The 8 Best Label Printers for Small Business (2026)

A reliable label printer keeps products identifiable, inventory readable, and shipments moving. For businesses selling physical goods like shampoo, clothing, or soap, it’s a core piece of infrastructure.

The label maker market, however, is crowded and uneven. Between upfront costs, print quality, speed, material compatibility, and ongoing supply expenses, the right choice depends on how you operate.

Ahead, find eight of the best label printers for small businesses in 2026. There’s also a short decision framework at the end to help you narrow the field based on how you run fulfillment today.

How the best label printers were chosen

Research started by shortlisting label printers that consistently show up in independent reviews from publications like PCMag UK, CNN, and The New York Times, which test products for real-world performance.

The next step involved pressure-testing those recommendations against how small businesses operate. The evaluation focused on factors that remain important over time: reliability, ease of use, consumable costs, and how well each printer fits into daily labeling, inventory, and shipping routines.

There’s also consideration for those that work well with Shopify’s systems, allowing users to smoothly connect label printers to their stores, to easy label printing. 

This list showcases the printers that performed well across both editorial reviews and real merchant use.

Top label printer picks for 2026

Here’s the TL;DR version: 

*All prices were checked at the time of writing and rounded to the nearest dollar. Prices are subject to change. 

8 best label printers for small businesses

1. Rollo label printer

Top benefit: Flexible with various label sizes

Type: Direct thermal

Battery: No (AC power)

DPI (dots per inch): 203

Printing speed: 150 millimeters per second

Connectivity options: Wi-Fi, USB 

Price:* $200 (USB model) and $280 (wireless model)

Made of plastic with a top-cover release latch, rear-label feed slots, and purple or black highlights on the front (depending on model), Rollo’s label printers are sleek and modern. 

Once you feed the paper labels into the rear slot, the Rollo printer’s mechanism moves back and forth to determine label size and find gaps between labels. Then, it positions the leading edge to print the first label.

Rollo is a great label maker for small businesses because it works with almost any thermal direct label paper, so you don’t need to buy expensive proprietary rolls. While it’s ideal for printing four-inch by six-inch address and barcode labels, there are no length restrictions. You can also print labels with different widths, like name tags and barcodes, more quickly and easily. 

Two models are available:

• USB: Desktop unit that connects to macOS or Windows.
• Wireless: Prints from phones, tablets, or Chromebooks via the Rollo app.

Both versions print labels at the same speed and resolution. The choice comes down to whether cable-free printing is worth the premium.

Pros

• Ink-free direct-thermal printing
• High 150 millimeters per second print speed
• Works with most third-party label rolls
• Wide label-width range
• Intelligent auto-calibration
• USB model is plug and play; wireless model prints from any device

Cons

• Rollo app mandatory for Wi-Fi printing
• No built-in battery
• Bulky plastic catch tray
• Occasional reports of alignment drift at very long print runs

2. Brother QL-1110NWB Wi-Fi label printer

Top benefit: Multiple connectivity options

Type: Direct thermal

Battery: No (AC power only)

DPI: 300

Printing speed: Up to 69 labels per minute

Connectivity options: Bluetooth, USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi 

Price: $335

Brother’s QL-1110NWB slips a full-width, four-inch print engine into a two-tone black-and-white desktop chassis. The unit’s multiple ports—USB for desktops, Ethernet for hardwired networks, Wi-Fi for cable-free offices, and Bluetooth for smartphones—let teams print labels from almost any device without adapters.

A built-in auto-cutter and automatic crop mode transform letter-size or A4 label templates into perfectly trimmed product or barcode label stickers. Direct thermal technology keeps consumable costs low (no ink, toner, or ribbons), and the 300 DPI head produces sharp text and dense barcodes suitable for postal and retail compliance.

Using Brother’s free P-touch Editor or iPrint&Label app, you can design labels, pull data from Microsoft Word, Excel, or Outlook, and push jobs wirelessly. At 110 millimeters per second, the printer churns through high-volume batches while remaining quiet enough for front-of-house counters.

Pros

• Four connectivity methods cover PCs, tablets, and phones
• 300 dpi resolution for crisp graphics and barcode labels
• Auto-crop and auto-cut streamline multi-label sheets
• Accepts die-cut or continuous rolls up to 4.1 inches wide
• No ink, toner, or ribbon replacements required
• Integrates directly with MS Office apps

Cons

• Premium price bracket for a desktop unit
• Auto-crop only available on Windows versions of P-touch Editor
• Lacks built-in battery for true portability

3. Zebra ZSB wireless label printer

Top benefit: Eco-conscious with compostable cartridges

Type: Direct thermal

Battery: No (AC power)

DPI: 300

Printing speed: Up to 73 address labels per minute

Connectivity options: Wi-Fi printing; Bluetooth is used for initial setup with the companion app

Price: $130 (two inch) and $230 (four inch) 

The sleek Zebra ZSB wireless label printer is all business. It comes in both a two-inch and a four-inch cloud-connected model. Print quality is crisp and clear, making it ideal for applications requiring precision and clarity, such as small text, fine barcodes, logos, and more intricate designs. Plus, you can print up to 73 labels per minute. 

Setup is intuitive and straightforward. Power the unit on, scan the auto-printed QR code, and follow the ZSB mobile walkthrough. The app handles firmware updates, remote design editing, and live supply monitoring, flagging remaining labels and cartridge size in real time. 

The printer is also supported by Shopify for shipping and label printing workflows.

From a browser or phone, you can build layouts from scratch or tweak Zebra’s template library, then push jobs to any ZSB printer on the account.

The Zebra ZSB series uses direct thermal technology and proprietary eco-friendly label cartridges, marketed as recyclable and simpler to swap than traditional rolls. The cloud-connected design lets you build and send label jobs from a browser or the Zebra Workspace mobile app.

The main downside, particularly for the four-inch model, is the unit’s larger size. On the plus side, it’s compatible with most major shipping and ecommerce platforms, MS Office, and Google Contacts.

Pros

• Quick, app-guided setup
• 300 dpi output for fine text and barcode labels
• Compostable, drop-in label cartridges
• No ink or toner replacements necessary
• Template library plus custom cloud designer
• Integrates with top shipping and ecommerce platforms

Cons

• Four-inch model has a larger footprint than rivals
• Requires Zebra ZSB app and proprietary cartridges
• Requires Wi-Fi/cloud connectivity to print
• No built-in battery for mobile popups

4. Jadens thermal label printer

Top benefit: Budget-conscious with basic features

Type: Direct thermal

Battery: No (AC power)

DPI: 203

Printing speed: 150 millimeters per second

Connectivity options: Bluetooth, USB

Price: $100 to $170

You don’t have to splash out for a high-end label printer. There are plenty of budget picks, like the Jadens Bluetooth label printer. 

Don’t let the lower price tag fool you—it’s a strong choice with a handful of great features. For example, it includes: standard label gap detection, high-speed printing, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, a label holder, and compatibility with shipping labels generated by major ecommerce and marketplace platforms.

The printer supports high-speed output for common label sizes, with print durability depending on the label stock used.

Pros

• Easy Bluetooth and USB connectivity
• Ink-free direct thermal printing
• Compact and budget-friendly
• Supports commonly used label widths (up to 4.1 inches)

Cons

• Basic feature set compared to more expensive label printers
• Bluetooth printing often requires the Jadens Printer app 
• May need device-specific setup for Mac via USB
• Label quality/durability depends on label stock (not inherently waterproof) 

5. Epson LabelWorks LW-PX800

Top benefit: Best for durable, industrial-grade labeling

Type: Thermal transfer

Battery: Optional rechargeable battery (AC adapter included)

DPI: 360

Printing speed: Up to 35 millimeters per second

Connectivity options: USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth

Price: $400

The Epson LabelWorks LW-PX800 is built for environments where labels need to last. Instead of direct thermal printing, it uses thermal transfer ribbons, which produce labels that resist heat, moisture, abrasion, chemicals, and fading. That makes it a strong fit for warehouses, manufacturing floors, labs, and back-of-house retail operations.

Print quality is standout. The 360 dpi print head delivers sharp text, dense barcodes, and highly legible symbols, even at small sizes. Combined with Epson’s wide range of industrial label tapes—including vinyl, polyester, heat-shrink, and magnetic stock—the LW-PX800 is designed for asset tagging, shelf labeling, safety signage, and cable identification.

Despite its industrial positioning, it is relatively straightforward to set up. Design labels using Epson’s label editor software on a desktop; mobile printing when paired with a compatible device. An optional rechargeable battery makes the printer usable in locations without constant power access, which is helpful for large facilities or field work.

The trade-off is speed and scope—this is not a shipping label printer intended for high-volume 4-by-6 fulfillment workflows. It prints more slowly than direct thermal models and costs more over time due to ribbon and tape requirements. 

But for businesses that prioritize durability over throughput, the LW-PX800 earns its keep.

Pros

• Extremely durable, long-lasting labels
• High 360 dpi resolution for detailed text and barcodes
• Supports a wide range of industrial label materials
• Optional battery enables mobile or field use
• Multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth

Cons

• Not designed for shipping or four-inch by six-inch labels
• Slower than direct thermal printers
• Higher ongoing consumable costs (ribbons and tapes)
• Larger upfront investment than basic desktop models

6. DYMO LabelWriter 5XL shipping label printer

Top benefit: Best for high-volume shipping needs

Type: Direct thermal

Battery: No (requires AC adapter)

DPI: 300

Printing speed: Up to 53 labels per minute

Connectivity options: USB

Price: $288

The DYMO 5XL is designed for retailers who need to print four-inch by six-inch shipping labels generated by major ecommerce marketplaces and shipping platforms.

It’s compact, not too large to sit on a desk, and produces crisp, clear, and precise labels, so you won’t have to wrestle with sheet labels. 

The printer’s economic thermal printing technology eliminates the need for costly ink cartridges or toner. Plus, it has less smudging than laser and inkjet printers. Like other thermal printers, the DYMO 5XL offers fast printing speed and high dpi resolution, making it an excellent choice for high-volume printing tasks.

Installation and setup are easy, though you’ll need to download the DYMO Connect software and connect a computer via USB or Ethernet connectivity. Then, you can add text or images, edit them to the desired size, send them to print, and get your label in seconds. 

One standout feature is automatic label recognition. When you use DYMO-approved label rolls, the printer can automatically detect the loaded label size, type, and remaining quantity—helping avoid mid-run interruptions. The tradeoff is flexibility: the 5XL requires DYMO’s proprietary labels to access these features.

Many other label printers come with built-in batteries, so you can print even when there’s no power outlet, but the DYMO 5XL does not have built-in batteries. If that’s not a dealbreaker and you primarily want a label printer you can press into service as a quasi-portable with AC power only, this printer will serve you well. If portability is a priority, you’ll want to explore other options. 

Pros

• Easy installation 
• Quick setup
• Fast printing
• High-quality prints 
• Doesn’t need ink or toner
• Reduces label waste

Cons

• Restricted to approved label stock
• No built-in battery for portable use
• No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
• Requires DYMO software download

7. Brother P-touch CUBE

Top benefit: A compact option with a mobile app integration

Type: Thermal transfer (TZe laminated tapes)

Battery: AAA batteries or AC adapter (model-dependent)

DPI: 180 to 360

Printing speed: 20 millimeters per second 

Connectivity options: Bluetooth

Price: $70 to $350

The Brother P-touch CUBE is a small, portable label maker designed for quick labeling tasks on the go. It pairs with your phone or tablet via Bluetooth, letting you design and print labels without needing a dedicated workstation.

Using Brother’s free Design&Print2 app, you can create labels with custom text, symbols, frames, and barcodes, then print them directly from your mobile device. A built-in cutter ensures clean, consistent results, while Brother’s laminated TZe tapes produce labels that resist water, abrasion, and fading.

The CUBE supports a range of tape widths and works well for organizing shelves, cables, storage bins, and retail back-of-house items. While not intended for high-volume or shipping labels, it’s a practical option for simple, occasional labeling needs.

Pros

• Compact and easy to carry
• Bluetooth mobile app workflow
• Durable laminated tape output
• Built-in manual or automatic cutter (models vary)
• Supports barcodes and vertical labels

Cons

• No Wi-Fi connectivity
• Slower print speeds than desktop label printers
• Limited to Brother TZe tape cartridges
• Not suited for high-volume or shipping labels

8. Phomemo M110 mini label printer

Top benefit: Rechargeable portable option

Type: Direct thermal

Battery: Rechargeable

DPI: 203 

Printing speed: 30 millimeters per second

Connectivity options: USB, Bluetooth 

Price: $53

The Phomemo M110 is a compact, handheld label printer designed for quick labeling tasks away from a desk. It connects to your phone or computer via Bluetooth and works through Phomemo’s companion app, making it easy to create and print labels wherever you are.

Using the app, you can choose from a large library of templates, fonts, and symbols, preview labels before printing, and adjust layouts to reduce wasted tape. The app also includes an OCR feature that can convert photographed text into editable labels, which is useful for copying product details or serial numbers on the fly.

The M110 supports a range of small-format direct thermal labels, making it suitable for price tags, barcodes, product labelling, and organizational use. A built-in cutter and rechargeable battery enhance its portability. The M1110 is best for short print runs rather than continuous, high-volume jobs.

Pros

• Simple setup
• Fast and easy to operate
• Lots of label templates to choose from
• Works with computers and mobile devices
• Comes in five stylish colors

Cons

• Comes with small labels, which may be restrictive for certain labeling tasks 
• Limited battery life
• Doesn’t print in color
• Relies on Phomemo’s Print Master app; app issues may limit functionality

*All prices were checked at the time of writing and rounded to the nearest dollar. Prices are subject to change. 

What to consider when choosing the best label printer for small business

Finding the best label printer can be a challenging quest. To help, we’ve put together a list of key aspects to review when comparing your options.

Direct thermal vs. thermal transfer

One of the first decisions you’ll make is choosing a printing method. 

There are two main types of label printing:

• Direct thermal. This method applies heat directly to specially treated labels. The result is clear, ink-free images suitable for package and shipping labels. However, the ink can fade over time when exposed to heat, sunlight, or friction.
• Thermal transfer. With this method, a heated ribbon transfers ink onto labels, creating durable, fade-resistant prints. If you need labels that maintain vibrancy and readability over time—say, for product tags or inventory barcodes—then thermal transfer is the way to go. Thermal transfer printers cost more upfront and incur slightly higher maintenance costs.

In short, choose direct thermal for simple, short-term labeling tasks. Choose thermal transfer when longevity and durability are your main priorities. 

📚 Read more: The 7 Best Thermal Label Printers

Print quality and barcode readability

Print quality depends on resolution, measured in DPI:

• 203 dpi: The industry baseline, it works for most shipping labels and basic barcodes.
• 300 dpior higher: Expect sharp text, clean barcodes, and better small-font readability, suitable for product labels, QR codes, and retail uses.

Speed and batch printing volume

Consider your daily label volume:

• Low volume (under 50 labels per day): Almost any desktop direct thermal printer will keep up.
• Medium volume (50 to 300 labels per day): Prioritize faster print speeds and reliable feeding.
• High volume (over 300 labels per day): Look for printers designed for continuous runs, stable alignment, and minimal reloading.

Connectivity and device workflow 

The right connectivity depends on how your team works:

• USB-only printers: Reliable and simple, but tie you to one workstation.
• Wi-Fi printers: Best for shared spaces and cable-free setups.
• Bluetooth printers: Common for mobile or handheld label makers, but usually require using companion apps.
• Ethernet (LAN)printers: Best in fixed, high-volume environments.

Pay attention to software dependencies. Some printers work through native drivers, while others require proprietary apps or cloud accounts to function.

Label sizes and use cases 

Ensure the printer accommodates your label dimensions. 

Most standard shipping labels are four by six inches, which many label printers support. But some printers support eight- or 8.6-inch large-format labels. 

To find the right printer, review samples and costs per print, and consider: 

• Label material (paper or synthetic)
• Format (fanfold or roll)
• Adhesives
• Supported label sizes 

Label stock, cartridges, and long-term costs 

The most affordable label maker on day one might not remain so over time. Be sure to factor in maintenance and supply costs such as label stock, ink, and toner ribbons. 

Generic supplies

Some printers accept standard, non-proprietary rolls or fanfold labels for easy sourcing and predictable costs, reducing long-term spend.

Proprietary systems

Other printers contain embedded chips or app restrictions that require you to use specific ink cartridges or software. Proprietary label systems often look convenient upfront, but the trade-offs include higher per-label costs, cartridges that may need replacing before they’re actually empty, and reduced flexibility if supplies are tight.

Here is a quick cost comparison:

• Printer A (direct thermal): $200 upfront, no ink required, average label costs 3¢.
• Printer B (thermal transfer): $150 up front, ink ribbons required ($20 per 500-label roll, or 4¢ per label), plus labels averaging 2¢ each.

If you print 1,000 labels per month, here is what your first year costs look like:

Printer A

Printer: $200

Labels: 1,000 labels/month x 12 months x 3¢ = $360

Year 1 total: $560

Printer B

Printer: $150

Labels: 1,000 labels/month x 12 months x 2¢ = $240

Ink ribbons: 1,000 labels/month x 12 months x 4¢ = $480

Year 1 total: $870

Even though Printer B is cheaper upfront, ongoing costs make it more expensive by year’s end. Calculate the annual running costs for each printer on your shortlist, and choose one that balances costs and benefits based on your expected print volume. 

How these printers fit a Shopify workflow 

When you fulfill orders using Shopify Shipping, you can purchase discounted carrier labels and print four-inch by six-inch shipping labels directly from your admin, with built-in support for dedicated label printers that handle thermal labels without requiring trimming or manual cutting. 

Check our list of Shopify-supported label printers.

Print four-inch by six-inch shipping labels from a desktop

In Shopify’s admin, you create and purchase a shipping label during the fulfillment process:

1. Go to Orders in your Shopify dashboard.
2. Select an order and click Create shipping label.
3. Choose your carrier and service, then pay for the label.
4. Click Print, and select a Shopify-supported label printer configured for four-by-six labels.

Print labels from your phone or tablet

Shopify also lets you print shipping labels in the Shopify mobile app on iOS or Android. That means you can buy and print a label straight from your phone when you’re away from your main workstation.

With a compatible wireless printer (Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled), you can send those four-inch by six-inch shipping labels directly from the mobile app without switching devices or settings.

Here’s how it works:

1. Open the Shopify app on your phone.
2. Go into an order and select Create shipping label.
3. Complete carrier and service selection, then choose Print.
4. If you’ve set up your wireless printer, you’ll see it in the mobile print dialog.

Wireless printing enables flexible on-the-go fulfillment, whether you’re packing orders at a market table, a co-working space, or away from your main packing desk.