Best Thermal Printer For Shipping Labels (Fast & Cheap)

As an Amazon seller, you shouldn’t be using Inkjet Printers for your labels. I thought you cared about money?

In addition to wasting paper, you’ll be constantly frustrated that you’ve pressed print and the printer has taken 3 months to warm up, then another couple of weeks to actually print! (OK, I might be over-exaggerating that, but they are known for being super-slow).

What if I had the answer? A Printer that can print out a shipping label in less than 1 second? Thermal Printers.

The Best Thermal Printer for Amazon FBA

MUNBYN Thermal Printer

Our Pick

  • Increase Productivity
  • Reduce Expenses
  • Save Time (It Prints so quick!)

What is a Thermal Printer?

Thermal printers for shipping labels are an essential tool for any business that ships products. They are designed to print high-quality labels quickly and efficiently, making the shipping process more streamlined and cost-effective.

Whether you’re running a small business or a large corporation, a thermal printer for shipping labels can help you save time and money.

When looking for the best thermal printer for shipping labels, there are a few things you need to consider. The first is the type of label you need to print. Some printers are designed to print on specific types of labels, so it’s essential to choose a printer that is compatible with the label material you use. The size of the labels is also an important consideration, as some printers can only handle specific label sizes.

Another critical factor to consider is the speed of the printer. The faster the printer, the more efficient your shipping process will be. However, it’s important to balance speed with print quality, as a printer that sacrifices quality for speed may produce labels that are difficult to read or scan.

At Learn Retail Arbitrage HQ, we spent countless hours researching and testing various thermal printers for shipping labels to identify the ones that offer the best combination of speed, print quality, and compatibility with different label materials and sizes. In the following sections, we will share our findings and recommendations to help you choose the best thermal printer for your shipping label needs.

Why Use Thermal Label Printers for Amazon FBA?

As we all know, Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is a popular service that allows sellers to store their products in Amazon’s warehouses and have them shipped directly to customers. In order to use this service, sellers need to print shipping labels for their products. This is where thermal label printers come in handy.

Thermal label printers are specifically designed to print high-quality, durable labels quickly and efficiently. They use heat to transfer ink onto the label, which means there’s no need for ink cartridges or toner. This makes them a cost-effective and low-maintenance option for printing shipping labels.

Here are some reasons why we recommend using thermal label printers for Amazon FBA:

  • Efficiency: Thermal label printers can print labels quickly and accurately, which is important when you have a large number of orders to fulfill. They can also print multiple labels at once, which can save you time and effort.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Thermal label printers are generally more affordable than other types of printers. They also don’t require ink or toner, which can save you money in the long run.
  • Durability: Thermal labels are more durable than other types of labels. They don’t smudge or fade easily, which means your shipping labels will remain legible throughout the shipping process.
  • Ease of use: Thermal label printers are easy to set up and use. They don’t require any special software or drivers, and most models are compatible with popular shipping platforms like Amazon Seller Central.

Overall, we believe that thermal label printers are an excellent choice for printing shipping labels for Amazon FBA. They’re efficient, cost-effective, durable, and easy to use. If you’re a seller on Amazon FBA, we highly recommend investing in a thermal label printer to streamline your shipping process and improve your overall efficiency.

MUNBYN Shipping Label Printer

MUNBYN Shipping Label Printer

If you’re looking for a reliable thermal printer for your shipping labels, the MUNBYN Shipping Label Printer is worth considering.

Pros

  • The MUNBYN printer is easy to set up and calibrate, saving you precious time.
  • It prints quickly and clearly, with a high-speed printing speed of 150mm/s.
  • It is environmentally friendly and does not require any cartridges or ink.

Cons

  • The printer cannot be connected wirelessly, which may be inconvenient for some users.
  • It is not suitable for printing labels wider than 4.3 inches.
  • The print quality may not be as good as other high-end printers.

We’ve been using the MUNBYN Shipping Label Printer for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. Setting it up was a breeze, and it automatically calibrated our labels, saving us time and effort. The printer is compatible with all major shipping and sales platforms, such as Shopify, Etsy, eBay, and Amazon, which makes it a versatile option for small businesses.

The printing speed is impressive, and we were able to print nearly 72 labels per minute, which helped us cope with high volume shipping orders. The printer uses Japanese ROHM printer heads, which makes it an eco-friendly option as it doesn’t require any cartridges or ink.

However, the printer cannot be connected wirelessly, which may be inconvenient for some users. Also, it is not suitable for printing labels wider than 4.3 inches, which may be a limitation for some businesses. Lastly, the print quality may not be as good as other high-end printers, which may be a concern for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and eco-friendly thermal printer for your shipping labels, the MUNBYN Shipping Label Printer is a great option.

Phomemo Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer

Phomemo Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient thermal printer for your shipping labels, the Phomemo Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer is a great option.

Pros

  • The printer supports both Bluetooth and USB connectivity, making it easy to use with a variety of devices.
  • It’s compatible with most platforms, including eBay, Amazon, and Shopify, and can print labels up to 4.6 inches wide.
  • The printer is fast, with a print speed of up to 72 labels per minute, and produces high-quality prints with small letters, symbols, and pictures.

Cons

  • Some users have reported difficulty with the printer drivers and print size, but these issues can be resolved with the right settings.
  • The printer can be a bit fiddly to set up, but detailed instructions are provided.
  • The printer is not compatible with Windows 11.

The Phomemo Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer is an excellent choice for small businesses looking to streamline their shipping processes. With its fast print speed, high-quality prints, and easy connectivity, it’s a reliable and efficient tool for printing shipping labels. However, it may not be suitable for users who require compatibility with Windows 11 or who are looking for a printer that can handle large volumes of labels.

Milestone Thermal Shipping Label Printer

Milestone Thermal Shipping Label Printer

If you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective thermal printer for shipping labels, the Milestone Thermal Shipping Label Printer is a great option.

Pros

  • High-speed printing saves time
  • Auto label detection ensures precision
  • Compatible with multiple industries

Cons

  • Loading paper could be easier
  • Some users have reported difficulty with setup
  • Not suitable for non-standard label sizes

We’ve been using this printer for a few months now, and it’s been a great addition to our small business. The 150mm/s high-speed printing is a real time-saver, allowing us to print 72 labels per minute. The intelligent paper return function also ensures that each label is printed precisely, without any wasted paper.

One thing to note is that loading the paper can be a bit tricky, and some users have reported difficulty with setup. However, we found that the included USB disk and DLabel Label Editing Software made it easy to get up and running. And once it’s set up, it’s a breeze to use.

We also appreciate that this printer is compatible with multiple industries, including shipping labels, garment industry, and express logistics. Just be aware that it’s not suitable for non-standard label sizes, so you’ll need to use Adobe Acrobat Reader DC software to crop and print if your label files aren’t the standard size.

Overall, we highly recommend the Milestone Thermal Shipping Label Printer for anyone in need of a reliable and cost-effective thermal printer for shipping labels.

POLONO Thermal Label Printer

POLONO Thermal Label Printer

We highly recommend the POLONO Thermal Label Printer for anyone looking for a high-speed, easy to install, and automatic label detection shipping label printer.

Pros

  • High-speed printing of 72 labels per minute.
  • Easy to install and works with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
  • Automatic label detection with intelligent paper return function.

Cons

  • Not a wireless thermal printer.
  • Limited label width ranging from 1.57″(40mm) to 4.65″(118mm).
  • No wireless printing technology.

The POLONO Thermal Label Printer is perfect for businesses that require a fast and efficient label printing solution. With its high-speed printing capability of 72 labels per minute, you can print shipping and warehouse labels quickly and efficiently, saving you time and increasing your productivity.

Setting up the POLONO Thermal Label Printer is a breeze, taking only one minute to complete. It works seamlessly with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it a versatile choice for any business. It is also compatible with all major shipping and e-commerce platforms, including FedEx, USPS, DHL, Amazon, Etsy, eBay, and Shopify.

The automatic label detection feature of the POLONO Thermal Label Printer is a game-changer. With its intelligent paper return function, the printer can automatically catch and feed the thermal label, making the printing process hassle-free. It supports label widths ranging from 1.57″(40mm) to 4.65″(118mm), providing more convenience to your business.

The POLONO Thermal Label Printer uses advanced direct thermal technology, which eliminates the need for toner, ink, or ribbon. All you need is thermal paper, making it a more eco-friendly option. The customized print head can stably print 160,000 standard labels, making it a durable and long-lasting investment.

In conclusion, the POLONO Thermal Label Printer is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a fast, efficient, and easy-to-use label printing solution. Although it is not a wireless thermal printer, it makes up for it with its automatic label detection and high-speed printing capabilities. We highly recommend it for any business that requires a reliable and efficient label printer.

Hotlabel M9 Thermal Shipping Label Printer

Hotlabel M9 Thermal Shipping Label Printer

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use thermal printer for your shipping labels, the Hotlabel M9 is a great option. With its fast printing speed, auto label detection, and flexible compatibility, it’s a versatile tool for small businesses and home use.

Pros

  • The Hotlabel M9 is incredibly easy to set up and use, with manuals and short videos available for quick reference. Plus, the lifetime customer support team is always available to provide assistance.
  • The auto label detection feature is a real time-saver, automatically learning the label size when you start the printer. And with its portable design, you can easily move it around your workspace as needed.
  • The high-speed printing and clear resolution make the Hotlabel M9 a great choice for shipping labels. And it’s compatible with all major sales platforms, so you can print labels for Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, and more.

Cons

  • While the Hotlabel M9 is a great option for small businesses and home use, it may not be suitable for larger operations with high-volume printing needs.
  • Some users have reported occasional issues with jamming or misalignment, although these seem to be relatively rare.
  • The Hotlabel M9 is only compatible with direct thermal labels, so you’ll need to make sure you have the right kind of labels on hand.

Overall, we’ve been impressed with the Hotlabel M9 Thermal Shipping Label Printer. It’s easy to use, portable, and delivers high-quality printing for all your shipping label needs. And with its flexible compatibility and auto label detection, it’s a great choice for small businesses and home use.

Vretti Thermal Printer

Vretti Thermal Printer

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable thermal printer for shipping labels, the Vretti Thermal Printer is a great option.

Pros

  • This label maker can print up to 75 labels per minute, making it a fast and efficient choice for printing shipping labels.
  • The Vretti Thermal Printer is compatible with a wide range of papers, including continuous, gap, black mark, fan-fold, and punched hole, so you can use it for a variety of label types.
  • The automatic label detection feature is a convenient addition that simplifies the printing process.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the printer prints off-center, which can be frustrating when printing shipping labels.
  • The printer is quite bulky, so it may take up a significant amount of space on your desk or workspace.
  • The Vretti Thermal Printer only connects via USB, so it may not be the best choice if you need a wireless printer.

We’ve been using the Vretti Thermal Printer for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The printer is easy to set up, and we were able to start printing labels within minutes of unboxing it.

One of the things we appreciate about this printer is its compatibility with a wide range of papers. We’ve used it to print shipping labels, address labels, and barcode labels, and it’s worked flawlessly every time.

The automatic label detection feature is another highlight of this printer. It analyzes and learns labels stickers automatically on the feed, which saves us a lot of time and hassle.

However, we have noticed that the printer sometimes prints off-center, which can be annoying when printing shipping labels. Additionally, the printer is quite bulky, so it may not be the best choice if you have limited desk space.

Overall, we think the Vretti Thermal Printer is a great option for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable thermal printer for shipping labels. It’s easy to set up, works well with a variety of label types, and includes convenient features like automatic label detection.

Benefits of Thermal Label Printers

Thermal label printers are a great investment for businesses that require a reliable and efficient printing solution for their shipping labels. Here are some of the benefits of using a thermal label printer:

High-Quality Prints

Thermal printers use a special type of paper that reacts to heat, producing high-quality prints that are clear and easy to read. Unlike traditional printers, thermal printers do not use ink or toner, which can smudge or fade over time. This ensures that your labels remain legible and professional-looking, even after prolonged exposure to heat, moisture, and other environmental factors.

Fast Printing Speeds

Thermal printers can print labels at a much faster rate than traditional printers, which can save you time and increase your productivity. With a thermal printer, you can print hundreds of labels in just a few minutes, which is especially useful for businesses that need to process large volumes of orders on a daily basis.

Cost-Effective Solution

Thermal printers are a cost-effective printing solution for businesses of all sizes. Unlike traditional printers, which require expensive ink cartridges or toner, thermal printers only require special thermal paper, which is much cheaper and easier to replace. This can help you save money on printing costs in the long run, especially if you need to print a large number of labels on a regular basis.

Easy to Use

Thermal printers are easy to set up and use, even for those who are not technically savvy. Most thermal printers come with user-friendly software that allows you to design and print labels with ease. Additionally, thermal printers do not require any maintenance or cleaning, which can further simplify your printing process.

Versatile Printing Options

Thermal printers offer a range of printing options, including barcode printing, label printing, and receipt printing. This makes them a versatile printing solution for businesses that need to print a variety of documents and labels on a regular basis. Additionally, thermal printers can print on a variety of paper sizes and materials, which allows you to customise your labels to suit your specific needs.

Overall, thermal label printers are a reliable, cost-effective, and efficient printing solution for businesses that need to print shipping labels on a regular basis. With their high-quality prints, fast printing speeds, and versatile printing options, thermal printers can help you streamline your printing process and improve your productivity.

Integrations with Amazon Software

We understand that many businesses rely on Amazon for their online sales and shipping needs. That’s why we’ve made sure that our recommended thermal printers for shipping labels are fully compatible with Amazon’s software.

Our top picks, the Zebra GK420d and the Rollo Label Printer, both integrate seamlessly with Amazon’s software, allowing you to easily print shipping labels directly from your Amazon account.

With the Zebra GK420d, you can use the ZebraDesigner software to create custom label templates that are specifically tailored to your business needs. You can then easily import these templates into Amazon’s software and print high-quality shipping labels with ease.

Similarly, the Rollo Label Printer comes with its own software, which allows you to create custom labels quickly and easily. You can then print these labels directly from Amazon’s software, saving you time and increasing your efficiency.

Both printers also support a range of label sizes, so you can choose the label size that best suits your needs. This flexibility is particularly useful for businesses that ship a variety of products in different sizes and shapes.

In addition to Amazon, both printers also integrate with a range of other shipping software, including ShipStation and Stamps.com. This means that you can use the same printer for all your shipping needs, regardless of which platform you use.

Overall, we believe that the Zebra GK420d and the Rollo Label Printer are the best thermal printers for shipping labels, and their seamless integration with Amazon’s software is just one of the many reasons why.

How to Set Label Printer up for 6×4 Labels

Setting up your thermal printer for 6×4 labels is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:

  1. First, ensure that your printer is compatible with 6×4 labels. Check the printer manual or manufacturer’s website for compatibility information. If your printer is not compatible, you will need to purchase a new printer that supports 6×4 labels.
  2. Next, install the label roll into the printer. Ensure that the label roll is correctly loaded and that the labels are facing the correct direction. Refer to the printer manual for instructions on loading the label roll.
  3. Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable. If your printer supports wireless connectivity, you can connect it to your Wi-Fi network instead.
  4. Install the printer driver software on your computer. You can usually download the driver from the manufacturer’s website. Follow the instructions provided to install the driver.
  5. Once the driver is installed, open your shipping software and select the 6×4 label size. If your software does not have a 6×4 label size option, you may need to update your software or switch to a different shipping software that supports 6×4 labels.
  6. Finally, print a test label to ensure that the printer is set up correctly. If the label prints correctly, you’re ready to start printing your shipping labels.

In summary, setting up your thermal printer for 6×4 labels requires you to check compatibility, load the label roll, connect the printer to your computer, install the driver software, select the 6×4 label size in your shipping software, and print a test label. With these steps, you’ll be able to print professional-looking shipping labels quickly and easily.

Are they good for Shopify?

When it comes to running an online store, Shopify is one of the most popular e-commerce platforms available. As such, many business owners who use Shopify wonder if thermal printers are a good choice for printing shipping labels. The answer is a resounding “yes!”

Thermal printers are a great option for Shopify users because they offer fast and reliable printing capabilities. They are also cost-effective, which is particularly important for small business owners who are looking to keep their expenses low.

One of the main benefits of using a thermal printer with Shopify is that it can help streamline your shipping process. With a thermal printer, you can quickly and easily print out shipping labels, packing slips, and other important documents without having to worry about ink cartridges or toner.

Another advantage of using a thermal printer with Shopify is that it can help improve the overall accuracy of your shipping process. Thermal printers are known for producing high-quality, legible labels that are easy to read and scan. This can help reduce the risk of errors and ensure that your packages are delivered to the correct address.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective way to print shipping labels for your Shopify store, a thermal printer is definitely worth considering. With its fast printing speeds, low maintenance costs, and high-quality output, it’s a great choice for any business owner looking to streamline their shipping process and improve their bottom line.

Are they good for eBay?

When it comes to selling on eBay, having a reliable and efficient printing system is crucial. Thermal printers for shipping labels are a popular choice among eBay sellers due to their speed, quality, and ease of use.

Thermal printers are ideal for eBay sellers who ship a high volume of orders. They can print labels quickly and accurately, saving time and reducing the risk of errors. With a thermal printer, you can easily print labels in bulk, making it easier to manage your orders.

One of the major advantages of thermal printers is that they do not require ink or toner. This means that you don’t have to worry about running out of ink or toner in the middle of a print job. Additionally, thermal printers produce high-quality prints that are resistant to smudging and fading.

Thermal printers are also easy to set up and use. Most models come with software that can be installed on your computer, allowing you to print labels directly from your eBay account. Some printers even offer wireless connectivity, allowing you to print labels from your mobile device.

Overall, thermal printers are an excellent choice for eBay sellers who want a reliable and efficient printing system. They offer fast printing speeds, high-quality prints, and easy setup and use. If you’re looking for a printing solution that can help you streamline your eBay business, a thermal printer is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best thermal printers for shipping labels, there are several factors you should consider before making your purchase. In this buying guide, we will discuss the features you should look for in a thermal printer to ensure you get the best product for your needs.

Printing Speed

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a thermal printer is printing speed. The faster the printer, the more efficient your shipping process will be. Look for a printer that can print at least 4 inches per second to ensure your labels are printed quickly and accurately.

Connectivity Options

Another important feature to consider is connectivity. You want a printer that can easily connect to your computer or other devices. Look for printers that offer a variety of connectivity options, such as USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi, to ensure you can easily connect to your preferred device.

Print Resolution

Print resolution is also an important factor to consider when choosing a thermal printer. The higher the print resolution, the better quality your labels will be. Look for printers that offer a resolution of at least 203 dpi to ensure your labels are clear and easy to read.

Label Size Compatibility

Make sure the thermal printer you choose is compatible with the label sizes you need for your shipping process. Look for printers that can handle a variety of label sizes, such as 4×6 inches or 2.25×1.25 inches, to ensure you can print the labels you need for your shipments.

Ease of Use

Finally, consider the ease of use of the thermal printer you choose. Look for printers that have a user-friendly interface and are easy to set up and use. This will ensure that your shipping process runs smoothly and efficiently.

In summary, when choosing the best thermal printer for shipping labels, consider printing speed, connectivity options, print resolution, label size compatibility, and ease of use. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect thermal printer for your shipping needs.

Conclusion

In this article, we have explored some of the best thermal printers for shipping labels available in the market. We have considered various factors such as print quality, speed, connectivity options, and affordability to arrive at our recommendations.

After careful analysis, we recommend the following thermal printers for shipping labels:

  • Zebra GX430t: This printer offers excellent print quality and can handle high-volume printing tasks. It also has multiple connectivity options and is easy to set up and use.
  • Brother QL-820NWB: This printer is a great option for small businesses that require a compact and affordable printing solution. It has a range of connectivity options and can print at a decent speed.
  • DYMO LabelWriter 4XL: This printer is ideal for printing large shipping labels and can handle label rolls up to 4 inches wide. It is easy to set up and use and offers good print quality.

Overall, the best thermal printer for your shipping label needs will depend on your specific requirements and budget. We recommend considering factors such as print quality, speed, connectivity options, and affordability before making a purchase.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of thermal printers for shipping labels. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to reach out to us.

Author
Tom P
Hi, I'm Tom Paddock! An Amazon & eBay seller, who has helped over 10,000 people start their own online business. I provide cutting-edge techniques to help sellers with Online Arbitrage, Retail Arbitrage & Wholesale on Amazon.
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