Finding the right Zebra printer ribbon can be confusing, especially with the wide variety of Zebra card printers in the market. Whether you’re printing staff ID badges, student cards, or visitor credentials, using the correct ribbon is essential to ensure quality prints and the longevity of your printer.
This comprehensive guide will help you determine exactly which Zebra printer ribbon fits your specific model — including legacy printers like the P-series and modern models like the ZC and ZXP series. We’ll also explain each ribbon type so you can choose the best option based on your printing needs.
Zebra P-Series Card Printer Ribbons
The Zebra P-Series includes older but still widely used models. Each has specific compatible ribbons designed to match its print mechanism.
Zebra P100 / P120i:
800017-17-240 (Previously 800015-940) YMCKO: Full-color with overlay
800017-248 (Previously 800015-948) YMCKOK for Zebra P120i Duplex Printer: For simple text or barcodes
800017-201 (Previously 800015-948) K: Black Panel Only
Zebra P300C / P400 / P420C / P500 / P600 / P720C:
800015-140 YMCKO: For full-color photo IDs
Zebra P310i / P320i / P330i / P420i / P520i:
800015-440 YMCKO: Standard color ribbon for vibrant images
800015-448 YMCKOK: For dual-sided cards
These printers are often used in schools and legacy corporate environments. Make sure to match the part number exactly, as P-series printers are not cross-compatible with newer ZXP or ZC models.
Zebra ZXP Series Ribbon Options
ZXP Series printers are modern, high-performance models that use specialized Load-N-Go cartridges for easier ribbon changes.
ZXP Series 1:
800011-140 YMCKO: Standard color
ZXP Series 3:
800033-340 YMCKO: Full-color with overlay
800033-348 YMCKOK: Dual-sided prints
800033-801 Black: High-quality resin black
ZXP Series 7:
800077-740 YMCKO: High-quality full-color ribbon
800077-749 YMCKOK: For double-sided ID cards
ZXP ribbons are widely used in enterprise and security environments and offer fast print speeds with top-tier durability.
Zebra ZC Series Printer Ribbons
The ZC Series is Zebra’s most recent desktop printer family, designed for modern ID programs with an emphasis on simplicity and security.
ZC100:
800300-350 YMCKO: Full-color ribbon with overlay
800300-301 K Black: Monochrome
ZC300:
800300-350 YMCKO: For photo-quality prints
800300-360 YMCKOK: Dual-sided color
800300-301 K Black: High-definition resin
ZC350:
800300-550 YMCKO: High-end full-color
800300-301 K Black: For basic badge printing
These ribbons are ideal for healthcare, financial, and educational card programs. Many also come with integrated cleaning rollers.
Understanding Ribbon Types
Zebra printer ribbons come in several types:
YMCKO: Full-color ribbon with overlay layer
YMCKOK: Same as YMCKO with a second black panel for back printing
KO: Resin black plus clear overlay
K: Black resin for text and barcodes
YMCKL / YMCKLL: Adds fluorescing or extra overlay layers for security
YMCKUV: UV-fluorescing panels for added visual security
Make sure to only use genuine Zebra ribbons to avoid voiding warranties and experiencing print quality issues.
How to Choose the Right Zebra Printer Ribbon
To determine the right ribbon:
Identify your printer model (e.g., ZC300, P330i)
Define your printing needs (photo IDs, barcodes, dual-sided?)
Check if you need security features (UV, fluorescing panel)
Refer to your printer manual or last ribbon box for the part number
If you’re still unsure, our team at Groove Identification Solutions is happy to help.
Where to Buy Zebra Printer Ribbons in Canada
Groove Identification Solutions is a trusted Canadian source for genuine Zebra printer ribbons, card printers, and accessories. As an industry leader in secure ID card solutions, we support a full range of Zebra products including the P-Series, ZXP, and ZC series.
We offer:
Expert assistance for identifying the correct ribbon
Fast, Canada-wide shipping
Competitive pricing and volume discounts
In-stock availability on popular part numbers
Free consultation and support for all ID systems
Whether you're ordering for a healthcare facility, school district, or government agency, you can count on Groove for expert advice and timely delivery.
Visit groovebadges.com or call 1-888-940-3645 for personal assistance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Zebra printer ribbon is the key to maximizing your printer's performance, lowering your cost per card, and ensuring your ID cards look professional and last longer. From legacy models like the P330i to new releases like the ZC350, this guide helps you match the right ribbon with your exact needs.
Still unsure what ribbon fits your Zebra printer? Groove Identification Solutions is here to help you get it right the first time.
Explore Zebra Printer Ribbons at Groove Identification Solutions – Canada’s Trusted Source for ID Supplies
Why Choose Groove Identification Solutions for Your ID & Access Control Needs
At Groove Identification Solutions, we’re more than just a supplier — we’re your trusted Canadian partner for everything related to secure photo identification, access control, and card printing solutions. We proudly serve a wide range of industries, including healthcare, government, education, transportation, and manufacturing, with a strong focus on delivering value, reliability, and unmatched customer service.
Our product line includes the full range of HID access cards — including Proximity, iCLASS, Seos, and MIFARE credentials — as well as proprietary formats like Keyscan, Cansec, Kantech, RBH, and HID Corporate 1000. We also offer Groove’s own GrooveProx line of proximity cards, a cost-effective alternative without sacrificing quality or performance.
Looking for ID card printers? We stock and support leading brands like HID Fargo, Evolis, Matica, Entrust, and Zebra. Whether you need a single-sided entry-level printer or a high-end retransfer printer like the Fargo HDP6600 or Primacy 2, we help you choose the right solution for your needs — and we support you long after the sale.
Groove also carries everything you need to keep your badging program running smoothly:
Why do organizations across Canada choose Groove?
We’re Local – Canadian-owned and operated with fast shipping nationwide.
We’re Experienced – Our team has decades of technical know-how.
We Support You – Free phone support, optional onsite service, and preventative maintenance options.
We Make It Easy – Personalized service, fast quotes, and no-pressure recommendations.
We Save You Money – Competitive pricing, including custom quotes and volume discounts.
When you choose Groove, you're choosing a partner who understands the frustrations and time-sensitive nature of ID and access programs. From quick-turnaround orders to troubleshooting a printer error, we’re always just a call or email away.
Let Groove Identification Solutions take the stress out of sourcing cards, printers, and accessories. Whether you're printing badges for students, staff, or secure facilities — we’ll help you look good and stay secure.
Contact us today at 1-888-940-3645 or info@groovebadges.com to speak with a real person who’s ready to help.
