12 January, 2025

A handy, but pricey label printer for small businesses

 

Review: Brother QL-1110NWBc Label Printer – The Small Business Powerhouse

Running a small business often means juggling multiple tasks, and shipping logistics can easily consume a big chunk of time. Enter the Brother QL-1110NWBc, a label printer designed to make the process seamless, efficient, and customizable. With its versatility, robust connectivity options, and programmability, this printer could be a game-changer for small businesses looking to optimize their shipping workflows. Here’s an in-depth review of what makes the QL-1110NWBc a standout option for printing shipping labels.

We already possess the smaller Brother QL-810W for general label printing. This has been very reliable, but it can't produce the 4 x 5 inch label format in common usage by shipping/courier companies. We decided to buy QL-1110NWBc to handle the larger label format for our shipping needs. Upto now we have had to cut out the label from an A4 sheet and then find a way to adhere the label to the outgoing parcel.


Key Features

1. Exceptional Connectivity Options

The Brother QL-1110NWBc supports a variety of connectivity options, making it incredibly adaptable to different business setups. Whether you work from a desktop, tablet, or smartphone, this printer has you covered. It features:

  • USB: A straightforward plug-and-play option for those who prefer wired setups.
  • Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct: Wireless printing ensures flexibility, allowing you to print from multiple devices without being tethered to the printer.
  • Ethernet: Perfect for shared office environments, letting multiple users access the printer without needing a direct connection.
  • Bluetooth: An excellent option for mobile printing, particularly when paired with the Brother iPrint&Label app for quick and easy label creation.

This broad range of connectivity ensures that no matter your tech ecosystem, integrating the QL-1110NWBc into your workflow is hassle-free.


2. Programmability for Specialist Applications

One of the standout features of the QL-1110NWBc is its programmability. This makes it a fantastic choice for businesses that require specialized or automated labeling tasks. The printer supports:

  • SDK Integration: Brother provides Software Development Kits (SDKs) for Windows, iOS, and Android, allowing developers to create tailored label-printing solutions. This is ideal for businesses using custom inventory or logistics management systems.
  • Custom Templates: Using Brother's P-touch Editor software, you can design and save templates directly to the printer. This ensures consistency in branding and label layouts while saving time during high-volume printing tasks.
  • ZPL II Compatibility: The printer can emulate Zebra Programming Language, making it easier to integrate with existing systems that rely on Zebra label printers.

These programmability options make the QL-1110NWBc suitable not only for standard shipping labels but also for niche applications like barcode printing, product labeling, and warehouse inventory management.


Performance

The QL-1110NWBc boasts excellent print quality and speed, critical factors for any label printer. It supports labels up to 4 inches wide—perfect for large shipping labels required by major couriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS. The printing speed, rated at 69 standard address labels per minute, ensures you can process orders efficiently, even during peak times.

The thermal printing technology eliminates the need for ink or toner, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring crisp, smudge-free prints. Additionally, the automatic cutter provides a professional finish and minimizes label waste.


Ease of Use

Despite its advanced features, the QL-1110NWBc remains user-friendly. The setup process is straightforward, and the iPrint&Label app provides intuitive options for creating and printing labels directly from your smartphone. The ability to integrate with platforms like Microsoft Office and popular e-commerce tools further simplifies label creation for small businesses.

For those with more complex needs, the Brother P-touch Editor software offers a wealth of customization options. You can easily add logos, barcodes, and QR codes, ensuring your labels meet both branding and regulatory requirements.

Brother provide a free software package (P-Touch Editor) to aid the design of labels for its range of label machines. This is easy to use, and has powerful capabilities.


Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of connectivity options (USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth)
  • High-quality, fast printing
  • Supports labels up to 4 inches wide
  • Programmability for custom and automated solutions
  • Ink-free thermal printing reduces costs
  • Easy integration with e-commerce platforms and custom systems

Cons:

  • Premium price point compared to basic label printers
  • Advanced features may have a learning curve for non-technical users
  • The Brother labels are good, but expensive. There are cheaper compatible labels, but they may not be as good as the genuine article.

Verdict

The Brother QL-1110NWBc is more than just a label printer—it's a productivity tool for small businesses aiming to streamline shipping and labeling processes. Its robust connectivity, speed, and programmability set it apart as a top-tier solution for businesses with both standard and specialized needs.

While its advanced features may feel overwhelming initially, the time saved and efficiency gained make it a worthwhile investment for growing businesses. If you’re looking for a versatile, reliable, and customizable label printer, the Brother QL-1110NWBc is hard to beat.


Who is it for?
Small to medium-sized businesses that require high-quality, customizable label printing with extensive connectivity and integration options.

Final Rating: 9/10
A feature-rich and reliable choice that justifies its cost for businesses serious about optimizing their shipping operations.

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