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Receipt Printer Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right One for Your POS System

  • Writer: poscentrals
    poscentrals
  • 3 minutes ago
  • 4 min read

The best receipt printer depends on your business type, POS setup, and connectivity needs. For example, a thermal printer like the Bixolon SRP-E300 is ideal for retail in Sydney due to its fast, quiet printing and compact design. Restaurants might prefer the Element RW973 MKII for its multiple interface options, while mobile businesses benefit from Bluetooth-compatible printers. Let’s break down how to choose the perfect one.


Receipt Printer
Receipt Printer

Types of Receipt Printers: Which One Fits Your Business?


Understanding the main types helps narrow down your options. Here are the common types:


Printer Type

Best For

Key Features

Thermal Printer

Retail, quick service, kiosks

Fast, quiet, no ink required

Dot Matrix

Kitchens, heat-prone zones

Ink-based, durable in hot setups

Inkjet

Custom branding, receipts w/ logo

Color prints, slower, high cost

Bluetooth Printer

Mobile stores, pop-ups

Wireless, compact, portable

Wi-Fi/USB/Ethernet

Permanent POS setups

Stable connectivity, wide options


Summary: Choose the type that suits your operational environment — thermal for speed, dot matrix for heat, Bluetooth for mobility.


Key Factors to Consider Before You Buy


Here’s what you must evaluate to make a confident choice:


  • Connectivity Options: USB for wired stability, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth for wireless freedom.

  • Speed: Higher speeds (200mm/sec and above) = faster service, less queue time.

  • Print Quality: Crisp, legible receipts reduce customer confusion.

  • Paper Size: 80mm is standard; ensure compatibility with your POS software.

  • Durability: Look for spill-resistant models in busy environments.

  • Operating System Compatibility: Ensure drivers support Windows, iOS, or Android as per your system.

  • Ease of Setup: Plug-and-play options save time for staff with limited tech know-how.


    Summary: Always prioritize usability, compatibility, and speed over unnecessary features.


Best Receipt Printers for POS Systems (with Pros & Cons)


Below are the top-rated models available in Australia for different business needs:


1. Bixolon SRP-E300


  • Type: Thermal, 80mm

  • Interfaces: USB, Ethernet, RS232

  • Ideal For: Retail stores, hospitality counters


Pros

Cons

Quiet and fast (220mm/sec)

No Bluetooth/Wi-Fi support

Compact design fits tight counters

Not splash-resistant

Works well with Windows and Android

Limited mobile use


2. Element RW973 MKII


  • Type: Thermal, 80mm

  • Interfaces: USB, Serial, Ethernet

  • Ideal For: Restaurants, large retail


Pros

Cons

High-speed printing

Slightly bulky

Sturdy and robust

Basic design

Triple interface support

No wireless connectivity


3. Element RW60 Ultra Compact


  • Type: Thermal, 80mm

  • Interfaces: USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Ethernet

  • Ideal For: Mobile businesses, modern stores


Pros

Cons

Multiple connectivity options

Slightly higher price

Ultra-compact and stylish

May require driver updates

Great for wireless POS environments

Small size might limit cooling


4. SAM4S HCube 102D


  • Type: Thermal

  • Interfaces: USB, Ethernet, RS232

  • Ideal For: Retailers wanting fast integration


Pros

Cons

Fast print speed

Limited documentation

Easy installation

Not wireless

Great for Sydney retail POS setups

Software updates needed


5. Nexa PX610II


  • Type: Thermal, 80mm

  • Interfaces: USB, Serial, Ethernet

  • Ideal For: Supermarkets, cafés


Pros

Cons

Speedy performance

Not Bluetooth/Wi-Fi enabled

Reliable build

Basic aesthetic

Easy paper loading

No splash protection


Summary: Bixolon SRP-E300 is great for speed, RW60 for wireless needs, and RW973 MKII for durability and large-scale use.


Quick Comparison Table


Model

Type

Interfaces

Best For

Bixolon SRP-E300

Thermal

USB, Ethernet, RS232

Fast retail printing

RW973 MKII

Thermal

USB, Serial, Ethernet

Busy restaurants

RW60 Ultra Compact

Thermal

USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LAN

Mobile, wireless setups

SAM4S HCube 102D

Thermal

USB, Ethernet, RS232

POS counters, retail stores

Nexa PX610II

Thermal

USB, Serial, Ethernet

High-volume shops


Summary: For wireless needs, RW60 stands out. For high-speed, go with SRP-E300. RW973 MKII suits rugged environments best.


Geo-Specific Tips for Australian Retailers


If you're in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, here’s what to consider:


  • Look for warranty support in Australia — it ensures faster service.

  • Consider printers with Australian plug compatibility and GST-invoicing features.

  • In high-traffic areas like Sydney CBD, opt for models with faster throughput (≥200mm/sec).

  • For outdoor or mobile POS setups at markets or food trucks, choose Bluetooth/Wi-Fi models like the RW60.


Summary: Aussie store owners should focus on warranty coverage, local plug compatibility, and wireless mobility for outdoor use.


FAQ


Q1. What’s better: thermal or ink-based receipt printers?


Answer: Thermal printers are faster, quieter, and require no ink — ideal for most retail and hospitality environments.


Q2. Can I use a receipt printer with my tablet POS?


Answer: Yes, choose a model with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi (like the RW60) and ensure it’s compatible with your POS software.


Q3. Are receipt printers easy to set up?


Answer: Most models, especially USB-based ones like the Bixolon SRP-E300, offer plug-and-play setup with included drivers.


Q4. What paper size do I need?


Answer: 80mm (or 3-inch) width is standard. Double-check your POS system’s specs before purchasing.


Q5. Do I need a special printer for kitchen orders?


Answer: Yes, dot matrix printers are better for kitchens as they’re heat-resistant and have loud printout sounds.


Final Recommendation


Before purchasing, match the printer’s connectivity, size, and durability with your business needs. Look beyond just the price — choose a model that keeps your operations smooth and customer service fast.


Explore trusted receipt printers for your business at POS Central.


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