Brother QL-820NWB Label Printer Review WiFi Bluetooth Connectivity and Ultra-Fast Printing

Description

Introduction to the Brother QL-820NWB Label Printer

The Brother QL-820NWB Professional Ultra Flexible Label Printer came into my life as a much-needed addition to my workspace. I had been on the lookout for something that could handle the demands of high-speed printing, while also offering flexibility in connectivity. This device, boasting a printing speed of up to 110 labels per minute, intrigued me from the start. I tested it extensively and found it to be a solid performer, though there are a few quirks worth mentioning.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this label printer strikes a balance between practicality and aesthetics. Its white and black housing feels modern and fits seamlessly into any office or home setup. I appreciated the compact build, as it doesn’t take up much desk space. The backlit monochrome LCD screen is a thoughtful addition, letting you use the printer in standalone mode without needing a computer or mobile device.

The auto cutter feature is a game-changer. It ensures that labels are neatly cut every single time, whether you’re printing one or a whole batch. I found it particularly useful when creating custom labels in varying sizes. However, the overall plastic construction feels a bit light, and I sometimes worried about its durability with heavy use.

Performance and Speed

This printer doesn’t disappoint when it comes to speed. Printing up to 110 standard address labels per minute is no exaggeration. I tested it on both black-and-white and black-and-red labels, and the results were consistently crisp and clean. With a resolution of 300 x 600 dpi, the text and graphics came out sharp enough for both professional and personal use.

One standout feature is its flexibility with label types. From address labels to file folders, name badges, and even postage labels, this printer handles it all. I loved that it included starter rolls with different types of labels, making it easy to try out its various capabilities right out of the box.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional printing speed: Handles high-volume tasks efficiently.
• Versatile connectivity options: Works with Bluetooth, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and USB.
• High-quality output: Produces sharp labels at 300 x 600 dpi.
• Mobile-friendly: Supports AirPrint and the Brother iPrint&Label app.

Connectivity and Compatibility

If there’s one area where this printer truly shines, it’s connectivity. With support for Bluetooth, Ethernet, 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi, and Wireless Direct, it offers just about every option you could need. I tested it with my laptop via USB, my phone over Wi-Fi, and even a scanner through the USB Host interface—all worked flawlessly.

Using the Brother iPrint&Label app was surprisingly intuitive. I created custom labels with graphics directly from my smartphone, which saved me time and effort. The app even supports label templates, which came in handy when I needed to print multiple labels with consistent designs.

That said, setting up Wi-Fi took a bit of patience. The manual wasn’t as clear as I’d hoped, and I had to fiddle with the settings to get it connected.

Perks

• Standalone use: The LCD screen eliminates the need for a computer.
• Mobile integration: Compatible with iOS and Android devices.
• Drop-in supplies: Makes switching label rolls easy and mess-free.

Drawbacks

• Setup can be tricky: Wi-Fi configuration isn’t as user-friendly as expected.
• Plastic build: Feels less durable for heavy-duty use.
• Battery not included: The optional lithium-ion battery for mobile use is sold separately.

Product Comparisons

When comparing the Brother QL-820NWB to competitors like the DYMO LabelWriter 450 Turbo, a few differences stand out. This Brother model offers Bluetooth and Wireless Direct connectivity, which the DYMO lacks. Additionally, the ability to print in both black and red is a unique feature that gives it an edge for those who need color-coded labels.

However, the DYMO printer is slightly more affordable and has a more straightforward setup process. If you’re on a tight budget or looking for simplicity, DYMO might be a better choice. But if you need flexibility and speed, the Brother QL-820NWB is hard to beat.

Price Performance

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, the Brother QL-820NWB delivers excellent value. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, its versatile features and high-speed performance justify the investment. The inclusion of starter rolls in the box is a thoughtful touch that adds to the overall value.

That said, the cost of consumables like label rolls can add up over time, especially if you stick to genuine Brother DK supplies. For those using the printer frequently, this is something to keep in mind.

Final Thoughts

Testing this printer was a rewarding experience. From the versatile connectivity to its impressive label printing speed, it’s a device that caters to both professional and casual needs. While there are some areas that could use improvement, such as the setup process and build quality, it’s a solid performer overall. If you’re someone who values speed, flexibility, and precision, this label printer is worth considering.