New DYMO 550 LabelWriter Series: Everything You Need To Know
DYMO brand announced the newest generation of their popular LabelWriter desktop direct thermal label printers. With the new series comes a few important changes that you should be aware of - particularly if you have purchased replacement Dymo labels in the past.
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What Are The Differences Between DYMO 550 and 450 LabelWriter Printers?
The biggest difference between the DYMO 550 Series vs. the 450 Series is that the 550 Series are "locked down" printers. This means that there is proprietary technology, enabled by using RFID chips known as DRM (digital rights management), in the DYMO 550 Series Printers that prevents everything except for DYMO brand authentic labels to work with the software/printer.
The LabelWriter 450 Twin Turbo label printer can hold up to 2 label rolls up to 4" wide, and the software and printer are not limited by the DRM that is found in the 550 series printers.
This enables the user to continue using custom labels or labels from other manufacturers such as LabelValue.
Another difference is that the software will automatically detect the label roll being used. It will change the template to the label size in the printer, and it will also count the number of labels that are remaining on the roll. DYMO refers to this as Automatic Label Recognition™.
Finally, the 550 Series is slightly faster than the 450 Series for printing (less than 20% increase in print speed). Beyond these changes and a slight design update that includes Power, Label Forward, and Label Backward buttons, there are not any other major differences from the 450 Series.
Do DYMO 450 Labels work with the 550 Series?
At this time, no, only DYMO Authentic Labels can be used in the DYMO 550 Series Printers. DYMO has integrated proprietary technology in the 550 series printers that will not allow for the use of compatible labels at this time. However, there is a way that you can purchase a new DYMO printer and continue to use the same Dymo 450 label printer labels you've always used. If you purchase a Dymo LabelWriter 450 Twin Turbo, you can continue to print Dymo 450 labels in a new printer.
What Do I Do If DYMO Doesn't Offer My Label Type/Size/Material?
If you have a label size that is regarded as "custom" by DYMO, the best alternative is to purchase a Dymo LabelWriter 450 Twin Turbo. The Twin Turbo is "unlocked" and can print on custom sizes, colors, shapes, and pre-printed Dymo labels from 1.2" up to 4". "Custom" sizes, materials, colors, and adhesives are any label type that is not manufactured by DYMO.
The full list of proprietary DYMO manufactured labels for 550 series printers can be found here. Non-DYMO Authentic labels will not work with the 550 Series due to the new technology that detects the type of label that is inserted into the machine.
If you currently order a size, shape, color, adhesive, or custom printed label for your DYMO LabelWriter 450, you will not be able to continue using the same labels with a 550 series printer at this time. Instead, consider the 450 Twin Turbo.
The Wireless LabelWriter is available again as well, offering a lower priced alternative with the same functionality as the 450 series printers.
What Are Alternative Options To The DYMO 550 Series?
While DYMO LabelWriter printers are a popular label making machine due to their ease of use, low price point, and versatility, since there are now limited label options available that will work in the printer, you may need to consider an alternative.
Here is a selection of recommended Direct Thermal printer alternatives that LabelValue manufactures compatible direct thermal labels for, saving you potentially much more money over the life of your printer than having to buy expensive printer-brand labels.
Do Dymo Labels go bad?
Yes, Dymo labels can go bad, if they are not stored properly or exposed to harsh conditions they are not designed for. The main things that affect the quality of Dymo labels over time are exposure to light, heat, and moisture.
It’s best to opt for durable labels if you need them for tougher conditions. These labels are designed with stronger adhesives and materials to stay intact in demanding environments.
Can the Dymo 450 run out of ink?
The Dymo 450 and 550 are ink and toner free printers. They use heat from a printer head to print on treated, heat-sensitive labels.
Can you print shipping labels on the Dymo 550?
Yes, you can print shipping labels on your Dymo 550. However, Dymo-specific labels tend to be more expensive and offer less variety compared to 3rd party labeling solutions, such as LabelValue Brand.
If you prefer a wide range of options, printers like the Dymo 450 Twin Turbo and Zebra Printers are better suited.
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| Printer Model |
Dymo LabelWriter 450 Twin Turbo RECOMMENDED |
Brother TD-4550DNWB | HP KE203 Label Printer | Zebra ZD220 |
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Minimum Print Width |
0.25" | 0.75" | 0.25" | 1" |
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Maximum Print Width |
2.4" | 4.27" | 4.0" |
4.09" |
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Print Speed |
71 labels/min | 152 mm/sec | 127 mm/sec | 102 mm/sec |
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Office Suite Compatibility |
Yes | Yes | Yes |
Yes |
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Software Included |
Yes | Yes | Compatible with 3rd party solutions | Yes |
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Core Size(s) |
1" | 0.5" | 1" | 0.5", 1", 1.5" |
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Label Holder |
Internal | Internal | Internal | Internal - 5" Max OD |
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Connectivity |
USB | WiFi, USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet, & More | USB | USB |
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Price |
$389.95 | $597.95 | $278.95 | $339.95 |
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Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
