This review delves into the Netum thermal label printer, examining whether it's a worthwhile purchase compared to more expensive alternatives. We explore the initial setup process, highlighting both the ease of connecting via USB and the disappointment of its lack of wireless functionality. The review also assesses the print quality, speed, and overall user experience, comparing it to other label printers, specifically a Brother model. We cover initial challenges encountered with label alignment and size, along with the solutions implemented to achieve optimal results. The analysis considers both the pros and cons, offering a balanced perspective for potential buyers.This in-depth assessment covers the printer's compact design and lightweight build, the simplicity (or lack thereof) of the included instructions, and the ease of use of the software. We evaluate the print quality across various label sizes and orientations, noting the clarity, crispness, and adhesion of the printed labels. Ultimately, the review aims to provide a clear understanding of the Netum thermal label printer's performance, value, and suitability for everyday shipping label needs, offering a conclusive verdict on whether it represents a worthwhile upgrade.
Pros And Cons
- Good print quality after orientation settings are adjusted
- Fast printing speed
- Relatively inexpensive ($6 in this case, retails for ~$100)
- Requires driver download and USB connection (not wireless)
- Initial setup challenges with label orientation
- Did not include label paper
Read more: Top 10 Best Label Printers 2018: A Detailed Review
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon receiving the Netum label printer, I was immediately struck by its compact size and surprisingly lightweight design. The packaging was simple, containing the printer itself, a power cord, and a small roll of test paper. I was a little disappointed there weren't any detailed instructions.
First impressions were mixed. The printer appeared well-built, but the lack of comprehensive instructions and the absence of a user manual initially raised concerns. The initial setup was relatively straightforward, though.
Connecting the printer to my computer via USB was hassle-free. However, I quickly discovered the printer lacked wireless functionality, which was a slight letdown given current technological standards.
Software and Initial Printing
Installing the necessary drivers was relatively easy, though finding suitable labels proved to be a small obstacle. The printer software was intuitive enough and user-friendly for beginners.
My initial print attempts yielded mixed results. The labels were initially small and misaligned, requiring adjustments to the printer settings. After some tweaking, however, the print quality improved significantly.
A key issue arose concerning label orientation and size. Initially, labels came out misaligned and tiny, requiring a change of orientation settings. The resulting print was much better aligned, improving the overall functionality.
Performance and Print Quality
After resolving the initial setup issues, the print quality was surprisingly good for such an inexpensive label printer. The labels were clear, crisp, and adhered well to various surfaces.
Printing speed was adequate. It's not the fastest printer, but it's certainly quick enough for everyday shipping label printing. The print speed was noticeable improvement once the proper settings were in place.
I ran several test prints with different label sizes and orientations. Overall, the Netum printer consistently produced high-quality labels that met my needs. There were minimal instances of smudging or misalignment.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Netum thermal label printer exceeded my expectations, especially considering its low price point. The print quality was excellent after overcoming initial setup challenges. Its compact size and ease of use are definite advantages.
While the lack of wireless capabilities is a minor drawback, it's easily offset by its impressive performance and affordable cost. It is a highly recommended alternative to pricier label printers on the market.
Compared to my previous Brother printer, the Netum printer offers superior speed and print quality. The only significant downside is the lack of wireless connectivity, but this is easily forgiven given the overall value and performance.