When you're building out a checkout counter, the receipt printer is often the last item you think about - until a customer is waiting. For a small shop or a second register, adding a thermal receipt printer to your POS retail supplies can feel like a choice between a lower-cost USB model and one that comes with more pieces in the box. Two Star models keep appearing in pre-owned inventory: the TSP650II and the TSP700II. Both are thermal printers that connect over USB and come with a JamFree auto-cutter, so you can print receipts quickly without ink or toner and without wrestling with paper jams. The real difference is how much you pay and what arrives in the box.
Quick verdict: If you want to keep the initial purchase modest and you can supply a standard power cord and a USB cable, the TSP650II is the pick. If you'd rather have a printer that arrives with its PS-180 power supply and is described as ready to use with compatible POS systems, go with the TSP700II.
| Feature | Star TSP650II | Star Micronics TSP700II |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 32.00 | USD 99.95 |
| Model | TSP650II | TSP700II (TSP743IIU) |
| Condition | Used | Used |
| Connectivity | USB | USB |
| Cutter | JamFree Auto-Cutter | JamFree Auto-Cutter |
| Print width | 3.13 in | 3.15 in |
| Included power | Power adapter; needs standard 3-prong cord | PS-180 power supply |
| OS compatibility | iOS, Windows, Android | Compatible with POS systems |
Where each wins: The TSP650II is the lower-price option for checkout counters that don't need the power supply included. It also lists iOS, Windows, and Android compatibility. The TSP700II is the more complete-package option because it includes the PS-180 power supply.
Star TSP650II Thermal Receipt Black Printer
At $32, this is the lower-cost path into thermal receipt printing. The TSP650II uses thermal technology, so there's no ink or toner to restock, and the JamFree auto-cutter keeps receipts separating cleanly. The listed compatibility covers iOS, Windows, and Android, which works well with many retail setups. The limitation is the power and cable situation: the printer comes with a power adapter, but you'll need to supply a standard three-prong AC cord and a USB cable. That's an extra step before you can connect it to your till. The used condition means it may show signs of previous use, but it's described as working as it should.
Star Micronics TSP700II Thermal Receipt POS Printer
The TSP700II costs $99.95 and includes the PS-180 power supply, so it's described as ready for use with compatible POS systems. That can remove the 'do I have the right adapter?' question from your setup. It also lists a slightly wider 3.15-inch print width. It's ideal for retail, restaurant, hospitality, and kitchen receipt printing, so it's not limited to a single counter type. The trade-off is the price: it sits well above the TSP650II, and the unit is used, in good working condition. If you want the power supply included and don't mind spending more, this is the more complete option.
Final choice by use case: Choose the Star TSP650II if you're outfitting a small retail counter on a tight budget and have a spare power cord and USB cable nearby. Choose the Star Micronics TSP700II if you'd rather get a complete power supply in the box and want a printer that's described as ready to work with compatible POS systems. For a one-register shop that already has cables in a drawer, the TSP650II gives you a low-cost way to start printing receipts. For a buyer who wants fewer extra steps after unboxing, the TSP700II's included PS-180 power supply is the practical reason to spend more.
