Badgy100 Plastic Card Printer
4.1Editor score
Includes Badge Studio software
High resolution printing
Online template library
In this guide
Finding the right plastic ID card printer is essential for organizations that need to produce secure and professional identification badges quickly. Whether you manage a school, a corporate office, or a membership club, having an in-house printing solution saves time and money compared to outsourcing.
We have analyzed ten different models and bundles available on the market to help you make an informed decision. Our comparison considers print speed, resolution, ease of use, included software, and the value of starter kits that come with cards and ribbons.
Each selection below highlights specific strengths such as budget friendliness or advanced dual-sided capabilities. Please note that pricing and availability can change frequently, so always check the latest details before making your final purchase decision today.
Top 3 Picks for Best Plastic Id Card Printer
IDP SMART-21S ID Card Simplex Printer Kit
3.9Editor score
Includes 100 cards and ribbon
Compatible with Windows 10 11
Fast print speed
Forge 1E Dual-Sided ID Card Printer System
Automatic dual-sided printing
Includes HD webcam and software
Made in USA assembly
Top 10 Best Plastic Id Card Printer in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten products reviewed in this guide. It highlights key specifications and included items to help you quickly identify which printer fits your specific needs and budget constraints.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
Badgy100
Single sided printing
Includes Badge Studio
Compact desktop design
4.1Editor score
Editor's Choice
IDP SMART-21S
Includes starter kit
Windows compatible
Hand fed design
3.9Editor score
Best Premium
Badgy200
Full color output
Badge Studio Plus
1 year warranty
3.6Editor score
Easy Badges Solid 210
300 dpi resolution
Includes 200 cards
Mac and PC
4.4Editor score
500 Pack Blank PVC Cards
ISO CR80 size
30 mil thickness
Dual side printing
4.5Editor score
Forge 1E Dual-Sided
Automatic duplex print
Includes webcam
USA made cards
2ID Fargo DTC1250e
Global warranty
Edge to edge print
Small footprint
5.0Editor score
Magicard Pronto
Single sided only
Includes ribbons
Cloud badge lite
700 Blank ID Cards
30 mil thick
700 pack size
Smooth surface
5.0Editor score
Bulk 100 Pack PVC
USA manufactured
Shrink wrapped
No magnetic stripe
4.6Editor score
1. Badgy100 – Best Budget ID Card Printer
Badgy100
Full color printing
Badge Studio included
Template library access
Tamper proof badges
The Badgy100 is an excellent entry point for organizations looking to print their own ID badges without breaking the budget. It comes with Badge Studio software which allows users to design professional looking cards right from their desktop computer with ease.
Pros
- Affordable entry price
- Easy to use
- Professional design tools
- Quick replacement of lost cards
- High resolution output
Cons
- Single sided only
- Limited volume capacity
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This printer is suited for single printing needs where immediate access to lost or stolen cards is required. The online template library offers a wide variety of designs that help you create badges that look professional and trustworthy for your employees or students.
While it is designed for lower volume tasks, the quality of the print is high enough for most standard identification purposes. The tamper proof feature ensures that your badges remain secure and difficult to forge for unauthorized individuals.
If you need a simple solution to print custom ID badges quickly and efficiently, this model is a strong contender. It removes the need for subcontractors and gives you full control over the design and production of your identification badges.
Professional Design Capabilities
The included software allows for custom designs without needing a graphic designer.
Immediate Access
Print replacement cards on demand to ensure security is never compromised.
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2. IDP SMART-21S – Best Value Kit
IDP SMART-21S
Includes 100 cards
Full color output
Windows 10 11
EasyCapture tool trial
The IDP SMART-21S kit is designed to get you started printing ID badges immediately upon unboxing. It includes everything from the printer itself to the initial supply of cards and ribbons so you can start creating credentials right away.
Pros
- Complete starter kit
- Includes ribbons and cards
- High resolution print
- Fast print speed
- Compact design
Cons
- PC only software
- Single sided printer
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The system is capable of producing high resolution full color cards as well as monochromatic ones. It is compatible with modern Windows operating systems and features a simple control panel with an easy to use LED button for operation.
With a print speed of over 150 color cards per hour this printer is efficient for small business needs. The included EasyCapture photo tool helps streamline the process of gathering employee photos for new badges efficiently.
Whether you are printing student IDs or access control badges this printer offers a versatile solution. Its compact size ensures it fits well on a desk without taking up too much space in your office.
Complete Starter Package
Receive ribbons and cards in the box to avoid initial purchase delays.
Efficient Photo Capture
The EasyCapture tool simplifies collecting consistent photos for new badges.
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3. Badgy200 – Best Upgrade Model
Badgy200
Full color printing
Badge Studio Plus
Database import
Includes 100 cards
The Badgy200 builds on the success of the 100 model with upgraded software and features that make design easier. It includes Badge Studio Plus which allows for database imports so you can create badges in bulk if needed.
Pros
- Upgraded software features
- High color quality
- Easy custom badge creation
- Includes warranty
- Includes starter supplies
Cons
- Single sided printing
- Lower user rating
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This printer is perfect for creating a sense of community with professional full color badges for students or members. The tamper proof nature of the printed cards adds a layer of security to your workplace or school environment.
The kit includes the printer, a color ribbon, blank cards, and cables so you can start immediately. It supports creating custom badges easily from scratch or using free templates provided by the software.
If you need to handle larger volumes of badge creation than the 100 model offers this is a logical step up. The included warranty provides peace of mind for your investment in this professional printing solution.
Database Import Feature
Upload data to create multiple badges quickly without manual entry.
Security and Community
Professional badges foster trust and enhance security for your group.
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4. Easy Badges Solid 210 – Best for Small Offices
Easy Badges Solid 210
300 dpi resolution
Includes 200 cards
PC and Mac compatible
300 cards per hour
The Easy Badges Solid 210 is a standout option for cost effective security in small organizations. It is incredibly compact and lightweight making it easy to fit on any desk without cluttering your workspace.
Pros
- Highest rated in list
- Includes 200 cards
- Small footprint
- Simple software
- Cost effective
Cons
- Single sided only
- Basic features
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The printer comes with Cardholdir ID Beginner Software which allows you to drag and drop images to create badges quickly. It is compatible with both PC and Mac systems giving you flexibility in your tech environment.
With a resolution of 300 dpi it provides sufficient quality for most organizations. The included ribbon and cards allow you to print up to 200 standard sized badges right out of the box.
This printer is designed for simplicity so you do not need expensive graphic designers to use it. Its high rating suggests that users find it reliable and easy to manage for daily printing needs.
Compact Design
Save valuable desk space with the smallest printer in its class.
Cross Platform Support
Use the same software on Mac or PC for consistent results.
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5. 500 Pack Blank PVC Cards – Best Supply Pack
500 Pack Blank PVC Cards
Wide printer compatibility
Double sided printing
ISO CR80 standard
30 mil thickness
These blank PVC cards are essential for anyone operating a plastic ID card printer. They are designed to work with most major brands ensuring you can use them with your existing equipment without issues.
Pros
- High volume pack
- Fits most printers
- Premium quality
- Standard credit card size
- Versatile use
Cons
- No chips or stripes
- Not for inkjet
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The cards meet international standards for size and thickness making them durable and professional. They can be printed on both sides allowing for more information or design elements on the back.
While they do not contain chips or stripes they are perfect for visual ID badges and membership cards. Some users even find them useful for crafts or decal adhesion projects outside of badge printing.
Buying in bulk is a cost effective way to stock up for your organization. You receive 500 cards in two boxes ensuring you have a steady supply for your printing needs.
Universal Fit
Compatible with major printer brands for easy integration.
Standard Thickness
30 mil thickness ensures durability and professional feel.
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6. Forge 1E – Best Premium Dual-Sided Printer
Forge 1E
Automatic dual-sided printing
Includes HD webcam
250 print ribbon
USA made cards
The Forge 1E is a complete system designed to make printing professional photo IDs simple and fast. It features automatic dual-sided printing which eliminates the need to manually flip cards during the process.
Pros
- Automatic duplex feature
- More ribbons included
- Support from USA
- Full system bundle
- Compact design
Cons
- Higher price point
- N/A rating
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Unlike many entry level bundles it includes a 250 print ribbon which provides better value and fewer reorders. The included software and webcam allow you to design badges and capture photos all from one place.
This printer is assembled in the USA using USA made cards providing a level of quality control and support. The compact design ensures it fits well in office or front desk environments.
If you need to add barcodes or signatures to the back of badges this model handles it automatically. It is a robust solution for organizations that need a reliable and efficient printing workflow.
Automatic Duplex Printing
Save time by printing both sides of cards without manual flipping.
Enhanced Security
Add QR codes or policies to the back for better security.
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7. 2ID Fargo DTC1250e – Best Professional Machine
2ID Fargo DTC1250e
Three year warranty
Edge to edge print
Compact footprint
Status update buttons
The Fargo DTC1250e is a professional grade single sided printer known for its reliability and quality. It offers a global warranty which gives customers confidence in the long-term durability of the machine.
Pros
- High customer rating
- Global warranty
- User friendly design
- Real-time status updates
- Seamless printing
Cons
- Ribbon sold separately
- Higher price
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Users appreciate the user-friendly design that allows them to produce professional cards within minutes. The edge-to-edge printing capability ensures that your credentials look visually appealing and polished.
The compact size makes it ideal for small to medium businesses where space is at a premium. Color-changing buttons provide real-time system status updates helping you manage your workflow efficiently.
Although the ribbon is sold separately the quality of the printer justifies the investment. It is an excellent choice for schools and corporations needing dependable access control badges.
Long-Term Warranty
A three year global warranty assures reliability and customer satisfaction.
Visual Quality
Edge to edge printing creates professional and polished credentials.
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8. Magicard Pronto – Best Cloud Bundle
Magicard Pronto
Single sided printer
Includes 300 prints
500 card pack
CloudBadging Lite
This bundle offers a significant amount of supplies with the Magicard Pronto printer. You get enough ribbons to print 300 cards and a pack of 500 blank cards so you are ready for a larger run.
Pros
- Large supply bundle
- Cloud software included
- Premium cards
- High yield ribbon
- Professional quality
Cons
- Single sided only
- N/A rating
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The CloudBadging Lite software allows you to manage your badge printing from the cloud providing flexibility in how you design and track your credentials. It is a modern approach to ID card production.
The printer is single sided but provides professional quality prints for your badges. The included premium white blank plastic cards ensure you have high quality materials to work with.
If you need a larger volume of cards immediately this bundle is a practical choice. It saves you the effort of buying cards and ribbons separately and helps you get started faster.
Large Supply Bundle
Receive hundreds of cards and ribbons in one purchase for efficiency.
Cloud Management
Use CloudBadging Lite for flexible design and tracking options.
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9. 700 Blank ID Cards – Best Bulk Option
700 Blank ID Cards
700 pack size
Smooth surface
Standard size
No chips
This pack provides 700 blank ID cards which is a substantial amount for organizations with high turnover. The smooth surface ensures that your prints will be clear and sharp without any defects.
Pros
- Highest volume pack
- High user rating
- Smooth printable surface
- Meets credit card standards
- Multi-purpose
Cons
- No mag stripe
- Basic card
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Each card meets credit card size standards ensuring compatibility with standard card readers if needed in the future. They are 30 mil thick which provides the durability required for regular use.
The cards are blank without chips or stripes making them versatile for various types of badges. You can use them for membership cards, gift cards, or even craft projects and RPG cards.
With a perfect user rating this product is clearly trusted by customers for quality. Buying in bulk helps reduce the cost per card and ensures you never run out of supplies.
High Volume Value
Get 700 cards to last longer and reduce frequent ordering.
Smooth Print Surface
Optimized surface ensures clear and sharp badge designs.
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10. Bulk 100 Pack PVC – Best Starter Cards
Bulk 100 Pack PVC
USA manufactured
Shrink wrap sealed
No adhesive
Professional quality
These 100 pack cards are a great starting point for small organizations testing a new printer. They are manufactured in the USA ensuring high manufacturing standards and reliability.
Pros
- Made in USA
- Shrink wrapped for quality
- Economical pack size
- No adhesive
- No pre-punched slots
Cons
- Smaller pack
- Basic white
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The cards come shrink wrapped to keep them clean and ready to use upon arrival. This prevents dust or debris from affecting your print quality which is crucial for professional results.
They are designed to be printable on both sides without any adhesive or pre-punched slots. This allows you to customize your badges without worrying about interfering with existing features.
For a quick and clean supply of cards this pack offers good value. It is compatible with most popular printers so you can easily integrate it into your existing workflow.
Clean Packaging
Shrink wrap keeps cards clean and ready for immediate printing.
USA Manufacturing
Produced in the USA for consistent quality and standards.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Plastic Id Card Printer
Choosing the right plastic ID card printer requires considering several factors to ensure you get a machine that fits your organization's needs and budget.
Print Quality and Resolution
Print quality is critical for professional-looking badges. Look for printers that offer high resolution output to ensure text is clear and images are sharp. Most entry-level printers offer 300 dpi which is sufficient for general use.
Always check the resolution specifications to match your visual requirements for ID cards.
Print Speed and Volume
Consider how many cards you need to print per hour or per day. Some printers can produce over 150 color cards per hour which is efficient for high volume needs. If you only need to print a few at a time a slower model may suffice.
Match the speed of the printer to the size of your organization to avoid bottlenecks.
Single-Sided vs. Dual-Sided
Decide if you need to print on both sides of the card. Dual-sided printers save time and effort by flipping cards automatically whereas single-sided models require manual flipping. This feature is important if you need to print policies or barcodes on the back.
Invest in a duplex model if you frequently need information on the reverse side of your badges.
Software Capabilities
Good software is as important as the hardware itself. Look for systems that come with intuitive design tools and database import capabilities. Some packages include photo capture tools to streamline the onboarding process for new employees.
Choose software that is easy to use and compatible with your operating system for better workflow.
Included Supplies and Consumables
Many printers come as kits that include cards and ribbons. This can offer better value than buying the printer alone. Check how many prints the ribbon supports so you can estimate the running costs of the machine.
Ensure the bundle includes enough supplies to meet your initial printing demands.
Compatibility and Connectivity
Make sure the printer works with your computers and software. Most modern printers support USB connectivity and are compatible with Windows and Mac systems. Verify that drivers are available for your specific operating system version.
Check compatibility lists to avoid issues with your current hardware and software setup.
Durability and Warranty
A warranty protects your investment against manufacturing defects. Look for brands that offer extended global warranties which can last up to three years. This gives you confidence that the machine will perform well over time.
Prioritize models with strong warranty support to ensure long-term reliability.
Budget and Total Cost of Ownership
Consider the price of the printer alongside the cost of replacement ribbons and cards. Some printers may be cheaper upfront but have higher consumable costs. Calculate the total cost to ensure it fits within your budget.
Compare initial prices and ongoing supply costs to find the most economical choice.
How to Use and Care for Your Plastic Id Card Printer
To get started, install the provided software and connect the printer to your computer via USB. Load the blank PVC cards into the card feeder tray ensuring they are aligned correctly to avoid jams.
When printing, design your badge layout in the software using templates or custom graphics. Send the print command and monitor the first card to ensure alignment and quality are correct before continuing.
Regularly clean the printer rollers and printhead with a cleaning card to maintain print quality. Store unused ribbons and cards in a cool dry place to prevent them from warping or fading over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between DTC and retransfer printing?
Direct-to-Card or DTC printers print directly onto the card surface which is cost effective for smooth cards. Retransfer printers first print on a film that is then transferred to the card offering better quality for textured or chip cards.
Can I use these printers with magnetic stripe cards?
Most standard ID printers do not encode magnetic stripes. You need a specific printer with an encoder module or a separate encoding device to add data to the magnetic stripe on the back of the card.
How often should I clean my ID card printer?
It is recommended to clean the printhead and rollers every time you change a ribbon or every 1,000 prints. Regular cleaning prevents dust and residue from affecting print quality and extends the life of the machine.
Are blank PVC cards universal across all printers?
Most printers use standard CR80 size cards which are compatible across brands. However always check the manufacturer specifications to ensure the card thickness and material are suitable for your specific printer model.
What software is included with these printers?
Many bundles include beginner level design software like Badge Studio or CloudBadging. These tools allow you to create badges using templates. Some advanced models may offer additional features like database integration.
How do I fix a card jam in my printer?
Turn off the printer and carefully remove any stuck cards from the input tray or output area. Check the rollers for debris and clean them if necessary before reloading the cards gently without forcing them in.
Can I print on both sides of the card manually?
Yes for single-sided printers you can print one side then manually flip the card to print the other side. Make sure to track the orientation correctly so the text aligns properly on both sides.
What ribbon types are used for ID card printers?
ID printers typically use YMCKO ribbons which provide full color plus an overlay layer for durability. Monochrome ribbons are also available for black and white printing which is more cost effective for simple badges.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Plastic Id Card Printer
We have reviewed ten excellent options ranging from budget friendly models to professional systems with automatic dual-sided printing. The Badgy100 and IDP SMART-21S stand out for their value and ease of use for smaller organizations.
For those needing higher efficiency the Forge 1E offers advanced features like automatic duplex printing and USA based support. Consider your volume needs and software requirements when making your final decision to ensure the best fit.
Please remember that product availability and pricing can change at any time. Always check the latest details on the product pages before purchasing to ensure you are getting the best current deal for your organization.