You have a lot of options when it comes to buying a color label printer for your business. While it is tempting to just look for the lowest priced option, it is important to keep in mind that many budget color label printers do not provide comprehensive and long-term value. Price is important, but part of determining the cost of color label printers is considering what you are getting for your investment, as well as what the total cost to operate the printer will be. For example, is a low-cost printer really low-cost if the consumable supplies needed are more expensive than most on the market?
Here are 5 important things to consider when looking for your color label printer.
1. Type of Stock & Ink
When looking at color label printers you will need to first determine if the models you are considering can print the labels you require.
- Is the color label printer able to manage the paper stock or label material you need?
- Will you be limited in the kinds of ink you can use with the printer?
- Can the printer accommodate the color label sizes you need?
2. Print Speed & Quality
Depending on the volume of labels you will be printing and the design of your labels, your needs may not be best served by just any color label printer. If you need to regularly produce large quantities of color labels, a high speed color label printer is a must. Pay close attention to the correlation between print speed and print quality. Print quality can vary on the same color label printer depending upon what print speed you select. Just because some color label printers are capable of printing at high speeds does not mean you will be pleased with the results.
3. Software Required
The software options available with your color label printer can provide you with enhanced levels of accuracy and efficiency in day-to-day operation. Some color label printers offer more functionality or greater levels of integration capability than others. You will want to find a color label printer with a software interface that works well with your needs.
4. User-Friendliness
Depending on capabilities and complexity, color label printers can really vary in terms of user-friendliness. While choosing an easy-to-use interface is ideal, you may need a color printer that offers some advanced functions or flexibility, which might mean some degree of skill is required to operate the printer. Buy your color label printers from a supplier that will provide installation and training. Also look for one that will allow you to try the printer on a trial basis.
5. Cleaning & Maintenance Requirements
Considering the cleaning and maintenance requirements of a color label printer is important because these requirements will affect your cost of ownership. Also, printers that require excessive downtime for upkeep can impact your productivity. Ask your printer dealer if you can speak to an owner of a color label printer you are considering for purchase to find out if they are pleased with their investment.
If you are in need of a color label printer but not sure what your best option will be, contact us!
Liberty Marking Systems has the knowledge and experience to match the best color label printers with specific needs by evaluating individual work environments and applications. We are available to assist you in finding a great selection of color label printers to meet your requirements. Learn more about affordable color label printers here.
