Direct Thermal Printer Showdown: Rollo vs. Zebra
Thinking about printing your own shipping labels but not sure which thermal printer to get? Totally normal. Whether you’re just starting your business or finally ready to retire that old inkjet, direct thermal printing is the best option and picking the right printer can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.
Rollo and Zebra are two of the most popular options, and they each shine in different situations. So what’s the best thermal printer for shipping labels? Let’s break it down.
Rollo vs. Zebra: Direct Thermal Label Printer Breakdown
| Feature | Rollo | Zebra (ZD Series) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Small businesses/ecommerce shops | Warehouses, scaling operations |
| Connection | USB + Wireless (Rollo Wireless model) | USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth (depends on model) |
| Max Label Width | 1.57” - 4.1” wide | Varies by model - commonly 4” wide |
| Print Speed | Fast (150mm/sec) | Moderate to fast (102mm-150mm/sec avg) |
| Price Range | $180–$280 | $250–$400+ (depending on model) |
Who Should Pick Rollo Printers?
- You want a compact, no-fuss printer that’s easy to set up and maintain
- You prefer a simple setup without dealing with drivers, firmware, or proprietary software
- You’re shipping from home or a small office and don’t need industrial-level volume just yet
Why Rollo Works for Small Shops
If you're shipping under 300 packages a day through platforms like Shopify, Etsy, or Amazon, Rollo printers plug-and-play setup and universal label compatibility can save serious time. No ink, no toner, no hassle—just fast, clean printing.
Who Should Pick Zebra Printers?
- You need a heavy-duty printer that can handle high-volume, daily use
- You want built-in roll housing for a cleaner, all-in-one setup
- You’re working in a shared or multi-user environment with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Bluetooth connectivity
Why Zebra Works for Fulfillment Teams
Zebra’s ZD series is built for industrial use. If you’ve got multiple pack stations, need Ethernet or Bluetooth setups, or rely on barcode scanning for inventory, Zebra’s durability and connectivity features can support high-volume workflows without hiccups.
Choosing the Right Labels for Your Printer
Whether you go with Rollo, Zebra, or another brand, 4x6 direct thermal labels are the go-to label size for shipping. They’re easy, reliable, and work with sites like Amazon, Shopify, and Pirate Ship. The real difference comes down to how Rollo and Zebra handle the labels behind the scenes.
Let’s break down how each printer handles labels:
- Rollo Printers: There’s no built-in roll holder, so if you're using rolls, you'll need a separate stand. If not, fanfold labels usually work best with this setup.
- Zebra Printers: Rolls will load directly into the machine on these printers. Just make sure your labels have the right core size—typically 1" or 3"—and are wound correctly for your model.
If you're using blank labels regularly, ordering direct thermal labels by the case is a great way to lower your cost per label. It’s also one less thing to worry about restocking during busy shipping days.
Which Printer Should You Choose?
At the end of the day, it comes down to what your workflow looks like. Rollo is a great pick for small businesses that want a simple, affordable printer that gets the job done without extra setup. If you’re managing a team, printing at high volume, or need more connectivity options, Zebra’s built-in features and industrial strength might be the better fit.
No matter which direct thermal printer you go with, you’ll need blank labels that can keep up. At Label Blanks, we make it easy with fast, free shipping on every case of direct thermal labels—so you’re always stocked and ready to get orders out the door.
