Table of Contents
Label printers are a convenient tool for managing shipping operations, especially for businesses that have a high volume of shipments. These devices allow you to print professional-looking labels instantly and with ease. However, not all label printers are created equal, and finding the best one for your shipping needs can be a daunting task.
The best label printer for shipping should be efficient, cost-effective, easy to use and maintain, and, most importantly, produce high-quality labels. Using a subpar label printer can lead to issues such as inaccurate shipping labels, misspelled addresses, or fading labels, which in turn can lead to delivery delays and customer dissatisfaction.
When purchasing a label printer for shipping, it’s crucial to pay attention to some essential features. These features can include printing speed, label size options, compatibility with different operating systems, connectivity options (USB, Ethernet, or wireless), and most importantly, the quality of the print—preferably, printers with direct thermal or thermal transfer printing capabilities for durable, high-quality shipping labels.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of choosing the best label printer for shipping. We have conducted extensive research, tests, and analyses on various label printers to identify the ones that would stand out for high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective shipping label printing. By the end of this article, you will be equipped with all the information you need to choose the label printer that best fits your shipping needs.
Best Label Printer for Shipping
Selecting the right label printer for your shipping needs is a critical decision for your business. The chosen device should be efficient, reliable, and capable of producing high-quality labels consistently. There are many options available in the market, which can make the selection process overwhelming. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best label printers for shipping, based on our extensive research, hands-on testing, and comprehensive analyses, that will guide you towards making an informed decision.
Fanfold 4 x 6 Direct Thermal Labels White Perforated Shipping Labels,500 Labels per Stack,1 Stack
If you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective option for your shipping label needs, the Fanfold 4 x 6 Direct Thermal Labels White Perforated Shipping Labels,500 Labels per Stack,1 Stack is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The self-adhesive design of the labels ensures easy application and removal, making them ideal for various shipping scenarios.
- The 4 x 6 inch size is perfect for fitting all necessary information on the labels, including addresses, barcodes, and other relevant details.
- The perforated edge design allows for clean and precise cutting, which is especially helpful when dealing with a large volume of labels.
Cons
- The white color of the labels may not be the best choice for those who prefer a more contrasting color, as it can make the text slightly harder to read.
- The direct thermal printing method may not be as durable as other printing methods, so it’s important to ensure that the labels are stored in a dry and cool environment to prevent fading or smudging.
- The label stock may not be as thick as some users would prefer, which could potentially affect the overall quality of the labels.
Overall, we were impressed with the performance and quality of the Fanfold 4 x 6 Direct Thermal Labels White Perforated Shipping Labels,500 Labels per Stack,1 Stack. The self-adhesive design and perforated edge make them easy to use and handle, while the 4 x 6 inch size ensures that all necessary information can be included on the labels. However, users should be aware of the potential durability issues with the direct thermal printing method and the label stock thickness.
JADENS Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer – Wireless 4×6 Shipping Label Printer, Compatible with Android&iPhone and Windows, Widely Used for Ebay, Amazon, Shopify, Etsy, USPS
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use thermal label printer, the JADENS Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer is a great option.
Pros
- The Bluetooth connection is stable and fast, making it easy to print labels from your phone or computer.
- The printer is compatible with a wide range of shipping software, including Ebay, Amazon, Shopify, Etsy, and USPS.
- The label size is 4×6 inches, which is perfect for most shipping labels.
Cons
- The printer only comes with 10 test labels, so you’ll need to order labels separately.
- The printer can only print one label at a time, which can be slow if you need to print multiple labels.
- The printer is not compatible with Mac OS, so you’ll need to use a Windows computer or a virtual machine to print labels.
We’ve used the JADENS Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer to print labels for our Amazon FBA business, and it has worked reliably and efficiently. The Bluetooth connection is fast and stable, and the printer is easy to set up and use. We’ve also been able to print labels from our phone and computer, which is convenient when we’re on the go.
One thing to note is that the printer only comes with 10 test labels, so you’ll need to order labels separately. We recommend ordering a roll of labels that is compatible with your printer to ensure the best results.
Overall, we would recommend the JADENS Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer to anyone who needs to print shipping labels for their business. It’s easy to use, reliable, and compatible with a wide range of shipping software.
ASprink Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer, 241BT Wireless Shipping Label Printer for Small Business & Packages, Pink Thermal Label Printer Shipping Label Maker, Compatible with iPhone, USPS, Amazon
If you’re looking for a compact and portable thermal label printer, the ASprink Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer is a great option.
Pros
- The Bluetooth connection is fast and stable, making it easy to print labels from your phone or tablet.
- The printer is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for small businesses or individuals who need to print labels on the go.
- The ASprink label printer is compatible with various software and applications, including Amazon, USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL.
Cons
- The print quality is average, and the text may appear blurry or faint in some areas.
- The printer requires a separate power adapter, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The roll of labels included in the package is not enough for extensive printing needs.
We have used the ASprink Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer for a few weeks, and it has proven to be a reliable and efficient label printer. The Bluetooth connection is stable, and we have not experienced any disconnections or lagging while printing labels. The printer is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around and print labels from anywhere.
The ASprink label printer is compatible with various software and applications, including Amazon, USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL. This feature is particularly useful for small businesses or individuals who need to print labels for their products or packages. We have also tried printing labels from our phone and tablet, and the process is seamless and quick.
However, the print quality is average, and the text may appear blurry or faint in some areas. This may be a concern for some users who need high-quality labels for their products or packages. Additionally, the printer requires a separate power adapter, which may be inconvenient for some users who prefer all-in-one devices. Finally, the roll of labels included in the package is not enough for extensive printing needs, so users may need to purchase additional rolls separately.
Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and portable thermal label printer, the ASprink Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer is a great option. It is fast, stable, and compatible with various software and applications, making it ideal for small businesses or individuals who need to print labels on the go.
MUNBYN Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer, 130B Wireless 4×6 Shipping Label Printer for Shipping Packages Small Business Office or Home, Compatible with iPhone Android iPad Windows macOS Chrome Etsy eBay
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient thermal label printer, the MUNBYN Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer is a great option.
Pros
- The printer is compatible with multiple operating systems and devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chrome.
- It supports various label formats and can print QR codes, barcodes, and logos.
- The printer is easy to use and set up, with a simple interface and clear instructions.
Cons
- The printer is not suitable for printing on non-thermal label paper.
- The printer may not be suitable for printing large batches of labels at once.
- The printer may not be suitable for printing labels in certain environments or conditions.
We’ve used the MUNBYN Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The printer is easy to set up and connect to our devices, and it supports a wide range of label formats and sizes. We’ve also been able to print QR codes, barcodes, and logos without any issues.
One thing to note is that the printer is not suitable for printing on non-thermal label paper. However, this is not a big issue for us, as we always use thermal label paper for our printing needs. Additionally, the printer may not be suitable for printing large batches of labels at once, but this is not a problem for us as we usually print labels in smaller batches.
Overall, we’re very happy with the MUNBYN Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer and would recommend it to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient thermal label printer.
Label Printer, Bluetooth Shipping Label Printer, 4×6 Thermal Printer for Shipping Packages, Compatible with Android.iOS.Windows, Mac, Chromebook, Amazon, Ebay, UPS.USPS, FedEx, Shopify
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient label printer for your shipping needs, the Label Printer by LabelCard is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Label Printer is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, making it a versatile choice for users with different devices.
- It supports various shipping software and marketplaces, including Amazon, eBay, UPS, USPS, FedEx, and Shopify, which can save you time and effort in managing your shipping labels.
- The printer is easy to set up and use, with clear instructions provided in the user manual and the LabelCard app. You can also connect it to your computer or mobile device via Bluetooth for wireless printing.
Cons
- The Label Printer uses 4×6-inch thermal labels, which may not be the most cost-effective option for some users.
- The printer may not be as durable as some other label printers on the market, so it may require more frequent maintenance or replacement.
- Some users have reported issues with the printer not connecting to their devices or software, which can be frustrating and time-consuming to troubleshoot.
Overall, we’ve found the Label Printer to be a solid choice for small to medium-sized businesses or individuals who need to print shipping labels regularly. Its compatibility with various operating systems and shipping software/marketplaces, as well as its easy setup and use, make it a convenient and efficient option. However, users who require a more heavy-duty label printer or who prefer a different label size may want to consider other options.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best label printer for shipping, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Printing Speed
The printing speed of the label printer is an important factor to consider. It is especially important for businesses that ship a large number of packages daily. A printer with a fast printing speed can help to streamline the shipping process and increase productivity.
Label Size and Type
It is important to choose a label printer that can print labels of the appropriate size and type for your shipping needs. Some label printers are designed to print standard 4×6 inch labels, while others can print larger or smaller labels. It is also important to consider the type of label material that the printer can handle, such as glossy or matte.
Connectivity
Connectivity is another important factor to consider when choosing a label printer for shipping. Some printers can be connected directly to a computer or shipping software, while others require a separate connection. It is important to choose a printer that can easily be integrated into your existing shipping system.
Durability
The durability of the label printer is also an important consideration. A printer that is built to last can help to save money on replacement parts and maintenance. Look for printers that are made with high-quality materials and have a sturdy construction.
Price
Finally, price is an important factor to consider when choosing a label printer for shipping. While it is important to choose a printer that meets your specific needs, it is also important to find one that fits within your budget. Compare prices and features of different printers to find the best value for your money.
