The Complete Guide to Thermal Printers and Label Printers for Kenyan Businesses
Introduction
Clear receipts, fast checkout, and neat product labels make a business feel organized and professional. Whether you run a shop, restaurant, mini-mart, hardware store, or pharmacy, having the right printer makes daily work easier. This guide explains thermal printers, label printers, the best models to consider, and how to choose the right device for your business. You’ll also find links to recommended units available in our store.
What Is a Thermal Printer?
A thermal printer uses heat instead of ink. It prints on thermal paper, which cuts down on maintenance and speeds up the printing process. That’s why it’s the most common printer used in POS systems across Kenya.
Where Thermal Printers Are Used
- KRA-compliant POS receipts
- Retail shops
- Hotels and restaurants
- Pharmacy dispensing slips
- Supermarkets
- Hardware stores
- Queue tickets
Benefits of Thermal Printers
- Fast printing
- No ink or toner
- Affordable and easy to maintain
- Works with most POS systems
- Supports KRA-compliant receipts
- Reliable for high-volume daily use
Top Thermal Printers for Kenyan Businesses
1. EPOS EC0250 Thermal Receipt Printer — USB + Serial
A dependable 80mm POS printer used widely in mini-marts, restaurants, and retail stores. Works with Windows, Android POS, and eTIMS apps.
www.plannettech.co.ke
2. ComStore CRV KRA-Approved POS Printer
Perfect for shops looking for a KRA-compliant solution. Supports QR codes, eTIMS invoice numbers, and integration with popular POS systems.
3. Android POS Printer Models (P110A, SmartPOS CS30, etc.)
Ideal for mobile shops, delivery riders, pharmacies, and restaurants that want handheld flexibility.
www.plannettech.co.ke
What Is a Label Printer?
A label printer produces sticker labels used for barcoding, pricing, inventory tracking, and packaging. Unlike thermal receipt printers, these use adhesive sticker rolls.
Where Label Printers Are Used
- Supermarket barcodes
- Hardware price labels
- Pharmacy prescriptions
- Parcel shipping labels
- Inventory management
- Warehouse tagging
Benefits of Thermal Label Printers
- Sharp barcode quality
- Affordable consumables
- Quiet and reliable
- Fits most inventory software
- Makes products look professional
Best Label Printers in Kenya
1. MP Label Printer 350
Great for 4×6 shipping labels, barcodes, product stickers, and retail pricing.
www.plannettech.co.ke
2.Xprinter XP-470B Label Printer
A good pick for busy supermarkets and warehouses that need industrial-grade performance.
www.plannettech.co.ke
Thermal Printer vs Label Printer: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Thermal Receipt Printer | Thermal Label Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Prints receipts | ✔ | ✘ |
| Prints stickers | ✘ | ✔ |
| Best for | POS & KRA receipts | Barcodes & product labels |
| Paper type | 80mm thermal roll | Sticker rolls (various sizes) |
| Software | POS apps | Inventory/label apps |
How to Choose the Right Printer for Your Business
Choose a Thermal Printer If:
- You need KRA-compliant receipts
- You run a restaurant or retail shop
- You want fast, clean receipts
- You use handheld or desktop POS devices
Choose a Label Printer If:
- You sell products that need barcodes
- You handle shipments
- You manage inventory
- You want professional product labeling
