Zebra Technologies Zebra ZD220 / ZD220d Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How alternatives compare to ZD220

Arkscan 4x6 Direct Thermal Wi-Fi Label Printer

The Arkscan 4x6 printer adds Wi-Fi capability, allowing you to print directly from iOS devices without cables. This wireless convenience suits mobile users who need to generate shipping labels on the go. It uses direct thermal technology like the ZD220, so you still avoid ink or toner costs. However, it lacks the broad desktop integration found in the ZD220’s USB setup. The unit is slightly larger, measuring 6.75 inches wide. You should pick this if you prioritize wireless printing from Apple platforms over the simple, plug-and-play reliability of a wired USB connection for fixed workstations.

DYMO LabelWriter Direct Thermal Label Printer

The DYMO LabelWriter 450 Turbo focuses on fast office labeling for addresses and files. It uses direct thermal printing to eliminate toner needs, similar to the ZD220. This model is designed for high-volume tasks in standard office environments. It does not list specific connectivity options in its attributes, implying a focus on desktop software integration rather than network flexibility. The device is compact, measuring 5.94 inches wide. You should choose this alternative if your primary need is rapid, ink-free labeling for mailings and file organization. It is less suitable if you require specific barcode scanning integration or wireless connectivity options.

Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal Label Printer

The Zebra ZD421 offers greater durability for demanding retail or logistics environments. It maintains the direct thermal technology, ensuring no ink or toner is required. Connectivity remains USB-based, providing reliable plug-and-play operation for fixed workstations. The unit is significantly larger, weighing 5.6 pounds and measuring 9.75 inches wide. This increased size supports continuous operation in high-volume settings. You should select this model if you need a more robust build than the ZD220 provides. It is ideal for users who prioritize industrial durability and steady USB performance over the compact, lightweight design of the ZD220 for smaller office tasks.

DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo Direct Thermal Printer

The DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo includes LAN connectivity, allowing it to serve shared office workstations. It uses direct thermal printing, so you avoid ongoing ink or toner expenses. The unit features automated roll recognition, which streamlines media loading for multiple users. It measures 5 inches wide and weighs 2 pounds. This network capability is a key difference from the ZD220’s single USB connection. You should pick this printer if your office requires label printing across multiple computers. It is better suited for collaborative environments where several staff members need to access the printer simultaneously without switching USB cables.

Zebra ZD621 Direct Thermal Label Printer

The Zebra ZD621 provides both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity for network-integrated label printing. It uses direct thermal technology, eliminating the need for ink or toner. This model supports 4x6 label printing with high-speed output. It weighs 6.5 pounds and measures 3.6 inches wide. The inclusion of Ethernet allows it to connect directly to your office network, offering more flexibility than the ZD220’s USB-only setup. You should choose this alternative if you need wireless or wired network access for label generation. It is ideal for teams that value network flexibility and centralized printing management over the simple, standalone USB operation of the ZD220.

DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo USB Label Printer

The DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo USB focuses on shared network address and badge printing. It uses direct thermal technology, so you do not need to buy ink or toner. The unit features automated media tracking for reliable operation. It measures 8.5 inches wide and weighs 1.41 pounds. While it lists USB connectivity, its primary strength is serving shared network environments for regular mailings. This makes it a strong option for offices handling frequent badge or address label production. You should pick this model if your workflow involves high-volume, standardized labeling tasks. It offers specialized features for office mailings that the general-purpose ZD220 may not optimize as effectively.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Zebra ZD220 Direct Thermal Label Printer

Best for: Small offices needing simple, reliable label printing

Print Technology

Direct thermal

Print Speed

Up to 6 inches per second

Connectivity

USB

Ink/Toner System

No ink, toner, or ribbons

View on Amazon: Zebra ZD220 Direct Thermal Label Printer Affiliate link

The Zebra ZD220 is a direct thermal printer designed for high-volume label production without ink or toner. It prints at speeds up to 6 inches per second via USB connectivity. Its compact desktop design saves workspace while supporting drop-in label rolls for minimal downtime. This model suits users needing reliable, maintenance-free barcode and shipping label output in a small footprint.

Pros

• Direct thermal technology eliminates ink, toner, or ribbon costs
• Print speeds reach up to 6 inches per second
• USB plug-and-play installation for Windows and Mac
• Compact desktop design saves valuable workspace

Cons

• Limited to USB connectivity without Wi-Fi or Ethernet
• No ink or toner system reduces long-term consumable flexibility
• Basic feature set lacks advanced network management options

Good fit if

• You need a compact printer for small office spaces
• You want to avoid ongoing ink or toner expenses
• You print high volumes of barcode or shipping labels

Skip if

• You require wireless printing from multiple devices
• You need high-resolution graphics beyond standard barcodes
• You prefer printers with built-in Ethernet ports

Verdict: Zebra ZD220 Direct Thermal Printer is a practical choice for small teams needing reliable, low-maintenance label printing. It fits users who prioritize simplicity and cost savings over network flexibility.

2 Also great

Arkscan 4x6 Direct Thermal Wi-Fi Label Printer

Best for: iOS users printing shipping labels wirelessly

Print Technology

Direct Thermal

Supported Functions

Print

Print Speed

5 inches per second

Connectivity

USB, WiFi

Ink/Toner System

Direct Thermal (No ink/toner)

Dimensions

8.5 × 6.75 × 5.75 inches

View on Amazon: Arkscan 4x6 Direct Thermal Wi-Fi Label Printer Affiliate link

The Arkscan 2054K-WF is a direct thermal shipping label printer with USB and WiFi connectivity. It prints at 5 inches per second and handles labels from 0.75 to 4.25 inches wide. The device supports roll and fanfold paper. It works with Windows, Mac, Chromebook, and Android via USB, and iOS via WiFi. It includes BarTender UltraLite software for label design.

Pros

• Prints at 5 inches per second
• Supports USB and WiFi connections
• Handles labels up to 4.25 inches wide
• Compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Chromebook

Cons

• Includes BarTender UltraLite software only for Windows
• WiFi connection limited to iOS and Android devices
• No LAN or Ethernet port mentioned in specifications

Good fit if

• You need to print shipping labels from an iPhone or iPad
• You require a compact printer for small spaces
• You print labels on both roll and fanfold paper

Skip if

• You need to print from a Windows PC over WiFi
• You require a LAN connection for network sharing
• You need cross-platform label design software

Verdict: Arkscan 2054K-WF WiFi Direct Thermal Printer offers a practical solution for mobile users who need to print labels from iOS devices without cables. It suits small businesses prioritizing wireless convenience on Apple platforms over broad desktop integration.

3 Best office

DYMO LabelWriter Direct Thermal Label Printer

Best for: fast office address and file labeling

Print Technology

Direct Thermal

Print Speed

71 labels per minute

Ink/Toner System

Direct Thermal, no ink or toner

Use Case

Office, Home

Dimensions

10.9 × 5.94 × 6 inches

View on Amazon: DYMO LabelWriter Direct Thermal Label Printer Affiliate link

The DYMO LabelWriter 450 Turbo is a direct thermal label printer designed for office and home use. It prints up to 71 labels per minute, handling address, shipping, and file folder labels. The device uses no ink or toner, eliminating ongoing supply costs. Measuring 10.9 by 5.94 by 6 inches, it fits on standard desks. You can create labels directly from Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Google Contacts.

Pros

• Prints up to 71 labels per minute
• Direct thermal technology requires no ink or toner
• Integrates with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Google Contacts
• Compact footprint at 10.9 inches long

Cons

• Direct thermal labels fade over time and with heat exposure
• Requires proprietary DYMO labels for best performance
• Limited to label printing rather than general document output

Good fit if

• You need to print address or file folder labels quickly
• You want to avoid buying ink or toner cartridges
• You work primarily with Microsoft Office or Google Contacts

Skip if

• You need to print on standard paper documents
• You require permanent labels for outdoor or harsh environments
• You want to use third-party generic label rolls

Verdict: DYMO LabelWriter 450 Turbo delivers fast, ink-free labeling for office tasks. It suits users who print high volumes of address or file labels from standard office software.

4 Also great

Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal Label Printer

Best for: fixed USB workstations in retail or logistics

Connectivity

Bluetooth, USB

Print Technology

Direct Thermal

Scanner Type

Receipt

Dimensions

12.3 × 9.75 × 9.5 inches

Weight

5.6 pounds

View on Amazon: Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal Label Printer Affiliate link

The Zebra ZD421 is a direct thermal printer designed for shipping labels and barcodes. It prints at 203 DPI with a speed of 6 inches per second. The unit measures 12.3 by 9.75 by 9.5 inches and weighs 5.6 pounds. It connects via USB and supports Windows, Android, and iOS devices. This model suits users who need reliable, ink-free printing for retail or logistics tasks without requiring complex wireless setups.

Pros

• Direct thermal technology eliminates the need for ink or toner.
• Prints shipping labels and barcodes at 203 DPI resolution.
• Speed reaches 6 inches per second for efficient output.
• Compatible with Windows, Android, and iOS operating systems.
• Includes NFC Print Touch tag for simple device pairing.

Cons

• Only includes USB connectivity; no built-in Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
• Resolution is limited to 203 DPI, not 300 DPI.
• Physical footprint is larger than compact desktop alternatives.

Good fit if

• You need a reliable USB-connected printer for a fixed workstation.
• You print shipping labels or barcodes on a regular basis.
• You want to avoid the cost and hassle of ink supplies.

Skip if

• You require wireless Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity out of the box.
• You need high-resolution 300 DPI printing for detailed graphics.
• You are looking for a compact printer to save desk space.

Verdict: Zebra ZD421 Direct Thermal Printer is a solid choice for users who prioritize durability and USB reliability over wireless flexibility. It fits well in fixed retail or logistics stations where ink-free operation is essential.

5 Best budget

DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo Direct Thermal Printer

Best for: shared office network label printing

Print Technology

Direct thermal

Connectivity

USB, LAN

Dimensions

7.4 × 5 × 5.4 inches

Weight

2 pounds

View on Amazon: DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo Direct Thermal Printer Affiliate link

This direct thermal label printer connects to your setup using USB or LAN. It handles shipping labels, barcodes, file folders, and name badges without ink or toner. Built-in automatic label recognition identifies label size, type, and remaining count. At two pounds and 7.4 inches long, it suits shared offices needing network label printing.

Pros

• Direct thermal mechanism requires no ink or toner
• Automatic label recognition tracks type, size, and remaining count
• Includes both USB and LAN network ports
• Compact footprint measuring 5 by 7.4 inches and weighing 2 pounds

Cons

• Only offers wired connection options via USB and LAN
• Direct thermal technology limits output to monochrome printing

Good fit if

• You need to share a label printer across a local network using LAN.
• You want automatic tracking of remaining label counts and sizes.
• You print standard shipping labels, barcodes, and name badges.

Skip if

• You need color label printing.
• You require wireless connectivity options.

Verdict: DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo Direct Thermal Printer fits shared office workstations needing networked label production without ink or toner. Its automated roll recognition and LAN connectivity streamline multi-user label tasks.

6 Best premium

Zebra ZD621 Direct Thermal Label Printer

Best for: network-integrated 4x6 label printing

Connectivity

Bluetooth, Ethernet, USB, Serial

Print Technology

Direct Thermal

Scanner Type

Receipt

Dimensions

8.7 × 3.6 × 7 inches

Weight

6.5 pounds

View on Amazon: Zebra ZD621 Direct Thermal Label Printer Affiliate link

The Zebra ZD621 is a direct thermal printer built for high-volume shipping labels. It prints at 8 ips with 203 DPI resolution, requiring no ink or toner. Connectivity options include Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi, and NFC for flexible integration. Its compact footprint measures 8.7 by 3.6 by 7 inches and weighs 6.5 pounds. This model suits businesses needing reliable wired or wireless connections for daily label output.

Pros

• Prints at 8 ips for fast throughput
• Supports Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity
• No ink or toner required for direct thermal printing
• Includes NFC Print Touch for easy pairing

Cons

• Only 203 DPI resolution limits fine detail
• Maximum print width is 4.1 inches
• Weighs 6.5 pounds, making it less portable

Good fit if

• You need Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity for network integration
• You print 4x6 shipping labels daily at high volume
• You want a direct thermal system with no consumables

Skip if

• You require 300 DPI resolution for high-detail barcodes
• You need thermal transfer capability for long-lasting labels
• You prioritize a compact footprint under 5 pounds

Verdict: Zebra ZD621 Direct Thermal Printer is a solid choice for offices needing Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity for 4x6 label printing. It fits teams that value network flexibility and high-speed output over maximum print resolution.

7 Best monochrome

DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo USB Label Printer

Best for: Shared network address and badge printing

Print Output

Monochrome

Connectivity

USB, LAN

Print Technology

Direct Thermal

Dimensions

7.38 × 8.5 × 5.33 inches

Weight

1.41 pounds

View on Amazon: DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo USB Label Printer Affiliate link

The DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo is a monochrome direct thermal printer built for your desktop mailing, filing, and visitor badges. You get print speeds up to 90 address labels per minute over USB and shared LAN connectivity. Automatic recognition identifies label stock and count. It suits you if your office needs fast, networked monochrome label output without ink or toner.

Pros

• Prints up to 90 labels per minute for 4-line address labels over USB
• Automatic label recognition detects size, type, and remaining count
• Ethernet LAN and USB connectivity for shared multi-user access
• Direct thermal printing eliminates ink and toner cartridges

Cons

• Compatible only with official DYMO-branded labels
• Software requires desktop systems running Windows 8.1 or Mac 10.14 or later

Good fit if

• You need a shared label maker accessible across an office LAN network.
• You want automatic tracking of loaded label size and remaining stock.
• You print standard address labels at speeds up to 90 labels per minute.

Skip if

• You plan to use third-party, non-DYMO branded label rolls.
• You operate computers running systems older than Windows 8.1 or Mac 10.14.

Verdict: DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo LAN Label Printer is built for offices that need fast, shared network labeling with automated media tracking. It reliably serves workstations handling regular mailings and badges using authentic DYMO direct thermal media.

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