Credit:
DYMO
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Credit:
DYMO
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Boasting multiple fonts, text styles, typographic symbols, and emojis, this ergonomically minded is a great option for use at home or at the office. Read More
While this label maker offers printing options a-plenty, its design and the fact that its power adapter is sold separately, disappointed us. Read More
This label maker's feature set is geared towards power users. Unless you need to print barcodes, there are better options out there. Read More
While its rugged build quality may appeal to some, using this label maker's keyboard can be a frustrating experience. Read More
While we like its backlit display, AC adapter and rechargeable battery, this power-hungry label maker can't be used while the battery is charging. Read More
An organized closet can be the key to a stress-free day. Grabbing a box and knowing exactly what's inside makes finding what you need super easy. But who can always remember the exact contents of every single box? That's where a simple chunk of plastic comes in handy. I'm talking about the joys of labels—particularly, clearly printed labels on easy-to-read tape.
Label makers—like our favorite, the Dymo LabelManager 160 Portable (available at Amazon) — are the best tools to keep your belongings well organized. Any container that's labeled means you'll always know what's inside, especially when you need to track shipping labels or find your tax papers. But not all label makers are easy to use. Some now have extra features, like letting you print label barcodes or symbols. Others will connect to computers or smartphones to add images or barcodes. So we decided to take the time to recommend our top picks to you.
The Dymo LabelManager 160 portable label maker is our top recommendation thanks to its combination of performance and value.
Great section of fonts, templates and symbols
Multiple label size options
Requires both hands to use
Keyboard too small for touch-typing
Power adapter sold separately.
AC adapter included
Can print Bar Codes
Computer connectivity via USB
Most key features will only appeal to power users
Great for left or right-handed users
Rugged build quality
Poor label performance during testing
No AC adapter
Keyboard difficult to use.
Backlit display
Rechargeable battery
Can't be used while charging
Lots of fonts, but limited printing options
These mini-printers are relatively simple products, but the single job they need to do, they need to do really well. Here are a few features to look for when shopping for the perfect label maker.
Batteries—Very few label makers are ready to use, right out of the box. Some do not include an AC adapter to plug in, or AA or AAA batteries will need to be purchased separately.
Label Tape—Label makers require very specific cartilages depending on each brand, and in some cases, to each model. Most models will allow for a range of tape widths, going up to ¾ inches wide. For some brands, like Brother, there is also a range of different tape colors. Often there is a discount if you purchase through a company's website after signing up for their email list, so keep an eye out for savings.
Labels Stored—If there are a variety of labels that you expect to make frequently, like name labels, being able to store those labels in the label maker is a helpful feature. This way, anytime you need to print that label, it’s already set up and ready to select. Some label makers have this feature built-in. If the label maker connects to a computer or phone, it will have the ability to save labels as well.
Printing Barcodes—Not all label makers are able to print barcodes. Generally, if the label maker connects to a computer or a phone, you can put any image you like onto the label, including a barcode. For the label makers that do not attach to a computer or phone, barcodes are not an option.
Rebecca Boniface
Contributor
Rebecca Boniface is a certified PADI dive instructor, full-time nomad, and DIY enthusiast.
Our team is here for one purpose: to help you buy the best stuff and love what you own. Our writers, editors, and lab technicians obsess over the products we cover to make sure you're confident and satisfied. Have a different opinion about something we recommend? Email us and we'll compare notes.
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