Labels are indispensable in every business, small or big. Consequently, this raises the question of whether to produce labels in-house or procure from a third party. The answer varies from business to business; however, in-house label printing has proven its worth in most circumstances. 

Depending on your business size, you can obtain the necessary number of label printers and staff, and it can save you big bucks in the long run. But how do you decide which label printer to get?

First-time buyers particularly have difficulty choosing between different label printers. But here are the top 7 criteria you need to finalize your decision. 

1. Label Printer Type

First, research your options. The market has various types of label printers, each with different variations. Your business needs some features more than others. So, jot down your requirements first before anything else.

Primarily, the two types of label printers to consider are thermal label printers and laminated label printers.  

• Thermal printing involves burning text onto a heat-sensitive label. Better for printing barcodes, shipping labels, receipts, tickets, etc.
• Laminated label printing involves imposing ink onto a laminated label. Suitable for printing labels for shelves, office equipment, cabinets, files, name badges, etc. 

Both these printers have their pros and cons. What suits depends on your busines requirements. 

2. Print Volume and Speed

Print volume and speed are crucial when choosing a label printer. Print volume refers to the number of labels the printer can produce in a given time frame. 

For example, industrial label printers are ideal for high-volume environments, handling large quantities efficiently. Commercial label printers suit moderate printing needs, while mobile label printers cater to smaller tasks. 

On the other hand, print speed measures how quickly the printer can produce labels, expressed in inches per second (IPS). Faster print speeds are advantageous for time-sensitive applications. 

Therefore, businesses should assess their label production requirements to find a printer that balances volume and speed effectively.

3. Label Size and Media Compatibility

Your label printer should support the range of label sizes needed for various applications, from shipping labels to product tags. So, you must ensure the printer can handle the maximum and minimum label dimensions required for your business. 

Additionally, check the printer’s media compatibility to verify that it can print on the label materials you intend to use, such as paper, synthetic materials, or speciality labels with unique adhesives. 

Having a label printer that accommodates the right sizes and materials ensures efficient and accurate label production for your business needs.

4. Print Resolution and Quality

Print resolution means the level of detail the printer can reproduce, usually measured in dots per inch (DPI). Higher-resolution printers produce sharper and more precise labels, which is crucial for small fonts, barcodes, and graphics. Quality labels enhance the professional image of your business and ensure readability. 

Thus, when choosing a label printer, opt for a model with a suitable print resolution that meets your label requirements. A printer capable of producing high-quality labels will positively impact your branding, product presentation, and overall customer perception.

5. Comfort and Usability

A user-friendly label printer with an intuitive interface and easy-to-navigate controls simplifies the label creation process, saving time and reducing the learning curve. On top of it, ergonomic design features, such as easy-loading label rolls and ribbon cartridges, contribute to user comfort during label replacement and maintenance tasks. 

A well-designed label printer ensures efficient and hassle-free operation, enabling employees to focus on other business tasks. Prioritising usability and comfort in your label printer selection will improve productivity and a positive user experience for your small business team.

6. Connectivity Options

Connectivity options for label printers are another important criterion. It includes USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile connectivity. These features help ease the work, which is key in a business environment. 

• USB provides a direct connection to a computer or device
• Ethernet enables network integration.
• Wi-Fi connectivity allows wireless printing from computers and mobile devices within the network range. 
• Bluetooth connectivity is suitable for mobile printing, allowing label creation and printing from smartphones or tablets. 
• Mobile connectivity enables wireless printing via dedicated mobile apps, ensuring flexibility and convenience for on-the-go label printing. 

The choice of connectivity depends on the small business’s needs, environment, and desired level of accessibility for label printing tasks.

7. Cost and Maintenance

This may be placed last on the list, but it can trump all other criteria in a flash. No matter how important features and quality are, a business can never overlook the cost. So, consider the initial cost and ongoing maintenance expenses associated with the label printer. You will get a better idea by comparing the upfront investment with the printer’s features and capabilities. 

Additionally, factor in the costs of consumables such as labels, ribbons, and any other replacement parts that may be required. It’s essential to balance your budget and the features that meet your business’s label printing needs.

Final Thoughts

Now you know what to consider when looking for a label printer for your business. Even though you have all the information you need, you may still find it difficult to choose. In that case, trust your service provider. They have experience with label printers and might have already figured out your need. 

DAL is one of the thoughtful labelling service providers in Australia. Connecting with them is also a good idea to get clarity on your decision.