Two used thermal receipt printers are vying for the same spot on your checkout counter. The Epson TM-T88V lists at $65.95, while the Star TSP650II sits at $30.00. Both use direct thermal printing on 80mm paper, and both have a jam-free auto-cutter. The decision comes down to how much connectivity and included hardware you need.
Quick verdict
The Epson is the better choice when you want a more complete setup straight out of the box: it includes a power supply and gives you USB and Serial connections. The Star is the better choice for a USB-only receipt station on a tighter budget, as long as you can supply the power adapter and USB cord yourself.
At a glance
| Feature | Epson TM-T88V | Star TSP650II |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $65.95 | $30.00 |
| Condition | Used | Used |
| Connectivity | USB & Serial | USB |
| Power supply | Included | Not included |
| Receipt width | 80mm | 80mm |
| Cutter | Jam-free auto-cutter | Jam-free auto-cutter |
| Print method | Thermal | Thermal |
| Country of origin | Philippines | China |
Where each printer wins
- Epson TM-T88V wins for setup convenience. The power supply is included, and the USB & Serial connectivity covers both older serial-based POS systems and modern USB systems.
- Star TSP650II wins for upfront cost and simplicity. It is the lower-priced printer, and its USB connection matches many basic retail setups. The listed compatibility spans iOS, Windows, and Android, so it can pair with a mobile or desktop register.
Epson TM-T88V POS Thermal Receipt Printer 80mm w/ Power Supply included
The Epson TM-T88V is the more turnkey option in this head-to-head. It is the higher-priced unit, but the listing includes the power supply, so you don't have to track down a separate adapter before your first print. It also supports both USB and Serial connections, which gives you flexibility if your point-of-sale setup uses an older serial hookup. The printer uses direct thermal printing, handles 80mm receipt paper, and has the same jam-free auto-cutter feature as the Star. For a retail counter where you want fewer extra pieces to buy, this Epson model is the more convenient choice.
The limitation is the price and the used condition. This unit is listed as used and is not covered by manufacturer warranties, so it carries more risk than a brand-new printer would. If you don't need the serial port or the included power supply, the Star may be the smarter financial starting point.
Star TSP650II Thermal Receipt Black Printer TSP650 USB no Power Supply DK POS
The Star TSP650II is the lower-priced option in this comparison. It is a used thermal receipt printer that connects over USB, prints on 80mm paper, and includes the same jam-free auto-cutter found on the Epson. The listed compatibility with iOS, Windows, and Android makes it appealing if your checkout counter runs on a tablet or a standard PC. Its black housing is compact enough for a busy POS area.
The main limitation is that the Star does not come with a USB cord or a power adapter. Those accessories have to be sourced separately before you can plug it in, which adds to the total setup cost. It is also USB-only, so if your POS terminal requires a serial connection, this model won't handle it. For a simple USB-based receipt station on a tight budget, though, it is the more affordable place to start.
Final choice by use case
Choose the Epson TM-T88V when you want the included power supply and USB plus Serial connectivity in one used printer. Choose the Star TSP650II when your counter is USB-only and you don't mind gathering the missing power adapter and USB cord.
