A used thermal receipt printer can be a practical counter tool, but the key decision is whether you need clearly stated USB and platform compatibility or prefer a unit described as completing a self-test with a power supply. The Star TSP650II is listed at USD 39.99, while the Epson TM-T88IV is USD 68.99, a USD 29 difference.
Quick verdict
Pick the Star TSP650II when USB connectivity, the stated iOS/Windows/Android compatibility, and a JamFree Auto-Cutter line up with your retail setup. Its listed 3.13-inch print width also gives a clear format reference.
Pick the Epson TM-T88IV Model M129H when the included power supply and the description of a completed self-test are your priorities. It is also a used thermal POS printer, but its USD 68.99 price sits at the top of this two-printer comparison.
At-a-glance comparison
| Detail | Star TSP650II | Epson TM-T88IV Model M129H |
|---|---|---|
| Listed price | USD 39.99 | USD 68.99 |
| Brand | Star | Epson |
| Condition | Used | Used |
| Print method | Thermal | Thermal |
| Connection or setup detail | USB; iOS, Windows, and Android compatibility stated | Power supply included |
| Standout stated feature | JamFree Auto-Cutter | Powers on and completes self-test |
| Model | TSP650II | M129H |
Where each printer wins
Star TSP650II: the connection-focused choice
The Star has the clearest connection and device-compatibility details of the pair: USB is specified, and its compatibility list names iOS, Windows, and Android. That makes it the more direct match for a buyer starting with a USB-based POS arrangement. The JamFree Auto-Cutter is another named operational feature, and the 3.13-inch print width provides a concrete receipt-format detail. At USD 39.99, it is the lower-priced choice in this comparison.
Epson TM-T88IV: the power-supply and self-test choice
The Epson is the fit for a buyer who places more weight on the stated functional checks. It is described as powering on and completing a self-test, and the title and description both identify a power supply. Its M129H model designation and Epson TM-T88IV series are also clearly specified. The tradeoff is the higher USD 68.99 listed price and used condition with some cosmetic wear described.
Product notes
Star TSP650II Thermal Receipt Black Printer TSP650 USB
Choose the Star TSP650II when USB is central to your counter arrangement and you want the stated compatibility to include iOS, Windows, and Android. The JamFree Auto-Cutter makes this model especially relevant for retail receipt workflows where cutting is a named requirement. Its thermal print method and 3.13-inch print width further define the format it is built around. The limitation is that this is a used unit, and its stated print width is specific rather than an open-ended format choice. This printer makes the most sense when its USB connection, platform list, and TSP650II model details align with the equipment already in use.
Epson TM-T88IV Model M129H Thermal POS Printer
The Epson TM-T88IV Model M129H is the stronger pick when a power supply and the stated power-on and self-test results take priority in your decision. It remains a thermal POS printer, matching the basic receipt-printing approach of the Star, while its M129H model designation gives a precise model reference. The description also notes cosmetic wear, so it is best suited to shoppers comfortable with a used unit's appearance. Its limitation is the higher listed price within this head-to-head comparison. Choose it for the combination of included power supply and the described self-test, rather than for USB or mobile-platform compatibility, which are specifically stated for the Star.
Final choice by use case
For a USB retail setup using the stated iOS, Windows, or Android compatibility, choose the Star TSP650II. For a used Epson unit with a power supply and a described completed self-test, choose the Epson TM-T88IV Model M129H. Both are used thermal POS printers; the deciding factors are the Star's connection and cutter details versus the Epson's stated power-supply and self-test details.
