To help you pick out the right one, we’ve rounded up the best label makers to buy right now. Powered by six AAA batteries, this Brother label maker is lightweight and portable. You can also use an optional AC adapter if you don’t mind keeping your label maker stationery. A protective case is included to safely store and carry it. You can even include batteries and additional tapes inside the case for easier portability of your supplies. Use Brother’s Laminated Tape to create durable labels that are water- and fade-resistant. You can preview the label content on the large LCD screen. The DYMO label maker requires six AAA batteries or can be powered. Automatic shut-off functionality prevents battery drain when your label maker isn’t being used. Choose from a variety of colors and even specialty tapes for extraordinary jobs (think flexible cable tape, extra-strength adhesive tape, and fabric iron-on tape). The laminated tape is durable enough to be used indoors and outdoors. Since it’s smudge- and fade-resistant, you can trust that your labels will last. This Brother label maker requires six AAA batteries or an optional AC adapter. Use any combination of 14 fonts, 11 font styles, 99 frames, and over 600 symbols to create a custom-designed label with up to seven lines of text. The color, backlit graphic display allows you to get the best preview of your labels before you print them out. The Brother label maker can also detect the color tape you’re using to print your labels, giving you a more accurate design experience. The DYMO label maker can be connected to your computer to print customized graphics, barcodes, address labels, and more. Once you’re connected to your PC or Mac, you can print directly from Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and Google Contacts. And since the label maker uses thermal printing technology, you’ll save on the cost of ink and toner. Along with this printer, you’ll receive an address label starter roll, adapter, power cable, USB cable, as well as a quick start guide to help you get started using your new label maker. This label maker also comes with a library of fonts, frames, and symbols, as well as pre-designed templates. Still, you can import other fonts and styles from Google and Apple for even more customization. The label maker can print up to two lines of text at a time, and each label is automatically printed with a perforated back so you can easily peel off and stick them. It also comes with a large built-in memory, which can store up to 30 files and even supports seven languages. Power this Epson label maker with six AAA batteries (not included).
What to Look for in a Label Maker
Usability and Comfort
Because it’s a handheld device, you’ll want to choose a label maker that’s comfortable for you. Do you need one or two hands to operate it? Do you like the keyboard layout? Are the buttons spaced out enough and easy to use? What is the screen size, and can you see it clearly to preview your labels before you print? Some are intuitive and simple to operate right out of the box, while others might not be as user-friendly or have advanced features that require some time with an instruction manual.
Battery Type
Some label makers use disposable batteries, while others can be recharged or plugged in while using. You might decide, for instance, that carrying around extra batteries will be a pain if you use a label maker a lot.
Customization Options
Think about the bells and whistles that may be nice to have. Do you want a label maker with lots of tape sizes and colors, font options, symbols, and frame choices? Other features include how many label designs it will store for future printing and whether or not it can be connected to a computer or smart device for more designing capabilities.
How do I know which label maker is best for me?
Think about what you’ll be using it for: If it’s just for labeling file folders or baskets in your storage closet, you might not need the fancy features used for crafting or scrapbooking. Once you have an idea of how much customization you want—from colorful tapes to numerous fonts and sizes to the ability to print emojis—you can start narrowing down your options.
What type of printing technology do label makers use?
Most label makers use thermal printing technology, which means you don’t need to worry about ink and toner like you would with an inkjet or laser printer. Thermal printing is fast and reliable for printing labels.
Do some label makers require compatibility with other devices?
Some label makers connect with a PC or Mac if you want to create custom designs that are easier on a desktop or laptop. There are also label makers that must be powered by a smartphone or tablet app via Bluetooth. Those do not have a built-in keyboard or screen, so you’ll need an app to create and send labels to a printer.
