brother ql-700

2025

3 min read 29-03-2025

Meta Description: Dive deep into the Brother QL-700 label printer! This comprehensive review covers setup, features, pros & cons, printing quality, and cost-effectiveness, helping you decide if it's right for your needs. Learn about its uses for home organization, small businesses, and more! Discover why it's a top choice for many and explore alternative models if needed.

Unboxing and Setup: A Breeze

The Brother QL-700 arrives neatly packaged. Setup is incredibly straightforward. Simply connect the power, load the tape, and connect to your computer via USB or wirelessly. The included software (P-touch Editor) guides you through the initial setup. This ease of use is a major selling point.

Key Features and Functionality: What Makes it Special?

The QL-700 boasts several features that make it stand out:

Thermal Printing Technology: This means no ink cartridges to replace—just label tape. This significantly reduces ongoing costs.
Wireless Connectivity: Print labels directly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer wirelessly. This adds flexibility and convenience.
Versatile Label Sizes: Supports a wide range of label sizes, accommodating various needs. From address labels to shipping labels, it's adaptable.
Easy-to-Use Software: The P-touch Editor software is intuitive and user-friendly, even for beginners. You can easily create custom labels with various fonts, styles, and barcodes.
Durable Labels: The labels are water-resistant and smudge-proof, ensuring your markings remain clear and legible for extended periods.

Printing Quality and Speed: Performance Review

The Brother QL-700 prints crisp, clear labels. The print speed is reasonably fast, though not the quickest on the market. It's more than adequate for most home and small business applications. For high-volume printing, you might consider a faster model. The quality is consistently high across different label types.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Benefits

Pros:

Affordable: The initial cost is relatively low compared to other label printers.
Cost-Effective Operation: The absence of ink cartridges saves money in the long run.
Easy to Use: Simple setup and user-friendly software make it accessible to everyone.
Wireless Functionality: Print from your mobile devices for increased convenience.
Versatile Label Options: Supports various label sizes and types.

Cons:

Print Speed: Not the fastest printer available. May be slow for very large print jobs.
Limited Label Customization: While offering customization options, it doesn't provide the extensive features of some higher-end models.

Cost Considerations: Long-Term Value

While the upfront cost is reasonable, the ongoing cost is exceptionally low due to the thermal printing technology. You only need to purchase replacement label tapes, eliminating expensive ink cartridges. This makes it a very cost-effective solution over time.

Is the Brother QL-700 Right for You?

The Brother QL-700 is an excellent choice for:

Home Organization: Labeling shelves, storage bins, and other household items.
Small Businesses: Creating shipping labels, product labels, and other business-related labels.
Craft Enthusiasts: Personalizing crafts and projects.
Office Use: General labeling tasks.

It might not be ideal for:

High-Volume Printing: The print speed may be too slow for large-scale projects.
Advanced Label Design Needs: If you require highly specialized label design options, you may need a more advanced model.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What type of labels does the Brother QL-700 use?

A: It uses Brother DK continuous length thermal labels, available in a range of sizes and colors.

Q: Can I print from my phone?

A: Yes, it offers wireless connectivity for printing from smartphones and tablets.

Q: How much does the label tape cost?

A: The cost of label tape varies depending on the size and type. However, it's generally quite affordable.

Alternative Models to Consider

If the Brother QL-700 doesn't quite meet your needs, consider exploring other Brother models like the QL-800 or QL-820nw, which offer additional features and functionalities, though at a higher price point.

Conclusion: A Reliable and Affordable Choice

The Brother QL-700 is a reliable, user-friendly, and cost-effective label printer that's perfect for various applications. While it may not be the fastest or most feature-rich printer on the market, its simplicity, ease of use, and low running costs make it a strong contender for those seeking a practical and affordable solution. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool for both home and small business use. If you need a capable, dependable label printer without breaking the bank, the Brother QL-700 is definitely worth considering.