Head-to-head · Best Label Makers

Epson LW-PX800 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

Epson LW-PX800 and Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker score essentially the same (4.5 vs 4.5). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Ranked #2 in Best Label Makers

Epson LW-PX800

4.5

4 sources1 derived$399as of Sep 27

The Epson LabelWorks LW-PX800 is designed for users needing versatile labeling capabilities on tapes up to 1.5 inches wide. PCMag's review highlighted its built-in automatic full cutter and half cut option, along with support for multiple connection methods including USB, Wi-Fi, and wired LAN. While it offers solid performance for general labeling tasks, the LW-PX800 trails the LW-Z5000PX in print speed and resolution, and lacks the optional tape rewinder feature that some industrial users may require.

Strengths

— Prints on Epson PX tapes up to 1.5 inches wide
— Built-in automatic full cutter with half cut option
— Prints at up to 35 mm per second

Watch-outs

— No optional tape rewinder feature
— Automatic power off after 8 hours of inactivity

$399 · Buy at labelworks.epson.com Full review →

Ranked #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

Epson LW-PX800

The Epson LW-PX800 offers superior connectivity with Wi-Fi and LAN support compared to the Brother QL-800, but it lacks the optional tape rewinder feature that some industrial users may require. It also trails the Nelko P21 in terms of portability and app integration, though it provides faster print speeds and a built-in cutter.

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	Epson LW-PX800	Nelko P21 Portable Label Maker
Printing Method	Thermal Transfer	Direct Thermal
Print Resolution	360 DPI	203 dpi
Tape Width	1.5 in	—
Connectivity	USB, Wi-Fi, LAN	Bluetooth
Power Source	AC Adapter	Rechargeable
Included Tapes	212BWPX TAPE	1 × Label Roll (14 × 40 mm)
Print Speed	35 mm per second	20 mm/s
Weight	2.38 lbs.	—

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