Published 12 January 2026
Last Updated 20 January 2026
We've Analysed and Reviewed the Best Retransfer ID Card Printing Machines
Choosing the right ID card printer can have a huge impact on your security and identification set up. With technology advancing quickly, knowing which printers truly deliver is more important than ever.
Here at ID Card Centre, we've spent years working with ID card printing systems, and that experience shapes every review we share. We understand the various needs of different organisations, including print quality, user-friendliness, speed and overall value.
Recommended Retransfer Printers by Use Case
Based on our own research, these are our top picks for different use cases and budgets.
Evolis Agilia
The Evolis Agilia offers high-resolution 600 dpi printing, fast output, and the flexibility to work with a wide range of card types.
- Trustworthy security features
- High throughput makes it efficient for mid-volume printing needs
- High-quality sharp prints
HID Fargo HDP6600
The HDP6600 is a high spec, quick printer that offers reduced wastage, higher flexibility, and robust durability. Ideal for organisations in all industries.
- Efficient warm-up time
- Produces high quality 600dpi prints with wasteless printing
- Various encoding options
Matica XID8600
The Matica XID8600 offers high-quality, speedy printing with encoding options, lower cost consumables and lifetime printhead warranty.
- Reliable and long-lasting printer
- Advanced features for those who require enhanced security
- Low cost of ownership
Magicard Prima 8
With UK-based support, the Magicard Prima 8 is a printer that is designed for high volume batch printing and enhanced security features.
- Good build quality
- Features HoloKote® watermarking and UC overlays for increased security
- High yield consumables
HID FARGO HDP5000e
The Fargo HDP5000e is a reliable and flexible printer from a trusted brand, offering retransfer printing plus lamination, dual hoppers and encoding.
- Suitable for all applications
- Modular design for post-purchase upgrades
- Manufacturer support
IDP Smart 81
Serving as a reliable mid-to-high-volume retransfer printer that balances speed, flexibility and quality, the Smart 81 is ideal if you issue cards regularly.
- Flexible printing and encoding options
- Up to 144 single-sided cards printed per hour
- Large input hopper
How We Test & Keep It Impartial
Every retransfer printer undergoes extensive research and expert training. No brand has paid for placement or ranking.
Print Quality
We examine clarity, sharpness, and colour accuracy.
Speed & Throughput
How fast printers operate in real-world conditions.
Security & Encoding
Testing magnetic stripe, chip, and smart card encoding.
Cost of Ownership
We calculate ongoing consumable and printing costs.
Reliability
Stress-tested for jams, misprints, and long-term use.
User Experience
Ease of setup, operation, and daily usability.
Our Commitment
We are dedicated to offering the best retransfer card printers to organisations who value security, experience, and ease of use. Brands and manufacturers we stock have no influence over our rankings or recommendations and all of our printers are scored on several different categories including:
- Print Quality
- Speed
- Encoding Options
- Cost of Ownership
- Ease of Use
- Build Quality
Retransfer Printer Product Reviews
Detailed breakdowns of our recommended printers, including real-world performance data.
Evolis Agilia
Why We Picked It
- The Evolis Agilia is perfect for high printing volumes.
- It boasts trusted security features to help reduce cloning risks.
- Includes an easy to use interface for users with all levels of experience.
Ideal For
The Agilia is the best retransfer printing solution for organisations who need highly secure outputs or additional durability for their credential issuance system.
Pros
Cons
Key Specs at a Glance
| Print Resolution | 600dpi |
| Print Speed (YMCK) | 24 Sec |
| Card Size | CR80 (86 × 54mm) |
| Display | LCD Touchscreen |
| OS Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Linux & Android |
HID FARGO HDP6600
Why We Picked It
- The HID FARGO HDP6600 is a robust printer with high speed throughput.
- It comes with a wide variety of connectivity and encoding options.
- It offers high-quality printing for a high definition photo ID.
Ideal For
The HID FARGO HDP6600 is best suited for organisations who need high spec, reliable and fast card printing.
Pros
Cons
Key Specs at a Glance
| Print Resolution | 600dpi |
| Print Speed (YMCK) | 16 Sec |
| Card Size | CR80 (86 × 54mm) |
| Display | Graphical OLED |
| OS Compatibility | Windows |
Matica XID8600
Why We Picked It
- The Matica XID8600 comes with double-sided printing as standard.
- It offers high-quality printing at a low cost of ownership.
- There are also multiple encoding and lamination options available.
Ideal For
The Matica XID8600 is a high-performance card printer tailored for industries that demand advanced security in the production of personalised ID cards and badges.
Pros
Cons
Key Specs at a Glance
| Print Resolution | 600dpi |
| Print Speed (YMCK) | 30 Sec |
| Card Size | CR80 (86 × 54mm) |
| Display | Graphic LCD |
| OS Compatibility | Windows |
Magicard Prima 8
Why We Picked It
- The Magicard Prima 8 comes with HoloKote® watermarking and UV security features.
- It's robust, very durable and is perfect for continued use and regular printing.
- It comes with the bonus of high yield consumables which are great for batch printing.
Ideal For
The Magicard Prima 8 is the best retransfer printer for organisations who need to produce high volumes of cards, due to its range of available consumables and accessories.
Pros
Cons
Key Specs at a Glance
| Print Resolution | 300dpi |
| Print Speed (YMCK) | 36 Sec |
| Card Size | CR80 (86 × 54mm) |
| Display | LCD Display |
| OS Compatibility | Windows |
HID FARGO HDP5000e
Why We Picked It
- The HID FARGO HDP5000e is a great retransfer printer for organisations of all sizes.
- It comes with trusted security features to prevent forgery.
- Comes with a range of popular encoding options.
Ideal For
The HID FARGO HDP5000e is best suited for organisations who need a reliable, fast and high-quality card printing solution, backed with multiple encoding options.
Pros
Cons
Key Specs at a Glance
| Print Resolution | 300dpi |
| Print Speed (YMCK) | 27 Sec |
| Card Size | CR80 (86 × 54mm) |
| Display | Graphical OLED |
| OS Compatibility | Windows & Mac |
IDP Smart 81
Why We Picked It
- The IDP Smart 81 has fast ready-to-print heat-up times.
- It comes with a handy 200-card input hopper for batch printing.
- Includes a built-in dust filter for flawless prints.
Ideal For
The IDP Smart 81 is a great retransfer ID printing solution for offices, schools, and any company issuing cards regularly with a mid-size budget.
Pros
Cons
Key Specs at a Glance
| Print Resolution | 300dpi |
| Print Speed (YMCK) | 25 Sec |
| Card Size | CR80 (86 × 54mm) |
| Display | Graphic LCD |
| OS Compatibility | Windows, Mac & Linux |
Full Comparison Table
| Score | Printer | Resolution | Speed | Card Types | Encoding | Bend Remedy | Laminator Add-On | Warranty | Cost of Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.3/10 | Evolis Agilia | 600dpi | 24 Sec | PVC, ABS, PET, Polycarbonate | Magnetic, Contact & Contactless | ✔ (with Laminator) | ✔ | 3 Years | 6.15/10 |
| 6.9/10 | HID FARGO HDP6600 | 600dpi | 16 Sec | PVC, ABS, PET, PETG, Polycarbonate | Magnetic, Contact & Contactless | ✔ (Optional Add-On) | ✔ | 4 Years | 6.15/10 |
| 6.9/10 | Matica XID8600 | 600dpi | 30 Sec | PVC, ABS, PET, Polycarbonate | Magnetic, Contact & Contactless | ✔ (Optional Add-On) | ✔ | 3 Years | 6.18/10 |
| 6.6/10 | Magicard Prima 8 | 300dpi | 36 Sec | PVC, ABS, PET, Polycarbonate | Magnetic, Contact & Contactless | ✔ (Optional Add-On) | ✔ | 3 Years | 6.32/10 |
| 6.6/10 | HID FARGO HDP5000e | 300dpi | 27 Sec | PVC, ABS, PET, PETG, Polycarbonate | Magnetic, Contact & Contactless | ✘ | ✔ | 3 Years | 6.47/10 |
| 6.5/10 | IDP Smart 81 | 300dpi | 25 Sec | PVC, PET, Polycarbonate | Magnetic, Contact & Contactless | ✔ (Optional Add-On) | ✔ | 3 Years | 6.5/10 |
Retransfer Card Printing Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know to make an informed decision. No fluff, just practical advice.
What is a Retransfer ID Card Printer?
A retransfer ID card printer uses a two-step printing process to create higher-quality,
more durable ID cards than traditional direct-to-card (DTC) printers.
Instead of printing directly onto the card surface, the printer:
- Prints the image onto a clear film (the “retransfer film”)
- Heats and bonds that film onto the card, creating a smooth, edge-to-edge finish
Because the image sits under the protective film, the final card is more resistant to scratching, bending, and fading.
Key Factors to Consider
Print Quality
The print quality is something you cannot compromise. Look for high DPI outputs, over-the-edge printing and high colour accuracy if you want professional ID cards.
Print Speed
Printing speed is an essential feature for medium to high volume operations. We suggest considering printers with a high cards per hour output and warm-up time.
Encoding Options
If encoding is a non-negotiable feature, look for printers that offer different options such as smart cards, access control integration, RFID and magnetic stripes.
Durability & Warranty
You'll want a printer that boasts excellent build quality, a long lifespan and a dedicated manufacturer warranty support system in place.
Total Cost of Ownership
You shouldn't just focus on the cost of the printer itself. Factor in other consumable parts such as ribbons, films, wastage, and maintenance.
Footprint & Noise
Consider your office environment carefully. Prevent frustrating your colleagues by investing in a product that fits your space, is quiet and has ventilation.
Which Retransfer Printer is Right for You?
Offices
The Evolis Agilia is a great all rounder and a perfect retransfer printer for corporate office spaces.
Education
The Magicard Prima 8 is a great solution for secure student and staff identification in schools, universities and colleges.
Access Control
The HID FARGO 6600 is built to integrate seamlessly with new and existing access control systems.
Events
The Matica XID8600 is the best printer for high quality, fast, reliable event name badge printing for local meetups or large conferences.
Healthcare
The IDP Smart 81 is the recommend solution for hospitals and healthcare settings needing to print visitor passes and medical identification.
Still Unsure?
Speak to our experts who can help you find the right printer for your organisation.
Contact UsFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you need true edge-to-edge printing, work with smart cards or uneven surfaces, or require photo-quality output. The higher per-card cost is offset by superior durability and professional appearance. For basic ID cards on standard PVC, a direct-to-card printer may suffice.
Most retransfer ribbons yield 500 - 1,500 prints depending on the model and print settings. YMCK ribbons (full colour) typically offer fewer printers than monochrome ribbons. Always factor in the retransfer film, which is consumed at a 1:1 ratio with cards.
Absolutely. Retransfer technology excels with access cards like proximity cards, smart cards, and contactless credentials because the film bonds over the card's antenna area without damage. This is one of the key advantages over direct-to-card printing.
Typical costs range from £0.60 to £1.20 per card, depending on the printer model, ribbon type, and whether you're printing single or dual sided. Our comparison table includes estimated cost-per-card for each model.
HDP (High Definition Printing) is HID FARGO's brand name for their retransfer technology. Functionally, HDP printers use the same retransfer process as other manufacturers – the terminology is simply brand-specific.
With proper maintenance, expect 3 - 5 years of reliable service for moderate use, or 5 - 7+ years for premium models in lower-volume environments. Regular cleaning and using genuine consumables significantly extends lifespan.
Retransfer printers work with a wider variety of card materials than DTC printers, including PVC, PET, composite, and polycarbonate.
Most mid-range and high-end retransfer printers support dual-sided (duplex) printing either as standard or via an optional module. Check individual model specifications for confirmation.
Which Printer Should You Choose?
Based on our extensive research, here's who should choose which model.
Evolis Agilia
If you need a combination of high print quality, speed, and reliability.
IDP Smart 81
If you want dependable ID cards without stretching your budget.
Magicard Prima 8
If security is non-negotiable and you want to prevent forgery attempts.
HID FARGO HDP5000e
If you need contact and contactless smart card encoding solutions.
This guide is independently researched and maintained by ID Card Centre's expert team.
About the Author
Ben O'Brien
Managing Director
Ben O’Brien is the Managing Director of ID Card Centre and a recognised authority in complex access control applications and eco-friendly identification solutions. Since entering the ID card printing industry in 1998, Ben has led countless projects across sectors, combining deep technical knowledge with a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Under his leadership, ID Card Centre continues to set standards for secure, efficient, and environmentally conscious ID systems.
