10 Best Handheld Label Printers 2025 in the United States

The Brady M610 Handheld Label Maker is a robust and versatile tool designed for those who need reliable and efficient label printing on-the-go. One of its standout features is its durability; it is resistant to military-grade shocks and can withstand drops from up to 6 feet, making it ideal for use in rugged environments. The battery life is impressive, with the Gen3 Li-ION battery allowing you to print up to 4,500 labels on a single charge.

The print speed is reasonable at 2 inches per second, and the print resolution of 300 dpi ensures that the labels are clear and legible. The device supports various connectivity options including USB and optional Bluetooth, providing flexibility in how you can use it. Additionally, it offers the convenience of importing and exporting label files through USB ports and flash drives.

On the downside, the device is on the heavier side at 3.1 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users to carry around. Also, it lacks dual-sided printing, which could be a limitation for those needing more versatile printing capabilities. The ease of use is enhanced by the option to design and print labels using either a keypad or desktop software, though some users might find the initial setup a bit complex. The Brady M610 is well-suited for professionals in demanding environments who need a durable and reliable handheld label maker with good battery life and decent printing capabilities.

The Brother QL-820NWB Professional label printer is a versatile and high-performance device that offers several impressive features. One of its standout strengths is its flexible connectivity options, including Bluetooth, USB, Ethernet, and Wireless interfaces, making it easy to connect to various devices such as smartphones and PCs. This is particularly useful for users who need to print labels from different sources.

Additionally, the ultra-fast print speed of up to 110 standard address labels per minute and a print resolution of 300 x 300 dpi ensure that you can produce high-quality labels quickly and efficiently. The ability to print black and red labels using the DK-2251 tape adds to its versatility, making it suitable for various labeling needs. The printer's easy-to-read monochrome LCD screen allows for standalone use, which can be convenient in many situations. At 2.5 pounds, it's relatively lightweight and portable for a desktop model, though it's not a true handheld device.

The device is durable and built to last with its solid construction. The inclusion of starter rolls and P-touch editor software adds value, allowing new users to get started right away. The Brother QL-820NWB is an ideal choice for small business owners, office workers, and anyone needing a reliable label printer with robust connectivity and fast printing capabilities.

The Zebra ZD421 is a compact and sturdy direct thermal label printer designed primarily for desktop or fixed use rather than handheld portability due to its size and weight (around 3.6 pounds and roughly 12 x 10 x 9.5 inches). It offers a print resolution of 203 x 203 DPI, which is standard for clear and sharp monochrome labels suitable for shipping, inventory, or retail tagging. Connectivity options include USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, providing flexibility to easily connect with PCs or mobile devices. The printer is not battery-powered and requires a constant power source, which limits mobility compared to handheld label printers.

The Zebra ZD421 supports standard label sizes up to 152 millimeters wide and can hold input media of up to 100 sheets, making it convenient for moderate volume label printing. It operates with Android control options and features Energy Star certification, indicating energy efficiency. Users have noted it is easy to set up and use, although it does not support duplex printing or color output, printing only in black and white. This printer is well-suited for office or warehouse environments where reliable, quality label printing is needed without the need for handheld portability or color labels.