Printercow
Turn Any Thermal Printer into an API-Driven Printing Endpoint
Description
Printercow enables users to connect their thermal printers to the cloud through a powerful HTTP API, bridging the gap between digital applications and physical printing. The platform streamlines printing tasks by allowing seamless integration with workflow automation tools like Zapier and Make.com, and supports real-time printing of receipts, shipping labels, and creative content.
With open-source core architecture and support for all major ESC/POS thermal printers, Printercow is suitable for everything from retail and restaurant POS systems to creative projects and enterprise printing infrastructure. Users can choose to self-host for unlimited free usage or opt for robust, managed enterprise solutions with enhanced support and compliance options.
Key Features
- Universal HTTP API: Print from any application to any ESC/POS-compatible thermal printer
- Seamless Automation: Integrates with Zapier and Make.com to automate printing workflows
- Open Source Core: 100% free, self-hostable, with all features included
- Enterprise Scalability: Designed for high-volume business operations with built-in failover and managed infrastructure options
- Easy Hardware Setup: Network-enable USB printers with a single Raspberry Pi Zero W 2 command
- Flexible Paper Width: Supports customizable paper sizes from 58mm to 112mm
- Automated Image Handling: Accepts base64 images and automatically scales and dithers them for optimal printing
- No Rate Limits: Print at the maximum speed your hardware supports
- Desktop App (Coming Soon): Enables instant USB-to-HTTP printing without extra hardware
- Privacy Controls: Print data stored for 30 days by default, with user-definable retention policies
Use Cases
- Printing AI-generated art, poems, or creative content
- Issuing retail receipts directly from web or mobile apps
- Automated shipping label generation
- Restaurant order or kitchen tickets
- Workflow-triggered print jobs via Zapier or Make.com
- Office or business process automation
- Temporary or permanent remote printing setups
- Testing and prototyping print integrations
Frequently Asked Questions
What printer brands are supported?
Printercow works with any thermal printer that uses ESC/POS commands, including major brands such as Epson, Star Micronics, and Bixolon.
Can I customize the paper width?
Yes, Printercow supports any paper width from 58mm to 112mm, configurable via the HTTP request.
How do I handle images and logos?
You can send base64-encoded images in your HTTP request, and Printercow automatically handles scaling and dithering.
Is there a rate limit for printing?
There are currently no rate limits; print speed is determined by your hardware, typically handling 30-60 receipts per minute.
How long is print data stored?
Print data is stored for 30 days by default and is automatically deleted after this period. Users can set custom retention policies in the settings.
