What’s the Big Difference

The first basic question that our sales representatives and support staff always answers is:

“What is the difference between Direct-to-Card Printing and Re-Transfer Printing?”

While the final products may look similar, so let’s take a closer look at the technology behind these two types of ID card printing, and what it means to a consumer.

re-transfer vs direct-to-card printing technologies

The DTC Printer

Direct-to-card (DTC) printers have been around for quite a long time, much longer than re-transfer printers. It is the most common technology used by photo ID card systems, used to print images directly onto the surface of a plastic card.

The ID card printer does this by heating a special print ribbon beneath a thermal print head, one color at a time using a variation of a YMCK ribbon, resulting in the transfer of color from the ribbon directly to a blank card. It is considered to be quite reliable and is often cheaper than re-transfer ID card printing.

 

The Reverse Transfer

Re-Transfer printing, also known as Reverse Transfer printing, is a two-step process that transfers your image to a film before applying it to the card.

The two-step re-transfer process creates a true over-the-edge (no white space around the edge) high-quality image on PVC cards and other card types. These types of printers are generally more expensive than direct-to-card printing, but they produce higher quality prints and are generally very fast.

 

ADVANTIDGE offers a wide variety of card printer systems, or other visitor management devices, to fill any of your asset tracking, visitor management, or identification card needs. From card printers and supplies for issuance to badge clips and other peripherals to put them into your users’ hands. With more than 40 years of combined industry experience, we’re ready to help you achieve your identification goals.

ADVANTIDGE is committed to helping organizations implement secure access control systems for physical and digital credentials. Contact us today to learn more about impactful identity management solutions for your organization.