10 Best Impact Dot Matrix Printer Ribbons Of 2026
Impact Dot Matrix Printer Ribbons — Reviews, Recommendations & Updated Buying Guide September 2026
IR-40 Calculator Printer Ribbon Ink Roller Cartridge
Why We Love It
Porelon 11511 Okidata Microline 380/390 Nylon Printer Ribbon
Why We Love It
LD Compatible IBM 1299845 Black Printer Ribbon Cartridge
Why We Love It
2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Impact and Dot Matrix
Why We Love It
2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Impact and Dot Matrix
Why We Love It
Quick Pick
10 Best Impact Dot Matrix Printer Ribbons Of 2026
Quick Pick
IR-40 Calculator Printer Ribbon Ink Roller Cartridge Compatible for Sharp XE-A102 XE-A107 EA770R, for Sharp XEA-102 IR40 POS dot Matrix Impact Printer Cartridge and More
Porelon 11511 Okidata Microline 380/390 Nylon Printer Ribbon with Re-inker, 1-Pack
LD Compatible IBM 1299845 Black Printer Ribbon Cartridge
2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Impact and Dot Matrix Printer Ribbons Vintage Type Writer Ink Ribbon Twin Spool Ribbon Durable Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter (Black, Red)
2 Pairs Universal Typewriter Ribbon Impact and Dot Matrix Printer Ribbons Vintage Type Writer Ink Ribbon Twin Spool Ribbon Durable Twin Spool Replacement Pack for Most Typewriter (Black, Red)
Buying Guide: Impact Dot Matrix Printer Ribbons
📋 Table of Contents
1How do I know what ribbon size my dot matrix printer needs?
Check your printer's manual or the existing ribbon cartridge for the spool size and width specifications—common sizes are 13mm, 15mm, and 24mm wide. Most modern ribbons are either half-inch or one-inch width, so measuring your current ribbon is the quickest way to verify.
2What's the difference between nylon and cloth ribbons for impact printers?
Nylon ribbons last longer and produce sharper text since they re-ink better throughout their lifespan, while cloth ribbons are cheaper upfront but wear out faster and fade more quickly. For regular office use, nylon is worth the extra cost since you'll replace it less often.
3Should I buy a re-spooled ribbon or a new one?
New ribbons guarantee consistent quality and longevity, while re-spooled ones save money but may have variable ink saturation and durability depending on the supplier. If you print frequently or need reliable quality, stick with new; for occasional use, re-spooled works fine.
4How do I tell if my ribbon is actually worn out or just needs re-inking?
If print quality is fading but the ribbon hasn't reached the mechanical end, you can try re-inking it by manually advancing the ribbon or using your printer's ribbon advance function—this works once or twice before replacement becomes necessary. If re-inking doesn't restore darkness, the ribbon fibers are exhausted and it's time to replace.
5What's the difference between single-strike and multi-strike ribbons?
Multi-strike ribbons (the standard for impact printers) re-ink themselves as they advance, allowing thousands of pages per cartridge, while single-strike ribbons produce crisper first impressions but are used up faster. For cost-effective operation, multi-strike is the only practical choice for ongoing use.
How we choose
Our editors are people who genuinely love testing and writing about products. We compare each product's real-world usability and strengths, then distill what matters most into our own "Why We Love It" points — so you get an honest, at-a-glance sense of what counts before you buy.