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The 8 Best Label Makers 2025

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Label makers have become indispensable no matter whether you’re a home user or a business. They offer a clear print and efficient ways to keep track of items with a professional finish. If you’re looking to organise your home, streamline your office or create professional, trackable labels choosing the right label maker will make all the difference. Here, we have the best label makers available in 2025, focussing on performance, industry and ease of use.

What’s the Difference Between a Label Maker & Label Printer?

Label makers are usually an all-in-one device, with a built-in keyboard and display, In most cases, they are built to keep all printing on the device and designed for simple tasks.

Some newer label makers, however, are designed to connect with smart devices, they’re still small enough to be portable, but use apps on phones and tablets to allow further customisation.

Label printers, on the other hand, are larger, and require to be plugged into mains for power, these always require software to design and print labels and are more suited for higher volumes and more complex labelling tasks, like shipping or product labels.

Why Use A Label Maker?

A label maker covers a variety of different uses. These can be used to organise items in your home or label uniforms and clothing. Label makers can even be used for business to, keep track of office items, mark files, create ID tags and produce shipping labels.

The best label maker does depend on what you need, a handheld Brother labeller won’t be much use for shipping labels, but does your home have the space for a large label printer?

The benefits of a label maker include:

  • Easily organising and tracking items
  • Saving time compared to hand-written labels
  • Professional, easy-to-read appearance

How To Choose The Best Label Maker

When considering the best label maker for your needs, consider the following:

Print Quality

On average, label makers have either a 180 or 203dpi print resolution, this is suitable for clear, readable labels. Some high-end label makers go up to 300dpi, this is better for shipping labels, and scannable codes.

Ease Of Use

Find an interface that is easy for you to follow. Another important question for businesses: “Does this fit into my POS system”

Cost Of Ownership

The initial budget for a label maker would also depend on your needs, a simple hand-held home label maker can cost under £30, with low running costs too. But, this would be limited by use,  a handheld printer would not cope under heavy use. The budget for the best label maker should be adjusted based on your needs.

Connectivity

All desktop label makers will connect to your PC or Laptop by USB. However, industrial label makers offer additional connections, to easily fit into your current systems.

Label makers can include the following connection options:

  • USB
  • Network
  • WiFi
  • Bluetooth
  • Serial
  • Parallel

Handheld label makers often need no connection, with the label being made completely on the device.

Additional Features

Not all label makers use the same labels. It’s recommended to check the label types you’re using before buying a new label maker.

Is it compatible with your software? At Printerbase we always recommend checking with your software, or POS provider on compatible label makers before integrating them into your system.

8 Best Label Makers

Best Overall Label Maker

Brother QL-1110NWBc

Brother QL-1110NWBc

Specifications:

  • Thermal Direct Label Maker
  • Max Print Width 103mm
  • USB, Network, Wireless & Bluetooth
  • Automatic Cutter
  • 300 x 300 dpi Print Resolution
  • Uses Brother DK Labels

Reasons To Buy:

  • Can print courier compliant labels
  • Cheap to run
  • Easy to use
  • Variety of label sizes available

Reasons To Avoid:

  • Needs Connecting To Mains

The Brother QL-1110WNB is the best label maker for both home and business use. It offers wireless connectivity, allowing you to print from computers, smartphones, or tablets with ease. Its wide-format capability supports labels up to 4 inches, perfect for shipping labels or ingredient lists. With fast print speeds and high-quality output, it delivers professional results efficiently.

Best Budget Label Maker

Brother PT-H110

Best Small Printers, Brother PT-H110

Specifications:

  • Thermal Direct Label Maker
  • Max Print Width 12mm
  • Handheld Printer
  • Manual Cutter
  • 180dpi Print Resolution
  • Uses Brother TZ/TZe Tapes

Reasons To Buy:

  • Lightweight and Portable
  • Fully Handheld
  • Great for Iron-On Fabric Tapes

Reasons To Avoid

  • Low DPI

The Brother PT-H110 is the best label maker for those on a budget. It is affordable without sacrificing quality. Compact and easy to use, being fully handheld, without needing a connection to a PC or mobile. It offers 3 fonts, 14 frames and over 250 symbols to customize labels for home or office use. Using Brothers durable, laminated TZ and TZe tapes, it ensures long-lasting labels that resist fading and wear. The built-in QWERTY keyboard and simple interface make label creation fast and easy, making it the top choice for users on a budget.

Best Label Maker For Small Business

Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal

Zebra ZD421

Specifications:

  • Direct Thermal
  • Max Print Width 104mm
  • USB, USB Host & Bluetooth Lite Connectivity
  • 203dpi Print Resolution
  • Supports Courier Supplied Labels

Reasons To Buy:

  • Supports Royal Mail & Courier Labels
  • Various Connectivity Options Available
  • Support For Various Label Finishes

Reasons To Avoid

  • Difficult To Setup
  • No mac Support

The Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal is the best label maker for small businesses, offering reliable performance and versatile label support. Its compact design saves space while delivering fast, high-quality labels without the need for ink or toner. The intuitive interface, with status icons, simplifies operation, and the wide range of connectivity options ensures seamless integration. Durable and efficient, it’s perfect for small businesses needing quick, hassle-free label printing.

Best Label Maker For The Home

DYMO Omega Embossing Label Maker

Best Label Makers DYMO OMEGA Embossing Label Maker

Specifications:

  • Embossing Label Maker
  • Max Print Width: 9mm
  • Handheld Labeller
  • Manual Cutter
  • Uses DYMO 3D Embossed Labels

Reasons To Buy:

  • No Plugs Or Battery Needed
  • Simple To Use
  • Durable
  • Ergonomic Grip

Reasons To Avoid

  • The Click Dial Can Be Time Consuming
  • No Display
  • Only One Label Size Available

The DYMO Omega Embossing Label Maker is the best label maker for home use, offering simplicity, durability, and no need for batteries or cables. Its manual turn-and-click system has 49 characters and is easy to use. It also produces high-quality, raised labels that are ideal for organizing household items. The ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling, while the durable embossing tape withstands everyday wear. Perfect for labelling jars, boxes, or files and outdoor garden use.

Best Portable Label Maker

Brother PT-H500

Best Label Makers Brother H500

Specifications:

  • Direct Thermal Label Maker
  • Max Print Width: 24mm
  • Handheld Printer
  • Automatic Cutter
  • 180dpi Print Resolution
  • Uses Brother TZ/TZe Tapes

Reasons To Buy:

  • Durable build quality
  • Fully handheld operation
  • Easy tape replacements

Reasons To Avoid

  • Heavy for a handheld label maker

The Brother PT-H500 is the best portable label maker, designed for reliability and ease of use on the go. With its durable design and handheld build, it’s easy to carry and perfect for both home and on-the-move use. The QWERTY keyboard and large, clear display make label creation quick and simple. It supports heat-shrink tubing, ideal for labelling cables, while the durable laminated tapes ensure long-lasting results. Its USB connectivity allows for easy printing from computers, making it an excellent choice for portable labelling needs.

Best Label Maker For Crafting

Brother VC-500W

Brother VC-500W

Specifications:

  • ZiNK Printer
  • Max Print Width: 50mm
  • USB & WiFi Connectivity
  • Manual Cutter
  • 313dpi Print Resolution
  • Uses Brother CZ Tapes

Reasons To Buy:

  • Affordable
  • Full-Colour Printing
  • Ideal For Scrapbooks

Reasons To Avoid:

  • Not Ideal For Heavy Use
  • Running Costs Can Be High

The Brother VC-500W is an excellent label maker for crafting. It offers wireless connectivity, vibrant full-color printing, and versatile label customization. Its ZINK (Zero Ink) technology eliminates the need for ink cartridges, producing high-quality labels and stickers perfect for scrapbooking, DIY projects, or personalized gifts. The “Brother Color Label Editor 2” is a user friendly app, which allows quick and easy design creation from your phone or computer.

Best High-End Label Maker

Zebra ZQ630

Best Label Makers Zebra ZQ630

Specifications:

  • Thermal Direct Printer
  • Max Print Width 104mm
  • Portable Printer
  • Automatic Cutter
  • 203dpi Print Resolution
  • Uses Zebra Labels

Reasons To Buy:

  • Print 6×4″ Labels On The Go
  • Large Colour Screen
  • Can Withstand High Drops

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Expensive
  • No Cables Included With Initial Purchase

The Zebra ZQ630 is the best high-end label maker, perfect for high label output or places where a label would be under a lot of stress, such as warehouses, industrial lines and construction sites. Its strong build, long battery life, and wireless capabilities make it ideal for on-the-go labelling. With advanced features like RFID and large label capacity, it handles complex label tasks with ease. The user-friendly interface and fast print speeds further enhance productivity. If you’re looking for reliability, flexibility, and premium performance in a portable label maker, the ZQ630 is unmatched.

Best Label Maker For Industrial Use

DYMO RHINO 5200

Best Label Makers DYMO RHINO 5200 Kit

Specifications:

  • Thermal Direct Label Maker
  • Max Print Width: 19mm
  • Handheld Printer
  • Manual Cutter
  • Print Resolution: 180dpi
  • Kit Includes Carry Case and AC Adapter

Reasons To Buy:

  • Clear Print Quality
  • Durable
  • Long Battery Life

Reasons To Avoid:

  • Maximum Print Width Isn’t Wide

The DYMO Rhino 5200 is the best label maker for industrial use, ideal for professionals, whether it’s in construction, IT tracking, or electricians. Its rugged design withstands tough workplaces, while the hotkeys for common labelling tasks like wire wraps and barcodes streamline workflows. The device supports multiple label sizes and materials, ensuring durability and versatility. Its intuitive interface and efficient thermal printing make the Rhino 5200 the best choice for precise, high-quality labels.

Verdict

These are the best label makers from Printerbase for 2025. Featuring our top recommendations for all users, in all industries.

But what is the best label maker? It’s the one that meets your specific needs the best. Whether it’s for the home, office or industrial use. Our top recommendation would be the Brother QL-1110NWBc thanks to it’s variety of label sizes, ease of use and multiple connectivity options.

If you need more help choosing the best label maker for your needs, our sales team will be happy to assist!

Need Help or More Information ?

If you need any further help or more information, reach out to us by leaving a comment below or through one of the many ways on our Contact Us page.

Alternatively you can contact us by Phone on 0161 308 5800 or by Live Chat on our main Website Monday to Friday and our team will be happy to help or answer with any questions you might have.

You can also find all the various ways to connect with Us at the bottom of this page. Please share this post if you found it helpful.

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