Best Shipping Label Printer for Small Businesses
by Jaidyn Farar
You probably didn’t start your business because you’re passionate about shipping packages. But as sales have increased, you might be spending more time than you’d like packing boxes and printing shipping labels
If you’re still printing labels with your inkjet printer, you’re not just wasting time—you’re also wasting money on ink, tape, paper, and other supplies. Take this as a sign that it’s time to upgrade to a thermal printer.
But what’s the best shipping label printer for small businesses?
Read on to learn why a shipping label printer is a good investment, how to choose the right one, and which tried-and-true models other companies swear by.
Is it worth getting a shipping label printer?
For small businesses looking to save time and money on order fulfillment, a shipping label printer is definitely worth the money.
Do you need a shipping label printer to send packages to your customers? No. It’s perfectly possible to create labels using normal printer paper and attach them to boxes or envelopes.
But if you go this route, you’ll spend hours printing, cutting, and taping. You’ll also have to frequently buy new ink cartridges, which can be costly.
Now, the manual method can be perfect if you’re only shipping a handful of packages per week. However, growing shipping volumes make this strategy unsustainable. Once you’re receiving dozens (or even hundreds) of orders each week, a reliable shipping label printer will become your best friend.
Speed
These printers are designed to print quickly, creating a single label in fractions of a second. And if you integrate the printer with your shipping API or ecommerce platform, the label creation process can be automated from start to finish.
Customer satisfaction
With a thermal label printer, shipping transforms from the most tedious part of your job to a hands-off process. And with faster label creation, you’ll be able to get packages out the door on time, leading to more satisfied customers.
Convenience
Another perk? Shipping label printers don’t require ink or toner. These thermal printers work by applying heat to a chemically-coated, heat-sensitive paper to create images, text, and barcodes. While you’ll still have to purchase compatible blank labels, you won’t need to mess around with ink.
What to look for in a shipping label printer
Before recommending specific models, we’ll run through a few things you should consider when choosing a printer. While their basic functionality is similar, each model of printer on the market has slight differences.
Printing speed, connectivity and integration options, maximum label size, and more—these are all things you need to think about before making a purchase. Let’s break things down.
Printing speed
When you’re researching printers, make sure to pay attention to printing speed, which is usually measured in labels per minute (but can also be measured in inches per second).
For example, the fastest printer featured below, the DYMO LabelWriter 4XL, can print at a speed of 129 labels per minute. The slowest one prints at a speed of 69 labels per minute.
A good rule of thumb? The higher your shipping volume, the faster your printer should be. If you run a dedicated fulfillment center (as opposed to operating from your home or an office space), you’ll definitely want to opt for a fast printer—this will help your employees work more efficiently, saving on labor costs.
Software and platform compatibility
When you’re picking a shipping label printer, make sure it’s compatible with the software and platforms you already use. If the printer doesn’t work smoothly with your ecommerce platform or shipping software, you’ll end up wasting time on workarounds or re-entering data. That slows down your shipping process and increases the chances of mistakes.
Choosing a printer that integrates with the tools you already use helps you print faster, stay organized, and keep things running smoothly.
Connectivity options
Shipping label printers have three main connectivity options: USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Some printers might offer several options; for example, the Zebra ZSB-DP24 can be used with either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Others only have one way to connect. Below you’ll find some pros and cons of each option.
- USB. USB is the most reliable and consistent connection, especially for desktop setups where the printer stays in one place. The tradeoff is that it limits you to printing from one device at a time and requires a direct physical connection.
- Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi allows multiple devices to print wirelessly from anywhere on the same network, which is perfect for growing teams or flexible work environments. However, connectivity issues can interrupt printing.
- Bluetooth. Bluetooth works well for printing directly from smartphones or tablets, making it ideal for mobile setups or tight workspaces. But it typically has a shorter range and may not be as fast or stable as other options.
Label size and roll compatibility
Standard shipping labels are four by six inches. While some carriers may accept smaller labels, others are more strict about the four-by-six-inch size requirement. Double-check your preferred carrier’s label guidelines, then choose a printer that can produce the correct sizes.
In addition to size, make sure you know what types of refill rolls your printer accepts. Many printers only work (or work best) with the manufacturer’s dedicated labels. If you use non-recommended labels, you could void your warranty.
Printing quality
To ensure your labels are legible—especially barcodes—look for a printer with a high resolution.
Resolution is measured in dots per inch (DPI), the number of dots of ink a printer can create in a one-inch area. More dots equals more detail, which helps carriers properly scan packages and send them to the correct destinations.
When you see two numbers listed for DPI—like 300 x 300 DPI or 300 x 600 DPI—it means the printer has different resolutions along the horizontal and vertical axes. When you only see one number—like just 300 DPI—it usually means the resolution is the same in both directions.
Purpose
Some printers are designed to print small labels for organizational purposes (e.g. labeling bins, cabinets, or equipment). The best label printer for shipping is usually larger than these printers and offers more advanced integrations and capabilities.
Best shipping label printers for small businesses
Now that you have a better idea about what to look for, it’s time to review some of the best shipping label printers.
In this section, we’ve included key specifications and features of each printer, as well as general price ranges*. These printers are all great choices for small businesses, but if your company is growing fast, the featured brands all have pricier printers that might better suit the needs of a mid-sized or large business.
* Prices change often and vary by seller, so the ranges provided below are general estimates. Make sure to check with printer manufacturers and/or office supply stores to find the best deal.
Brother QL-800
The Brother QL-800 is a fast and flexible label printer, making it a solid choice for businesses that need to print shipping labels quickly and efficiently. With speeds up to 93 labels per minute and the ability to print in both black and red, it’s well-suited for high-volume tasks. It works with both Windows and Mac and integrates with popular Microsoft programs.
This printer does have a downside, though: it can’t print four-inch labels. If you need those larger labels, try out the Brother QL1100, the next printer on our list.
Price range: $100-$199
Connectivity: USB
Print speed: 93 labels per minute
Resolution: 300 DPI (standard mode), 300 x 600 DPI (high-resolution mode)
Maximum print width: 2.3 inches
Key features:
- Prints in black and red
- Compatible with Windows and Mac
- “Plug & Label” feature for quick printing without software (Windows only)
- Integrates with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
- Supports both pre-sized and continuous-length labels
- Auto cutter helps eliminate wasted label sheets
Who it’s for: The QL-800 is a good fit for small ecommerce businesses that are growing and need a reliable label printer that can handle a decent volume of shipments each day. Just keep in mind that it’s not the best option if you’re looking for full-color printing or larger labels, or if you’re using a Mac and want a software-free setup.
Brother QL1100
The Brother QL-1100 is a robust thermal label printer designed for ecommerce sellers who need to print high-quality, 4-inch shipping labels quickly and efficiently. With support for Windows, Mac, and Linux, and integration with Microsoft Office programs, it offers broad compatibility for desktop users. However, this printer lacks wireless or Bluetooth connectivity.
Price range: $200-$299
Connectivity: USB Host, USB
Print speed: 69 labels per minute
Resolution: 300 DPI
Maximum print width: 4 inches
Key features:
- “Plug & Label” feature (Windows only) for printing without software
- USB Host interface (for peripherals like barcode scanners)
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Integrates with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
- Software development kits (SDKs) are available for Windows, iOS, and Android
- Two-year limited warranty with exchange service
Who it’s for: The QL-1100 is best for ecommerce businesses with medium to high shipping volume that prefer a desktop setup. If you print labels regularly and need a reliable machine that integrates well with office software and shipping platforms, this printer delivers.
If you're looking for a wireless or app-driven solution, or if you’re operating mostly from mobile devices, this model may not be the most convenient fit.
Zebra ZSB-DP24
The Zebra ZSB-DP24 is a modern, mobile-friendly label printer built with small ecommerce businesses in mind. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, mobile PDF printing, and a browser-based label designer, it’s easy to print from virtually any device without needing complicated software.
The printer supports a range of platforms—from major shipping carriers to ecommerce marketplaces—making it a versatile option for businesses selling across multiple channels.
Price range: $50-$99
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Print speed: 73 labels per minute
Resolution: 300 DPI
Maximum print width: 4 inches
Key features:
- Uses recyclable label cartridges
- Browser-based label design (Windows/macOS)
- Compatible with Microsoft Office, Google Contacts, and major shipping platforms
- Works with Windows 10+, macOS 10.15+, Android 8.1+, iOS 12.2+
- Two-year warranty
Who it’s for: The ZSB-DP24 is ideal for ecommerce businesses that prioritize mobility, cloud access, and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
If you're running your store from multiple devices—like a phone, tablet, or laptop—and rely on platforms like Shopify, Amazon, or UPS, this printer fits right in. It’s especially well-suited for growing businesses that value seamless integration over manual setups.
Zebra ZD220
With options for both direct thermal and thermal transfer printing, the Zebra ZD220 offers flexibility depending on your label printing needs.
Thanks to a simple USB setup and intuitive controls, it’s easy to use right out of the box. This model focuses on essential features and skips more advanced capabilities like wireless connectivity or high-resolution printing.
While it’s not built for mobile printing or cloud integration, the ZD220 is a solid workhorse for straightforward shipping label tasks. Its main drawbacks include limited connectivity (USB only), lower resolution (203 DPI), and a basic feature set that may not scale well with growing business needs.
Price range: $300-$399
Connectivity: USB
Print speed: 4 inches per second
Resolution: 203 DPI
Maximum print width: 4.09 inches
Key features:
- Simple installation and operation
- Designed for basic label printing tasks
- Two options available: direct thermal or thermal transfer
Who it’s for: If you don’t want all the bells and whistles, this printer is for you—it will get the job done without unnecessary extras. It's one of the best shipping label printers for businesses that don’t need wireless features or mobile app support.
DYMO LabelWriter 4XL
The DYMO LabelWriter 4XL is a compact, high-resolution label printer that supports large-format four-by-six-inch shipping labels compatible with major carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS, and integrates seamlessly with popular selling platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and Shopify.
With fast printing speeds and crisp 300 DPI output, the LabelWriter 4XL handles shipping, barcode, and warehouse labels with ease. Because the printer doesn’t have wireless connectivity, it’s best for a fixed desktop setup.
Price range: $200-$299
Connectivity: USB
Print speed: 53 labels per minute (standard), 129 labels per minute (high-capacity)
Resolution: 300 DPI
Key features:
- 300 DPI resolution for clear text, logos, and barcodes
- Prints up to 53 standard or 129 high-capacity address labels per minute
- Compatible with USPS, FedEx, UPS
- Integrates with Amazon, eBay, Etsy, Poshmark, Shopify, and more
Who it’s for: The LabelWriter 4XL is a solid choice for ecommerce businesses that rely heavily on four-by-six-inch shipping labels and want an affordable, desktop-friendly solution. If you sell through multiple marketplaces and want a straightforward way to print clear, professional shipping labels without dealing with ink or toner, this printer fits the bill.
Businesses looking for wireless printing might want to consider other options.
MUNBYN RealWriter 403B
With Bluetooth and USB connectivity, the MUNBYN RealWriter 403B works well across mobile and desktop environments. It's engineered for longevity—capable of printing nearly a million labels—and its quiet, compact design makes it great for shared office spaces.
Built-in mobile apps and template libraries simplify label creation, whether you’re shipping orders or organizing inventory.
Price range: $100-$199
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
Resolution: 300 DPI
Key features:
- Prints up to 970,000 labels in its lifetime
- Quiet 60 dB operation
- Integrates with FedEx, UPS, USPS, Amazon, Shopify, Etsy, eBay
- Near-zero jam rate (<0.01%)
- 24-month tech support
Who it’s for: The RealWriter 403B is best for ecommerce businesses that are scaling up and need reliable, high-volume label printing without sacrificing print clarity or ease of use. It’s ideal for home-based sellers or small teams who want to print wirelessly from phones or tablets but still need USB connectivity for desktop setups.
Preparing to print: How to automatically generate shipping labels
If you’re still creating shipping labels manually with spreadsheets and carrier software, we have good news: there’s an easier way.
By connecting a shipping API like EasyPost with your ecommerce platform, you can automatically generate shipping labels whenever customers place an order. And if you ever need to create labels individually or upload them in bulk, EasyPost has tools for that too.
Curious about how it works? Read on …
Automate label creation with the Shipping API
EasyPost's modern Shipping API lets you connect with your choice of over 100 shipping carriers in a matter of days or weeks, rather than taking months to integrate with individual carrier APIs.
Between rate shopping and built-in discounts, your business can save up to 83% on parcel shipping costs.
The best part? Once you’ve set up the API, you can put shipping on autopilot. When a customer places an online order, EasyPost works with your other systems to automatically create and print shipping labels. All that’s left to do is hand your packages off to the carrier!
Use the Create Label tool to make individual labels
If you’re not ready to go all-in with the API, you can use the Create Label interface to speed up label creation and save money. After creating your free account, you’ll simply enter shipment details for your packages, including weight and dimensions. Once you compare carrier rates and delivery times and choose your preferred option, just print your label. It’s as easy as that!
The Create Label tool also provides access to the API’s most popular features, including address verification and package tracking.
Purchase labels in bulk
Need to create labels in bulk? Upload a CSV to the EasyPost dashboard to purchase up to 500 labels at once.
Making shipping labels work better for you
When it comes to small businesses, versatility is the name of the game. Whether you’re the business owner or the in-house shipping expert, odds are good that you spend your days juggling tasks and wearing a few different hats. And to stay on top of everything, you need the right tools: the best shipping label printer you can find, plus intuitive fulfillment software to support it.
By pairing your shipping label printer with a reliable shipping API, you’ll automate key processes, save time, and grow your business faster than ever—without the headache.
The EasyPost suite of APIs is the perfect way to simplify your shipping. Sign up for free to quickly generate labels, diversify your carrier lineup, take advantage of discounted rates, and more.