The TLDR for Busy Decision Makers
TSP100IV SK is the replacement to the popular TSP650II SK linerless printer. It is designed for use in quick service restaurants, cafes, and delis — businesses who might benefit from using repositionable sticky receipts. The printer is built on the popular TSP100IV and thus provides reliable real-world tested print performance. It lacks the sensors required to print die-cut media, and the lack of an adjustable media hanger limits your print-width options, and features available in the mC-Label3, but the printer more than makes up for this with a competitive price point and reliable performance.
With its blend of functionality and aesthetics, backed by Star Micronics' quality and support, the TSP100IV SK stands as a worthy successor to its predecessor and is worth consideration if you need reliable linerless printing.
Comparing the TSP100IV SK To The TSP650IISK / TSP100IV
As its name suggests, the TSP100IV SK inherits much from the TSP100IV. Given this, the TSP100IVSK largely mirrors its predecessor's features, appearance, and functionality. For those interested, we did a deep dive into the TSP100IV here. The biggest departure between the two printers is print speed. The regular TSP100IV can print at almost 10” per second while the SK-variant can only print at 7” per second. So this printer is a bit slower, but you probably won’t be able to tell for most applications. Notably, the TSP100IV SK is exclusively available in gray, passing up on the white option offered with the standard TSP100IV.
When comparing the TSP100IV SK to the TSP650II SK, the printers function in much the same way. The printer speed is the same when comparing the two models. Addtionally, both models are 3" printers capable of handling linerless sticky media and traditional receipt paper, the TSP100IV SK boasts a 20% reduction in size and in my opinion, features a design aesthetic that many would find preferable to the TSP650II.
Both models will support 3.1” ( 80mm), 2.2” (58mm), and 1.5” (40mm) receipt paper via the use of plastic spaces that can be snapped into the paper well in the printer. It is important to note that just because a printer can accommodate smaller paper sizes doesn’t mean it will automatically shrink receipts down to match the new width. Your POS software must explicitly support the different paper widths.
Connectivity Options & Features
Available in two variants, the TSP100IV SK offers flexibility in connectivity. One variant (39473310) integrates USB and Ethernet connectivity, while the other (37951540) incorporates an additional WiFi radio, catering to users seeking cable-less setups. The unit is compatible with the Star’s external WiFi module so you can always purchase the ethernet-only model and then upgrade later on.
It is important to highlight that the TSP100IV SK doesn’t support Bluetooth or AirPrint, both interface options were popular with users of the TSP650II. Instead, the TSP100IV SK offers support for Star's CloudPRNT interface. If you’re using POS software that supports any CloudPRNT receipt printers, you’ll be able to use this device almost interchangeably.
Both models will also come with an Android open Accessory port, which allows you to connect an Android device directly to the device to both charge and communicate directly with the tablet.
Accessories & Reliability
The TSP100IVSK can support many of the accessories that the TSP100IV desk. This includes compatibility with a separate buzzer accessory, ideal for noisy environments like kitchens or cafes. Star also offers a series of tablet stands built to accommodate the TSP100IV SK’s form factor.
In terms of reliability, the printer boasts a robust print head rated for 46 miles of printing, accompanied by a cutter capable of making 800,000 cuts before failure. Highlighting reliability is more important on this printer than most because sticky-backed media tends to be a little harder on printer components and can cause them to break down early. The printer comes with a two-year standard manufacturer warranty that covers issues caused by hardware defects. There are add-on options to extend that warranty to four years and upgrade to Star’s “Swap-A-Star” warranty, which provides next-business-day shipping for a replacement printer, ensuring your operation isn’t impacted for an extended period if the printer goes down.