5 Signs Your Business Needs a Label Printer Upgrade

Your label printer is one of the unsung heroes of your operations. Whether you’re printing shipping labels, compliance barcodes, or premium product packaging, it needs to be fast, accurate, and reliable. But like all equipment, label printers eventually show their age - and outdated technology, slow print speeds, and poor resolution can start costing your business money.

If your printer is slowing you down, here are the five signs it’s time to upgrade to a newer, more efficient model.

When Should You Upgrade a Label Printer?

You should upgrade your label printer when frequent printing issues, declining print quality, slow speeds, high running costs, or lack of modern features are impacting productivity, compliance, or customer satisfaction.

1. Frequent Printing Issues Are Killing Throughput

If jams, misalignments, calibration errors, or constant reprints are part of your daily routine, your printer is costing you more than it’s saving. Each interruption means wasted labels, lost time, and frustrated staff.

Modern printers - such as the Primera printer range - are designed for smoother media handling, advanced sensors, and precision printing to minimise these costly disruptions.

2. The Quality Isn’t There (Faded Text, Poor Resolution, Unreadable Barcodes)

Poor resolution can cause barcodes to fail scans, ingredient text to become illegible, and logos to lose sharpness. This not only affects your branding but can lead to compliance issues in industries like food, beverage, and healthcare.

Upgrading to a printer with higher DPI and better registration accuracy ensures crisp, clear printing on all label types - including synthetic and specialty materials.

3. Slow Print Speeds Are Creating Bottlenecks

Legacy printers often struggle with high-volume or complex label jobs, leading to delays in shipping and production. Combined with outdated interfaces - such as USB-only connectivity - slow printing means slower business.

Newer models offer faster throughput, high-capacity media rolls, and modern connectivity like Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth, enabling integration with mobile devices and warehouse systems.

4. Rising Running Costs Point to Outdated Technology

If you’re spending more each year on consumables, replacement parts, and repairs, your label printer might be past its prime. Older models may:

Use more ribbons or ink per label.
Require more frequent part replacements.
Consume more energy.

Modern printers are designed for efficiency, with longer-lasting components, lower energy use, and optimised consumable usage.

5. You’re Not Ready for What’s Next

Business needs change - and so do industry requirements. From 2D barcodes and GS1 compliance to printing on new label materials, your printer needs to keep up.

If your current device can’t handle upcoming requirements, such as larger label formats, advanced barcode symbologies, or integration with cloud-based fleet management tools, now’s the time to upgrade.

What to Look For in Your Next Label Printer

When upgrading, focus on features that solve your current challenges and prepare you for future growth:

Print Speed & DPI: Faster output with high resolution for sharp, readable labels.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and mobile device integration.
Media Handling: Compatibility with paper, synthetic, and specialty stocks.
Durability: Rugged design and high duty cycles for demanding environments.
Manageability: Remote monitoring and easy firmware updates.
Total Cost of Ownership: Lower consumable and maintenance costs over the printer’s lifespan.

Recommended Next Steps

Assess Current Needs: Volume, label type, and environmental conditions.
Review Costs: Current spend on consumables, downtime, and repairs.
Compare Models: Look at modern options like the Primera printer range.
Get Expert Advice: Request a quote or Contact Us for tailored recommendations.

FAQs About Upgrading a Label Printer

What is the best printer to print labels at home?
For home or small business use, a compact thermal transfer or direct thermal printer offers professional results with minimal space and maintenance requirements.

Is it worth buying a label printer?
Yes - for businesses that print labels regularly, owning a printer reduces outsourcing costs, improves turnaround time, and gives greater control over quality.

What is the best type of label printer?
The best type depends on your needs:

Thermal Transfer: Long-lasting, durable labels.
Direct Thermal: Cost-effective, short-term labels.
Inkjet: High-quality, full-colour labels.

Is it cheaper to buy labels or print your own?
If you print high volumes or require frequent changes, printing your own labels can be more cost-effective. For small volumes, outsourcing might still be cheaper.

Is it worth upgrading an old label printer?
If maintenance costs, downtime, or compliance failures are increasing, an upgrade can quickly pay for itself in savings and efficiency.

What DPI do I need for small barcodes/text?
For small, high-density barcodes or fine print, a 300-600 DPI printer is recommended.

How do I reduce cost-per-label after upgrading?
Choose a printer optimised for your media type, buy consumables in bulk, and follow preventive maintenance schedules.

Thermal transfer vs direct thermal - which should I choose?
Thermal transfer is ideal for durable, long-life labels. Direct thermal is better for temporary labels like shipping or short-term inventory.

Upgrade for Speed, Quality & Future-Readiness

If your current label printer is slowing down your business, producing subpar results, or costing more than it should, it’s time to invest in a device built for today’s demands - and tomorrow’s opportunities.

Explore the Primera printer range, request a quote, or contact us to find your ideal upgrade.