Avoid Common Mistakes When Buying Zebra Ribbons: What to Check Before You Order

 

Improper label material and ribbon pairings are among the top contributors to print quality issues and premature printhead wear in thermal printers. These mistakes are costly, especially when they can be avoided with a little understanding of the subject.

If you're looking to invest in a Zebra printer, here’s what you need to know before you end up purchasing a product that does not meet your expectations or needs.

Know Your Core Size and Outer Diameter

Zebra printers aren’t one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to ribbon cores. Some desktop printer models require a 0.5" core, while industrial models need 1". Some Zebra desktop printer models, such as the ZD240t, ZD620t, and GT800 models, can use both ½” core and 1” core ribbons.

Buying the wrong core size won’t just cause fitting issues; it could jam your machine or damage internal components. Always check your printer’s compatibility chart or user manual first. To explain, here’s a chart for the Zebra Industrial 450m Ribbons:

Zebra Industrial Printers	Core Size		Max Ribbon Length		Max Ribbon Width
	Standard	Metric	US	Metric	US	Metric
ZT220	1”	25.4mm	984 ft	300m	4.3”	110mm
ZT230	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
ZT410/ZT420	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
ZT510	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
ZT610/ZT620	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
110XillPlus / 110Xi4 / R110Xi4	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
140Xi11Plus / 140Xi4	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
170Xil1Plus / 170Xi4 / R170Xi4	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
220Xill Plus / 220Xi4	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
105SL /105SPus	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
S4M	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
ZM400	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
ZM600	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm
ZT111	1”	25.4mm	1476 ft	450m	4.3”	110mm

Check the Ribbon’s Ink Coating Orientation

Another important consideration when selecting Zebra printer ribbons is the ink-coated side, also referred to as Coated Side Out (CSO).

Most Zebra thermal transfer printers are designed for CSO ribbons, meaning the inked side of the ribbon faces outward when loaded into the machine. Using a ribbon with the ink coated on the inside (CSI) will not only result in poor or no print output but may also damage the printer over time.

Always confirm the ribbon’s coating orientation and ensure it matches your printer’s specifications to avoid unnecessary troubleshooting and equipment wear.

Match the Ribbon Width to the Label Size

While matching the ribbon width to the label size sounds obvious, it is a common oversight. No matter what label printer you’re using, make sure your ribbon is at least 5mm or more wider than  label’s width.

A ribbon that’s too narrow can leave portions of your label unprinted, while a ribbon that’s too wide may cause wrinkling or uneven wear. Zebra recommends the ribbon be slightly wider than your label for clean, edge-to-edge printing.

Choose the Right Ribbon Type for Your Label Material

Thermal transfer ribbons come in three types: wax, wax-resin, and resin. If you’re using paper labels, like those for 4x6 label printers, wax ribbons work fine.

But for synthetic or glossy media, like those used with color inkjet label printers, wax-resin or full resin ribbons are essential to prevent smudging and fading.

Mismatched ribbons and materials greatly reduce label lifespan due to a lack of compatibility.

Ready To Get The Right Zebra Ribbons Now?

Whether you're printing with a Zebra printer or another industrial printer model, getting the right ribbon is critical to performance and durability. If you’re unsure about picking a printer on your own, reach out to Durafast Label Company.

The label printing solutions company offers a vast catalog of Zebra printers and Zebra-compatible ribbons that ensure you’re consistently provided with high-quality labels.

From matching ribbon widths to core sizes and material types, their team makes sure every order is the right fit for your specific Zebra printer.

Not sure which Zebra Ribbon you need for your labels? Just request a free sample! Tell them the zebra printer model type of labels you are using, and they’ll send you a free sample roll to test.