Choosing between two used thermal receipt printers is a classic POS retail supplies decision: you want reliable printouts at the counter without paying for a new unit. Both the Epson TM-T88V M244A and the Star Micronics TSP700II are used models with thermal printing and a JamFree auto-cutter, but they land at different price points and have different hookup options. The right pick comes down to how much you want to spend, whether you need wired Ethernet, and how much physical wear you can accept.
Quick Verdict
The Epson TM-T88V M244A is the practical pick for a low-cost register setup, especially if you can live with a scratched case. The Star TSP700II is the stronger pick when you want a used Star printer with a dedicated PS-180 power supply and are comfortable paying more for it.
Price and Specs at a Glance
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar | Connectivity | Print Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epson TM-T88V M244A | $39.99 | USB/Ethernet | Thermal | |
| Star Micronics TSP700II | $99.95 | USB | Thermal |
Both are used units with an auto-cutter, so your main trade-off is between upfront cost and added capability. That makes the choice simpler: decide what your counter really needs before you commit.
Where Each Product Wins
- Epson TM-T88V M244A wins on price and is the better value if your priority is spending as little as possible.
- Star Micronics TSP700II wins on capability and is the better choice when your receipt printing needs go beyond the basics.
Product Notes
Epson TM-T88V M244A
The Epson TM-T88V M244A gives you the essentials for a register setup, and its $39.99 price makes it the more affordable entry point. The AC adapter and USB cable are included, so you can connect it to a compatible Windows POS system without buying extra accessories. It also has Ethernet alongside USB, which is useful for a counter that needs a wired network connection and means you won't need a separate network adapter. The trade-off is cosmetic: this used unit recently came out of a store and the case has several scratches. For a secondary printer or a station where the printer sits under a shelf, those scratches are unlikely to matter. If you care about function over appearance and want to keep your initial spend low, this Epson model is a solid choice.
Star Micronics TSP700II
The Star TSP700II is the more feature-rich used printer of the pair, starting with a 3.15-inch print width that gives receipts more horizontal room. It includes the Star PS-180 power supply and is in good working condition, with easy connectivity for compatible POS systems. That makes it a versatile fit for retail, restaurant, hospitality, and kitchen ticket printing. The main limitation is that it is not covered by manufacturer warranties, so you are relying on the seller's condition assessment. For a counter that processes a steady stream of transactions, the extra width and the included power supply remove two common setup headaches. If you want a used Star printer with a broader receipt format and a dedicated power supply, this is the one to choose.
Final Choice by Use Case
Choosing between them comes down to whether you are equipping a primary register or a backup station.
- For a spare printer, a low-traffic register, or a setup where the printer will be out of sight: The Epson TM-T88V M244A keeps your initial spend low and includes an AC adapter.
- For a main counter printer that handles wider receipt formats: The Star TSP700II gives you the larger 3.15-inch print width, making it a stronger daily driver for busy retail and food-service counters.
