We frequently receive calls from our customers saying: "I bought labels from you, put them in the printer, but it's printing blank white paper. Is the printer broken?"
My answer is 99% likely to be: "Your printer is fine, but you might have accidentally bought 'Vellum' labels instead of 'Thermal' labels."
From the outside, both are white, both come in rolls. However, their working principles are as different as night and day. Today, we're putting an end to this confusion forever. What is the Vellum label difference and how is it distinguished from a thermal label?
1. Vellum Label: "Never Without a Ribbon"
Vellum labels are paper-based labels with a matte and slightly rough (porous) surface, similar to photocopy paper.
- Working Principle: The surface of a Vellum label does not contain a heat-sensitive chemical. Therefore, you must use a RIBBON (Black Strip) to print on it.
- Feature: The ribbon (ink) penetrates the pores of the paper. This makes the print much more durable than thermal labels (1-3 years).
- In Short: If you have a ribbon, you can use Vellum. If you don't have a ribbon, Vellum labels will result in blank white paper.
2. Thermal Label: "Turns Dark When Heated"
Thermal labels are also paper-based but their surface is coated with a special solution. This solution traps heat.
- Working Principle: It does NOT REQUIRE a ribbon (cartridge). The printer head heats the paper, and the paper darkens by itself.
- Feature: It is low cost (no ribbon expense) but has a short lifespan (3-6 months). It darkens in sunlight.
- In Short: Thermal roll labels are for fast consumption and shipping.
Easiest Test Method: The Nail Test
Don't know what kind of label you have? Here's a quick test:
- Place the label on a flat surface.
- Quickly scratch it with your fingernail.
- Did a black line form? If yes, it's a Thermal Label.
- No mark or just a paper crease? Then it's a Vellum (or Coated) Label.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Vellum Label | Thermal Label |
|---|---|---|
| Consumable | Ribbon Required (Wax) | No Ribbon Required |
| Shelf Life | Long (Lasts for years) | Short (Darkens with heat) |
| Surface Texture | Matte, Rough | Smooth |
| Cost | Label + Ribbon Cost | Label Cost Only |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Vellum Labels: If your product will remain on the shelf for more than 1 year, will be exposed to sunlight, or if you are printing a permanent shelf label rather than a shipping label. (Also, thanks to their matte surface, barcode readers love Vellum, as it doesn't glare).
- Choose Thermal Labels: If you are shipping packages, printing grocery/delicatessen labels, or if the label's lifespan will not exceed 3-5 months. Don't waste money on ribbons unnecessarily.
Not sure which label is compatible with your printer model (Zebra, Argox, etc.)? Tell us your printer model, and we'll prepare the correct ribboned paper label or thermal set for you. Don't waste time buying the wrong product.
For support, contact us.
