Purchasing an ID card printer for your business or organization is a big decision, as it directly impacts the quality, efficiency, and security of your ID card printing process. While the options available can be overwhelming, avoiding a few common mistakes can help you make an informed purchase and avoid costly errors down the line. Here are five mistakes to avoid when buying an ID card printer.
Mistake 1: Focusing Only on Price
It’s tempting to choose the lowest-priced ID card printer, especially when working with a tight budget. However, opting for a budget model can lead to higher long-term costs. Cheaper printers may lack essential features such as durability, capacity, or high-quality print output, which means you could face expensive repairs, maintenance, or frequent replacements.
For instance, a basic model like the Evolis Badgy100 is a cost-effective choice for small-scale, low-volume printing. However, if your business requires high-volume printing, this printer may not be up to the task. A more robust model like the Evolis Primacy 2, which offers dual-sided printing and advanced security features, could save you time and money in the long run, as it is built to handle larger volumes efficiently.
Mistake 2: Not Planning for Future Scalability
When purchasing an ID card printer, it's easy to focus only on your immediate needs. However, it’s important to consider the future growth of your business. A printer that works for today’s limited card printing needs might not be sufficient as your business expands and your card printing requirements grow.
For example, starting with a basic model like the Fargo DTC1250e may work for now, but if you foresee the need for higher volume printing in the near future, investing in a higher-capacity model such as the Fargo DTC4500e could save you from needing to upgrade sooner than expected. Additionally, these printers are designed to support encoding upgrades, allowing you to integrate smart card or access control features as your needs evolve.
Mistake 3: Overlooking Print Quality (Retransfer vs. Direct-to-Card)
When choosing an ID card printer, one of the most important factors is print quality. This is especially true if your cards will be used for security purposes or if you want your brand’s logo and design to appear professional. There are two main types of printers: Direct-to-Card (DTC) and Retransfer.
- Direct-to-Card Printers (DTC): Models like the Fargo DTC1250e and Evolis Primacy 2 print directly onto the card. These printers are cost-effective, but they can leave a small white border around the edges of the card, and the print quality may not be as vibrant.
- Retransfer Printers: Models like the HID Fargo HDP5000 and Evolis Agilia use a higher-quality printing process. They print edge-to-edge, which is perfect for cards with embedded technology (such as smart cards). Retransfer printing also provides more vibrant colors and better durability, making it an ideal choice for high-security applications or environments where cards experience heavy wear and tear.
Depending on the purpose of your ID cards, it’s essential to choose the printer type that best suits your needs. If security and branding are priorities, investing in a retransfer printer may be well worth the extra cost.
Mistake 4: Overlooking Security Features
Security is a key consideration when purchasing an ID card printer, especially if your organization uses cards for access control, sensitive data storage, or financial transactions. Some printers come with advanced security features that help safeguard against card tampering and ensure that only authorized individuals can gain access.
Look for printers with features like:
- Encoding capabilities for smart cards or magnetic stripes.
- Holographic overlays, which can be applied to cards to prevent tampering and counterfeiting.
Mistake 5: Neglecting Maintenance and Support
All ID card printers require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to operate at peak performance. Failing to properly maintain your printer or neglecting to invest in necessary cleaning supplies can lead to costly repairs, especially if issues like printhead damage occur.
Investing in a printer with good customer support and a reliable warranty is essential. For example, many HID Fargo printers, such as the Fargo DTC4500e, come with strong manufacturer support and warranty options, ensuring that any issues you encounter are resolved quickly, minimizing downtime for your business. Additionally, brands like Evolis offer extended warranties and readily available maintenance kits for added peace of mind.
Make sure to consider the maintenance needs of the printer before purchasing and invest in a model that offers reliable support and service. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your printer can extend its lifespan and help you avoid unnecessary repair costs.
Contact us today
Choosing the right ID card printer for your business involves more than just selecting the cheapest model. By avoiding these common mistakes—focusing only on price, not planning for future scalability, overlooking print quality, neglecting security features, and skipping maintenance and support—you can ensure that your ID card printer meets your business’s needs now and in the future. Take the time to select a model that offers the features and durability your organization requires, and make an investment that will pay off in the long run. Contact us today if you have any questions or still need more information about ID Card Printers.