Head-to-head · Best Label Makers

Brother P-Touch PT-H103W Handheld Label Maker vs Brother QL-800

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

Brother P-Touch PT-H103W Handheld Label Maker comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.5 vs 3.7). The gap is mostly about users seeking portable, battery-powered labeling without computer connectivity — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Label Makers

Brother P-Touch PT-H103W Handheld Label Maker

4.5

3 sourcesall derived

The Brother P-Touch PT-H103W is a handheld label maker that utilizes thermal printing without ink, relying on tape cartridges for color. It offers adjustable print size and character width settings for personalization. Reviewers noted it requires batteries for operation and lacks a power cord in the box, while its maximum tape width is limited to 12mm. This device is suited for users seeking a portable labeling solution with customizable options.

Strengths

— Uses thermal printing technology that doesn't require ink
— Supports multiple tape colors including clear, green, and white
— Print size options include large, medium, and small

Watch-outs

— Does not include power cord in the box
— Limited to 12mm tape width maximum

Buy at brother-usa.com Full review →

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 →

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 P-Touch PT-H103W Handheld Label Maker

The Brother P-Touch PT-H103W stands out from the Brother QL-800 for its portability and lack of need for computer connection, but unlike the Nelko P21, it doesn't offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity or app integration. Compared to the DYMO LetraTag 100H, it provides more tape width options and doesn't require a power cord, though it lacks the symbol insertion feature and mobile app support.

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.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Brother P-Touch PT-H103W Handheld Label Maker	Brother QL-800
Printing Method	Thermal	Direct Thermal
Tape Width	12 mm	2.4 inches
Power Source	Batteries	120V AC
Included Tapes	2 sample cartridges	2 x DK size
Weight	0.9 lb	1.15 kg
Material	Plastic	—
Print Resolution	—	up to 300 x 600 dpi
Connectivity	—	USB
Print Speed	—	up to 93 labels per minute

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