Every
industry inspires competition, and as new manufacturers enter a market the
competition consistently breeds innovation, lest a company rest on its laurels
and fall behind its competition. This holds true in every industry, and the
consumer greatly benefits from this competition, which affects product quality
and keeps the market value consistent. Business technologies, specifically the thermal
barcode printer, are products which have seen a variety of manufacturers rise
to take their share of the market. In the world of barcode printing, the three
leading manufacturers are Zebra, Intermec, and Datamax. If you’re currently
looking into finding a thermal barcode printer for your business, chances are
you will come across these three manufacturers’ products more than any other.
Each offers a variety of entry level printers. Not sure which one is best for
you? Check out an entry-level spotlight from each manufacturer below to see
highlights of their respective product lines.
The Zebra 2824
Zebra is currently the market leader in barcode printer
sales. With a reputation for top quality thermal printing solutions, Zebra
offers a great variety ranging from desktop models toward ultra high-volume
industrial models. The Zebra 2824 is one of the most successful desktop models
offered by Zebra, winning over several for its affordable price tag of $300.
The Zebra 2824 uses thermal transfer printing as opposed to direct thermal. The
203 dpi resolution (dots per inch) is sufficient for barcode applications. With
a 3.5 inch per second print speed, the Zebra 2824 can keep up with any and all
entry level printing needs.
The Datamax E-4205A
Datamax is a major competitor of Zebra, but where Zebra
focuses on straight forward ease of use and accessibility, Datamax printers
focus on a great range of versatility. The Datamax E-4205A is an excellent
small business implement, boasting an oversized roll capacity and a maximum
print speed of five inches per second. The resolution remains at a 203 DPI, but
the added features of USB, Serial, Parallel, and Ethernet interface justifies
the extra cost. Whereas the Zebra costs a mere $300, this Datamax model comes
in at an average $450. If you’re aiming for speedy, quality performance, the Datamax
E-4205A is an ideal option.
The Intermec PC43T
Intermec keeps pace with the competition, and
the Intermec PC43t is an excellent
performance entry level barcode printer. The Intermec PC43t is a step between
the Zebra and Datamax, offering a good middle ground. With a four inch print
width and an LCD display, the Intermec PC43t is an easily accessible,
straightforward thermal printer. The print speed, coming in at eight inches per
second, is exceedingly quick, an excellent feature if you require a higher
volume of barcode labels. While these three printers are excellent offerings by
their respective manufacturers, personally I preferred a refurbished Datamaxprinter for its additional cost saving advantage. Just remember that these
three manufacturers have a wide selection. Check them out before making your
decision!
