01
Start with the paper width
Remove the roll and measure straight across the paper from one edge to the other. Use millimetres and measure the paper itself rather than the plastic or cardboard core. Common widths include 57mm for compact terminals and 80mm for many full-size receipt printers, but the printer specification is the deciding source.
- Place a ruler across the flat paper edge
- Record the measurement in millimetres
- Do not estimate from receipt text width
02
Measure the outside roll diameter
Next, measure across the widest part of the wound roll. This diameter determines whether the roll can sit inside the printer and whether the cover can close. A smaller compatible diameter may fit but will contain less paper; a larger one may prevent the compartment from closing.
- Measure through the centre of the circle
- Include all wound paper in the measurement
- Check the printer’s maximum supported diameter
03
Check the core and loading direction
Some printers also specify the inner core diameter or require the thermal-coated side to face a particular direction. Compare the new roll with the old one and consult the printer label or manual. If the old roll is missing, search by the exact printer model instead of choosing by appearance.
- Measure the hole through the centre
- Note which side of the paper faces the print head
- Photograph the printer label for reference
04
Write the size in the right order
Thermal roll sizes are usually written as width × outside diameter, such as 80mm × 80mm or 57mm × 40mm. Suppliers may add core size or paper length as another figure, so read the product specification carefully and ask when the format is unclear.
- First number: paper width
- Second number: outside roll diameter
- Additional number: often core size or length