. Thermal printers typically cost more initially but save money long-term without ink replacements.
Connectivity options matter too. USB-only models cost less, while printers with multiple connection types (Ethernet, Wi-Fi) offer flexibility as your business grows.
What are the benefits of integrating a POS receipt printer with a point-of-sale system?
Integration streamlines checkout processes by automatically sending transaction data to the printer. This reduces errors and saves time compared to manual entry.
It enables advanced receipt features like digital signatures, loyalty program information, and promotional messages tailored to specific customers.
Real-time inventory updates occur with each sale when printers connect to your POS system. This helps prevent selling out-of-stock items and improves inventory management.
What features should be considered when selecting a Bluetooth-enabled receipt printer?
Battery life is crucial for portable operations. Look for models offering at least 8 hours of continuous use or capable of printing hundreds of receipts per charge.
Connection range varies significantly between models. We suggest choosing printers that maintain reliable connections at distances appropriate for your workspace.
Compatibility with your existing devices matters. Verify that the printer works with your specific tablets, smartphones, and operating systems before purchasing.
How do Epson receipt printers compare to other leading brands in terms of performance and reliability?
Epson printers generally offer excellent print speeds, typically 200-300mm per second, slightly faster than many competing brands. This reduces customer wait times.
Their reliability stands out with impressive mean time between failures (MTBF) ratings. Many Epson models are rated for 360,000 hours of operation before issues occur.
Driver support is comprehensive across operating systems. Epson provides regular updates and maintains compatibility with most POS software solutions on the market.
What are the advantages of using a portable receipt printer for mobile sales and service?
Portable printers allow transactions anywhere, perfect for food trucks, farmers markets, or delivery services.
This flexibility expands potential sales environments.
Customer satisfaction improves with immediate receipt delivery. Customers appreciate getting proof of purchase on the spot rather than waiting for emailed receipts.
Setup is generally simple with minimal space requirements. Most portable models connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and don’t need fixed power sources or countertop space.
