From inventory management to retail checkout, barcode technology streamlines operations and improves accuracy. This comprehensive guide reviews the most reliable barcode printers and scanners available today, helping businesses choose the right solution for their needs.
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Reviews
Print and scan on the move with this portable label printer that handles everything from tiny 4-point text to eye-catching 174-point labels. The built-in Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi connect it smoothly to your devices, while the rechargeable battery keeps you going all day. Store up to 100,000 labels in its compact memory bank, so you're always ready to print at 3 inches per second.
Print a variety of barcodes directly from your computer with this HP USB solution, including Code 39, Code 128, and UPC formats. The included font set lets you create professional barcodes for inventory management while the 1-year warranty gives you peace of mind. The flash-based design offers a compact and reliable way to print your own barcodes without the need for expensive hardware.
This portable label printer from Brady pairs thermal transfer printing with a robust 300 dpi resolution and QWERTY keyboard for easy use. Store up to 100,000 labels in its 200 MB memory while printing up to 1,000 labels per day at a speedy 3 inches per second. The built-in auto cutter and rechargeable lithium-ion battery make it a practical choice for on-the-go labeling tasks.
The WPL304 packs professional barcode printing into a space-saving design, featuring dual-layer thermal printing for durable labels up to 4.17 inches wide. With its versatile connectivity options including USB, Ethernet, and parallel ports, this printer connects easily to existing office systems. Whether you're labeling inventory or managing assets, its robust suite of barcode formats and 203 dpi resolution delivers the precision you need.
The Brady BMP21 Plus Printer produces clear, durable labels for wire and panel identification, with a robust design that includes rubber bumpers and a 203 dpi thermal transfer system. Its on-board ABC keyboard and backlit LCD screen simplify label creation in various environments, while the included carrying case and rechargeable battery ensure portability for industrial use.
The Brady BMP 51 combines a robust label printer with advanced scanning capabilities, featuring an intuitive QWERTY keyboard and high-resolution thermal printing at 300 dpi. Its versatile design handles multi-line labels on wires, panels, and circuit boards, while the included BWS software streamlines label creation. The scanner's glare reduction technology ensures reliable barcode reading on shiny surfaces, making it a practical solution for industrial labeling tasks.
The Zebra LP2824 Plus is a solid workhorse of a label printer that nails the basics while keeping things simple with its plug-and-play USB connectivity. It's built tough enough for heavy-duty office or industrial use, and the direct thermal printing gives you consistent, high-quality labels without the hassle of ribbons. The 90-day limited warranty backs up its reliable performance, though you might want to read those reviews carefully – while most users love it, a handful have had issues getting it to work right out of the box.
Designed for efficient label printing and scanning, this Brady kit combines a 600 dpi thermal printer with a handled barcode scanner. The system supports multiple connection types and can handle labels up to 4.33 inches wide, with printing speeds up to 5.9 inches per second. The included software suite simplifies label creation and management for both new and experienced users.
This portable barcode printer connects directly to mobile computers for efficient data entry and tracking during daily routes. The printer's compact size makes it practical for use in the field, while its reliable performance ensures accurate barcode printing for inventory and logistics tasks.
Asset CloudOP helps businesses track their equipment by letting them quickly find lost items and stop replacing missing ones. The software gives users special reports to help make smart decisions about their tools and machines. Best of all, it works with any barcode scanner or printer, though the kit comes with a Wasp DR4 mobile computer and WPL308 printer for convenient matching.
The P4T printer packs professional labeling capabilities into a portable package, letting you print durable barcode labels and documents up to 4 inches wide from anywhere you need them. Its versatility shines through its combination of thermal transfer image quality for lasting prints and direct thermal mode for quick, disposable labels. The printer's advanced wireless connectivity options keep your workflow fluid and efficient, whether you're tracking assets or managing inventory on the move.
The M320 from CognitiveTPG combines durability with flexibility, allowing you to print direct thermal labels and receipts wirelessly from your mobile device via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Its IP54 rating and robust rubber over-mold design make it tough enough to survive drops from five feet while protecting it from dust and water in harsh environments. The printer's compact size and 4MB flash memory help keep operations running smoothly without overwhelming storage.
The Brady Printer i3300 and CR2700 Scanner kit serves as a complete identification solution, combining thermal transfer printing with precise barcode scanning capabilities. Its 12-inch by 9.5-inch footprint makes it suitable for various workstations, while its 300 DPI resolution and 4-inch-per-second print speed handle labeling tasks efficiently. The included Workstation Product and Wire ID Suite software streamlines label creation and management.
The M610 label printer, built to survive drops from six feet, combines robust construction with advanced features like a Gen3 Li-ION battery that prints 4,500 labels on a single charge. Its full QWERTY keyboard and 300 dpi resolution make it a powerful tool for creating professional-grade labels, while the included BWS software handles everything from barcode scanning to label design. The printer's versatility comes through in its ability to import files via USB or flash drive, work independently or connect to computers, and efficiently handle 750 labels per day with its 2-inch-wide printing capacity.
The BradyPrinter i3300 with CR950 Scanner combines powerful printing and scanning capabilities in one comprehensive system. The printer's PrintSmart technology automatically calibrates and recognizes label materials, while the handheld scanner features glare reduction for challenging barcode reads. Together with the included label creation software, this kit helps streamline your workflow and boost productivity.
The Brady 176707 system brings together a desktop printer and barcode scanner in one compact package measuring just over 11.7 inches long. It uses thermal transfer printing to produce durable labels up to 1 inch wide at a speed of 1.5 inches per second, with 300 dpi precision. The printer applicator works seamlessly with the included 1.25x1 clear/white label rolls and 300-foot ribbons to help you quickly mark your inventory or equipment.
Label printing and scanning just got a whole lot easier with this Brady printer-scanner combo. The 600-dpi printer cranks out crisp labels up to 4.16 inches wide, while the included CR950 scanner reads both 1D and 2D barcodes in any orientation. Backed by Brady's Workstation Product and Wire ID Software, you can create professional-looking labels with text and graphics right from your computer. Whether you're tracking inventory or managing assets, this system will help you stay organized and efficient.
This versatile labeling system combines a durable M610 printer capable of withstanding military-grade drops with an ultra-fast CR2700 barcode scanner. The printer's Gen3 Li-ION battery can handle 4,500 label prints on a single charge, while its full QWERTY keyboard and USB connectivity make it incredibly practical for various labeling tasks. The combination of text, graphic capabilities and robust barcode scanning makes this a powerful tool for inventory management and data tracking.
This durable little printer helps you label and tag stuff quickly with its built-in RFID capabilities and long battery life. The color display makes it easy to see if the printer needs attention, and you can connect it wirelessly to your other devices for convenient printing on the go. The clear and reliable performance makes it a top choice for anyone who needs to print labels fast and often.
The Brady M610 label printer combines durability with versatility, featuring military-grade shock resistance and a reliable Gen3 Li-ION battery that prints over 4,500 labels on a single charge. Its full QWERTY keyboard and USB 2.0 connectivity make it easy to create and transfer labels, while the built-in CR1500 scanner quickly reads both 1D and 2D barcodes without repositioning. The printer's robust construction and comprehensive features make it a practical choice for businesses needing both label printing and scanning capabilities.
This portable printer transforms your mobile workflow with its powerful 32-inch label capability and rapid 4.53-inch per second monochrome printing. The large color display and wireless connectivity make it a breeze to manage from anywhere, while the long-lasting battery ensures you stay productive on the go. The intuitive design and robust performance have earned it top ratings from satisfied users who rely on its reliability for their most demanding tasks.
This direct thermal printer from Intermec brings industrial-grade durability to the office with its versatile 2.36-inch label width and three connectivity options including USB, Ethernet, and USB Host. The color LCD display simplifies operations with intuitive language options, while built-in_devic power capability and wall-mount flexibility demonstrate thoughtful design for busy environments.
The Pathfinder 6059 combines an Android operating system with essential features like SD memory, a 2D scanner, and an on-demand sensor to eliminate common retail pain points such as pricing errors and inventory discrepancies. Its compact design makes it ideal for quick price updates and stock checks, helping retail operations run more smoothly.
Small enough to carry throughout the day, this portable barcode printer pairs its compact design with durable construction rated IP42 for consistent performance in various environments. The wireless capabilities via WiFi and Bluetooth allow for flexibility in printing locations, while its receipt-oriented specifications make it practical for customer-facing roles where extended use is common.
This durable handheld scanner combines powerful 2D imaging with advanced dark-field technology for reliable reads in any environment. Its compact design and long operating life make it ideal for frequent use in transit, retail, and industrial settings. The included stand kit provides convenient hands-free operation for busy stations or checkouts.
The Zebra 2824 Plus combines impressive performance with an ultra-compact design, making it a reliable choice for environments where space is limited. Its dual programming language support and robust connectivity options, including USB and Ethernet, ensure flexible integration with existing systems. The printer's durable construction and straightforward operation have earned high praise from users who appreciate its consistent performance.
Print shipping labels directly to thermal paper using your existing Laser or Inkjet printer with this versatile label printer. The system works with both Windows and Mac computers, including Chromebooks, and supports popular platforms like Shopify and Etsy. Its Zebra LP2844 compatibility means you can use it with software that typically requires specialized barcode printers.
The Zebra LP 2844-Z represents the company's commitment to excellence in desktop thermal label printing. With three standard connectivity options and the potential to network through the included ZebraNet PrintServer II, it stands out for its flexibility and compatibility. The 6 ips print speed and 4MB flash memory ensure both efficiency and reliability for your labeling needs.
Brady's portable label printer and scanner combines powerful thermal transfer printing with Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi connectivity for flexible operation. The full QWERTY keyboard and 200 MB memory (capable of storing 100,000 labels) make it incredibly versatile for labeling tasks, while the 3.0-inch-per-second print speed keeps you productive. The auto cutter and 2-inch label width handle your most demanding labeling needs efficiently.
The Brady M611 label printer packs serious functionality into a surprisingly portable package, weighing just 3.52 pounds and running on a rechargeable battery that keeps it printing wirelessly via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The built-in CR2700 scanner handles barcodes with ease, whether they're wide, narrow, or hidden away in small spaces. With 256MB of flash memory to store over 1,000 label files, it's a practical solution for any organization that needs to print and scan on the fly.
This comprehensive labeling system combines Brady's M611 printer with a CR950 barcode scanner, along with essential software tools. The printer can handle 750 labels per day, with a 2-inch maximum width and 300 dpi resolution, while the scanner features glare reduction for reliable 1D and 2D barcode reading. The included Basic Design Suite software enables users to create and manage label files efficiently, supporting both local and wireless connections for versatile operation.
The Brady desktop printer and barcode scanner kit brings together essential tools for efficient label creation and management in a compact design that fits comfortably on most workstations. The system, featuring 300 dpi resolution and 1-inch print width, supports both thermal transfer printing and USB memory expansion for versatile labeling capabilities.
This comprehensive kit from Brady brings together a robust label printer and precise barcode scanner in a package designed for professional use. The desktop setup, measuring just over 15 inches long, includes everything you need to start printing and scanning - from the printer itself to a cleaning kit, USB cables, and even how-to videos on a jump drive. The printer handles both small and large labels with its 4.25-inch maximum width, while the scanner captures detail quickly and accurately thanks to their combined 600-dpi resolution and 5-inch-per-second print speed.
The M611 prints labels at 300 dpi with an impressive 2.0 inch per second speed, handling up to 750 labels daily with its auto cutter. Its versatile Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity lets multiple users (up to 5) create and print from anywhere. The included BWS software turns your printer into a label and wire ID solution studio, letting you print over 1,000 customized label designs.
Brady's A6200 desktop printer and CR1500 barcode scanner work together to streamline label creation and data scanning tasks. The printer applies thermal transfer labels at a speed of 1.5 inches per second, while the handheld scanner captures codes at close range. Together, they create a robust labeling solution that's flexible enough for any workspace.
The Brady i3300 combines a durable 300 dpi printer with an omnidirectional scanner, while its PrintSmart technology automatically detects label materials and ribbons for hassle-free operation. The compact scanner kit handles both 1D and 2D barcodes without requiring repositioning, and the printer's fast changeover capabilities and auto-calibration system minimize downtime. With 5 years of warranty coverage, this complete kit includes everything needed for industrial labeling and scanning tasks.
This powerful label printer combines durable construction with intuitive operation, featuring a backlit LCD display and QWERTY keyboard for precise multi-line labeling. The printer supports USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity, making it incredibly versatile for both indoor and outdoor use. Capable of printing continuous and die-cut labels up to 1.5 inches wide at 300 dpi, it's designed to meet the demands of industrial environments while remaining surprisingly user-friendly.
When you need both printing and scanning in one package, the Brady printer and scanner combo delivers big. With thermal transfer printing at 600 dpi and a handheld scanner that crams 512 GB of storage into its frame, this kit was built for serious labeling jobs. The whole shebang sits neatly on your desk at 18 inches long, thanks to thoughtful design that keeps essential accessories like the 500-foot ribbon roll right there with your printer.
The Zebra ZP450 Network Edition delivers reliable label printing for businesses through its USB and Ethernet connections. With 203 DPI resolution, it handles the demands of professional environments, including UPS WorldShip compatibility. The simple design features a single sheet input capacity, ensuring consistent prints without jams.
This hand-held label printer combines durable construction with intuitive operation, featuring an ABC keypad that mirrors your input on a clear LCD screen as you go. With six font sizes ranging from 6 to 40 point and the ability to handle continuous tape cartridges up to 21 feet long, it's built to handle heavy industrial use. Powered by six included AA batteries and coming with a basic label cassette for immediate use, this printer has earned high praise from users who appreciate its robust build quality and reliable performance.
The space-saving GC420t printer from Zebra has earned high praise for its versatile design and reliable performance. Equipped with a powerful 32-bit processor and 8 MB of Flash memory, this thermal transfer printer handles labels efficiently while storing essential fonts and graphics locally. Its 4-inch print width and support for both EPL2 and ZPL II programming languages make it adaptable for various applications, from standard desktop use to more complex printing needs.
This thermal label printer from Zebra gets you up and running with everything from power supplies to trial software included in the box. Print speeds hit 4 inches per second via USB or parallel ports, and while some units show minor signs of use, performance remains unaffected. The direct thermal printing technology means no more expensive ink cartridges, just consistent quality labels rolling out at 203dpi.
Printers that eliminate the need for ink or toner are game-changers for businesses that produce high volumes of labels, receipts, and barcodes. The Zebra GK420d proves its worth in various industries, from healthcare to retail, thanks to its durable construction and reliable performance. Users appreciate its quick setup process and the significant cost savings from avoiding expensive consumables, making it a smart investment for anyone who prints more than 10 labels weekly.
This versatile laser printer cranks out high-quality documents at breakneck speed while keeping costs in check with its efficient toner system. The 7-inch color touch screen makes navigation a breeze, and its pro-grade capabilities, from automatic double-sided printing to sophisticated security features, make it a solid choice for busy offices. The large paper capacity and robust monthly duty cycle ensure it can handle whatever workload comes its way.
This POS hardware bundle brings together essential tools for your Square system - including an Epson thermal printer and a Symbol barcode scanner - all designed to work seamlessly with Square Stand and Square Register. The thermal printer eliminates the need for ink or toner, making it both efficient and cost-effective. The cash drawer features an automatic opening system when connected to the printer via a built-in RJ12/11 cable, streamlining your point-of-sale process.
This POS PDA combines a powerful 58mm thermal printer with a responsive 5.5" touchscreen running Android 8.1, while its aluminum frame houses a robust 5000mAh battery that keeps up with demanding point-of-sale tasks. The printer scans all types of barcodes, from damaged to PDF417, and its portable design, weighing just 400g, makes it perfect for small businesses and warehouses. The fingerprint unlocking feature adds an extra layer of security to this versatile solution.
Designed for businesses that prefer products from China over Square alternatives, this comprehensive cash management system consists of a drop-and-print cash drawer, a thermal receipt printer that eliminates the need for ink cartridges, and a cordless barcode scanner with multiple connectivity options including USB, serial, and Ethernet. The compact unit measures just 16 x 16 x 4 inches and allows seamless printing from multiple computers through various interfaces, making it a practical choice for establishments seeking reliable, direct-connect point-of-sale solutions.
A solid POS solution that brings together essential retail features like a touch screen cash register, 80mm thermal printer, and hand-free barcode scanner. The system runs smoothly on Windows 10 with an industrial-grade Intel processor, while its included POS software handles everything from quick checkouts to detailed tax calculations without monthly fees. The durable construction and 24/7 support make it a practical choice for small businesses looking to streamline their operations across various retail sectors.
The Canon imageCLASS MF465dw packs impressive performance into a business-friendly package. With its fast 42-page-per-minute print speed and intuitive 5-inch touchscreen, it handles everything from everyday printing to bulk copy jobs with ease. The 900-sheet paper capacity and one-pass duplex scanning make it a practical choice for offices that need reliability and versatility.
Buyer's Guide
Selecting the right barcode printer and scanner involves balancing several key factors to ensure optimal performance, durability, and compatibility with your specific business needs.
Barcode Printer Considerations
Print quality and precision are crucial, especially for labels that require precise barcodes. Resolution typically ranges from 203 to 500 dots per inch (DPI), with higher resolution allowing for smaller and more detailed codes. Durability of the printed labels also matters, particularly if they need to withstand harsh environments or frequent handling. Look for printers that support various label materials including paper, plastic, and cloth, and verify they can print the specific barcode symbology you require (such as Code 128, EAN, or PDF417).
Scanner Requirements
Scanning speed and accuracy are paramount for efficient operations. Look for scanners with adjustable scan angles and lighting capabilities to accommodate various label orientations and environments. Environmental resistance should match your usage - outdoor scanners need IP67 rating or higher, while industrial applications might require chemical resistance. Data capture reliability under different lighting conditions is essential, with some scanners using multi-LED lighting systems for improved read rates in challenging conditions.
Integration and Compatibility
Ensure the printer and scanner work seamlessly with your existing systems. Many modern devices support Bluetooth or USB-C connections alongside traditional serial ports. Consider the software compatibility, as some printers and scanners require specific drivers or work best with particular operating systems. For retail or warehouse environments, look for devices that support 2D barcode scanning and can handle high-volume transactions efficiently.
Size, Weight, and Portability
For portable use or environments where space is limited, look for compact designs. Weigh the trade-off between size and performance - smaller devices may have reduced battery life or data processing capabilities. If mobility is important, check the battery life and whether the device supports quick swap batteries. For stationary applications, durability ratings and build materials become more critical, with some models rated for thousands of drops or extreme temperatures.
FAQ
What is a barcode printer?
A barcode printer is specialized equipment that produces barcodes on labels or directly on product surfaces. These printers use thermal or thermal-transfer printing technology to encode product information into barcode format for efficient inventory management and point-of-sale operations.
Barcode printers vary in size from small desktop models to large industrial systems, offering different print speeds, label capacities, and print quality options to suit specific business needs.
How do barcode scanners work?
Barcode scanners read the printed or digital barcodes by interpreting the light patterns reflected back to them. They decipher these patterns into readable data using photodiodes or laser technology, which is then transmitted to the attached device's database for processing.
Modern scanners can read various barcode formats including Code 128, EAN, and UPC, and some advanced models support 2D barcodes for more complex data transmission.
What are the main differences between thermal and laser barcode printers?
Thermal printers use heat to melt specialized thermal paper, creating the barcode image. They are simpler, more cost-effective, and typically quieter than laser printers. These printers are ideal for frequent small-to-medium print jobs and continuous label feeding.
Laser printers use toner similar to standard office printers but require compatible label media specifically designed for thermal transfer printing. They offer higher print quality and durability, making them suitable for applications requiring long-term indoor or outdoor visibility.
Which industries use barcode printers and scanners?
Barcode technology is fundamental across multiple sectors including retail, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and foodservice. They enable precise inventory tracking, streamlined checkout processes, and enhanced supply chain management.
Healthcare facilities use them for patient identification, medication management, and medical equipment tracking, while retail stores implement them for product tracking, checkout efficiency, and supply chain visibility.
What factors should I consider when choosing a barcode printer?
Consider your volume requirements, label material compatibility, print quality needs, and integration with existing systems. Also, evaluate the durability requirements for your environment and the total cost of ownership including maintenance and consumables.
If you need frequent high-volume printing, consider thermal or thermal-transfer models, while lower-volume needs may be satisfied with cheaper thermal labels and printers. Ensure compatibility with your database systems and label design software for seamless operation.
How do I maintain a barcode printer and scanner?
Regularly clean the printhead or scan window, and check and replace worn parts like labels, ribbons, or batteries as needed. Keep the equipment dust-free and away from extreme temperatures, and follow the manufacturer's cleaning and maintenance instructions.
For scanners, use appropriate cleaning solutions and avoid bumping or dropping them. Regularly update firmware, clean the lens, and recalibrate as recommended to maintain optimal performance and accuracy.
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