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Thermal vs Non-Thermal Till Rolls – What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?



If you’ve ever opened a new till roll only to find it doesn’t fit or doesn’t print properly, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue — especially when you’re unsure if you need thermal or non-thermal rolls. So let’s clear it up in plain English, no jargon, no fuss.

At Discount Till Rolls, we’ve helped thousands of Irish businesses get the right rolls for their card machines, tills, and POS systems. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose what’s best for your setup.

What is a Thermal Till Roll?

Thermal till rolls are coated with a special heat-sensitive layer. They don’t need ink or ribbons — instead, the printer uses heat to create the image on the paper.

You’ll find them used in:

  • Credit card machines (e.g. SumUp, Ingenico, Clover)

  • Modern EPOS systems in cafés, restaurants, and retail shops

  • Kitchen printers for order dockets (depending on the model)

Example: If you run a coffee shop with a Clover POS system, chances are you’re using 80mm x 80mm thermal rolls. They give you clean, quiet, fast receipts — no smudges, no fuss.

What is a Non-Thermal Till Roll?

Non-thermal till rolls (also known as bond rolls) require ink ribbons or cartridges to print. These are used with older or impact printers, and often produce carbon copies for records.

You’ll find them used in:

  • Garages or service stations (where signed copies are still common)

  • Some pharmacies or transport companies

  • Dot-matrix tills or receipt printers

Example: If you’re a local garage still using a traditional impact printer, you likely need 2-ply non-thermal rolls for creating duplicate copies — one for the customer, one for your records.

So, Which One Do I Need?

Ask yourself two quick questions:

  1. Does your printer use heat or ink?
     If it’s heat-based (most modern card machines), you need thermal.

  2. Do you need duplicate copies?
     If yes, you’ll probably need non-thermal 2-ply or 3-ply rolls.

If you’re not sure, just check the model of your till or printer — or better yet, give us a ring. We’re happy to point you in the right direction.

Common Roll Sizes We Stock

  • 57mm x 40mm Thermal Rolls – Ideal for card machines

  • 80mm x 80mm Thermal Rolls – Standard for EPOS tills

  • 57mm x 30mm – Compact devices like SumUp

  • 76mm x 76mm 2-Ply Bond Rolls – For impact printers with ribbon

  • 57mm x 57mm – Common for portable printers

All with next-day delivery across Ireland.

FAQs

Q: How can I tell if I have a thermal printer?
 A: Try scratching the roll with your fingernail. If it leaves a black mark, it’s thermal. If not, it’s likely non-thermal and uses ink.

Q: Can I use thermal rolls in a printer that requires ink?
 A: No – thermal rolls only work in heat-based printers. Using the wrong type can jam or damage your machine.

Q: Do thermal receipts fade over time?
 A: Yes, thermal paper can fade if exposed to heat, sunlight, or friction. Best stored in a cool, dry place.

Q: Do you sell kitchen printer rolls?
 A: We do. Just check what size and type your kitchen printer uses. Some take 76x76mm bond rolls; others use thermal paper.

Q: What if I order the wrong type?
 A: No worries — get in touch and we’ll help sort a replacement. We want you stocked and sorted, not stuck.

Need Help Choosing?

Still unsure what you need? Pop us a message or call — we’ll help you get the right roll, the first time.
 Visit www.discounttillrolls.ie and place your order before 3pm for next-day delivery anywhere in Ireland.

Because when it comes to running your business, the small things shouldn’t slow you down.