The Two Most Common Sizes
How to Measure Your Thermal Roll
If you have an unlabelled roll or a unique printer, use these three quick measurements to find your exact match.
| Measurement | How to Measure | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Width | Measure across the face of the roll from edge to edge. | If it's too wide, it won't fit in the slot. If it's too narrow, the print will align incorrectly. |
| 2. Outer Diameter (OD) | Measure completely across the circular side of a brand new roll. | If the diameter is too large, the printer lid won't close properly. |
| 3. Core Size | Measure the outside diameter of the plastic/cardboard center tube. | Standard cores are usually 1/2" (12.7mm). Ensure your printer spindle matches. |
Pro-Tip: When in doubt, Width is the most critical dimension. Most modern printers accommodate varying roll lengths (diameters), but the paper width must match exact printer specs.