Why You Should Only Ever Buy Genuine Ribbons for Your Card Printer

Card Printers, Printer Ribbons -

Why You Should Only Ever Buy Genuine Ribbons for Your Card Printer

When it comes to printing ID cards, membership cards, loyalty cards, and more, the last thing you want is for the final print to be damaged or faded. Purchasing the right supplies for your card printer is critical, and one of the most essential components is the printer ribbon. Yet, despite the importance of using high-quality materials, many people wonder if it really matters whether they choose a genuine or a non-genuine (third-party, aftermarket, or counterfeit) ribbon.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore in detail why you should only ever buy genuine ribbons for your card printer. We’ll discuss the importance of genuine ribbons, outline the risks associated with counterfeit or non-genuine options, and provide actionable insights on verifying authenticity. We’ll also shine a spotlight on Card Monster, your trusted supplier of genuine ribbons throughout the African region. Finally, we’ll include helpful links to other resources that expand on proper ribbon care and maintenance.

So whether you’re new to card printing or simply seeking to refine your processes, read on to understand why authenticity in printing supplies is crucial for achieving professional results.

Introduction to Card Printer Ribbons

Evolis Card Printer being Loaded with Cards

Whether you’re printing employee ID badges, membership cards for a gym, or access control cards for a secured facility, the quality of the print matters. Card printers use specialised ribbons to transfer images and text onto blank plastic cards using a combination of heat and pressure. These ribbons are unique to the specific printer model and brand; they contain a sequence of colours or dyes that, when heated, adhere to the card’s surface in a consistent, professional manner.

At a glance, a card printer ribbon may seem like just another consumable item, similar to ink cartridges for a home printer. But ribbons are far more specialised. They often come in various colour panels (e.g., YMCKO—Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Black, and Overlay) that allow for full-colour printing and a protective overlay, as well as monochrome ribbons that print in a single colour. The alignment of these panels is critical for accurate colours and crisp text, which is why each ribbon must match the printer’s manufacturing specs precisely.

When you opt for genuine ribbons, you’re choosing a product designed and tested by the original manufacturer to meet the printer’s exact requirements. On the other hand, non-genuine or counterfeit ribbons might use substandard dyes, poor-quality plastic, or compromised spool alignment, leading to inconsistent colours, misaligned prints, or even mechanical damage to the printer. In some cases, a non-genuine ribbon can damage your printer to the point of having to throw it away. 

So it’s safe to say that you should not be using non-genuine ribbons if you want to keep your card printer. This also affects the warranty period, you will not be able to claim from your warranty if you use non-counterfeit ribbons.

Given the investment that goes into a card printer and how expensive they will be, you’ll need to look after your printer well. Authentic ribbons often feature technologies that enhance performance, print quality, and even security. These can include special lamination layers, watermarks, or micro-text features that reduce the risk of card tampering or cloning.

Why Ribbon Authenticity Matters

Authenticity of genuine ribbon

Imagine buying a high-quality card printer like our DS3 Card Printer to print membership cards for a new marketing campaign. You’ve designed your layout, chosen the perfect colour scheme, and tested everything to make sure you get professional results. However, when it comes time to load the ribbon, you decide to purchase a cheaper, non-genuine ribbon instead of the recommended genuine option. The outcome? Faded colours, streaky text, or even mechanical jams.

Authenticity matters because genuine ribbons are developed, tested, and manufactured under strict quality controls, ensuring:

  • Proper ink density and colour calibration: Genuine ribbons are produced with the exact density of dyes necessary to produce vibrant, accurate colour.

  • Compatible spool size and shape: Genuine ribbons fit your printer’s spool mechanism perfectly, preventing slippage, misalignment, or ribbon snapping.

  • Optimised protective overlay: Many genuine ribbons include a protective overlay panel that safeguards the printed image from abrasion and fading.

  • Reduced risk of printer damage: Compatible design extends the life of your printhead and other mechanical components.

Furthermore, using genuine ribbons also guarantees that brand warranties and support remain valid. Many printer manufacturers explicitly state in their warranty terms that using unauthorised supplies may void the warranty. This can lead to costly repairs if something goes wrong.

Risks of Using Non-Genuine Ribbons

Ribbon Authenticity

Sometimes lower costs can tempt customers into buying third-party or counterfeit ribbons. While it might look like a bargain at first glance, these “cheap” ribbons often come with hidden costs that can end up costing you far more in the long run. Below are some of the most critical risks you take when you use non-genuine ribbons:

3.1 Poor Print Quality

Colour Inconsistency: Non-genuine ribbons frequently use cheaper dyes, resulting in dull or inaccurate colour reproduction. Graphics that should pop with vibrant hues may end up looking muted or washed out.

Streaks and Smudges: Inconsistent dye distribution can lead to streaky prints or smudges across the card surface. In business or corporate environments, such flaws can harm your professional image.

3.2 Ribbon Snapping and Printer Jams

Low-quality ribbon materials and subpar spooling can cause the ribbon to snap. This issue can bring your entire printing operation to a halt, forcing you to spend additional time and resources to fix the problem or replace the broken ribbon. In extreme cases, a snapped ribbon can even get tangled in your printer’s internal mechanisms, potentially damaging the printhead or other critical components. For more on preventing ribbon snapping, check out Card Monster’s detailed guide here: How to Prevent Your DS Card Printer Ribbons from Snapping.

3.3 Voided Warranties

Most printer manufacturers have explicit clauses in their warranty policies stating that the use of unauthorised supplies—like non-genuine ribbons—could void coverage. This means if your printer suffers damage due to a low-quality ribbon, you may have to pay out-of-pocket for repairs or even purchase a brand-new machine, nullifying any savings you initially enjoyed.

3.4 Increased Printer Wear and Tear

Non-genuine ribbons are often prone to leaving residue or debris inside the printer. Over time, this buildup can degrade essential parts such as the printhead and rollers. Not only does this lead to frequent malfunctions, but it also shortens the overall life of your printer, requiring replacement sooner than you might expect.

3.5 Security Concerns

In some cases, genuine ribbons come with additional security features, such as watermarks or micro-printing elements designed to prevent card tampering and counterfeiting. Substituting these advanced features with cheaper non-genuine ribbons compromises the security of your printed cards, leaving them vulnerable to fraud.

Key Benefits of Genuine Ribbons

Speaking about genuine card printer ribbons

High-Quality, Consistent Prints

Genuine ribbons are tested for colour accuracy and consistency. Whether you’re printing a single card or running a batch of thousands, you’ll notice uniform vibrancy, sharp text, and crisp images. Colour consistency across every card ensures your brand remains recognisable and professional.

Extended Printer Lifespan

One of the most expensive components in a card printer is the printhead. Genuine ribbons help protect it by offering optimal compatibility, preventing unnecessary friction, and reducing residue buildup. When a ribbon is designed specifically for your printer model, it aligns perfectly and runs smoothly, reducing wear and tear on mechanical parts.

Manufacturer Support and Warranty

Using authentic ribbons ensures that you remain eligible for full manufacturer support and warranty coverage. If an issue arises, you can receive help or repair services without worrying about the disclaimer that your supplies were non-genuine. This is a critical safety net, especially for businesses that rely heavily on uninterrupted printing operations.

Built-In Security Features

Genuine ribbons often incorporate additional security features—like hidden text layers, holographic overlays, or micro-text printing elements—that can protect against card fraud. Counterfeit ribbons usually skimp on these enhancements, leaving printed cards more vulnerable to tampering or duplication. If you’re printing ID badges for a secure facility or membership cards for financial transactions, these security features are invaluable.

Optimal Yields and Accurate Ribbon Usage

Genuine ribbons are calibrated so your printer can track ribbon usage accurately, ensuring you get the right number of prints out of each ribbon. With non-genuine ribbons, the printer may miscalculate the remaining panels, leading to discarded ribbons or misprints mid-run. Over time, these miscalculations add up, making it more costly.

Time Savings and Reduced Downtime

Printer jams, snapped ribbons, and poor-quality prints all create downtime. Genuine ribbons reduce the likelihood of these disruptions, allowing you to maintain a smoother workflow. Less downtime means more efficient operations and, ultimately, higher productivity. After all, every minute spent troubleshooting a faulty ribbon is a minute not spent on more value-added tasks.

Consistent Production of Speciality Cards

If your organisation prints specialised cards— lamination, or UV overlays—you need ribbons designed for those specific tasks. Genuine ribbons guarantee that the special techniques or finishes you require will be done properly, resulting in truly standout cards that set you apart from competitors.

Peace of Mind and Brand Protection

Above all, using genuine ribbons gives you peace of mind. You know you’re producing top-notch cards that accurately represent your brand’s image. Moreover, you’re safeguarding sensitive data—especially if these cards function as access control or financial transaction cards. Any compromise in print quality or security features can have serious repercussions, both financially and reputationally.

By opting for genuine ribbons, you’re investing in the long-term success of your card printing process. The next section will explore how these benefits translate into tangible financial outcomes, proving that genuine ribbons are often more cost-effective than non-genuine options in the long run.

How to Test for Ribbon Authenticity? 

Card printer ribbon test for authenticity

knowing how to verify a ribbon’s authenticity is very important. Fortunately, manufacturers and reputable distributors like Card Monster provide clear methods to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Look for Security Labels or Holograms

Most major printer brands affix security labels, holograms, or unique serial numbers to their ribbon packaging. These security features are difficult to replicate due to their complexity, making them a reliable indicator of authenticity. Always examine the packaging before purchase or opening.

Check the Ribbon Cartridge

Authentic ribbons generally feature brand-specific markings or embossing on the cartridge spools themselves. If these markings are missing or look suspicious, you could be dealing with a counterfeit product.

Purchase from Authorised Distributors

The simplest way to guarantee authenticity is by purchasing from an authorised distributor. In the African region, Card Monster is a trusted source for genuine ribbons. By choosing an authorised seller, you dramatically reduce the risk of buying subpar or counterfeit supplies.

Ask for Documentation

Legitimate sellers can often supply additional documentation, such as invoices or certificates, confirming that the ribbons are sourced from the manufacturer or an official channel. If a seller refuses or is unable to provide such documentation, consider shopping elsewhere.

Card Monster: Your Trusted Supplier in Africa


When it comes to purchasing genuine ribbons in the African region, Card Monster is your go-to source. We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of authentic ribbons for various card printer brands, including Entrust, Evolis and more. Our dedicated team thoroughly vets our supply chain to ensure that every ribbon we sell meets the strict criteria set by original manufacturers.

8.1 What Sets Card Monster Apart?

  • Guaranteed Authenticity: We only stock genuine ribbons—no exceptions.

  • Expert Support: Our support team is trained to help you select the right ribbon for your specific printer model and can provide guidance on installation, troubleshooting, and best practices.

  • Competitive Pricing: While genuine ribbons are an investment, we strive to keep our prices competitive, ensuring you get value without sacrificing quality.

  • Reliable Shipping and Fulfillment: We understand how vital timely delivery is, especially for businesses with strict deadlines. Card Monster ensures fast, reliable shipping across Africa.

By partnering with Card Monster, you’re not just purchasing a ribbon—you’re gaining a trusted ally who understands the importance of consistent, high-quality card printing. For more insights on card printing and to stay updated on industry news, check out our Support Blog and News Section.

Conclusion: Make the Right Choice Every Time

Support for card printers

The choice to use genuine ribbons is about more than just print quality. It’s about maintaining your brand, ensuring security, protecting your printer from wear and tear, and ultimately saving money in the long run. Non-genuine ribbons may appear cost-effective at first glance, but their hidden costs—ranging from voided warranties and printer damages to wasted prints and compromised security—can drastically overshadow any initial savings.

By choosing authentic ribbons, you benefit from:

  • Consistent print quality for your brand image.

  • Reduced downtime due to fewer mechanical complications.

  • Warranty protection and direct support from manufacturers.

  • Security features that reduce fraud and cloning.

  • Optimised resource usage that supports sustainability efforts.

Furthermore, working with a trusted distributor like Card Monster simplifies the entire procurement process. You can confidently order knowing that your ribbons are genuine, backed by the manufacturer, and delivered with expert guidance on usage and maintenance. We are proud to serve the African region, helping businesses of all sizes print high-quality, durable cards that stand the test of time.

Whether you’re printing ID cards, event badges, loyalty cards, or access control cards, never underestimate the critical role of a genuine ribbon in achieving professional results. Always verify your ribbon’s authenticity to protect your card printer. 


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published