A ribbon printing machine decides the print quality, color sharpness, and production efficiency of your ribbon products. Your business needs determine which print head fits best.
Choosing the right model is not hard. Your images, your materials, and your target market guide the decision. Many users look for a ribbon printer machine, a printing machine for ribbon, or a machine printer ribbon that offers stable results and easy operation. Below, our Senior technical team shares a clear guide to help you select the ideal setup.
1. Ribbon Material Recommendations
Different ribbons create different results. The right ribbon printer machine performs best when the material matches the head technology.
| Material Type | Recommendation Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Highly recommended | Strong ink absorption. Bright colors. Stable print quality. |
| Synthetic fiber | Highly recommended | Smooth surface. Clear high-resolution images. |
| Weak materials | Not recommended | Easy to deform. Causes image shifting and low quality. |
| Nylon ribbon | Highly recommended | Clear details. Good durability. Common in packaging. |
| Polyester ribbon | Highly recommended | Good shape retention. Stable color output. |
| Cotton ribbon | Highly recommended | Natural texture. Soft color performance. |
| Linen-cotton blend | Highly recommended | Unique texture. Perfect for custom or luxury designs. |
Your success starts with the right material test.
If needed, send your ribbon samples to our team. We can run a professional print test and give you a joint evaluation before you start mass production.

2. Print Head Options for a Ribbon Printing Machine
Option 1: Dual Epson XP600 Print Heads
- Speed: 15–20 meters per hour
- Best for: General print resolution
- Advantages:
- Affordable price
- Great for small batches
- Perfect for simple logos or basic text designs
Option 2: Dual Epson I1600 Print Heads
- Speed: 18–25 meters per hour
- Best for: High-resolution graphics
- Applications:
- Premium packaging
- High-end textile printing
- Detailed artwork or gradient colors
- Advantages:
- Sharp image quality
- Excellent color expression
- Ideal for detailed brand designs
3. How to Choose the Best Printing Machine for Ribbon
Finding the right machine printer ribbon depends on your print goals and your investment plan.
Step 1: Check your image resolution needs
- Basic labels or simple graphics → XP800
- Complex logos, gradients, or fine lines → I1600
Step 2: Look at your production speed needs
- Both models offer similar speeds.
- I1600 gives you a small speed advantage.
- For larger production runs, this difference creates more value.
Step 3: Evaluate your budget
- XP800: Best value for limited budgets or small businesses.
- I1600: Higher cost but better quality for premium products.
4. Final Decision: Match Your Business, Not the Market
There is no single best ribbon printing machine. The ideal choice is the one that fits your product requirements, your ribbon materials, and your customer expectations.
Contact us today.
Share your materials or send sample ribbons for testing.
Our technical team will help you build a stable printing workflow and increase the value of your ribbon products.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between the XP600 and I1600 print heads?
A: XP800 fits basic prints and offers better pricing.
I1600 delivers higher resolution, ideal for complex logos and gradients.
If you use a ribbon machine printer and want premium image quality, I1600 is the better choice.
Q: If I mainly print simple designs, which print head should I choose?
A: For simple labels or basic designs, XP800 is enough.
For a machine that prints on ribbon, XP800 already covers most standard needs.
Q: Which materials are most suitable for use with a ribbon printer?
A: Cotton, nylon, polyester, synthetic fiber, and linen-cotton blends are the best choices.
They absorb ink well and show bright colors.
Weak materials deform easily and reduce print quality.
For satin wedding ribbons, a satin ribbon printer machine offers better smoothness and detail.
Q: How much difference is there in printing speed between the XP600 and I1600?
A: XP800 prints 15–20 m/h.
I1600 prints 18–25 m/h.
I1600 is slightly faster and suits higher-volume ribbon machine printer production.
Q: Which ribbon printer should I choose for small-batch customization?
A: For small batches and limited budgets, XP800 is ideal.
Many small studios use an XP800-based machine that prints on ribbon for custom orders.
Q: Is the I1600 worth investing in?
A: I1600 is a good investment for premium markets and high-detail prints.
For gift packaging, branding ribbons, and satin ribbons, I1600 gives a sharper and richer result, especially when paired with a satin ribbon printer machine.
Q: Do I need to send materials for a printing test?
A: Yes, material testing is recommended.
Different ribbons react differently to ink.
Testing prevents color issues or deformation.
This is a best practice for any ribbon machine printer user.
Q: How can I choose the right ribbon printer based on my budget?
A: XP800 suits limited budgets.
I1600 suits high-resolution needs.
For any machine that prints on ribbon, choose based on image quality requirements and your market positioning.