The thermal rolls from TK THERMALKING impressed with their excellent quality in practical tests. With a paper thickness of 55 g/sqm, they are perfect for a wide range of applications such as cash register systems or thermal printing units. Compatibility is a very positive aspect, as the thermal paper can be used in a wide range of receipt printers. The fact that the thermal paper is BPA-free ensures that it does not contain any harmful plasticizers. The thermal rolls from TK THERMALKING can be purchased in packs of 20 or 50 as required. According to the seller, the thermal rolls are manufactured in first-class production facilities . The product is shrink-wrapped in compostable plastic and the cores on which the paper rolls are wound are also made of cardboard. In combination with the product quality , this results in a very good price-performance ratio. The product was also completely convincing in the practical test thanks to its uncomplicated handling and good quality and delivered very good results .
Advantages
✅ Optimum paper weight
✅ Long durability
✅ Deep black print
✅ BPA-free
✅ Made in Germany, environmentally friendly product
Disadvantages
❌
The test
General information
We took a close look at and tested the product in a practical test. In the following, we take a closer look at the features and impressions. From the packaging, materials and quality to the range of functions and handling, the product is subjected to our test procedure.
To give you a quick overview, we work with a points system. The maximum achievable score per area is 100 points. The final overall score is calculated from the average of all tested features, taking into account the respective weighting. For a detailed insight into our comprehensive evaluation process, which forms the basis of all our product ratings, please click here.
The first impression
Packaging and contents
ℹ️ Here we take a closer look at packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course also be guaranteed. Are the contents of the packaging complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Product protection | Carton is sturdy, product sufficiently protected | 100 points |
| Sustainability Packaging | Compact product packaging, unnecessary packaging waste has been avoided | 100 points |
| Package contents & scope | 5 thermal rolls | 100 points |
| Instructions for use | Not included, but also not required | 100 points |
| Total | 100 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
The product was well packaged and delivered in a sturdy cardboard box. After unpacking, the thermal rolls were found on the table. Instructions for use are not included with the product, but in our opinion they are not needed. It should be noted that 5 thermo rolls are packed in one unit and welded together with compostable plastic. Overall, due to the production site in Germany , attention was paid to short delivery routes , which indicates sustainability and environmental awareness. Unnecessary plastic waste has been avoided and the cardboard is also recyclable and FSC-certified.
The first time in your hand
Product processing and appearance
ℹ️ Before we start the practical test, we take a close look at the workmanship of the products. How high quality are the materials used? Are the look and feel satisfactory?
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Visual appearance | White color | 100 points |
| Processing | Looks high quality | 100 points |
| Stability | Sufficient paper thickness | 100 points |
| Sustainability of the product | Durable and made in Germany | 100 points |
| Total | 100 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
After unpacking, it is noticeable that the overall quality of the material is high . The thermal paper is pleasantly white and the paper thickness is impressive – it has a pleasant density. The coating of the paper surface is pleasant to the touch and appears to be sufficiently stable for the intended use . Overall, the material quality indicates that the product is durable . The thermal rolls from TK THERMALKING have made a good first impression.
This is what our practical test showed
Does the manufacturer keep its advertising promises?
ℹ️ Our practical test has the highest relevance and therefore weighting. Here, the product has to undergo a wide range of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test article.
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Print quality | Deep black color, clear print | 100 points |
| Durability | Long shelf life according to ISO test 10 years | 100 points |
| Compatibility | Versatile compatibility | 100 points |
| Heat sensitivity | No discoloration of the white paper | 100 points |
| Environmental compatibility | BPA-free | 100 points |
| Total | 100 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
The thermal rolls from TK THERMALKING were subjected to a practical print test . The paper is easy to insert into the device and the black ink was very well absorbed. The strong contrast between white paper and black print creates good legibility and the contrast is stronger compared to equivalent products from other manufacturers. Another positive aspect is the wide range of compatibility with different brands – the thermal rolls are approved by printer manufacturers such as Epson, Bixolon etc. for use with thermal printing output devices and thermal printing systems. The stability of the thermal paper has good heat resistance and the paper did not darken in practical tests. If stored correctly, the thermal paper has a shelf life of at least 10 years. By dispensing with harmful chemical plasticizers , the product is also completely convincing in terms of environmental compatibility and health safety. A practical detail is the last piece of paper: from the last meter of the roll, it turns red, indicating that the roll will soon run out.
Price/performance ratio
and ratings from consumers
ℹ️ Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it keep up with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend buying it? We also look at the consumer reviews and check whether the critical and positive reviews are actually justified.
| Criterion | Remark | Score achieved* |
|---|---|---|
| Price / performance ratio | Very good performance in the mid-price segment | 80 points |
| Rating cut | 4.6 out of 5.0 on Amazon | 80 points |
| Total | 80 points |
*The maximum score is 100 points
On the Amazon platform, consumers rate the product with an average of 4.6 stars. One criticism is that the product was not packaged in protective film. Many customers like the good product quality. In our practical test, we were able to confirm that the product quality and the print result were good.
Prices of up to €60 are charged on the Internet for equivalent products. Very inexpensive products are available from as little as €25. The thermal rolls from TK THERMALKING are therefore currently in the middle price segment with a price of €39.89. The price-performance ratio is reasonable for the quality and performance received.
Overall result
| Weighting | Score achieved* | |
|---|---|---|
| 1. packaging & contents | 20% | 100 points |
| 2. product processing & appearance | 20% | 100 points |
| 3. in the practical test | 45% | 100 points |
| 4. price/performance & consumer ratings | 15% | 80 points |
| Total | 97 points |
The thermal rolls of the TK THERMALKING brand were awarded an overall score of 1.2 and thus successfully qualified for our test seal. The test was carried out in the test period 03/24 and is stored in our database under the license number 240226011. Further information on our test procedure can be found at www.pruefengel.de/testverfahren.
Test result:
1,2
