Choosing the right label maker can significantly boost productivity and organization. This comprehensive review examines five top contenders in the 2019 market, each offering a unique blend of features and capabilities. From the versatility of the Epson LabelWorks LW-300 to the portability of the DYMO Mobile Labeler, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each model to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize speed, durability, smartphone integration, or a balance of features, this review will guide you toward the perfect label maker for your specific needs.This guide explores five leading label makers, comparing their functionality, customization options, and overall performance. We analyze aspects like printing speed, label durability, connectivity options (including Bluetooth and desktop software integration), and ease of use. We also consider the range of label types each machine supports, from simple organizational labels to more specialized applications like shipping labels and barcodes. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which label maker best aligns with your budget and requirements.
Pros And Cons
- Convenient OneTouch keys for quick access to fonts, symbols, frames, and templates.
- Features various fonts, styles, frames, and symbols for customization.
- Includes templates for gift labels and decorative labels.
- Graphics display shows label preview before printing.
- OneTouch keys provide quick formatting options, including framing.
- Memory for up to 30 labels for faster reprinting.
- Powered by AC adapter or six AAA batteries.
- Creates and prints custom labels directly from a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth.
- Labels come with custom borders and styles using Google and Apple fonts.
- Prints labels from one-quarter inch to one inch in a range of colors.
- Prints a range of label colors and styles at 300 dpi resolution.
- Connects to Mac and Windows systems using Dymo label software.
- Lightweight, compact design with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
- Professional-grade adhesive adheres to challenging surfaces.
- Labels resist fading, peeling, and decay from sunlight, moisture, high heat, and freezing temperatures.
- Prints durable, water-resistant labels.
- Familiar QWERTY-style keyboard for easy text entry.
- OneTouch keys for fast formatting.
- Broad range of label customization options (font sizes, text styles, symbols, clipart).
- Compatible with water-resistant Dymo D1 and D1 labels.
- Offers a variety of label text and background colors.
- Easily prints the last labels' custom content without retyping.
- Versatile and easy to use.
- Built-in keyboard and display for standalone use.
- Dedicated buttons for quick access to cutting and printing.
- Internal memory to save and recall label designs.
- Prints up to two lines.
- Offers excellent versatility with various font types, character sizes, symbols, borders, and styles.
- Durable labels resistant to water, hot, and cold conditions.
- Allows customization of ribbons using a wide variety of fonts, symbols, and frames.
- Can store up to 30 favorite ribbon designs.
Read more: Top 10 Best Label Printers 2018: A Detailed Review
Epson LabelWorks LW-300
The Epson LabelWorks LW-300 is a versatile electronic labeling system perfect for various office needs. Its built-in keyboard and dedicated buttons provide easy access to printing and cutting functions. Internal memory allows saving and recalling favorite label designs.
This label maker offers excellent versatility with 14 font types, 5 character sizes, 457 symbols, 87 borders, and 10 styles (including bold, italic, outline, and shadow). The durable labels resist water and extreme temperatures, ensuring longevity.
Customization is extensive, allowing users to create unique ribbons using a wide variety of fonts, symbols, and frames. Up to 30 favorite ribbon designs can be stored for quick reuse.
DYMO Mobile Labeler
The DYMO Mobile Labeler allows for creating and printing custom labels directly from smartphones or tablets via Bluetooth connectivity. Design labels with custom borders and styles using Google and Apple fonts.
It prints labels from one-quarter inch to one inch in various colors, with impressive clarity at 300 dpi resolution. This label maker is compatible with Mac and Windows systems using DYMO Label software.
Its lightweight, compact design and rechargeable lithium-ion battery make it incredibly portable. The professional-grade adhesive adheres well to various surfaces, and the labels are resistant to fading, peeling, and decay from environmental factors.
DYMO LabelWriter 450
The DYMO LabelWriter 450 creates and prints various labels – address, shipping, file folder, barcode, and name badges – at a high speed. The included DYMO Stamps software enables printing USPS-approved postage directly from your desktop without additional fees.
Thermal printing technology eliminates the need for ink or toner. Print directly from popular programs like Microsoft Word and the Mac Address Book. It prints four-line standard address labels exceptionally fast.
Easy label roll loading eliminates manual feeding frustration. The DYMO Label software offers customized file folder, address, and barcode labels.
DYMO LabelManager 160
The DYMO LabelManager 160 prints durable, water-resistant labels ideal for organizing files, charts, tools, and more. It features a familiar QWERTY-style keyboard for quick text entry and editing.
OneTouch keys allow fast formatting, ensuring perfectly professional labels. Extensive customization options are available including multiple font sizes, text styles, and a built-in library of over 200 symbols and clipart images.
Compatible with water-resistant DYMO D1 and industrial labels in 1/4 and 1/2 inch widths. A wide variety of label text and background colors offer extensive color-coding and organizational possibilities.
Brother P-touch PT-D210
The Brother P-touch PT-D210 boasts convenient OneTouch keys for quick access to fonts, symbols, frames, and templates. It offers 14 fonts, 10 styles, 95 frames, and over 600 symbols for highly customized labels.
It includes templates for gift labels and decorative patterns. The graphic display shows label previews before printing.
OneTouch keys offer quick formatting options, and it has memory for up to 30 labels for faster reprinting. Powered by an AC adapter or six AAA batteries.
Conclusion
Each label maker offers unique strengths. The Epson LW-300 excels in versatility and durability. The DYMO Mobile Labeler stands out for its portability and smartphone integration. The DYMO LabelWriter 450 shines with its speed and postage printing capabilities, while the DYMO LabelManager 160 is a strong choice for general office organization.
The Brother P-touch PT-D210 offers a great balance of features and customization options. The best choice depends on individual needs and priorities; consider factors like printing speed, label durability, connectivity options, and budget before selecting the best label maker for you.