What is the difference between a direct thermal and thermal transfer printers?

A direct thermal printer prints to heat sensitive paper without the use of a ribbon. This is the same type of paper you may remember from the first fax machines. Direct thermal printers are used in retail for receipts, in business for calculators, and in other non-industrial applications.
 

Thermal transfer printers utilize a ribbon that forms a chemical bond to high performance material such as polyesters, vinyl films, and other exotic materials. Thermal transfer is designed for industrial applications where high heat and chemical resistance are needed. If heat sensitive paper is used in a high heat application, the paper would turn black causing unreadable text.

Recommended barcode printers: Zebra and Dymo