Entry Level ID Card Printers Reviewed

An ID card printer is one piece of office equipment that stands out for its usefulness and versatility. The same machine can be used for employee IDs, visitor management, customer reward programs, access control, and marketing campaigns. Inexpensive card stock can be purchased in a variety of colors; and ribbons are available for single and full color applications. The price per card for adding a secure and durable topcoat is minimal.

While it is possible to purchase an ID printer with no encoding options, a magnetic stripe read/write module is generally considered an entry-level feature. The basic card printers listed below all retail for under $2500. This means you can afford to include magnetic stripe encoding - even on a budget. Without this capability, an ID enrollment program is limited to just printing a photo and text on each badge. Users will not be able to take advantage of modern time/attendance tracking and access control readers.

Printer Models to Consider - All Offer Full Color Printing and a 2 Year Warranty

The Nisca PR-C101 is a single sided printer with a very small footprint. It is designed to fit in any office space and can be configured to deliver finished cards from either a front or a rear exit. The LCD screen rotates so you can read it no matter which direction the unit is facing. Badge creation software comes standard so you don't have to purchase it separately. You will also receive enough ribbon and card stock supplies to make your first 25 badges. The whole package is geared toward the customer who wants to take the unit out of the box and get it set up right away.

Datacard offers the SP35 Plus single sided printer for high-speed full color printing (up to 160 cards per hour). This model is known for its efficiency and ease of use. The print driver offers instructions and image previews so the operator knows what is going on at all times. Online help is just a click away with this software. The unit features ribbon saver technology that can keep supply costs low. Continuous card cleaning keeps the print path clear and cuts down on maintenance requirements. When service is necessary, the SP35 makes that easy too. Ribbons can be quickly changed, the card path is highly accessible, and the printhead can be replaced by the end user.

Unlike the previous two printers, the Zebra P120i is a dual sided model. Your ability to print information on each card is instantly doubled when you choose this equipment. Surprisingly, this is also the least expensive printer on this list. Of course, the manufacturer doesn't sacrifice quality and efficiency for price. This unit features drop-in ribbons with integrated card cleaning rollers, supply conservation technology, and a backlit LCD display. Double-sided badges can be created at a rate of 90 cards per hour. Full color can be printed on the front and black text can be added on the back using YMCKK ribbon.

Visit ID Superstore for low prices on a card printer, including the Datacard SP 35 and the Zebra P120i printer.