When you compare Fargo printers you will see two abbreviations again and again: DTC and HDP. They describe two different ways of getting an image onto a card, and the difference affects print quality, durability, smart card compatibility and cost. Here is what each means and how to choose.
What is DTC, direct to card
Direct to card printing applies the image straight onto the card surface using a thermal print head and a ribbon. It is the most common, most affordable method, and for the majority of ID and access cards it produces clean, professional results at 300 dpi.
The one limitation is the edge. Because the print head cannot quite reach the rim of the card, direct to card printing leaves a very thin unprinted border. For most badges this is invisible in practice. Direct to card also prefers smooth, flat cards.
What is HDP, high definition retransfer
Retransfer printing works in two steps. The image is first printed onto a clear transfer film, and that film is then fused onto the card with heat. Because the image is laid onto film rather than directly onto the card, retransfer prints truly edge to edge, with no border, and wraps cleanly over slightly uneven surfaces.
This matters most for technology cards. Smart cards and proximity cards often have chips and antennas that create tiny surface bumps. Retransfer handles these far better than direct to card, with sharper images and richer colour. Fargo HDP models such as the HDP6600 also reach 600 dpi for noticeably crisper text and security detail.
Side by side
- Image quality: DTC is very good. HDP is superior, especially at 600 dpi.
- Edge to edge: DTC leaves a thin border. HDP prints fully to the edge.
- Smart and proximity cards: HDP is the better choice for uneven card surfaces.
- Durability: HDP film adds a protective layer, and both can add lamination.
- Speed and cost: DTC printers are cheaper to buy and run. HDP costs more but delivers premium output.
Which should you choose
Choose direct to card if you are printing standard PVC photo IDs, staff badges, membership or visitor cards, and you want the best value. Models like the HID Fargo DTC1250e, DTC1500 and the high volume DTC4500e cover this range.
Choose retransfer if you print onto smart or contactless technology cards, need flawless edge to edge quality, or issue high security government and enterprise credentials. The HID Fargo HDP5000e and enterprise HDP6600 are built for this.
Not sure which way to lean? Our guide to choosing a Fargo card printer walks through volume, encoding and budget alongside print technology.
For the wider picture on card materials, encoding and where the technology is heading, see our ID card printing technology overview.
Get the right advice
Choosing between technologies is easier with someone who has specified both for real deployments. Digital ID Technologies is an HID Global Platinum Partner and South Africa's top Fargo distributor since 2012. Browse the Fargo range or contact our team for a recommendation matched to your cards.
