Direct-to-Card vs Retransfer ID Card Printers - What’s the Difference?
Direct-to-Card (DTC) printers transfer colour from a ribbon directly onto the card surface - they’re affordable and fast for most photo ID. Retransfer printers first print onto a film then bond it to the card - they cost more but deliver edge-to-edge, premium results and are safer for chip/smart cards.
Not sure which you need? Start here, then see the quick comparison table and FAQs below.
ID Card Printers fall into two categories generally:
- Direct to Card Printers (DTC or Dye Sublimation)
- Retransfer ID Card Printers (Reverse Transfer)
They use different printing methods and are best suited to different jobs. There’s usually a noticeable price gap too - DTC models at the lower end, retransfer models at the higher. Below we explain how each works, typical costs, pros and cons, and how to choose for your project.
Direct-to-Card (DTC) Printers
Also known as DTC or Dye Sublimation printers, these are the most popular type due to affordability and availability.
How DTC printers work
DTC printers use a colour ribbon and a heated printhead to transfer dye directly onto the card surface (the printhead makes contact with the card). Colours pass one panel at a time (e.g., YMCK ribbon: Yellow → Magenta → Cyan → Black) to build the full image.
Data on ribbons: remember the printed data remains visible on the used ribbon panels so ensure you shred ribbons securely when replaced.
Advantages of DTC
- Lower cost: great entry point for low-volume printing. Entry DTC models can start ~£500–£900 depending on spec.
- Choice: wide range of models and features (e.g., secure boot, printer locks, watermarks, data shredding).
- Speed & simplicity: ideal for everyday photo ID and passes.
Considerations (limitations)
- Edge-to-edge only: a slim white border remains around the card; not true over-the-edge printing.
- Chip/smart cards: direct contact over an embedded chip can cause print artefacts and long-term printhead wear - not recommended for frequent printing on technology cards.
Retransfer Printers
Retransfer (reverse transfer) printers use a two-step process: first print the image onto a clear film, then fuse that film onto the card using heat and pressure.
Advantages of retransfer
- Over-the-edge quality: the film covers the entire card face for a premium, consistent finish.
- Chip/smart card friendly: the printhead never touches the card, so MIFARE®/DESFire® and access cards are safe.
- Durability: the protective film improves resistance to wear and fading — useful for outdoor or long-life cards.
- High volume ready: popular with education, government and larger organisations.
Considerations (limitations)
- Price: typically higher upfront cost (often £2.5k–£3k+ depending on model).
- Footprint: generally larger than DTC; consider space/portability if moving between locations.
Direct-to-Card vs Retransfer - At a Glance
| Feature | Direct-to-Card (DTC) | Retransfer |
|---|---|---|
| How it prints | Heated printhead transfers dye from ribbon directly onto the card. | Prints onto a clear film first, then bonds the film onto the card. |
| Edge coverage | “Edge-to-edge” — a fine white border remains. | True over-the-edge coverage for a seamless look. |
| Chip/smart cards | Not recommended for frequent printing over embedded chips. | Best choice for MIFARE®/DESFire® and access control cards. |
| Typical quality | Great for everyday photo ID and passes. | Premium, consistent finish; colours and text look tighter. |
| Typical speed | Fast for standard runs. | Similar per-card time; bonding step adds complexity. |
| Durability | Good. Add lamination if cards are handled a lot. | Higher — protective film improves wear resistance. |
| Approx. cost | £500–£1,500+ (spec-dependent). | £2,500–£3,500+ (spec-dependent). |
| Best for | Staff/visitor ID, membership cards, event passes. | Brand-critical cards, smart cards, long-life cards. |
| Good examples | Evolis Zenius 2 DTC | Evolis Agilia Retransfer |
Which should I choose?
Choose DTC if you’re printing standard photo ID without embedded chips and want the best price/performance. Choose retransfer if you need edge-to-edge quality, print on technology cards, or want extra durability. Not sure? Tell us your printer model, card type and volume - we’ll recommend a fit.
Costs, options and fit
There’s a fairly wide range of choice within DTC, and retransfer is the gold standard where branding, durability or chip-card safety matter most. Features on newer models include secure boot, digital data shredding, printer locks and watermarking.
Tip: DTC is ideal for “good” quality photo ID fast; retransfer elevates the finish to “premium” and supports the widest card types.
Support & friendly advice
Not sure which ID Card Printer is right for you? We’re happy to help. Contact us or call 01244 526009. We’ll never upsell you to a more expensive printer than you need.
FAQs
What’s the key difference between DTC and retransfer printers?
DTC prints dye straight onto the card (fast, affordable, small white edge). Retransfer prints onto a film then bonds it to the card (edge-to-edge, premium finish, safer for chip/smart cards).
Which type is best for MIFARE®/DESFire® or access control cards?
Retransfer. The printhead doesn’t touch the card, so there’s no stress over the embedded chip and you get a more consistent print over chip areas.
Do DTC printers ever print over the edge?
No — DTC is edge-to-edge only, leaving a fine white border. If you want true over-the-edge coverage, choose a retransfer model.
Is a retransfer printer worth the extra cost?
If you print on smart cards, care about brand presentation, or need cards to last longer under heavy use, the added quality and durability usually justify the investment.
Which models should I compare?
As a simple starting point, compare the DTC Evolis Zenius 2 with the retransfer Evolis Agilia.
