Brother QL-810W Ultra-Fast Label Printer Review Perfect for Office Labeling Needs

Description

A Professional Take on the Brother QL-810W Ultra-Fast Label Printer

Using the Brother QL-810W Ultra-Fast Label Printer has been quite an adventure, to say the least. From trying its ultra-fast printing capabilities to testing its built-in wireless networking, I’ve got plenty to share about this sleek little device. While it’s not without its flaws, it certainly shines in many areas, especially for anyone who needs a reliable label printer for frequent use.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was the compact and lightweight design of this printer. At just 2.4 pounds and measuring 9.2 x 5.7 x 5 inches, it’s easy to move around and doesn’t dominate your desk space. The white and black housing is clean and modern, though I wish it had a more premium feel to match its performance.

The automatic cutter is a standout feature, capable of handling up to 300,000 die-cut labels or 150,000 continuous labels before needing replacement. That’s something I really appreciated when printing long batches of labels. The lack of Ethernet or Bluetooth connectivity, however, is a bit of a disappointment for those who prioritize versatility in connection options.

Ease of Connectivity

Setting up the wireless interface was straightforward. I loved that it supports both Wi-Fi Direct and 802.11 b/g/n connectivity, which allowed me to print from my laptop and smartphone without being tethered to a cable. Using the Brother iPrint&Label app on my phone made creating and printing custom labels a breeze. One of the highlights is the ability to print from anywhere in the room, provided you’re on the same network. Unfortunately, the absence of Bluetooth means you’ll need to rely solely on Wi-Fi or USB for connections.

Performance and Speed

The speed is where this printer really earns its stripes. It can churn out up to 110 standard address labels per minute at 300 dpi resolution, which is genuinely impressive. I tested it with both black-only and black/red labels, and the results were consistently sharp and professional-looking. However, I did notice that the 300 x 300 dpi mode isn’t quite as crisp as the 300 x 600 dpi mode, so if you’re printing something intricate, you’ll want to stick with the higher resolution.

The printer uses direct thermal technology, which eliminates the need for ink or toner. While this is a cost-saving feature, it also means you’re limited to specific thermal label rolls. If you’re someone who likes to experiment with different label materials, this could feel restrictive.

Key Benefits

• Ultra-fast printing: Up to 110 labels per minute, saving time for high-volume tasks.
• Wireless connectivity: Print seamlessly from laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
• Support for black/red labels: Adds a professional touch to important labels.
• Compact and lightweight: Perfect for small office spaces or home use.

Areas of Concern

• No Bluetooth support: Limits connectivity options for some users.
• Requires specific label rolls: May not appeal to those who prefer more flexibility.
• Lack of an Ethernet port: Reduces usability in some office setups.

Good Aspects

One of my favorite features is the ability to print black and red labels. It’s a small detail, but it adds a layer of customization that makes labels pop, especially for things like name badges or priority shipping labels. The built-in Plug & Label software is another plus, allowing me to start printing almost immediately without downloading additional drivers.

The optional Li-ion battery is worth mentioning too. While I didn’t test it myself, the idea of making this printer portable is intriguing, especially for event organizers or anyone who needs to print on the go.

Other Options

In comparison to competitors like the Dymo LabelWriter 450 or the Rollo Label Printer, the Brother QL-810W stands out for its wireless connectivity and the unique ability to print in two colors. However, the Dymo model offers better integration with third-party software, while the Rollo is known for its versatile label compatibility. If you’re looking for speed and wireless functionality, the Brother QL-810W holds its ground well, but it does feel slightly less adaptable than its rivals.

Quality for Price

For what this printer offers, it’s a solid investment. The direct thermal printing technology eliminates ongoing costs for ink or toner, which is a big deal for anyone printing regularly. The speed and wireless features alone make it worth considering, though the lack of Bluetooth and Ethernet connectivity might sway some buyers toward other models. If you’re someone who values speed and convenience over extreme versatility, this product is likely to feel like it’s worth every penny.

Overall, the Brother QL-810W Ultra-Fast Label Printer gets the job done efficiently and stylishly. Despite a few limitations, it’s a reliable choice for anyone in need of a high-speed label printer with wireless capabilities.

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