If you are in the shipping business or any other business where you require labels, you understand how proper labelling of your products can boost the productivity and efficiency in the workplace.
As such, the need for a high-performance and quality label printer is very important. However, identifying the best label printer is no easy feat especially if you do not know where to start.
While there are numerous label printers on the market, the following are the best business label printers/makers you can consider. Read on.
Top 10 Best Business Label Printers/Makers
1. Rollo X1038
If you want a label printer that will suffice huge printing workloads without breaking, the Rollo label printer is your best choice.
Compact and portable, this commercial grade printer can handle huge printing workloads while providing you with crisp and long lasting labels at ultra-fast speeds of 150mm/s. This means that you can print 238 labels in a minute, per four rows.
For enhanced performance, this label printer applies the latest Advanced Thermal Direct technology that enables this printer to produce superior quality labels without relying on any toners or ink.
What’s more, this printer is compatible with virtually any direct thermal label including free UPS, FedEX, and USPS.
It also comes with an automatic label identification mechanism that automatically recognizes the properties and size of your labels for quicker, and effort free label loading.
On top of all this, the device is compatible with latest Windows and Mac operating systems. All you have to do is download the windows or mac drivers then plug it in via USB and you are good to go.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Faster installation saves time
- Ultra-fast printing speeds
- Compatible with major shipping platforms such as UPS and FedEx
- Affordable
Cons
- It doesn’t have label holder
2. DYMO Plug N Play
If you are in the market for label printer with the capability of plug and play functionality, then look no further. The DYMO Plug N Play Label Maker is what you need.
Featuring powerful lithium ion battery which recharges via USB connection, this pro-grade label printer is highly portable and is designed to create great looking labels using fonts and graphics from your computer.
The printer provides a terrific solution when it comes to printing UPC E, Code 39, Code 128, EAN 13, EAN 8, UPC A barcodes. It is compatible with DYMO D1 and IND labels in 1/4-, 3/8-, and 1/2-inch widths.
Pros
- Offers vinyl labels
- Produce moisture, chemical and UV resistance labels
- Uses existing fonts on the connected computer
- Rechargeable battery
- Easy to use
Cons
- Battery life issue
3. Brother QL-820NWB
Business that depend on shipping understand that having a reliable label printer is a necessity. Brother knows this best, and that’s why they have designed the Brother QL-820NWB label printer.
Unlike most label printers, the Brother QL-820NWB is a state-of-the-art label printer that offers some of the most amazing features.
To begin with, this compact and lightweight printers offers flexible connectivity including Bluetooth, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity so you can use it whenever the situation arises.
Furthermore, it’s equipped with a USB interface that allows it to be used as a scanner. The dual color labelling is also a great addition and lets you print labels in red and black.
Although its printing speed is not as fast as that of the Rollo label printer, it can print up to 110 standard address labels per minute using black text at 300-dpi.
The device also offers seamless integration with free software development kits and is compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems.
Other noticeable features include an auto cutter that eliminates wasted label sheets and an easy to read monochrome LCD screen for standalone use.
Pros
- Very efficient label printer, up to 110 labels per minute
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
- Easy to read LCD screen
- High-resolution printing (300x600dpi) for high-quality labels
Cons
- Software problems
4. Zebra GC420d
Relatively compact and lightweight, the Zebra GC420d direct thermal printer is an industrial-grade label printer that has the capability to print a wide range of label types in different settings ranging from warehouses to hospitals.
Engineered for reliability and longevity, this direct thermal printer for desktop is compatible with direct thermal label rolls with 1-inch core and a maximum diameter of 5-inches.
Furthermore, the printer uses direct thermal technology, which means that it uses heat technology instead of ink or toner. This technology is quicker, noiseless, and more importantly energy efficient.
When it comes to connectivity, the device comes with the latest Serial and parallel ports for connection to older hardware, and also supports USB connectivity for Mac and Windows PC connections. However, it does not support wireless connectivity.
To ensure that your labels are printed on time and with high quality, the Zebra GC420d prints up to 4 inches per second (ips) while maintaining a resolution of 203 dots per inch (dpi).
Pros
- Compact design hence can fit on any desk
- Faster printing speeds
- Numerous printing options
- Quite an affordable model
- Quite operation
Cons
- Monochrome printer hence cannot print colored labels
5. Brady BMP21-PLUS
A good label printer doesn’t have to be big to achieve its objective. And that’s what the Brady BMP21-Plus dictates.
Compact and lightweight the BMP21-Plus printer combines the tool-box ready ruggedness and an ergonomic design to give you high-quality performance and functionality.
This industry standard label maker features a backlit LCD screen that’s easy to read and a keyboard with well-placed and oversized buttons that make it easy to press without hitting the adjacent buttons. The good thing about this printer is that you can type symbols, numbers, alphabetical texts, and barcodes.
Unlike most label printers, the BMP21-Plus uses continuous tape cartridges with a sticky back, which is much better than paper tape. The tape used is flexible and is made from nylon cloth which makes it tough and durable.
While this label printer is not ideal for most business applications, it’s a great choice for electricians and people who work in tougher environments. This is because of its sturdy and rugged body with rubber over mold that makes it lend a firm grip and handle falls.
Other features include 6 AA size batteries, replaceable cartridges, and a barcode print feature.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to read LCD screen
- Easy to use
- Very durable
- Replaceable cartridges
Cons
- Non-standard keyboard arrangement
- Not ideal for business
6. Brother VC-500W
The VC-500W is the latest addition into Brother’s long lineage of label printers. But what does brother have in store for us with this particular model?
Unlike most other Brother models in this list, the VC-500W’s design is based on the ZINK Zero ink technology. This technology allows this printer to deliver rich and full color printing on white tapes without the use of ink.
The technology works by using microscopic crystals that are embedded in the Zink tape. When in operation, this crystals are heated to different temperatures which in turn causes different colors to be revealed.
To ensure easy setup, the printer comes with a Wi-Fi connection option that allows you to connect the device to a Wi-Fi network and print wirelessly from anywhere or create a Wi-Fi network and print from your smartphone.
What’s more, the device comes with a free Color Label Editor app that enables you to unleash your creativity and also supports Mac and Windows operating systems.
Pros
- No ink required to print
- Easy to connect and use
- Automatic cutter for half or full cuts
- Compatible with Mac and Windows PC
- You can print from your smartphone
Cons
- Wi-Fi connection problems
7. NETUM NT-G5
The NETUM G5 label printer is a new entrant into the market with excellent reviews and ratings. But what does it offer?
To start with, the NETUM G5 is lightweight and features a compact design that allows you to carry it anywhere or place it on your office desk or on the counter.
Compared to most label printers in its class, the printer has faster printing speeds of up to 30mm/s with minimal noise while maintaining a resolution of 203 dots per inch. The printer does not use ink or toners but instead utilizes transit thermal to generate superb quality labels.
Furthermore, it supports 1D and 2D barcode printing and offers USB, NFC, and Bluetooth connectivity options for faster and uninterrupted connections. Users can also download the free G5 printing app to use on their Android or iOS smartphones for wireless printing via smartphone.
It also features an auto-sleep and wake up feature that helps you to save on power. There’s also a rechargeable lithium battery that can serve you for 3-4 hours non-stop.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design
- Faster printing speeds
- Direct thermal printing
- Great quality label prints
- Numerous connectivity options
Cons
- None found
8. Zebra ZD410
Getting a super-fast and reliable label printer that you can work with anywhere is not easy. Luckily, with the Zebra ZD410 you can achieve all that.
Ultra-compact and lightweight, this printer allows you to use it anywhere even in the most constrained work spaces. Like most pro-grade label printers in this list, the ZD410 does not use ink or toner but rather uses direct thermal technology to print hence eliminating ink and toner costs.
The printer is splendidly fast and has a printing speed of up to 6 inches per second with a resolution of 203 dots per inch. This means that it prints crisp texts and images at super speeds.
Moreover, it can be used with the latest Windows and Mac operating systems. It also connects with USB or BTLE and supports direct thermal rolls with 1 inch core and a maximum diameter of 5 inches.
Pros
- Lightweight and ultra-compact design
- Great for use in constrained work spaces
- High-quality print labels
- Variety of connection options
- Easy to use
Cons
- Installation issues
9. Brother PT-P710BT
Gone are the days for slow and clunky label printers. With the Brother PT-P710BT label printer, you make any label you want right from your smartphone.
Robust enough, the PT-P710BT is designed to be used seamlessly with your Android or iOS device, or from your computer.
It features Bluetooth wireless technology and USB connectivity that lets you design and print unique labels directly from the Brother P-touch apps and editing software.
To help you create your labels faster, the P-Touch app includes a wide assortment of predesigned templates that you can choose from.
Along with this, it includes starter tape to get you started and comes with an auto-cutter that lets you create custom-sized labels. What’s more, you can create labels on the go, thanks to the powerful in-built Li-ion battery.
Pros
- Compatible with iOS and android devices
- Comes with a variety of labels
- Built-in lithium ion battery
- Bluetooth and USB connections
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Won’t do QR codes
10. PUQU Q00 Label Maker
The PUQU Q00 is a label making machine that offers convenience and quality at the same time.
Portable enough to fit in your hands, the unit employs thermal printing technology to replace the more expensive toner or ink.
The unit has a printing speed of that ranges between 10mm/s and 30mm/s, which is super-fast for a label printer of its size. It prints in black and white with a resolution of 203 dots per inch that gives clear and high-quality labels.
Better still, it has Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to connect it to your Android or iOS device via the PUQU app in a breeze. The PUQU app has a wide range of formats that you can choose for your labels.
The package includes one random size label roll paper, an AC adapter, and a rechargeable Lithium ion battery with a 180 day standby capacity that gives you enough power when you want to take the label printer with you on a business trip.
Pros
- Cost effective thermal printing technology
- Android and iOS compatibility
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Portable for mobile use
- Better quality labels
Cons
- Difficulties when feeding data
Buying Guide
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Label Printer
Your printing needs
The first thing you need to consider is your printing volume. Think about the number of labels you need to print on a regular basis. If you need a huge volume of labels on a regular basis, then it’s better to go with a pro-grade label printer. If not, you can opt for an entry level unit.
Resolution
Quality is vital when it comes to labels. You do not want to print labels that are vivid but rather crisp and sharp. As such, you should consider a printer with a higher resolution. Resolution is given in dots per inch (dpi) and the higher the dpi the better the quality.
Connectivity
Connectivity is a crucial factor when it comes to label printing. Luckily, most label printers come with one or more connectivity options including USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. Select a printer with more connectivity options as it will be more convenient.
Printing speed
A good label printer should save you time as well as produce high-quality labels. If you are in business, chances are you’ll need a higher volume of labels. It thus goes without saying that the label printer you select must be able to meet your printing demands without much delay.
Warranty
Just like any other electric gadget, it gives you peace of mind to know that the label printer you are investing in has a manufacturer’s warranty. This acts as a quality assurance and you can always contact the manufacturer for replacement or repair when the device fails or malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Label Printers
What is thermal printing technology?
This is a type of technology where ink or toner is not used. Instead, the technology uses heat to produce images and texts by selectively heating coated thermo-chromic paper with a thermal-print head.
Do thermal printers print in color?
Although most models print in black and white color by default, you can purchase a colored ribbon that will enable you to print in color. However, we have some models that print in color such as Brother VC-500W.
Which is the best label printer for shipping labels?
The best label printer for shipping labels is that which uses direct thermal technology. Labels made with direct thermal printers are of high-quality and do not fade.
Wrapping Up
By now we hope that you have already identified the best label printer that you need for your label printing needs. Do not forget to go through the choice consideration factors too.