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What Size Thermal Paper Do I Need? A Complete Guide by Printer Model
Choosing the right thermal paper roll starts with one question: what printer do you have? The paper size is determined entirely by your printer or terminal — and using the wrong size means jams, wasted paper, and frustrated staff. This guide walks through every major printer and terminal type so you can order with confidence.
The Two Most Common Thermal Paper Sizes
The vast majority of businesses in North America use one of two thermal paper widths:
- 3 1/8" (80mm) — the standard for most countertop POS receipt printers
- 2 1/4" (58mm) — the standard for most credit card terminals and mobile payment devices
If you're unsure which size you need, check the inside of your printer's paper compartment door. Most manufacturers print the paper width directly on the label inside the cover.
3 1/8" (80mm) Thermal Paper — POS Receipt Printers
The 3 1/8" roll is the most widely used thermal paper size in restaurants, retail stores, hotels, convenience stores, and any business running a full point-of-sale system. It fits the majority of modern countertop POS receipt printers.
Common printers that use 3 1/8" thermal paper:
- Epson TM-T88III, TM-T88IV, TM-T88V, TM-T88VI
- Epson TM-T20, TM-T20II, TM-T20III
- Epson TM-T70, TM-T70II
- Star TSP100 series (TSP143, TSP143II, TSP143III)
- Star TSP650II
- Citizen CT-S310, CT-S310II
- Citizen CT-S651, CT-S801
- Bixolon SRP-350III, SRP-350plusIII
- Bixolon SRP-330II
- SNBC BTP-R880NP
Most 3 1/8" printers accept rolls up to 3" in diameter. Roll length options at this width range from 165' to 660' — longer rolls mean fewer changeovers during busy service periods.
2 1/4" (58mm) Thermal Paper — Credit Card Terminals
The 2 1/4" roll is standard for most credit card terminals and mobile card readers. If your business processes payments through a standalone terminal rather than a full POS printer, this is almost certainly your size.
Common terminals that use 2 1/4" thermal paper:
- Verifone VX520, VX805, VX680, VX670, V200c
- Ingenico iCT220, iCT250, iWL250, Move5000, Desk 3500
- PAX S300, S500, S900, A920, A80
- Clover Mini, Clover Flex
- First Data FD130, FD150, FD400
- Hypercom T4220, T4230, T7Plus
- Dejavoo Z9, Z11
- Nurit 8020
Other Thermal Paper Sizes
Beyond the two standard sizes, several specialty applications require different roll widths:
- 4" thermal paper — Used in kitchen printers, label printers, and some kiosk applications
- ATM paper — Varies by machine brand and model; common widths include 3 1/8" but with specific length and core requirements
- Mobile printer paper — Typically 2 1/4" or 3" depending on the device (Star mPOP, Epson TM-P20, Bixolon SPP-R200)
How to Read a Thermal Paper Roll Spec
Thermal paper rolls are described in a standard format: width x length. For example, "3 1/8" x 230'" means the roll is 3 1/8 inches wide and 230 feet long. When ordering, always confirm:
- Width — must match your printer exactly
- Length — longer is generally better as long as the roll fits in the compartment
- Core size — most POS printers use a 7/16" core
- BPA-free — recommended for all customer-facing receipts
Still Not Sure? Check Your Current Roll
The easiest way to confirm your paper size is to look at the roll currently in your printer. The width is usually printed on the label of most commercial paper rolls. You can also measure the roll with a ruler — just measure across the flat end from edge to edge.
Shop by Size at POSPaper.com
POSPaper.com carries thermal paper in every standard size, available in cases of 50 rolls with bulk pricing for larger orders.