Head-to-head · Best Label Makers

Brother QL-800 vs Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.5 vs 3.7). The gap is mostly about portable users who want wireless convenience and app features — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #6 in Best Label Makers

Brother QL-800

3.7

3 sources2 derived$125as of Sep 27

The Brother QL-800 is a professional label printer designed for home and office use, featuring black and red printing capabilities that enhance label visibility. PCMag reviewers noted its compact design and included starter label rolls, though they criticized the lack of Wi-Fi connectivity and the requirement for a computer connection to operate. The device does not support mobile app functionality, limiting its convenience for users seeking wireless options. This printer is best suited for users who prefer traditional wired operation and don't require wireless connectivity.

Strengths

— Prints in black and red for enhanced label visibility
— Includes two starter label rolls (DK size)
— Compact design suitable for home or office use

Watch-outs

— Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, per PCMag
— Requires computer connection for operation
— Does not support mobile app functionality

$125 · Buy at brother-usa.com Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Label Makers

Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker

4.5

3 sourcesall derived$28as of Sep 27

The Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker from TechWalls is praised for its compact, pocket-friendly design and wireless Bluetooth connectivity that enables effortless printing without cables. Reviewers highlight its BPA-free direct thermal technology as cost-effective and environmentally friendly, eliminating the need for expensive ink or toner. The device's rechargeable battery and app integration with over 90 fonts, 10 languages, and 400 frames offer significant customization options. While the label sizes are limited to specific dimensions, the device's portability and ease of use make it ideal for home organizers and businesses seeking mobile labeling solutions.

Strengths

— Compact and portable design that fits in your pocket
— Wireless Bluetooth connectivity eliminates tangled cords
— BPA-free direct thermal technology eliminates need for ink or toner

Watch-outs

— Limited label sizes available (15x30mm, 15x40mm, 15x50mm, or longer)
— Requires app for full customization features

$28 · Buy at nelko.com Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Brother QL-800

The Brother QL-800 is more limited than the Epson LW-PX800 in terms of connectivity options, lacking Wi-Fi and LAN support, while the Epson offers faster print speeds and a built-in cutter. Unlike the Nelko P21, it doesn't feature wireless Bluetooth, but it does provide a more traditional wired operation that some users prefer over mobile apps.

Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker

The Nelko P21 Label Maker is more portable and wireless than the Brother P-Touch PT-H103W, offering Bluetooth connectivity and app integration, but it lacks the adjustable character width and multiple tape colors that the Brother model provides. Compared to the DYMO LetraTag 100H, it offers app-based customization and QR code support, though the DYMO provides more symbol options and doesn't require an app.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Brother QL-800	Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker
Printing Method	Direct Thermal	Direct Thermal
Print Resolution	up to 300 x 600 dpi	203 dpi
Tape Width	2.4 inches	—
Connectivity	USB	Bluetooth
Included Tapes	2 x DK size	1 × Label Roll (14 × 40 mm)
Print Speed	up to 93 labels per minute	20 mm/s
Weight	1.15 kg	—
Power Source	120V AC	Rechargeable

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