The Top 10 Shipping Label Printers for Your Commercial Enterprise Typical inkjet and laser printers are versatile enough for printing stickers, flyers, posters, and documents. Can they be used for printing shipping labels? The answer is no! Sadly, your regular printers cannot print shipping labels, as label papers come in rolls and your typical inkjets or lasers can only print on flat sheets.
Moreover, shipping labels must withstand wear that occurs during the shipping process, which makes it a nightmare for the regular ink prints. This is where a good label printer comes to your rescue. Label printers use thermal ink printing technology, which is more susceptible to wear compared to inkjets and lasers. Besides this, the image that is printed using a thermal label printer sets immediately after printing, which helps in waving off smearing or smudging.
Best Label Printers in 2023
Be it for a small or large business, a thermal label printer machine is a handy tool to possess. However, there are a couple of things that you need to look into while choosing the best label printing machine. These include the size of labels that can be printed, how fast they can be printed, how much they cost, how well they work with your operating system, and what colors they can print.
Having been in the industry for quite a while now, we at Scanse have had our hands on all the popular label printers in the market and have curated a list with the best of them below.
#1. ROLLO Label Printer – Best Commercial Grade Direct Thermal High Speed Printer
The Rollo X1038 is a professional label printer machine aimed at producing commercial-grade labels with support for all major selling platforms and shipping couriers.
It also offers a high duty cycle, making it an ideal choice for large businesses that require printing in greater volumes. As this printer uses direct thermal printing technology, you don’t require ink cartridges, which makes it more economical.
Brand | ROLLO |
Model Number | X1038 |
Weight | 2.2 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 7.7 x 3.3 x 3 inches |
Printer type | Direct Thermal Printer |
Connectivity | USB |
Max Printing Speed | 150 mm/s |
Maximum Resolution | 203 DPI |
Max Paper Width | 48-108 mm |
ROLLO Label Printer – Unboxing and package contents
The packaging of the ROLLO X1038 looks simple and elegant, with a cardboard enclosure with “ROLLO” written on the top and “Logistics Label Printer” written towards the front. Surprisingly, the package is very small. When we open it, we find some paperwork on top, the printer unit, a power adapter, and a USB cable.
Device overview and build quality –
Even though it is made entirely of plastic, the printer feels small and has a decent build quality at first glance. You get to see the Rolo branding on the top, along with a button. On the bottom, we have a grill through which the cooling fan sends out air. The back of the device hosts a power switch, a power socket, and a USB port for connecting the device to a computer.
This thermal label printing machine has a very simple construction and lacks those bells and whistles that a regular printer possesses.
Connectivity –
On the connectivity side, the ROLLO commercial-grade direct thermal printer offers a high-speed USB port that lets it connect to a computer for taking in print jobs. You can get the printer drivers directly from the printer’s official website. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
Setting up the ROLLO high-speed shipping label printer –
Setting up the ROLLO high-speed shipping label printer can be an important task. The process of setting up the printer is simple and straightforward. You can feed in a roll of label stock or fanfold labels, depending on what you need.
Plugging in, powering on, and loading the labels:
Setting up the Rollo thermal shipping label maker is easy; with a few simple steps, you are good to go. Make sure the power switch at the back is turned off before you start the setup process. Now, connect the power cable provided in the box to the power socket provided at the back of the printer, and plug the power adapter into a wall socket.
Once the power cable is plugged, plug the USB cable into the socket provided at the back of the printer, and plug the other end into your computer’s USB port. In the next step, load labels into your printer. Adjust the tabs to the size of the label and close the top of the printer to make sure the labels are in the right place.
Turn on the printer by pressing the power button on the back. Once the device is turned on, press and hold the top button until you hear it beep once. You should see your label moving in and out, this is normal. It is just that your printer is trying to identify the label size.
Installing the device drivers:
The device drivers for the Rollo label printer machine for shipping are available on Rollo’s website and users can conveniently download them from there. If you are a Windows user, click on the “Download Windows Driver” option; if you use a Mac, click on the “Download Mac Driver” option.
In the case of a Windows PC, unzip the downloaded zip file and click on the application file. A dialog box then appears, guiding you through the installation process. Once the installation is complete, connect your printer to your computer and make sure that the power is turned on.
Now, head over to the Control Panel from the Start menu and choose “View devices and printers” under the Hardware and Sound section. You should see your Rollo printer listed under the printers section. Right-click on it and choose Printing Preferences.
Under the Layout tab, choose the Advanced option. There, you can change the label size under the “Paper Size” option. Choose your desired label size and click OK. Now you are good to go with your first label printing job.
Performance –
Printing Speeds: The Rollo shipping label printer has excellent printing speeds. It can print at a whopping speed of 150 mm/s, i.e., one 4×6 shipping label per second.
Print Quality: The device can print shipping labels and product labels with sharper text and excellent details in the case of barcodes and QR codes.
Duty Cycle: Be it for printing one label a day or 5000 labels a day, the Rollo direct thermal label printer is designed to handle it all.
Printing costs: As the Rollo industrial label printer uses thermal printing technology, it doesn’t require an ink cartridge for printing. This makes it more economical.
Compatibility: The ROLLO commercial-grade label printer works with major shipping platforms, including, ShippingEasy, Shipstation, Stamps.com, Amazon, Shopify, eBay, Etsy, UPS, FedEx, USPS (United States Postal Services), etcetera.
ROLLO Label Printer – Verdict
The Rollo X1038 is by far the best label printer machine for shipping that we have tested so far. It has everything that you would typically expect from a USPS and UPS label printer. Be it build quality, printing speeds, or compatibility, this printer excelled at all three.
As it is offered for less than $200, it is one of the most affordable shipping label printers considering its overall performance. Be it fanfold or rolled labels, the ROLLO direct thermal printer supports them all. Considering the printing speeds, it is one of the fastest label printers on the market, with print speeds up to 150 mm/s.
Rolo’s X1038 is more reliable compared to its direct competitor, the Dymo 4XL thermal label printer, in terms of price and design. However, the only setback is that if you choose to use rolled labels, the Dymo 4XL comes with a built-in roll holder, whereas a separate label holder is to be purchased in the case of the ROLLO X1038.
#2. Dymo 4XL 1755120: Best Wide Shipping Label Printer
The Dymo 4XL is an excellent choice, especially if you are in the market for a wide format shipping label printer, as this device can print custom labels up to 4.16 inches wide. Besides this, it has printing speeds up to 192 inches per minute, making it one of the fastest thermal shipping printers that you can buy today.
Brand | Dymo |
Model | 4XL 1755120 |
Weight | 2.01 lbs |
Product Dimensions | 7 x 7.3 x 5.3 inches (w x d x h) |
Printer type | Direct Thermal Printer |
Connectivity | USB |
Max Printing Speed | Up to 192 inches/min |
Maximum Resolution | 300 dpi |
Max Paper Width | 4.16 inches |
Dymo 4XL Unboxing and package contents –
The Dymo 4XL is shipped inside a colorful box package with the product’s images and specifications printed on its top. Opening the box, we are greeted with a quick start guide, the printer, a small roll of labels, a power cord, a USB cord, and an ac adapter.
To prevent damage during transit, the contents of the box are neatly packed in bubble wrap and polythene covers.
Device overview and build quality –
The Dymo 4XL has a peculiar clamshell design that stands out from the boring, rectangular design of the ROLLO label maker. Unlike most other thermal shipping label printers, the Dymo 4XL has the label rolls inside the printer itself. To access them, you have to lift the top cover, making it more convenient and fuss-free. We have a power socket and a USB port on the back of the printer.
Connectivity –
Like the ROLLO X1038, the Dymo 4XL also does not feature a wireless connectivity option. You will have to physically connect the device to a computer using the USB cable provided in the box.
Setting up the Dymo 4XL Shipping Label Printer Machine –
With a few simple steps, you can set up a new Dymo label printer in no time. Connect your computer to the printer via USB cable or Bluetooth connection. Make sure labels have printed sides facing outward and line them up along the inner edge of the tray.
Plugging in, powering on, and loading the labels:
The Dymo 4XL can be set up in a few easy steps before you can start printing your first shipping label. Plug the power cable provided into the power adapter. Now plug the DC end into the power port provided at the back of the printer and the AC plug into a wall socket. You should see the LED on the front glowing, indicating power.
Now lift the lid of the printer and press the forward feed button to remove the sample label that comes with the printer. In the next step, remove the spool and also remove the disc from one of its sides. Take out your starter roll that comes inside the package and load it onto the spool.
Make sure you are inserting the roll in the right direction, as indicated on the roll. Now replace the removable disc on the spool and load the same into your label printer. Feed the end of the label to your printer and press the forward feed button.
Installing the Dymo Label software:
Once you’ve turned on the device and put the label rolls in, go to Dymo’s drivers download page to get the software that works with your label printer. Choose the right file from the download list according to your operating system.
After successfully downloading the drivers, install them on your computer and restart it. Make sure to check the box for the DYMO Label software option during the installation process. This should install the software on your PC.
Performance –
Versatility: This is one of the most versatile options, as it can print on custom labels as large as 4×6-inches and as small as 2-5/16 by 4; it can also print on 1-inch barcode labels.
Compatibility: The Dymo 4XL is compatible with all popular shipping platforms, including Amazon, eBay, Etsy, UPS, USPS, etc. Also, the printer is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
Printing Speeds: This nifty gadget can exhibit printing speeds up to 192 inches per minute, which means it can print 53 standard 4 line address labels in about a minute’s duration.
Printing Costs: The Dymo 4XL uses thermal printing technology to print labels, meaning, you don’t require any special ink for printing. All you need is a roll of chemically treated label paper. However, unlike the Rollo industrial label printer, the Dymo 4L uses Dymo’s special label rolls with notches on one side. You don’t have the freedom to use rolls from other brands. Moreover, Dymo’s rolls are a bit on the expensive side.
Printing Quality: Be it for smaller text or in the case of graphics, the Dymo 4XL does well in terms of print quality, thanks to the 300 dpi resolution.
Warranty: The device comes with a two-year warranty period from the date of purchase, while most devices on the market offer only one year of warranty.
Dymo 4XL 1755120 – Verdict
The Dymo 4XL is the most popular thermal shipping label printer on the market. It shares support for all the popular and not-so-popular shipping platforms, including Amazon, Etsy, eBay, USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc.
It boasts a unique design with a spool for the label roll placed within the device enclosure. I liked the design so much, but my only concern is with the paper jams. Clearing the paper jams and cleaning the sensors inside are hectic tasks. Speaking of the build quality, the device seems durable and can withstand high volumes of printing in a month.
The label-roll support is the biggest letdown. Unlike the Rollo shipping label printer, the Dymo 4XL doesn’t accept all paper rolls. It uses special paper rolls sold separately by Dymo that have notch-like holes at one of their ends. This construction helps the printer understand the start and end of a label. However, Dymo is selling these paper rolls for a little more than the regular paper rolls used by other digital label presses.
Best UPS Thermal Shipping Label Printer
UPS stands for United Parcel Service, which is a company that ships, receives, and manages the supply chain for goods all over the world. It is one of the world’s largest shipping couriers today. UPS partners with small businesses to help them reach their goals. Businesses that use UPS shipping services must use the UPS shipping labels on their parcels.
The format of the UPS shipping label is defined by the company itself. Business organizations can directly print these labels from the official website of the shipping company.
Of all the printers that we have tested, the following turned out to be the best UPS shipping label printers.
#3. Arkscan 2054A – Best USPS Shipping Label Printer
The Arkscan 2054A is the best USPS (United Parcel Service). Besides UPS and USPS, it also works with all the major shipping platforms. It can print custom labels ranging from 0.75” to a maximum of 4.25”.
Brand | Arkscan |
Model | 2054A |
Weight | 4.75LB |
Product Dimensions | 211 mm(W)× 240 mm (D)× 166 mm(H) |
Printer type | Direct Thermal Printer |
Connectivity | USB |
Max Printing Speed | 127 mm / second or 5 inches /second |
Maximum Resolution | 203 dpi |
Max Print Width | 4.25 inches |
Unboxing and package contents – Review
The packaging is neat, with enough padding around the product to protect it from damage during transit. Inside, we have an ac adapter, a power cable, a user’s manual, and the actual printer.
Device overview and build quality –
Compared to the Dymo 4XL and the ROLLO thermal label printing machines that we have tested earlier, the Arkscan 2054A feels a little larger and also a little heavier. The shape and construction of the printer remind us of the Dymo 4XL, as this printer also has a clamshell-like construction with a spool for holding the label roll.
Despite the fact that the entire body of this thermal shipping label maker is made of plastic, the construction feels solid and appears to be durable. On the hardware side, you get to see a single button on the top. On the back of the device, we have the most obvious power and USB sockets. Besides these, you also get to see a power switch for switching the device on and off.
Connectivity –
Like the Dymo 4XL and the ROLLO printers that we have tested earlier, the Arkscan 2054A also doesn’t feature any wireless connectivity option leaving you no choice but the old-school USB connectivity. The USB cable is provided in the box packaging.
Setting up the Arkscan Shipping Label Printer Machine –
The Arkscan 2054A Shipping Label Printer Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking to quickly and easily print labels. Setting it up is easy and requires no technical knowledge. The removable label roll holder allows you to quickly insert rolls of labels straight from their packaging.
Plugging in, powering on, and loading the labels:
Place the rod through your shipping label roll and put the shield back on the rod. Carefully place the rod in the groove provided, making sure that the roll is placed exactly in the center of the rod. You can do this by referring to the markings present on either side of the rod. Now, adjust the green sliders according to the size of your label paper, and make sure that the sliders are securing the first sheet in your roll. Do not make it too tight or too loose, but as required for the free movement of the paper roll.
Now turn on the printer, and it should automatically adjust itself based on the size of the labels you just put in. Once the printer is ready to print, you should see that the red light on the top turns blue.
Downloading the Arkscan 2054A printer drivers:
Downloading and installing the right printer drivers for your Arcscan 2054A is easy. Head over to the official website of Arkscan and navigate to Product>Accessories>Shipping Label Printer and choose 2054A Thermal Shipping Label Printer. You should see a list of drivers corresponding to different operating systems. Choose the one that works with your operating system, and then follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver software.
Performance –
Compatibility: The Arkscan 2054A is compatible with all major shipping platforms including Amazon, Shopify, eBay, PayPal, USPS, Etsy, Poshmark, FedEx, Facebook, DHL, mercari, UPS, ShipStation, QuickBooks, stamps.com, Pirate Ship, Shippo, Easyship, Endicia, BarTender, etcetera.
Versatility: This printer supports printing shipping labels and product labels ranging from 0.75” to a maximum of 4.25” in width and 0.4” to 90” in length, making it a more versatile choice. It also supports Zebra-compatible labels and Dymo-compatible labels.
Print Quality: This printer offers a maximum print resolution of 203 dpi, which is ample for producing rich texts and graphics on labels. As it uses thermal printing technology, you don’t get to see smearing or smudging in the prints. Also, you don’t need to wait for the prints to dry before you can stick them to the parcels.
Printing Costs: As this printer uses thermal printing technology, it doesn’t require any ink for printing, making it more economical. Unlike the Dymo 4XL, the Arkscan 2054A supports any label roll paper, leaving you with a choice. There are many vendors on the market selling cheaper stock papers.
Arkscan 2054A – Verdict
The Arkscan 2054A is the most affordable UPS shipping label printing machine that you can buy today. Unlike the Dymo 4XL, Arkscan doesn’t force you to use their proprietary labels, which is appreciable. From the most popular ones to the lesser-known ones, the Arkscan 2054A shares support for most shipping services.
Configuring this label printer for the first time is also brisk; however, the printer had a hard time identifying the size of the label paper. I had to manually change the size in the printer preferences on my computer. This is a one-time process, as you don’t need to change it unless you use a different-sized stock.
If you choose to print wirelessly using your label printer, Arkson is offering the 2054A with Ethernet functionality for a little extra.
#4. MUNBYN ITPP941 – Affordable UPS Shipping Label Printer
The MUNBYN ITPP941 is one of the well-sought options for UPS label printer machines. It is by far the lightest and most compact shipping label printer that we have tested. If you are in the market for a device that can print labels for your small or medium-scale business, look no further than the MUNBYN ITPP941.
Brand | MUNBYN |
Model Number | ITPP941 |
Weight | 3.56 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 7.7 x 3 x 3 inches |
Printer type | Direct Thermal Printer |
Connectivity | USB |
Max Printing Speed | 150 mm/s |
Maximum Resolution | 203 DPI |
Max Paper Width | 104mm |
Unboxing and package contents – Review
The MUNBYN ITPP941 shipping package looks quite fancier with an all-red top and white bottom. I’m very impressed to see the efforts MUNBYN put into the packaging. Inside the box, we have the printer padded with foam molds on either side. Moving further, we have a quick start guide, along with the usual power adapter, and a USB cable.
Device overview and build quality –
The device looks very similar to the already reviewed ROLLO thermal label printer. Also, the feed mechanism is the same as what we have seen in the case of the ROLLO printer. It comes in a two-tone color theme, with its top and bottom being black and the rest of its body being white.
The plastic used in making the printer’s body is of high quality and appears to be promising to last for a while. Speaking of its size, the MUNBYN ITPP941 measures the same as the Rolo printer, with physical dimensions of 7.7 x 3 x 3 inches.
We have a feed button at the top, which also doubles up as a status indicator. On the back, we have a power switch, a USB port, and a power port. There is a sticker with the model and the serial number of the device printed at the bottom of the device.
Connectivity –
On the connectivity side, the MUNBYN thermal UPS label printer has nothing much to offer other than a typical USB interface to connect the printer to a computer. You get a USB cable in the box.
Setting up the MUNBYN ITPP941 UPS Shipping Label Printer –
Setting up the MUNBYN ITPP941 UPS Shipping Label Printer is a simple process that requires minimal effort. Connect your computer to the printer via the USB cable provided in the box. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the right software, drivers, or applications on your computer.
Plugging in, powering on, and loading the labels:
The setup process is pretty much the same as with most other thermal printers. Plug the power cable provided inside the box into the power adapter and connect one end to the printer while plugging the other end into a wall socket.
Press the lid release button present at the top right corner and pull the lid up. Load paper rolls into the printer and adjust the paper guides according to your label size. Ensure that the paper guides are not too tight or loose.
You need to calibrate the label size to make your printer understand the exact dimensions of the label that you used. To do this, turn on the printer by turning the switch at the back to the ON position. Press and hold the “feed” button, then release it once you hear a beep. Just sit back and relax, because the printer will automatically adjust itself to the size of the label.
Installing the device drivers:
Downloading and installing the MUNBYN shipping label printer driver is easy. Visit the official MUNBYN website and navigate to the downloads page. Choose the desired model and click on the “download printer drivers” option. The drivers should have been downloaded to your computer. Install the downloaded driver by double-clicking the setup file and following the instructions.
Performance –
Printing Speeds: The MUNBYN ITPP941 shipping label printer for UPS has excellent printing speeds of over 150 mm/s. It is faster than the Arkscan 2045A and prints as fast as the Rollo label printing machine.
Printing Quality: Though the print resolution is 203 dpi, the print quality is still as good as any other 300 dpi printer.
Printing Costs: Thermal printers do not require ink cartridges, making them very economical in the long run, and the MUNBYN ITPP941 is no exception to that.
Compatibility: The MUNBYN Shipping Label Printer for UPS Labels is compatible with most other shipping platforms, including Amazon, eBay, Shopify, Etsy, Ordoro, Shipping Easy, USPS, PayPal, FedEx, Endicia, etcetera.
Warranty: The product ships with a one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects and other technical issues. The warranty does not cover physical damage or damage caused by improper use.
MUNBYN ITPP941 Label Printer – Verdict
The MUNBYN ITPP941 is an ideal choice if you are in the market for a good UPS shipping label printer. It has a very decent form factor, making it more convenient for usage in tight spaces. Unlike the Arkscan 2054A and the Dymo 4XL, the MUNBYN shipping label printer doesn’t come with a spool, and you must purchase it separately if you wish to use rolled labels.
Setting up the device is a cakewalk; you can set it up in less than 10 minutes. The device calibrates itself and adjusts according to the size of the label that you use. Speaking of compatibility, the device is compatible with all major shipping platforms, including UPS and USPS. On the connectivity side, it has a traditional USB connection. All in all, the MUNBYN ITPP941 is one of the best label makers in the market.
Best USPS Thermal Shipping Label Printers
USPS is an acronym for United States Postal Service, which is a postal service in the United States explicitly authorized by the United States Constitution. It is a separate part of the executive branch of the federal government of the United States. Its job is to provide postal services in the US.
Individuals and small business owners can order shipments from USPS from their websites. They also have a provision for printing shipping labels directly from their website. However, you will need a good shipping label printer to do this. Below are a few of the best thermal shipping label printers for USPS labels.
#5. OFFNOVA IM – Best USPS Shipping Label Printer with Bluetooth
OFFNOVA IM is a simple, elegant, and powerful label printer that can print high-quality USPS shipping labels. Besides this, the printer also supports all other major shipping platforms, including Amazon, Shopify, Etsy, and FedEx. This printer can also connect to your Android or iOS device through Bluetooth and can print directly from those devices.
Brand | OFFNOVA |
Model | IM N-6140 |
Weight | 4.09 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 7.2 x 3 x 3.6 inches |
Printer type | Direct Thermal Printer |
Connectivity | USB, Bluetooth |
Max Printing Speed | 150 mm/s |
Maximum Resolution | 203 DPI |
Max Paper Width | 48-108mm (1.57″-4.1″) |
OFFNOVA IM Thermal Label Printer – Unboxing and package contents
It comes shipped inside a decent white cardboard box with the OFFNOVA branding and the product specifications mentioned on its top. We have the printer, a power adapter, a USB cable, a USB A to Type C adapter, a USB drive, and a user’s manual inside the package. Surprisingly, you also get a thermal label holder that can hold both the fanfold labels and the label rolls.
The inclusion of the Type-C adapter surprised me, as most laptops today come with Type-C ports only. Also, the included flash drive has the drivers, a setup guide, and some video tutorials to help you with the setup process without having to log on to any website or use the internet for that matter. They have also provided a couple of sample labels to print using your printer.
Device overview and build quality –
The OFFNOVA IM comes in different color options, the one we have here is the all-grey one. At first glance, this thermal shipping label printer looked beautiful, with a design that was very simple. The top hosts a feed button that lets you feed the label paper into the device. On the front, we have a latch that pops the top cover.
Speaking of the design, it is similar to the ROLLO and MUNBYN thermal label printers that we have reviewed earlier. I’m a huge fan of this design approach, as it is very convenient for feeding the paper and clearing jams if they ever occur. Also, cleaning the printer is made easy with this design approach, as you get access to almost all those sensible components.
On the back, we have a power switch, a USB port, and a DC power port for powering the machine. The device is very compact and should comfortably sit in smaller spaces. However, the paper roll holder that comes along feels plasticky but solid.
Connectivity –
Like any other label printer that we have tested earlier, the OFFNOVA IM also features a traditional USB port if you wish for a physical connection between your device and a computer. Besides this, it also features wireless Bluetooth functionality to conveniently order print jobs from all of your portable devices, including mobile phones and iPads with Bluetooth support.
Setting up the OFFNOVA IM USPS Shipping Label Printer –
The OFFNOVA IM USPS Shipping Label Printer is easy to set up, efficient, and hassle-free. Simply load 4×6 inch thermal labels onto the device’s input tray before beginning to print. After turning it on, open your favorite printing software and choose “OFFNOVA IM” when asked what kind of printer you want.
Plugging, powering on, and loading the labels:
By including a USB flash drive right in the box, OFFNOVA made the process of setting up this device much easier. The flash drive has all the necessary information for setting up the device. It also comes with a copy of all the required drivers and software tools, so you don’t have to download anything from the internet. This comes in handy, especially if you are not well versed in the computer world.
Plug the power adapter that came with the device into the printer and the other end into a wall socket to turn the device on. Feed the label paper into the printer by opening the lid on the top. To remove the lid, pull the latch on the front side of your printer. Once you place your label correctly, adjust the paper guides on either side to fit them correctly according to your paper size. Make sure that they are not too tight or too loose.
In the next step, close the lid and press the feed button once. Pressing it will let the device pull the printing paper inside. To start with, there is a sample label provided in the flash drive that comes with the device
Installing the drivers:
Connect the USB flash drive that they have provided in the package to the computer on which you wish to install the drivers. Open the drive and check for a folder named “Device Drivers.” Click to open the folder. Double-click on the setup file and follow the onscreen instructions to get it installed on your computer. Once you’re done installing them, connect your label printer to your computer using the USB cable that came with the package. Your label printer should be found automatically.
Performance –
Printing Speeds: The device offers excellent printing speeds. It can output sharp, rich-detailed prints at speeds up to 150 mm/sec.
Printing Quality: Though the printer can only print at 203 DPI, I never had issues with the print quality. It could print high-quality labels with rich details. The text and graphics are sharp and clear.
Printing Costs: Like any other thermal label printer, the OFFNOVA IM also uses inkless printing technology, leaving you with no maintenance costs. They can be a little expensive initially, but can be economical in the long run.
Warranty: The device comes with a full year of limited warranty that covers you if you face issues with the product quality or any other manufacturing defects.
Compatibility: The OFFNOVA IM USPS Thermal Shipping Label printer is compatible with the most popular operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS. It also shares support for the most popular shipping platforms, marketplaces, and couriers, including USPS, FedEx, UPS, DHL, Etsy, Shopify, eBay, Amazon, etcetera.
OFFNOVA IM Thermal Label Printer – Vedict
The Offnova IM is one of the best, if not the best, USPS label printers available on the market. It comes with a Bluetooth connectivity option, making it more convenient if you wish to print from multiple devices. The design aesthetics are the same as those of the ROLLO and MUNBYN printers that we have tested earlier. It is simple, compact, and elegant in terms of design and performance.
I loved how much OFFNOVA cared about their customer experience. They are providing a USB flash drive with all the necessary stuff. Also, it is so thoughtful of them to provide a Type-C adapter inside the packaging. Besides this, they also included a separate spool for holding rolled label papers.
The print speeds are also decent, with figures up to 150 mm/s. Text and pictures are much clearer and sharper, which is a big plus for the quality.
#6. iDPRT SP410 Thermal Label Maker – Ideal for USPS Shippings
The iDPRT SP410 is one of the most popular shipping label printers on the market, with great features at an affordable cost. It looks like the ROLLO, MUNBYN, and OFFNOVA printers, but its lid mechanism is just a little bit different.
Brand | iDPRT |
Model | SP410 |
Weight | 3.94 pounds |
Product Dimensions | 6.18 x 6.38 x 10.91 inches |
Printer type | Direct Thermal Printer |
Connectivity | USB |
Max Printing Speed | 150 mm/s |
Maximum Resolution | 203 DPI |
Max Paper Width | 4.25″ |
iDPRT SP410 4×6 Label Maker – Unboxing and package contents
The printer came inside a cool-looking white box packaged with an image of the device printed on its top and the device’s specifications printed on one of its sides. On the other side of the box, they detailed what each color indication of the status LED was meant for.
When we opened the box, we saw the usual paperwork, like a user’s guide and a warranty card. Moving further, we have a CD drive, a USB cable, a mains cord, and the actual printer itself. They have also provided a stack of sample labels to test your printer.
Device overview and build quality –
The design reminded me of the most popular ROLLO thermal label printer, except for the lid design. Unlike other digital label presses that we have tested here, the iDPRT SP410 doesn’t have a separate DC power adapter. The rectification circuitry is incorporated inside the printer itself. On the top, we have a button surrounded by an LED ring that glows in different colors, indicating different states of the printer.
To the back, we have a power on/off switch along with a provision for connecting an AC mains cord, and a USB cable for interfacing your device with a computer.
Connectivity –
The iDPRT SP410 USPS label printer has a USB port for connecting to a computer. They have provided the USB cable inside the packaging. The cable provided is of very good quality.
Setting up iDPRT SP410 Shipping Label Printer for USPS –
Users first need to plug the power cable into an outlet and Next, they can turn on the printer by pressing the ON/OFF button located on the back of it. Once powered on, users should open up their web browser and navigate to the provided setup page. This will provide instructions on how to properly load labels into it and configure any settings specific to their machine.
Plugging, powering on, and loading the labels:
The setup process for the iDPRT label printer is just the same as any other label printer that we have reviewed so far. Connect the power cable into the printer but don’t switch it on just yet. Load the labels provided in the package into the printer by gently opening the top lid. On successful insertion, adjust the paper guides on either side to match the size of your labels. Ensure that the labels are moving freely and the guides aren’t holding them too firm.
Performance –
Printing Speeds: The iDPRT SP410 is fast enough to get your workloads done in minutes. It can print at a whopping speed of 150 mm/s.
Print Quality: The device can print shipping labels with sharper text and excellent details. It works well in the case of barcodes and QR codes.
Duty Cycle: This USPS thermal label printer is designed to handle larger workloads. You do not have to worry about cracking it, especially if you have a lot on your table each day.
Printing costs: As the iDPRT SP410 label printer for USPS uses thermal printing technology, it doesn’t require an ink cartridge for printing. This makes it more economical.
Compatibility: As far as compatibility is concerned, the iDPRT SP410 goes well with Windows and Mac operating systems. When it comes to shipping platforms, it shares compatibility with almost all the popular ones, including Amazon, FedEx, UPS, USPS, Etsy, etcetera.
iDPRT SP410 Label Printer – Verdict
The iDPRT SP410 shipping label printer for USPS is a good add-on to your business especially if you have to print a lot of labels each day. It is compact, lighter in weight, and very well built to withstand everything you throw at it. On the compatibility note, it is compatible with most popular shipping platforms and also shares support with Windows and Mac operating systems.
Other Alternative Shipping Label Makers You Can Consider
Brother QL-800 and Micmi Commercial are two of the most popular label makers on the market. If you’re looking for something with a larger label size, consider the Dymo LabelWriter 450 Turbo. Primera LX500 provides USB connectivity and offers both color and monochrome printing options.
#7 Brother QL-800 High-speed Professional Label Printer
Brother needs no introduction in the printing industry. Having been in the market for so long, it understood and catered well to the needs of the present day. The Brother QL-800 is one of the fastest printers we have seen with printing speeds of up to 93 standard address labels per minute.
Features –
- Print Black/Red Labels using 2251 Tape
- High-Speed Printing
- Compatible with multiple shipping platforms
- USB Connectivity
#8. Micmi Commercial – Cheap Shipping Label Printer
The Micmi Commercial Shipping Label Printers are compact, well-designed, multi-functional machines. They can print shipping labels and product labels up to the sizes of 4×6”. They have got a decent balance between printing speeds and printing quality.
Features –
- Excellent printing speeds
- 4×6” printing
- Compact and well-designed body
- Comes with a free software tool
- Ease of use
- Support for multiple shipping platforms
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best shipping label printers
Shipping label printers become more advanced as technology advances. In 2023, it can be hard to find the right label printer for your logistics business. That’s why we have put together a list of two of the best shipping label printers to watch out for in 2023: Dymo 4XL 1755120 Label Maker Printer and Offnova IM N-6140 Thermal Shipping Label Printer
The Dymo 4XL 1755120 is an industrial-strength shipping label printer that can print up to 53 labels per minute quickly and reliably. It prints both thermal transfer labels and direct thermal labels with resolutions up to 300 dpi, offering printable sizes up to 4″ x 6″. It is easy to use, so you can make high-quality shipping labels quickly and without any trouble.
best shipping label printers for small business
It’s essential for small businesses to have a shipping label printer. You may have a hard time deciding which one is right for you with so many products on the market. To help narrow down the selection, here’s a look at two of the best options available: the ROLLO X1038 and the Arkscan 2054A.
The ROLLO X1038 is a great choice for businesses that need quick and hassle-free printing. It features an intuitive LCD touch screen interface that makes set up easy, plus it prints at speeds of up to 150 mm/sec, making it perfect for busy operations. Additionally, its advanced thermal printing also produces crisp labels with clear text every time.
Label Makers Buying Guide
Shipping label printers are necessary if you are an individual or a business owner who has to ship a lot of parcels each day. Printing them requires a professional shipping label printer, which is designed to deliver labels that are resistant to wear during shipping. The majority of the shipping label printers on the market use thermal printing technology, making them more susceptible to smearing and smudging than traditional ink printers.
The following are some of the things that you should be looking into while buying a good thermal shipping label printer.
Price/Budget –
Price is an important factor to consider when buying any commodity, as you will find the best product in every price range possible. The term “best” is always confined to the budget that you put on something.
Duty Cycle –
A product’s duty cycle defines the workloads that can be imposed on it in a month. As businesses require printing a lot of shipping and product labels each month, it is very important to choose a printer with a decent duty cycle.
Printing Speeds –
This is another critical consideration because businesses must print a large volume of material in a short period of time. There are many good printers on the market with decent print speeds.
Print Resolution –
Resolution defines the quality of your print. The higher the resolution, the better your print quality. Most printers offer a resolution of up to 300 dpi, which is more than enough for a label printer. However, some printers only offer 203 DPI of resolution, which is decent enough for producing crisp images and sharp texts.
Color of the label –
Some digital color label printers on the market can print labels in different colors. If printing in color is your thing, you may go with one of them. These digital color label printers are specifically used in printing product labels.
Form factor –
Label printers come in different form factors. The most commonly used are desktop label printers. A desktop printer is a printer that is usually operated from a fixed location. Irrespective of its size, it is not a portable option to count on. Alternatively, there are portable label printers with a small keyboard and a display that run on AAA batteries. These printers can be used to print both shipping and product labels. Unlike desktop label printers, these portable printers can be easily carried.
Product Warranty –
Warranty is yet another important factor to consider. Go for the product with a minimum of a year’s warranty. Some brands are offering a warranty of up to 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ROLLO Commercial Grade Direct Thermal label Printer is the best printer with a decent balance between price, functionality, and performance.
The Micmi Commercial grade thermal label printer is one of the cheapest yet good printers available on the market today.
The thermal shipping label printers are a little pricier considering the upfront costs, however, they can be very economical in the long run as they don’t require ink cartridges for printing. They make use of a special type of chemically treated label paper for printing.