Zebra ZD220 Label Printer (Direct Thermal)

Zebra ZD220 (Direct Thermal) is a budget-friendly, reliable desktop label printer for businesses needing simple, everyday labeling, offering 203 dpi resolution, speeds up to 4 ips, and USB connectivity, ideal for shipping, retail, and inventory with its hassle-free direct thermal printing (no ink/toner needed) and easy operation. It’s part of the affordable ZD200 series, built with solid construction for low-to-medium volume tasks, and uses Print DNA Basic software for basic functionality, featuring easy setup with a single LED and feed button.

Key Features & Specifications

Feature	Specification
Print Method	Direct Thermal
Resolution	203 dpi (8 dots per mm)
Print Speed	Up to 4 inches (102 mm) per second
Maximum Print Width	4.09 inches (104 mm)
Media Types	Roll-fed, fan-fold, die-cut, continuous labels, tag stock, and wristbands
Connectivity	USB 2.0 (standard); some models may offer optional Bluetooth/NFC connectivity
Memory	128 MB Flash; 128 MB SDRAM
Construction	Dual-wall frame construction for durability
Operating System	Link-OS Basic

Expert and User Reviews

Based on expert and user reviews, the Zebra ZD220 has several advantages and limitations:

Pros

• Budget-friendly: It is one of the most affordable Zebra printers available, offering good value for the price.
• Simple Operation: Features a single LED indicator and one feed/pause button, making it beginner-friendly and easy to operate with minimal training.
• Compact Size: Its small footprint fits easily into various work environments, such as small offices, retail, or healthcare settings.
• Durable: Engineered with Zebra’s quality and a dual-wall frame construction, it is built to last longer than many other value-class printers.
• Low Maintenance: As a direct thermal printer, it eliminates the need for ribbons, simplifying upkeep to just loading new labels.

Cons

• Direct Thermal Only: The labels may fade over time if exposed to heat, light, or chemicals. For longer-lasting labels, a thermal transfer printer (like the ZD220t model) is a better option.
• Limited Connectivity on Base Models: The standard model typically only offers USB connectivity, with wireless/Ethernet requiring add-ons or a different model.
• Not for High-Volume Industrial Use: It is designed for low to medium-volume printing and is not as fast or robust as higher-end industrial models like the Zebra ZT220.
• Basic Features: Lacks advanced features such as an expandable memory or RFID options found in more advanced models.

Popular brands we offer

• Brother: Known for P-Touch (PT-D200, PT-E110VP) for office/home and QL series (QL-800) for fast, versatile printing.
• Zebra: Dominant in industrial and barcode printing with models like the GK420t (desktop) and ZT411 (industrial).
• Bixolon: Strong in point-of-sale (POS) and retail with models like SLP-DX220 and XD3/XD5 series.

Where to buy

Buy the Brother QL-820NWB label printer online in Kenya from Tdk Solutions Limited, the trusted Brother label printer Kenya store in Nairobi CBD, where we offer same-day delivery on available in-house stock and provide discounts on compatible sticker labels and rolls