Top 5 ID Card Printers for 2026: Expert Comparison & Buying Guide

Choosing the Right ID Card Printer for Your Organisation

Selecting the perfect ID card printer is crucial for organisations looking to produce professional staff ID cards, visitor badges, and access control credentials. In this comprehensive guide, we compare the top 5 ID card printers available in 2026, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.

1. IDP Smart 21 – Best Entry-Level Single-Sided Printer

The IDP Smart 21 is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized organisations requiring reliable, cost-effective ID card printing. This compact single-sided printer delivers professional results without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• Single-sided direct-to-card printing
• Print speed: up to 140 cards per hour (monochrome), 85 cards per hour (colour)
• 300 dpi resolution for sharp text and images
• USB connectivity
• Compact footprint ideal for limited desk space
• Easy-to-use design with minimal training required

Best for: Schools, small businesses, clubs, and organisations with basic ID card requirements.

2. IDP Smart 21 Bundle - Complete Starter Solution

The IDP Smart 21 Bundle takes the Smart 21 printer and packages it with everything you need to start printing professional ID cards immediately. This all-in-one solution eliminates the guesswork of purchasing compatible supplies separately.

What's Included:

• IDP Smart 21 printer
• Colour ribbon (YMCKO)
• Blank PVC cards
• ID card design software
• USB cable and power supply

Best for: First-time buyers who want a complete, ready-to-use ID card printing solution with no hidden costs.

3. Magicard Pronto 100 - Reliable Workhorse with Built-In Security

The Magicard Pronto 100 is a single-sided printer renowned for its reliability and unique HoloKote security watermark technology, which adds an extra layer of card security at no additional cost per card.

Key Features:

• Single-sided direct-to-card printing
• HoloKote® watermark security feature (customisable)
• Print speed: up to 100 cards per hour (full colour)
• 300 dpi print resolution
• USB and Ethernet connectivity options
• 3-year manufacturer warranty

Best for: Organisations requiring enhanced card security, such as corporate offices, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.

4. Magicard 300 - Dual-Sided Printing Powerhouse

The Magicard 300 offers dual-sided printing capability, making it ideal for organisations that need to print information, barcodes, or magnetic stripes on both sides of their ID cards.

Key Features:

• Dual-sided direct-to-card printing
• HoloKote® and HoloPatch™ security features
• Print speed: up to 85 dual-sided cards per hour
• 300 dpi resolution on both sides
• 100-card input hopper, 25-card output hopper
• USB and Ethernet connectivity
• Encoding options: magnetic stripe, contact, and contactless smart card

Best for: Medium to large organisations requiring dual-sided cards with advanced encoding options, such as universities, hospitals, and government agencies.

5. IDP Smart 31 - Advanced Single-Sided Performance

The IDP Smart 31 represents a step up from the Smart 21, offering faster print speeds and enhanced features while maintaining the user-friendly design IDP is known for.

Key Features:

• Single-sided direct-to-card printing
• Print speed: up to 190 cards per hour (monochrome), 140 cards per hour (colour)
• 300 dpi resolution
• 100-card input hopper
• USB and Ethernet connectivity
• Optional encoding modules available
• Intuitive LCD display for easy operation

Best for: Growing organisations with higher volume printing needs who require faster throughput and network connectivity.

Bonus: Evolis Primacy 2 - Premium Choice for High-Volume Printing

The Evolis Primacy 2 is a premium dual-sided printer designed for organisations with demanding ID card production requirements. It combines speed, quality, and versatility in a robust package.

Key Features:

• Dual-sided printing capability
• Exceptional print speed: up to 210 single-sided cards or 140 dual-sided cards per hour
• High-definition 300 dpi printing
• Large 100-card feeder and 100-card output hopper
• USB and Ethernet connectivity
• Wide range of encoding options
• Evolis Premium Suite® software included
• Eco-friendly design with energy-saving mode

Best for: Large enterprises, government departments, and high-volume card issuers requiring maximum speed, reliability, and professional results.

How to Choose the Right ID Card Printer

Consider These Factors:

1. Print Volume: How many cards will you print monthly? Entry-level printers like the Smart 21 suit low volumes (under 500 cards/month), while the Evolis Primacy 2 handles high-volume production.

2. Single vs Dual-Sided: Do you need to print on both sides? Dual-sided printers like the Magicard 300 and Evolis Primacy 2 offer more design flexibility.

3. Security Features: Magicard's HoloKote technology provides built-in security watermarks, ideal for preventing counterfeiting.

4. Encoding Requirements: Need magnetic stripe, smart card, or contactless encoding? Ensure your chosen printer supports the required technology.

5. Budget: Entry-level printers start around £500-£800, while premium models can exceed £2,000. The Smart 21 Bundle offers excellent value for first-time buyers.

Conclusion

Each of these top 5 ID card printers excels in different areas. The IDP Smart 21 and Smart 21 Bundle are perfect for budget-conscious buyers and first-time users. The Magicard Pronto 100 adds security features, while the Magicard 300 provides dual-sided capability. The IDP Smart 31 offers enhanced performance for growing needs, and the Evolis Primacy 2 delivers premium quality for high-volume operations.

Ready to invest in an ID card printer? Browse our full range of ID card printers and find the perfect solution for your organisation's needs.