How to Buy a Label Maker

Label makers are handheld or desktop machines with keyboards and small label tape printers. They have become a must-have for office workers and those taking on organization projects. You can buy machines to make address labels for envelopes, content labels for boxes and files, CD and DVD labels and many other projects. Follow the steps to learn how to buy a label maker that meets your needs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Determine if the label maker is for professional or personal use. If you are using the machine for personal use, you may decide that a cheaper one is best, but if you are buying it for the office and plan to use it often, a more expensive machine with more options may be the best choice.
2. Choose the basic size of machine you are looking for. Handheld label makers are smaller and more portable--often better for personal home use. Desktop label makers are larger in size and weight but generally have more options and are more durable for heavy usage.
3. Look at the size of labels you can use with each model. Most Dymo and Brother brand models use 1/2-inch to 1-inch label tape. These models, such as the Dymo Label Point 250 and Brother PT1010, are best for single strings of letters. Other models hook up to your computer and allow you to create larger address labels and postage stamps.
4. Find the best LCD size for your needs. If you make quick, short labels, a small LCD screen is all you need. If you would rather see everything you type and print on the screen, then a larger screen is a must. If you would rather not have an electric machine at all, the Paxar Monarch Sure-Sell Word Band Labeler is a manual option.
5. Buy accessories to go with your label maker. Look for AC adapters, extra batteries, tape cartridges and carrying cases at the manufacturer's website or at an office supply store.