Citizen CT-S310II vs CT-S801III: Which POS Printer Is Right?
The CT-S310II is best for small to mid-volume businesses, while the CT-S801III is designed for high-volume environments that need faster performance and durability.
---Quick Comparison
| Feature | CT-S310II | CT-S801III |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Small to mid-volume businesses | High-volume environments |
| Print Speed | Up to 160 mm/sec | Up to 300 mm/sec |
| Performance Level | Moderate | High |
| Environment | Retail, small restaurants | Busy retail, restaurants, high traffic |
| Price Tier | Lower / budget-friendly | Higher / premium |
Best Choice by Use Case
Best value option →
Citizen CT-S310II
Choose this if you run a small retail store, café, or service business and want a reliable printer without overspending.
Best for high-volume performance →
Citizen CT-S801III
Choose this if you handle high transaction volume and need faster printing to keep checkout lines moving.
Citizen CT-S310II Overview
The CT-S310II is a dependable, energy-efficient receipt printer built for everyday POS use. It’s ideal for businesses that need consistent performance at a lower cost.
- Great for small to mid-volume environments
- Lower upfront cost
- Energy-efficient operation
- Reliable daily performance
When to choose it: If your business has steady but moderate transaction volume and you want a cost-effective solution.
---Citizen CT-S801III Overview
The CT-S801III is a high-performance receipt printer built for speed and durability. It’s designed for businesses that need fast, consistent output during peak hours.
- High-speed printing up to 300 mm/sec
- Handles heavy daily usage
- Ideal for busy retail and restaurant environments
- More powerful and responsive during peak times
When to choose it: If you run a high-volume business where speed and reliability directly impact customer experience.
---Key Differences Explained
Speed: The CT-S801III is significantly faster, making it better for busy environments.
Volume Capacity: The CT-S310II is suited for moderate use, while the CT-S801III is built for heavy daily workloads.
Cost vs Performance: The CT-S310II offers excellent value, while the CT-S801III delivers premium performance for demanding operations.
Final Recommendation
If you're running a small or mid-sized business, the CT-S310II is the best value.
If you operate a busy retail store or restaurant, the CT-S801III is the better long-term investment due to its speed and durability.
---Frequently Asked Questions
Which printer is better for Shopify POS?
Both are compatible with Shopify POS, but the CT-S801III is better for high-volume environments, while the CT-S310II is ideal for smaller setups.
Is the CT-S801III worth the upgrade?
Yes, if you need faster printing and handle high transaction volume regularly.
Which printer is best for restaurants?
The CT-S801III is better for busy restaurants, while the CT-S310II works well for smaller or lower-volume operations.
Do these printers require ink?
No, both use direct thermal printing, so there are no ink or toner costs.
What paper do these printers use?
Both use standard 3 1/8" (80mm) thermal receipt paper.
Complete Your POS Setup
Make sure you have everything you need:
Looking for more options? Browse all receipt printers.