Finding the best printer for printing invoices and packing slips involves balancing speed, cost, and reliability. The Brother MFC-J1360DW stands out for its versatility and ink efficiency, making it ideal for busy offices. For those prioritizing label printing, the Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer offers wireless convenience and fast printing. However, tradeoffs include upfront costs and maintenance needs. Continue reading to see how each model stacks up for different business needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks balance speed and print quality to keep order processing efficient.
- Wireless and connectivity features are vital for streamlining warehouse workflows.
- Cost of consumables significantly impacts long-term value, especially for high-volume printing.
- All-in-one models offer versatility but may be overkill if only printing invoices or labels.
- Compact and budget-friendly options are suitable for small-scale operations or startups.
| Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer – Wireless 4×6 Label Maker with Tape for Small Business |  | Best for Small Business Shipping Labels and Efficiency | Label Width Support: 1.57″ to 4.3″ | Supported Label Sizes: 4×6, 3×2, custom | Print Speed: 72 labels/min | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, ADF, Ethernet, White |  | Best for Cost-Effective, High-Quality Document Printing | Printer Type: All-in-One | Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet | Ink System: EcoTank cartridge-free | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer – Wireless 4×6 Shipping Label Printer for Small Business & Shipping |  | Best for High-Volume, Fast Shipping Labels | Printing Speed: 72 labels per minute | Resolution: 203 DPI | Supported Label Sizes: 1.54″ to 4.1″ (including 4×6, 3×2, 3×1, 2×1) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer |  | Best Overall for Cost-Effective, High-Quality Invoices | Technology: Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology | Print Speed: Up to 10 pages per minute | Ink System: Refillable ink bottles (equivalent to about 80 cartridges) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Duplex Printing and 1.8″ Color Display |  | Best for Small Office Versatility and Duplex Efficiency | Printer Type: All-in-One Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless, USB | Display: 1.8-inch color display | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer |  | Best Budget-Friendly Choice for Basic Invoice Printing | Printer Type: All-in-One Inkjet | Connectivity: Wireless (Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz) | Color: Color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer – Wireless 4×6 Label Maker with Tape for Small Business
This wireless thermal printer stands out for its support of multiple label sizes, including 4×6, making it a versatile choice for shipping and packing slips. Compared with the Epson EcoTank ET-4800, which excels at high-quality document printing, this model prioritizes speed and specialized label printing, with up to 72 labels per minute. Its Bluetooth connectivity supports mobile printing, ideal for busy warehouses or retail environments. However, the limited color options and the need for USB support on some devices can be drawbacks. This printer is perfect for small businesses needing fast, reliable shipping labels but less suited if you want to print detailed invoices or color documents.
Pros:- Supports a wide range of label sizes and custom formats
- High-speed printing at 72 labels per minute
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity for mobile use
- Includes waterproof label paper for durability
Cons:- Mac and Chromebook support for Bluetooth are limited or unavailable
- Limited to black and white printing, not suitable for colorful invoices
Best for: Small e-commerce businesses requiring quick, high-volume shipping label printing from mobile devices.
Not ideal for: Businesses needing color or detailed invoice printing, or those with a Mac or Chromebook environment that doesn’t support Bluetooth printing well.
- Label Width Support:1.57″ to 4.3″
- Supported Label Sizes:4×6, 3×2, custom
- Print Speed:72 labels/min
- Resolution:203 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless (Bluetooth), USB
- Included Paper:25 sheets waterproof label paper
Bottom line: This printer makes the most sense for fast shipping label tasks in small, mobile, or retail settings where speed and simplicity matter most.
Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, ADF, Ethernet, White
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 excels at producing sharp, professional-quality text and vibrant images, making it a strong choice for printing invoices and packing slips that need clarity and color. Compared with the laser-focused speed of thermal label printers like the B0FN3BV3ZD, this all-in-one provides versatility, including scanning, copying, and faxing, which can streamline office workflows. However, its slower print speed and bulkier size, due to high-capacity ink tanks, make it less suited for high-volume daily invoices. Its initial setup can also take time as you fill and calibrate the tanks. Overall, this model fits well in small offices that value quality and multifunctionality over rapid throughput.
Pros:- High-quality text and color photo output
- Cost-effective with high-capacity EcoTank ink system
- Includes scanner, copier, fax, and ADF for versatile tasks
- Wireless and Ethernet for flexible setup
Cons:- Longer initial setup for ink tanks
- Bulkier design takes more space
- Slower print speeds compared to laser printers
Best for: Small business offices that prioritize high-quality printing, scanning, and multifunction capabilities over speed.
Not ideal for: High-volume shipping centers or warehouses needing rapid label printing or quick invoice generation.
- Printer Type:All-in-One
- Connectivity:Wireless, Ethernet
- Ink System:EcoTank cartridge-free
- Features:Scanner, Copier, Fax, ADF
- Color:White
Bottom line: This printer suits small offices that need high-quality, multifunction printing with an emphasis on cost efficiency rather than speed.
Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer – Wireless 4×6 Shipping Label Printer for Small Business & Shipping
This Bluetooth thermal label printer offers remarkable speed, printing up to 72 labels per minute, making it ideal for high-volume shipping tasks. When compared with the Epson EcoTank ET-4800, which emphasizes high-quality document printing, this model focuses on efficiency and space-saving design, supporting a wide range of label sizes including 4×6. Its wireless Bluetooth connectivity allows flexible setup across multiple devices, perfect for retail or warehouse environments. The limited support for larger or color labels is a tradeoff, but for straightforward shipping label needs, this printer excels. It’s less suited for printing detailed invoices or colorful packing slips, but for shipping labels, it’s hard to beat.
Pros:- Very high printing speed up to 72 labels per minute
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity for mobile printing
- Supports a wide range of label sizes and formats
- Compact and space-efficient design
Cons:- Setup requires app or driver configuration
- Limited to label printing, not suitable for detailed documents or invoices
- Bluetooth pairing can occasionally be inconsistent
Best for: High-volume shipping operations requiring fast, reliable, and space-efficient label printing from mobile devices.
Not ideal for: Offices needing detailed invoice or packing slip printing, especially with color or complex formatting.
- Printing Speed:72 labels per minute
- Resolution:203 DPI
- Supported Label Sizes:1.54″ to 4.1″ (including 4×6, 3×2, 3×1, 2×1)
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, USB
- Compatibility:iOS 13+, Android, Windows 7+, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS
- Dimensions:Compact design
Bottom line: This printer is perfect for fast, high-volume shipping label tasks in environments where speed and space matter most.
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 stands out for its exceptional savings on ink with refillable bottles that last up to 2 years, making it ideal for printing frequent invoices and packing slips without ongoing cartridge costs. Its vivid color output ensures professional-looking documents, and wireless connectivity adds convenience for multi-device setups. Compared to the Canon PIXMA TS4320, it offers more economical ink solutions but at the expense of a slower print speed of 10 pages per minute, which might be a drawback for high-volume environments. This model is best suited for small businesses or home offices prioritizing long-term savings over rapid printing. However, for those needing faster throughput or advanced office features, this could feel limiting.
Pros:- Cost-effective with refillable ink bottles lasting up to 2 years
- Vivid, professional color printing quality
- Wireless connectivity facilitates printing from multiple devices
- Eco-friendly with zero cartridge waste
Cons:- Initial setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users
- Limited to 10 pages per minute, slower for bulk printing
Best for: Small business owners or home users who prioritize low running costs and high-quality output for invoices and packing slips
Not ideal for: High-volume offices needing rapid printing or multi-function capabilities beyond basic document printing
- Technology:Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology
- Print Speed:Up to 10 pages per minute
- Ink System:Refillable ink bottles (equivalent to about 80 cartridges)
- Ink Capacity:Up to 2 years of ink in the box
- Connectivity:Wireless
- Functions:Print, Scan, Copy
Bottom line: This printer is ideal for budget-conscious small businesses that emphasize long-term savings and decent print quality for invoices.
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer with Duplex Printing and 1.8″ Color Display
The Brother MFC-J1360DW offers a compelling balance of versatility and cost-efficiency, with automatic duplex printing and a 20-sheet feeder making it suitable for printing invoices and packing slips in busy small offices. Its wireless and USB options provide flexible connectivity, similar to the Canon PIXMA TS4320, but with faster black-and-white output at 16 pages per minute, which benefits office workflows. Its 1.8-inch display is less spacious than some rivals, but still functional for quick setup and adjustments. Compared to the Epson EcoTank ET-2800, it lacks the same long-term ink savings but compensates with faster printing speeds and a more traditional office feature set. This model suits small teams that need reliable, multi-purpose printing without sacrificing speed or convenience.
Pros:- Automatic duplex printing saves paper and reduces costs
- Wireless and USB connectivity options provide flexibility
- Fast black-and-white printing at 16 ppm
- Integrated cloud app support simplifies document management
Cons:- Print speeds in color are relatively slow at 9 ppm
- Small display can be less intuitive for complex tasks
- Limited to 150-sheet paper capacity for high-volume needs
Best for: Small offices or busy home-based workspaces needing duplex printing and flexible connectivity
Not ideal for: Users who prioritize ultra-low operating costs or require very high-volume printing with minimal intervention
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB
- Display:1.8-inch color display
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Automatic Document Feeder:20-sheet
- Print Speed:Up to 16 ppm black, 9 ppm color
Bottom line: This printer fits small offices needing reliable, duplex-capable printing with decent speed and connectivity options.
Canon PIXMA TS4320 Wireless Color Inkjet Printer
The Canon PIXMA TS4320 makes a strong case for those seeking an affordable, compact printer for printing invoices and packing slips in a home or hybrid workspace. While its slower print speed—around 8.5 pages per minute—compared to the Brother or Epson models, it compensates with easy setup, mobile printing support, and reliable wireless connectivity. Its 2-cartridge hybrid ink system provides good color quality for professional-looking documents but may lack the durability required for high-volume or high-precision needs. Compared to the Epson EcoTank ET-2800, it doesn’t match long-term savings but is more accessible for casual users or those with lower print volumes. This printer is best suited for individuals or small teams with moderate printing needs and a tight budget.
Pros:- Affordable price point for budget-conscious buyers
- Easy setup with mobile and cloud printing options
- Compact and lightweight design fits small spaces
- Reliable wireless connection for multiple devices
Cons:- Slower print speed at about 8.5 ppm
- Limited to 8.5” x 11” media size, not suitable for larger documents
- Basic features lack advanced office functionalities
Best for: Home users or small teams needing an affordable, straightforward printer for invoices and packing slips
Not ideal for: High-volume environments or users needing advanced office features and faster throughput
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Connectivity:Wireless (Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz)
- Color:Color
- Media Size:Up to 8.5” x 11”
- Automatic Duplex Printing:Yes
- Cartridge System:2-cartridge hybrid ink
- Warranty:1 Year Limited
Bottom line: This printer suits home users or small-scale operations prioritizing affordability and decent quality for invoice printing.
How We Picked
We evaluated printers based on performance, print quality, connectivity options, cost of operation, and ease of use. Priority was given to models that handle high-volume printing reliably, with minimal downtime. We also considered user-friendly features for small business owners and the overall value for the price. Each product was ranked according to how well it meets the specific demands of printing invoices and packing slips, balancing upfront costs against ongoing expenses and maintenance needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Printer For Printing Invoices And Packing Slips
Choosing the right printer for invoices and packing slips requires considering several factors beyond basic features. Speed and print volume are critical for keeping up with order demands, so look for models designed for high-volume output. Connectivity options like wireless, Ethernet, or Bluetooth can streamline your workflow by reducing setup time and enabling mobile printing. Cost per page and consumables availability impact long-term expenses, especially if you print frequently. Also, consider whether you need multi-function capabilities like scanning and copying, which add versatility but may increase complexity and price. Lastly, size and setup ease matter if space is limited or you need a quick installation process.Print Speed and Volume
For printing invoices and packing slips efficiently, a high print speed is essential to keep up with order processing times. Look for models rated for high monthly duty cycles, which indicate durability under heavy use. Avoid printers with slow output or frequent jams, as these can delay shipments and increase frustration. Balance speed with print quality to ensure legible, professional documents, especially if you include barcodes or small text on your slips.
Connectivity Options
Wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, can greatly simplify printing from multiple devices and locations within your business. Ethernet options might be necessary for larger setups where network stability is critical. Consider whether your existing setup supports these options and how easily the printer integrates. Wireless models reduce clutter and setup time, but ensure they have reliable connections to prevent printing errors or delays.
Operational Costs
Cost per page and the availability of affordable consumables are key factors for long-term value. Inkjet printers often have lower initial costs but higher ongoing expenses due to ink cartridges, which can be costly if printing in large volumes. Thermal label printers eliminate ink altogether, offering a cost-efficient solution for shipping labels but are limited in function. Evaluate your expected printing volume to choose the most economical option, avoiding surprise expenses down the line.
Multi-Function Capabilities
If you need to scan or copy invoices or packing slips occasionally, a multi-function printer can save space and money. However, these models tend to be more complex and may have higher initial prices. For strictly printing needs, a dedicated printer may be more straightforward and reliable, reducing potential points of failure. Consider your workflow and whether multifunctionality enhances or complicates your setup.
Size and Ease of Setup
Compact printers are advantageous for small offices with limited space, but they may sacrifice speed or capacity. Ease of setup and user interface are also important, especially if you’re not technically inclined. Wireless models that support mobile printing apps can save setup time and simplify daily operations. Ensure the physical dimensions fit your workspace and that the printer is easy to maintain or troubleshoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular inkjet printer for printing invoices and packing slips?
Yes, you can, but regular inkjet printers may not be ideal for high-volume printing, as they tend to be slower and have higher ongoing ink costs. They also require more maintenance and are more prone to jams with continuous use. For a business printing dozens or hundreds of slips daily, dedicated thermal label printers or high-capacity laser printers are usually more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.
What is the most cost-effective way to print shipping labels and packing slips?
Thermal label printers are generally the most cost-effective for shipping labels because they eliminate the need for ink or toner, reducing ongoing expenses. For packing slips, laser printers tend to offer a good balance of speed, print quality, and cost per page. Combining a thermal label printer for labels and a laser printer for slips can optimize costs and efficiency for high-volume operations.
Do I need a color printer for printing invoices and packing slips?
Color printing can enhance the professional appearance of invoices and packing slips, especially if you include branding elements or color-coded information. However, color inkjet or laser printers come with higher initial costs and ongoing ink expenses. For many small businesses, black-and-white printing suffices, saving money and maintaining clarity, unless color is essential for your branding or specific details.
How important is print speed for my invoice and packing slip printer?
Print speed is significant if your business processes a large volume of orders daily. Faster printers reduce wait times and keep your workflow moving smoothly, preventing delays in shipping. However, if your volume is moderate, a slightly slower but more economical model may meet your needs without overinvesting. Balance speed with durability and running costs to find the best fit for your operation.
Should I prioritize wireless connectivity or wired connections?
Wireless connectivity offers greater flexibility, especially if your workspace is dynamic or space-constrained. It allows printing from multiple devices without physical connections, streamlining your workflow. Wired connections, like Ethernet or USB, tend to be more stable and less prone to interference, which can be beneficial in high-volume or critical shipping environments. Choose based on your setup’s reliability needs and workspace layout.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for most small to medium-sized businesses remains the Brother MFC-J1360DW thanks to its combination of speed, versatility, and cost efficiency. For those prioritizing shipping labels, the Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label Printer offers quick, wireless label printing with minimal fuss. Beginners or businesses with low volumes might prefer the compact and affordable Canon PIXMA TS4320. For high-volume, professional needs, the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 provides a reliable all-in-one solution, while those seeking premium quality could consider dedicated label printers or multifunction models with advanced features. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific printing volume, budget, and workflow requirements.
