A method of transferring printing ink from an intermediate carrier to a printing-ink receiver selected from the group consisting of a further intermediate carrier and a substrate, wherein the printing ink adheres either in a granular state or in an at least partially liquid state to the intermediate carrier includes, with respect to the first-mentioned state of the printing ink, melting the printing ink at a side thereof facing away from the intermediate carrier before transferring the printing ink to the printing-ink receiver and, with respect to the second-mentioned state of the printing ink, reducing the adhesion of the printing ink to the intermediate carrier with a separating agent at one time at least before and during transfer to the printing-ink receiver; and a device for performing the method.