Zebra GK420t Label Printer (Direct Thermal)
Zebra GK420t is a versatile, compact desktop label printer known for offering both Direct Thermal & Thermal Transfer printing, meaning it can print without a ribbon (DT) for simple labels or with a ribbon (TT) for durable, long-lasting prints, ideal for shipping, retail, healthcare, and logistics. It features a fast 5 ips (inches/sec) speed, 203 dpi resolution for sharp text/barcodes, easy media loading (OpenACCESS), and standard connectivity (USB, Serial, Parallel/Ethernet). It’s a popular, reliable choice for low-to-medium volume printing needs, supporting standard Zebra languages (EPL/ZPL) for easy integration.
How it Works (Direct Thermal vs. Thermal Transfer):
- Direct Thermal (DT): Uses special heat-sensitive media (labels/receipts) and no ribbon, making it great for short-term labels like shipping labels.
- Thermal Transfer (TT): Uses a ribbon (wax, resin, or wax/resin) and standard label stock, creating durable, smudge-proof, and long-lasting prints for barcodes and product identification.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Print Technology | Direct Thermal & Thermal Transfer |
| Resolution | 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) |
| Print Speed | Up to 5 inches (127 mm) per second |
| Maximum Print Width | 4.09 inches (104 mm) |
| Maximum Print Length | Up to 39 inches (991 mm) |
| Memory | 8 MB SDRAM, 4 MB Flash |
| Connectivity | USB, Serial, Centronics Parallel (optional Ethernet available) |
| Programming Languages | EPL2 and ZPL II (standard) |
| Media Loading | OpenACCESS™ clamshell design for easy loading |
| Durability | Double-walled ABS case construction |
Expert and User Reviews
- Ease of Use: Reviewers generally find the printer easy to set up and use, with a simple media and ribbon loading system that minimizes downtime. Some users noted that the initial software/driver installation could be slightly tricky, especially for Mac users, but functional drivers are available.
- Performance: The GK420t is described as fast and time-saving, making it ideal for shipping labels, address labels, and barcode tags. Users report consistent, sharp, and clear print quality for text, barcodes, and graphics at 203 dpi resolution.
- Reliability & Durability: The printer is built with a durable, double-walled construction for frequent, everyday use in demanding applications like retail, healthcare, and logistics. Many users find it to be a very reliable product and a good value for the money.
- Versatility: The ability to use both thermal transfer (for long-lasting labels with a ribbon) and direct thermal (for short-term use without a ribbon, such as shipping labels) offers flexibility for various business needs.
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




