Products at a Glance
How We Picked the Best Dymo Label Maker
While choosing the best Dymo label makers out there, we tried to diversify our choices as much as possible. We included both handheld and desktop label makers to ensure convenience and portability for all folks. On top of that, we added Bluetooth-only and standard models to guarantee versatile connectivity options.
Finally, we prioritized easy operation and smooth performance by choosing models with high printing speeds, pre-designed templates, decent resolutions, and long-lasting batteries (or rechargeable ones).
Product Reviews
- Highly versatile
- Rechargeable batteries
- Difficult interface
Boasting a gamut of premium features and consistently high quality, the Dymo LabelManager 280 is a terrific handheld label maker.
The label maker features a small monochromatic display and a QWERTY keyboard with direction and application buttons. While it’s designed to be used as a stand-alone device, you can connect it to a Mac or Windows operating system to customize your labels. Better yet, it has built-in memory so that you can save up to 15 labels for frequent and quick use. Choose from 3 fonts, 6 type sizes, 7 styles, and 221 symbols to make a design that is unique to you. You also avoid the hassle of replacing the batteries as this unit comes with a pack of rechargeable batteries that should help keep energy high!
The LabelManager 280 is a little bit difficult to get the hang of, so this may not be ideal as a first-time purchase. But veteran label makers should find a lot to love, and it’s easily Dymo’s best label maker!
- Wireless network connectivity
- Fast printing
- Automated features
- High price point
The Dymo LabelWriter 550 Turbo is a powerhouse that proves to be ideal for extensive and professional use. It’s an advanced desktop device that can print up to 90 labels per minute. More importantly, it supports LAN connectivity, which means multiple devices on the same network can use it.
The label maker’s standout feature is automatic label recognition, which makes it easier for you to view the number, type, and size of the leftover labels inside it. This way, you guarantee that your tape doesn’t run out unexpectedly amidst your organizing session.The LabelWriter 550 Turbo utilizes ink-free thermal printing technology. It doesn’t require ink or toner, reducing your running costs in the long run. You can use it on a laptop or computer and design the font you have in mind.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a keyboard or a screen, so you’ll need to connect it to another device for printing, making it best suited for offices – especially considering that all of these features come at a high price that might not be suitable for home use. It’s still a viable option, however, and serves as the best professional Dymo label maker!
- Color touchscreen
- Easy connectivity
- Automatic cutting
- High price point
The Dymo LabelManager 500TS leaves little to be desired when it comes to desktop label makers. It features a large QWERTY keyboard and a full-color touchscreen where you can navigate your options with ease. While you can use it as a stand-alone device, it’s compatible with Windows and Mac systems to give you more freedom of design and customization.
The label maker features a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts a long time on a full charge, making for more portability and less expensive running costs. It has an internal memory that can take 500 saved labels for quick and easy reprinting. To accommodate various needs, it can print labels from 6 mm to 24 mm in size. It works best with original Dymo tapes, but you can use other brands if you want. For flawless results, the 500TS features automatic cutting: all you have to do is click on the Scissors button, and you’ll get a perfectly-sized label, ready for use.
Although it’s challenging to name a drawback for this Dymo label maker, it is slightly too pricey for home use, and even some small businesses may struggle to justify the cost. It does pay for itself in the long run, however, and we highly value the 500TS as a top desktop label maker!
- Customization options
- Compatible with PCs
- Battery-operated
From easy and quick labeling to excellent portability and compact design, the Dymo LabelManager 160 has enough convenient features to win it a top place on our list. A standalone device optionally capable of connecting to Windows or MacOS, this label maker is ideal for customizing as much or as little of the label as you like!
The label maker features a small monochromatic display and a QWERTY keyboard with direction and application buttons. While it’s designed to be used as a stand-alone device, you can connect it to a Mac or Windows operating system to customize your labels. Better yet, you can save up to 15 labels for frequent and quick use. If you’re big on design, you’ll be glad to know that the LabelManager 160 comes with more than 20 readymade fonts and 200 symbols.
The only real setback in the LabelManager 160 is the use of non-rechargeable batteries. It operates on six AAA batteries that you’ll need to replace once dead. These batteries increase running costs and aren’t the most convenient out there. Still, with a lower upfront cost and strong value for money, this is still a worthwhile Dymo label maker!
If you always use a smartphone or PC for label-making, you’ll love what the Dymo LetraTag 200B has to offer. It’s a Bluetooth-only label maker that can’t be used as a stand-alone device, and it’s compatible with both Android and iOS operating systems. You can connect it to your device and start writing labels after downloading its intuitive companion app.
The LetraTag 200B uses thermal technology for printing, and it breeds the best quality when used with original Dymo LetraTag labels. If you use other labels, you risk poor quality. To make your life easier, it comes with pre-designed label templates that you can use if you don’t have a specific aesthetic in mind. The label maker comes with three authentic Dymo label tapes, one white paper, one white plastic, and one clear plastic. This way, you don’t have to worry about running costs for the first while of using it. Best of all, the maker comes at an affordable price that’s suitable for both home and office use.
The Dymo LetraTag operates on four AA batteries, not an AC adapter, which makes it convenient to use in places where electricity isn’t available. However, since the batteries are non-rechargeable, you should expect high running costs because of replacing them every once in a while. For those who don’t have a PC or Mac to connect to, however, this is best option for a Bluetooth label maker!
Features and Considerations
If you’re looking for the best Dymo label maker that didn’t make the cut today, here are some things to consider before buying:
Design
There are two common designs for label makers, handheld and desktop. Handheld label makers are designed to be used in your hands, while desktop makers should be mounted on a desk, like a laptop. While both designs work the same way, it’s important to choose wisely because a label maker’s design dictates its portability. Handheld makers are much easier to carry around, making them the better option for on-the-go label-making. Meanwhile, desktop makers are better for places where multiple people want to make labels since they all can use them without moving them.
Type
Label makers are either traditional or Bluetooth-only, and your choice between the two can make all the difference. Bluetooth-only makers can’t be used as stand-alone devices since they don’t have built-in displays or keyboards. Instead, you need to connect them to a laptop or smartphone and use a companion app for writing and designing labels. On the other side, traditional label makers feature keyboards and displays for quick and easy printing. You don’t have to connect them to any device, making them more portable and convenient. They limit your design freedom, though, as you have to stick to the readymade fonts they come with.
User-Friendliness
Label makers are generally straightforward devices with no learning curve, but some models are more advanced than others and require design software for use. If you don’t need to bother with design software or companion apps, you should look for a simple standalone label maker with a large screen and keyboard. This way, you can make your labels without too much of a hassle.
Label Size
Each industry has its own label size needs. For instance, labeling folders in an office calls for small tapes, while labeling shipments requires large and wide labels. The average label maker can print sizes from 6 mm to 12 mm in width, but there are some exceptions that can print up to 24 mm or more. Depending on your needs or personal preference, you should choose a label maker that’ll give you the tape size you need.
Do Dymo label makers come with batteries?
No: If you buy a Dymo label maker that operates on non-rechargeable batteries, you’ll have to buy them separately. Only rechargeable batteries are included in Dymo packages.
Where can I buy Dymo label paper?
There are a few places to buy Dymo’s label paper refills: Amazon is the best place to start, or Dymo’s own website. Otherwise, it depends on where you live.
Our Verdict
It’s not the most user-friendly label maker in the world, but the LabelManager 280 is our pick for the best Dymo label maker! Packing all the best features at an affordable price point, this label maker is ideal for homes, business or offices!
If you’re looking to compare the top label makers across different brands, why not check our guide on the best Brother label makers as well?