from $549.95
The IDP SMART-21S Single-Sided ID Card Printer Kit is a compact and efficient solution for producing high-quality ID cards. This kit includes a 100-print YMCKO ribbon, allowing for immediate production of vibrant, edge-to-edge color cards at 300 dpi resolution. With a print speed of 156 color cards per hour and broad OS compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux), it's ideal for small to medium-sized organizations needing to create professional PVC or PET ID cards quickly and reliably.
Buy a laser printer unless you regularly print high-quality glossy photos. For high-volume color, consider an ink-tank printer (Megatank/Ecotank) instead of traditional cartridge models to save hundreds on ink. Available from $549.95.
Inkjet printers have a razor-and-blades model: cheap upfront, but exorbitant ink costs. Laser printers cost more upfront but have a vastly superior and cheaper cost of ownership over their lifespan.
Common Failure Modes
Inkjet printers almost always fail due to dried and clogged printheads from infrequent use. Laser printers are much more robust but may eventually require fuser or drum replacements after thousands of pages.
Buy a laser printer unless you regularly print high-quality glossy photos. For high-volume color, consider an ink-tank printer (Megatank/Ecotank) instead of traditional cartridge models to save hundreds on ink.
Printers suffer from mechanical wear on gears and rollers. Cheaper inkjets may last a few years, while robust laser printers can last over a decade.
The IDP SMART-21S Single-Sided ID Card Printer Kit (100-Print Ribbon) is available at bhphoto, starting at $549.95.
Inkjet printers have a razor-and-blades model: cheap upfront, but exorbitant ink costs. Laser printers cost more upfront but have a vastly superior and cheaper cost of ownership over their lifespan.
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