What’s the Difference Between Synthetic Thermal Labels and Film Labels?
Written by: BernauLena
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Time to read 5 min
Film labels and synthetic paper labels are two common types of labels on the market. Both are often promoted as being water-, oil-, and scratch-resistant. However, synthetic paper labels are more affordable. So why not just use synthetic paper labels instead of film labels? What exactly sets them apart, and which applications are they best suited for? In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the differences and explore the ideal scenarios for each type.
Synthetic thermal labels are a type of advanced label material designed to deliver the look of paper with the durability of plastic. They are made by combining polyolefine and inorganic fillers, which are melted, extruded, stretched in multiple directions, and processed into an opaque, paper-like film—commonly known as synthetic paper.
To turn synthetic paper into thermal synthetic labels, a thermal coating is added to the surface. This allows the material to react to heat and form images without the need for ink or ribbons. Although it looks almost identical to regular paper, the performance is significantly better, especially in harsh environments.
Key Features of Synthetic Thermal Labels
Water-, oil-, and partial solvent-resistant — ideal for humid or messy environments.
Tear-resistant — far stronger than traditional paper labels.
Low stretch & good dimensional stability — the label keeps its shape and won’t deform easily.
Moderate flexibility — suitable for flat surfaces, curves, and containers with slight contours.
Cost-effective — more affordable than most film-based label materials.
Naturally opaque — offers a clean, solid white background for printing.
Synthetic thermal labels strike a balance between durability and affordability, making them a popular choice for businesses that need tougher labels without upgrading to higher-cost film materials.
What Are Film Labels?
Film labels are made from plastic-based materials such as PET, BOPP, and PE. Compared to synthetic paper, film materials offer higher durability, stronger temperature resistance, and more possibilities for visual effects like transparency, gloss, matte, or metallic finishes.
Common Types of Film Label Materials
PET (Polyester) PET film produces a crisp “crackling” sound when flexed. It has excellent transparency, fast rebound speed, and strong elasticity. PET is known for its durability and outstanding high-temperature resistance.
BOPP (Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene) BOPP makes a loud but less crisp sound than PET. Its transparency is moderate. The rebound speed is slower, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as food, beverage, and daily chemical labels.
PE (Polyethylene) PE produces a dull sound when flexed. It has lower transparency, often with a foggy or matte surface. PE is very soft with slow rebound, making it ideal for squeezable bottles or curved surfaces.
Key Features of Film Labels
Highly resistant to deformation
Water-, oil-, and tear-resistant
Excellent high- and low-temperature performance, often withstanding around 150–180°C depending on the material
Available in transparent or semi-transparent options, supporting effects like high gloss, matte, pearl, or metallic finishes
Higher in cost compared with synthetic paper due to its advanced performance and aesthetic versatility
Film labels are commonly chosen by brands that require premium visual effects, transparency, or extreme temperature durability.
Key Differences Between Synthetic Thermal Labels and Film Labels
Price Synthetic thermal labels are generally more affordable than film labels. For businesses looking for cost-effective solutions, synthetic paper provides durability at a lower price point.
Temperature Resistance Film labels have superior resistance to extreme temperatures. They can typically withstand heat around 150–180°C, making them suitable for applications that involve high-temperature processing. Synthetic thermal labels, on the other hand, are more suitable for normal or low-temperature environments.
Transparency and Visual Effects Synthetic thermal labels are opaque, offering a solid white background for printing. Film labels, however, can be semi-transparent or fully transparent. This makes them ideal for brands that want a premium, see-through effect. Film labels can also be finished in high gloss, pearl, matte, or metallic styles, providing a visually striking appearance that is favored by some brands.
These differences make each material better suited for different applications depending on cost, environmental conditions, and aesthetic requirements.
Synthetic Thermal Labels vs. Film Labels
Category
Synthetic Thermal Labels
Film Labels (PET / BOPP / PE)
Material Type
Opaque synthetic paper with thermal coating
Plastic films such as PET, BOPP, PE
Price
More cost-effective, lower price
Higher cost due to material performance
Water & Oil Resistance
Yes
Yes
Tear Resistance
Yes
Yes
Temperature Resistance
Suitable for normal or low temperatures
Excellent; can withstand approx. 150–180°C
Transparency
Opaque only
Can be transparent or semi-transparent
Suitable Applications for Film Labels and Synthetic Thermal Labels
Both film labels and synthetic thermal labels are highly versatile and can handle most water-resistant applications. They are commonly used in industries such as daily chemical products, refrigerated goods, and fresh food packaging, where durability and resistance to moisture or oil are essential.
However, when specific requirements arise, the choice between the two becomes clearer:
Film Labels: Ideal for applications that require transparency, premium visual effects, or high-temperature resistance (around 150–180°C). Examples include products undergoing hot-filling, high-temperature processing, or brands that want a glossy, pearl, or metallic finish for a premium look.
Synthetic Thermal Labels: Best suited for standard temperature environments where cost-effectiveness is important. They work well on flat, curved, or slightly contoured surfaces and are a reliable choice for products that do not require extreme heat resistance or transparent labels.
By understanding the strengths of each material, brands can select the right label for both functional and aesthetic needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right label material depends on both functional needs and brand presentation. Synthetic thermal labels offer an affordable, durable solution for everyday applications, while film labels provide superior temperature resistance and premium visual effects for products that demand a higher-end look. By understanding the strengths of each, businesses can make smarter decisions, ensuring their labels not only protect and inform but also enhance the overall appeal of their products.
Are synthetic thermal labels waterproof?
Yes. Synthetic thermal labels are resistant to water, oil, and everyday handling. However, film labels provide even stronger protection in environments with heavy moisture or frequent contact with liquids.
Which label should I use for high-temperature applications?
Film labels. PET and some specialty films can withstand temperatures around 150–180°C. Synthetic thermal labels are more suitable for normal or low-temperature environments.
Which label material is better for transparent or “no-label look” designs?
Film labels. Synthetic thermal labels are always opaque, while film labels can be transparent or semi-transparent and support finishes like gloss, matte, pearl, or metallic.
Which option is more cost-effective for everyday use?
Synthetic thermal labels. They offer good durability at a lower price, making them ideal for logistics, retail labeling, and general product tags where extreme performance or premium aesthetics are not required.
Does Betckey offer custom label services?
Yes. Betckey provides full customization services for both synthetic thermal labels and film labels. Customers can customize label size, shape, material, adhesive strength, core size, and printing design. Betckey also supports special finishes such as matte, glossy, waterproof, oil-resistant, and freezer-grade options. Whether you need labels for retail, logistics, cosmetics, food packaging, or branding, Betckey can tailor the solution to your exact requirements.
About Betckey
Betckey Premium Labels is a leading supplier of compatible direct thermal labels, committed to high-quality and eco-friendly products as well as competitive pricing. We offer better products than manufactured original at 70% less price. Now, our Amazon store ranks first in the US, Canada, and Western Europe with thousands of positive ratings. Visit betckey.com and get special discount when purchasing! Sign up now and we'll send you a special discount towards your purchase. By the way, welcome to follow our official @ Tik Tok and @ Youtube accounts to get Betckey’s latest news!
I use these to print information tags and barcodes/prices for my boutique. The tags allow me to include all information required for customers to understand the item fully, and because the labels are sticker, it allows them to transfer this information into booklets which they keep for referencing. Highly recommend.
I have a Brother QL-800, and these label rolls fit perfectly. The glue sticks well to smooth surfaces, and the printing is clear. I like that each roll has its own mounting plate. I use a lot of labels because I like to stay organized, so these will last me a few months, but I will need more later. If I notice any problems with quality or durability, I will update this review.
