IDP SMART-21SK-EZ Review | In-House ID Card Printing
Review of the IDP SMART-21SK-EZ ID card printer kit. Learn about features, benefits, pricing, and whether it’s right for your business or school. Includes FAQs & specs.
Introduction
Are you tired of outsourcing your ID card printing, dealing with slow turnaround times, and incurring unnecessary costs? Many small businesses, schools, and organizations find themselves struggling with outdated badge printing processes, leading to delays, increased expenses, and a less professional image. The IDP SMART-21SK-EZ offers a streamlined and cost-effective solution, bringing high-quality ID card printing directly to your location.
Whether you’re a gym needing membership cards, a daycare requiring staff badges, or a school managing student IDs, the SMART-21SK-EZ simplifies your workflow and empowers you to create custom, professional-looking cards with ease.
Overview
The IDP SMART-21SK-EZ is a compact and user-friendly simplex ID card printer designed for businesses and organizations seeking an in-house printing solution. Built around IDP’s FINEImagaing technology and incorporating an Easy-Load ribbon system, this printer delivers vibrant, full-color and monochrome prints with exceptional clarity. The kit includes everything needed to get started – the printer itself, a ribbon, PVC cards, PC-only software, and a USB cable – streamlining the setup process and minimizing initial investment.
Ideal for smaller to medium-sized organizations that don’t require the high-volume capabilities of larger printers, the SMART-21SK-EZ prioritizes simplicity, speed, and affordability. Its intuitive design and easy-to-use controls make it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise, while its robust construction promises long-term reliability.
Features
Speedy System: Rapid Card Production: With a printing speed of up to 156 full-color cards per hour, the SMART-21SK-EZ significantly reduces card production time. The streamlined design and simple LED controls further accelerate the printing process. This rapid output is a game-changer for organizations needing to quickly issue new cards or reprint damaged ones.
What’s Included: A Complete Printing Package: This starter kit goes beyond just the printer. You receive an IDP SMART-21S printer, an Easy-Load ribbon for hassle-free replacements, PC-only IDesigner software (essential for card design and management), printer drivers, comprehensive manuals, a power cord, a USB cable, 100 print YMCKO ribbon for full-color printing, and 100 PVC plastic cards to get you started immediately. This eliminates the need for separate purchases and ensures a seamless onboarding experience.
Brilliant Printing: Professional-Quality Results: The SMART-21SK-EZ boasts high-resolution printing, producing crisp, clear images and text that look truly professional. The printer supports both full-color and monochrome printing, providing flexibility for various card types, from vibrant membership cards to simple access control badges. FINEImagaing technology ensures consistent color reproduction and exceptional image detail.
Smart Design: Compact and User-Friendly: The printer’s compact dimensions (6.6 in x 10.2 in x 7 in) allow it to fit comfortably on most desks or countertops. The Easy-Load ribbon system simplifies ribbon replacement, minimizing downtime and maintenance requirements. The single LED button control makes operation exceptionally straightforward, even for novice users.
Benefits
Professional Image: High-Quality Card Printing: Create professional-looking ID badges and membership cards that enhance your organization’s image and reflect your commitment to quality.
Enhanced Security: Control Your Card Production: Maintain greater control over your card issuance process, preventing unauthorized card creation and ensuring data security.
Reduce Printing Costs: Bring Card Production In-House: Eliminate the recurring expenses associated with outsourcing your ID card printing. By printing your own cards, you gain control over costs and avoid per-card fees.
Increased Efficiency: Print Cards On-Demand: Say goodbye to waiting for cards to be mailed from external vendors. The SMART-21SK-EZ empowers you to print cards instantly, streamlining your operations and improving response times.
Ease of Use: Simple Operation for All Users: The intuitive design and Easy-Load ribbon system make the SMART-21SK-EZ accessible to users of all skill levels.
Usages
Great for Schools and Universities: Administrators can quickly print student IDs, faculty badges, and access control cards.
Ideal for Small Businesses: Gyms, daycares, and other small businesses can efficiently print membership cards and staff badges in-house.
Useful for Photo Printing Enthusiasts: While primarily an ID card printer, the SMART-21SK-EZ can be utilized for small-scale photo printing projects requiring durable, plastic cards.
Perfect for Home Offices: Freelancers, consultants, and small business owners can easily create professional business cards and loyalty cards for clients.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fast printing speeds
- User-friendly design and operation
- Complete starter kit included
- Cost-effective printing solution
- Compact and space-saving design
- Includes a free trial of IDP EasyCapture software
Cons
- PC-only software compatibility (no Mac support)
- Simplex printing only (no duplex capability)
- Limited wireless connectivity (USB only)
FAQs
What about maintenance and support?: IDP provides comprehensive documentation and support resources online. The Easy-Load ribbon system minimizes maintenance requirements.
Is the wireless setup complicated?: The SMART-21SK-EZ connects via USB, simplifying setup. Wireless connectivity is not supported.
What is the ongoing ink cost?: The cost per card depends on print complexity and coverage. However, using the included YMCKO ribbon, the cost is significantly lower than outsourcing, particularly for organizations printing a moderate to high volume of cards.
What types of cards are compatible?: The printer is designed for standard CR80 (3.37” x 2.125”) PVC cards.
How fast does the printer really work?: The SMART-21SK-EZ can produce up to 156 full-color cards per hour, making it surprisingly fast for a simplex printer.
Product Specifications
| Ink Type | YMCKO Ribbon |
| DPI Resolution | 300×300 Dots Per Inch (Color), 1200 Dots Per Inch (Monochrome) |
| Print Technology | Dye Sublimation |
| Warranty | Limited |
| Print Speed | Up to 156 full-color cards per hour |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Dimensions | 6.6 in x 10.2 in x 7 in |
| Duty Cycle | N/A |
| Page Yield | 100 prints per ribbon (YMCKO) |
| Weight | 11 Pounds |
Ratings
| Overall Impression | 4.3 |
| Value for Money | 4.6 |
| Printing Performance | 4.5 |
| Technical Specifications | 4.2 |
| Connectivity & Ease of Use | 3.9 |
Recommendation
The IDP SMART-21SK-EZ is an excellent choice for small businesses, schools, and organizations seeking a cost-effective and easy-to-use in-house ID card printing solution. Its rapid printing speeds, compact design, and complete starter kit make it an ideal investment for those looking to streamline their card issuance process and reduce printing expenses.
If you’re tired of relying on external vendors and want to take control of your card printing, the SMART-21SK-EZ offers a powerful and reliable solution. Its ease of use and professional-quality results ensure a seamless printing experience, while its affordable price point makes it accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Conclusion
The IDP SMART-21SK-EZ delivers on its promise of providing a simple, efficient, and cost-effective ID card printing solution. Its combination of speed, quality, and user-friendliness makes it a standout choice in the entry-level card printer market.
By bringing card production in-house, the SMART-21SK-EZ empowers businesses to enhance their efficiency, reduce expenses, and maintain greater control over their branding and security. For organizations seeking a dependable and accessible ID card printing system, the IDP SMART-21SK-EZ is a worthwhile investment.
