A thermal printer is a type of printer that uses heat to produce images or text on paper. It works by applying heat to special thermal paper, which changes color when heated. This technology is commonly used for printing receipts, labels, and barcodes due to its speed and efficiency. There are two main types of thermal printers: direct thermal and thermal transfer. Direct thermal printers use heat-sensitive paper, while thermal transfer printers use a ribbon to transfer ink onto the paper. Both types are popular in various industries, including retail and logistics, for their reliability and low maintenance needs.