10 Best Shipping Label Printers 2025 in the United States

The JADENS Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer is a versatile and user-friendly option for small business owners who need to print shipping labels frequently. It uses thermal printing technology, which eliminates the need for ink or toner, making it a clean and economical choice. With a print resolution of 203 DPI, it ensures clear and precise label printing, suitable for label widths ranging from 1.57 to 4.1 inches, including the standard 4x6 shipping labels used by many e-commerce platforms like eBay, Amazon, Shopify, and Etsy.

The printer supports both fanfold and roll labels, offering flexibility in label usage. It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth for devices running Windows 8 or later, and Android or iOS through the JADENS Printer app. For Mac users and older Windows versions, a USB connection is available, although Bluetooth functionality is not supported on Mac OS. The setup process is straightforward, with instructional videos and drivers provided on a U-Disk for easy installation. Additionally, it comes with a one-year warranty and reliable customer support through various channels.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The print speed, while adequate at 72 labels per minute, may not be the fastest for high-volume needs. Additionally, the Bluetooth connectivity might limit Mac users who prefer wireless printing, as they would need to rely on a USB connection. The printer is relatively compact and lightweight, enhancing its portability. The JADENS Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer is a solid choice for small businesses looking for an economical, easy-to-use, and versatile label printing solution, especially for those who prioritize wireless connectivity and do not require ultra-fast print speeds.

The Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal USB shipping label printer is a versatile and user-friendly device suitable for a range of labeling needs, including shipping, mailing, barcode, and inventory management. It connects via USB and is compatible with 1-inch core media rolls, making it easy to set up and use. The included JetSet Label design software simplifies label creation, ensuring error-free printing.

One of its main advantages is the direct thermal printing technology, which eliminates the need for thermal ribbons, reducing hassle and maintenance costs. The printer offers a decent maximum print speed of 8 inches per second and a resolution of 203 dpi, which is standard for shipping labels and should suffice for most users' needs. The Zebra ZD421 is also energy-efficient, being Energy Star approved, and it supports remote management, allowing users to deploy, secure, and troubleshoot the printer remotely, which is particularly useful for businesses with multiple locations.

However, the printer's connectivity is limited to USB only, which may be a drawback for users needing wireless or network connectivity options. Additionally, while the build quality seems durable, the printer's somewhat bulky size (12.25 x 9.5 x 9.74 inches) and weight (6.69 pounds) might be a concern for those with limited workspace. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Zebra ZD421 is a reliable choice for businesses looking for an efficient and straightforward shipping label printer.

The Zebra ZP450 is a thermal shipping-label printer designed primarily for businesses that use UPS WorldShip. One of its main strengths is the thermal printing technology, which eliminates the need for ink or toner, making it cost-effective for high-volume printing. With a print resolution of 203 DPI, it offers decent clarity for barcodes and text, though it may not be the best for intricate graphics.

The print speed is notable, ensuring quick label production, which is crucial for busy shipping operations. In terms of connectivity, the ZP450 provides versatile options including USB, serial, and parallel ports, accommodating various setups and preferences. This printer is built with durability and reliability in mind, suitable for regular, heavy-duty use. However, its focus on UPS WorldShip may limit its appeal to those using other shipping services.

Additionally, while it offers essential features for shipping labels, it lacks wireless connectivity, which might be a drawback for modern, networked environments. Setting up the printer is generally straightforward, but users unfamiliar with thermal printers might find a learning curve. The inclusion of Jetset Software is a plus, potentially simplifying integration with UPS systems. This printer is well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses with substantial shipping needs, especially those heavily reliant on UPS.