1300 026 062Dymo 4XL Thermal Label Printer vs. Zebra ZT230 Thermal Label Printer: A Mini Comparison
The growing popularity of printing technology and the easy availability of label printing equipment have increased the process of printing labels. Starting from medicine labels to identification labels, or labels for instructional purposes, warnings, and advertising, labels are spotted on almost every commodity in today’s world. There are different types of labels for shipping, retail, promotions, chemicals, food items, and more. The requirement for dedicated label printers increased with the demand for specialised labels.
The printers that are used to print large volumes of different types of custom labels are known as label printers. Not only are these devices compact but are also portable that can be carried wherever required. Usually, these devices are connected to a computer or a smart device that sends out the commands for printing.
In this blog, we have drawn a comparison between two of the bestselling shipping label printers of 2023 to help you pick the right device for your business needs.
Shipping Label Printers
Shipping label printers as the name suggests are devices that offer specific capabilities to print shipping labels. These labels contain a name, address, weight, tracking code, and other such details.
Shipping labels are printed using thermal label printers as they are easy to use. Besides, these devices do not require any ink or toner to print and work on heat mechanism; and are therefore an affordable option.
Types of Shipping Label Printers
Designed with unique features and capabilities, shipping label printers come in different sizes and models.
1. Direct Thermal Label Printers: These label printers work on the heat mechanism to print labels on special heat-sensitive papers. Affordable and easy to use, these devices require minimal maintenance, and are hence a popular option for small businesses and home offices. Direct thermal label printers are ideal for short-term label printing needs and do not use any ink or toner, making them a cost-effective option. While these devices are pocket-friendly, the prints produced from these devices are prone to damage if exposed to heat, sunlight, or moisture.
2. Thermal Transfer Label Printers: Like direct thermal label printers, thermal transfer label printers also use heat to print. But unlike direct thermal label printers, these devices apply heat to a wax or resin ribbon which transfers the ink to the label. The ink then is melted on the surface of the label producing a high-resolution and durable image. Ideal for printing quality and durable labels, these printers can print on different printing materials like paper, polyester, and polypropylene. Since thermal transfer label printers require moving parts to print labels, their maintenance cost is comparatively high.
3. Inkjet Label Printers: These devices use liquid ink to produce quality labels and work by thrusting ink droplets on the surface of the label, thereby producing an image. Known for their versatility, inkjet printers are designed to print on an array of label materials like paper, vinyl, and polyester. Inkjet printers are perfect for printing product labels, marketing materials, and custom labels. However, these devices are a bit expensive as they require cartridge replacements at frequent intervals.
4. Laser Label Printers: Known for producing high-quality labels, the laser label printers function by applying toner to the label using a rotating drum. These devices are perfect for printing large volumes of labels quickly and efficiently. Used commonly to print shipping labels, product labels, and barcodes, laser label printers involve expensive maintenance as they require frequent toner cartridge replacements and drum cleaning.
5. Mobile/Wireless Label Printers: As the name suggests, these devices are portable and can be used on the go. Mobile label printers, also known as wireless label printers, are compact and battery-powered and are perfect for workers who require quick and efficient label printing. Mobile label printers function on either direct thermal or thermal transfer technology and can print on an array of label materials. Mobile/wireless label printers can be expensive, but their portability makes them a valuable option for most businesses.
Benefits of Shipping Label Printers
Indeed, shipping label printers are essential devices for businesses that ship goods frequently. But these devices offer several other advantages including:
1. Enhanced Efficiency: One of the key benefits of using shipping label printers is that these devices are capable of printing labels quickly and efficiently unlike manual label printing which is not just time-consuming but error-prone. This helps businesses save time and enhance their overall efficiency, allowing them to focus on other major tasks.
2. Customisable Labels: With shipping label printers, businesses can create customised labels to suit their specific business requirements. Businesses can print their labels inculcating unique designs, logos, and product information. This can help businesses establish their brand identity.
3. Accurate and Consistent Label Printing: Designed to print labels accurately and consistent-looking labels, shipping label printers help businesses maintain a professional appearance, eliminating errors that can lead to loss or delay of shipments. Additionally, accurate label printing can help businesses conform to industry standards and regulations.
4. Minimise Printing Costs: Shipping label printers, particularly, in-house label printers are designed to help businesses minimise their printing costs significantly. They eliminate the need for expensive outsourced printing services. Thermal label sticker printer are cost-effective and therefore minimise the printing cost substantially.
5. Better Inventory Management: Since shipping label printers provide accurate labelling, they help businesses enhance their inventory management process. Businesses can print labels with product information, barcodes, and other details making inventory tracking and management easy. This eliminates the risk of stockouts or overstocking.
Dymo 4XL Thermal Label Printer vs.Zebra ZT230 Thermal Label Printer
Dymo LabelWriter 4XL Label Printer
One of the leading names in the industry, the Dymo LabelWriter 4XL thermal label printer is the go-to option for several users who require printing extra-large 4”x6” shipping labels. You can use this device for all the extra-wide label needs like warehouse labels, barcodes, identification labels, bulk mailing labels, and more. Since there are no moving parts involved, like ink or toner, it expedites the label printing time and is a cost-effective solution. The DYMO thermal label printer comes with a free DYMO Connect software using which you can customise your labels with more than 60 professional templates and customisable texts and graphics, and; allows you to manage inventory by importing data from datasheets. It offers 300dpi resolution that guarantees clear pictures.
The Dymo LabelWriter 4XL Direct Thermal Printer box comes with
- 4” x 6” Extra Large Shipping Labels
- Adapter
- Power Cable
- USB Cable
- Quick Start Guide
- Cleaning Card
- Label v8 Software Installation CD
Zebra ZT230 Thermal Transfer Label Printer
Offering 203dpi, the Zebra ZT230 thermal label printer comes in a 4” width, standard media handling version. Created with the legacy of S4M printers, the Zt200 family series of printers are known for their compact design, effortless setup, intuitive user operation, and ease of service and maintenance. The Zebra ZT230 thermal label printer comes with Element Energy Equaliser (e3) for superior print quality, USB 2.0 and RS0232 serial ports. The label printer also features dual media sensors-transmissive and reflective sensing technology, selectable through software or the front panel. Also, the printer comes with a media supply hanger designed for 1-inch (25mm) through 3-inch (76 mm) core diameters and a side loading metal print mechanism with a head open lock.
The Zebra ZT230 Thermal Transfer Label Printer box comes with
- A warranty card
- Quick User Guide
Wrapping Up,
If you have made your choice between Dymo LabelWriter 4XL Shipping Label Printer and Zebra ZT230 Thermal Transfer Label Printer, you must be wondering where to purchase your device from.
POS Sales Australia is your one-stop shop for all point of sale (POS) needs. We are Australia’s leading online reseller of premium point of sale (POS) hardware, consumables, accessories, and bundles, all available at affordable prices.
Browse through our inventory and purchase the shipping label printer of your choice from our store or contact us if you are looking for more personalised assistance with your shopping experience.