10 Best Printers For Gift Cards 2025 in the United States

The Bodno Magicard 600 Dual-Sided ID Card Printer is a robust option for anyone looking to print high-quality gift cards. It offers a maximum print resolution of 600 dpi, ensuring crisp and clear images, although it falls slightly short with a maximum color resolution of 300 x 300 dpi, which might not be ideal for very detailed graphics. The printer's speed is decent with an initial page print time of 10 seconds, making it efficient for moderate printing tasks.

One of its standout features is the all-inclusive package that includes software, a 300-print color ribbon, and PVC cards, making it a comprehensive solution for immediate use. The ability to add a custom HoloKote watermark enhances security but comes at an additional cost, which might be a consideration for some users. Dual-sided printing is a significant benefit, allowing for more elaborate card designs, while the built-in WiFi and Ethernet connectivity facilitate easy network integration.

The Bodno Bronze Edition software is user-friendly, with pre-made templates and drag-and-drop design, although the software's one-time license might be a limitation for long-term flexibility. Durability is backed by a three-year warranty and lifetime support, offering good peace of mind. However, the cost of consumables, like the custom HoloKote and additional ribbons, might add up over time. Weighing about 10.4 pounds, it’s relatively portable and suitable for small to medium-sized operations. This printer would benefit organizations that need secure, high-quality card printing capabilities with reliable support and comprehensive initial supplies.

The Fargo DTC4250e Dual-Side ID Card Printer is a robust choice for those looking to print high-quality gift cards. It offers a maximum color print resolution of approximately 1200 dpi, which ensures sharp and vibrant images and text. The print speed is moderate, with the first page taking around 20 seconds, which might be a bit slow if you need to print in high volumes quickly. However, the dual-sided printing capability is a strong point, allowing for efficient and professional-looking cards without manual intervention.

The printer uses dye-sublimation and thermal printing technology, known for producing durable and vivid prints suitable for gift cards. This model is compatible with various media types, including PVC cards, making it versatile for different card printing needs. Connectivity options include USB and Ethernet, providing flexible setup choices for different environments. Additionally, it comes with a color ribbon for 250 prints and 100 PVC cards, which adds value right out of the box.

One potential drawback is the cost of consumables; dye-sublimation ribbons can be more expensive than other ink types. The printer's build quality is strong, weighing 18.5 pounds and designed to be durable for extended use. The smart LCD screen is a convenient feature for managing print jobs directly from the printer. The included Card Imaging software should be helpful for designing custom cards without needing additional software. While the price point might be higher, the three-year warranty offers peace of mind, making it a reliable investment for consistent, high-quality card printing.

The Evolis Primacy 2 Dual-Sided ID Card Printer is a solid choice if you need to print high-quality gift or ID cards quickly. It uses dye sublimation technology, which produces sharp, colorful prints at a resolution of 300 x 300 dpi — good enough for clear images and text but not ultra-fine detail. One big plus is its speed, printing up to 280 color cards per hour, making it faster than many similar models. It also prints on both sides automatically, which is handy for cards needing information or designs on front and back. The printer includes a 100-card feeder with an option to upgrade to 200 cards, so you can handle small to medium batch printing without constant refilling. Connectivity options are straightforward with USB and Ethernet ports, and it works with both Windows and Mac, offering good compatibility with different computers. The included supply bundle with ribbons, blank cards, and design software helps you get started right away. Its build is sturdy and comes with a 3-year warranty, suggesting reliability and support.

The print resolution is fairly standard, so it might not satisfy those needing ultra-high detail. Also, consumables like dye ribbons and blank cards can add to the ongoing cost, which is typical with dye sublimation printers. The machine is fairly large and weighs over 14 pounds, so it needs a dedicated workspace. Its LED panel is helpful but more advanced controls are optional extras, which might be something to consider depending on your ease-of-use needs. This printer suits businesses or individuals needing efficient, good-quality card printing with moderate volume, especially where double-sided cards are required.