ComparingĀ GoDEX and Brother label printers in 2025? This expert guide breaks down key differences in print quality, durability, and cost to help you choose the best printer for shipping labels, barcodes, and business labeling.
Introduction
Choosing the right thermal label printer can transform how your business handles shipping and inventory. Both GoDEX and Brother are trusted brands ā but they serve very different users. Brother printers dominate the home and small-office segment, while GoDEX printers power industrial-grade shipping, warehouse, and manufacturing operations.
In this guide, weāll compare GoDEX vs Brother printers across performance, cost, features, and long-term value ā so you can confidently pick the one that fits your workflow.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | GoDEX RT700i+ | Brother QL-1110NWB |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Direct Thermal + Thermal Transfer | Direct Thermal Only |
| Resolution | 203 / 300 DPI | 300 DPI |
| Label Width | Up to 4.25ā (standard 4x6 shipping labels) | Up to 4.1ā (DK label rolls only) |
| Connectivity | USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, RS-232 | USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Media Type | Any roll ā paper, vinyl, polyester | Brother DK pre-sized rolls only |
| Daily Duty Cycle | 5,000+ labels/day | 500ā800 labels/day |
| Software | GoLabel (free, full-featured) | P-touch Editor (limited templates) |
| Warranty | 3 Years (industry-leading) | 2 Years |
| Best For | Industrial, eCommerce, logistics | Home, office, small eBay sellers |
š·ļø Looking for detailed specs? Explore our GoDEX printer collection.
Design and Build Quality
GoDEX printers are built for durability. The reinforced metal print heads, heavy-duty motors, and heat-resistant components are designed for continuous operation in busy environments. Theyāre perfect for shipping warehouses, automotive shops, and fulfillment centers.
Brother printers, on the other hand, prioritize convenience and compactness. Their lightweight plastic bodies make them great for home offices, but theyāre not meant for high-volume or 24/7 operations.
Print Quality and Media Flexibility
Both brands deliver sharp results, but the difference lies in flexibility.
- GoDEX: Supports both Direct Thermal and Thermal Transfer printing. This means you can print short-term shipping labels or long-lasting, weatherproof barcodes on materials like polyester or vinyl.
- Brother: Uses proprietary DK label rolls that limit size and material options. The labels work well for shipping and office use, but can fade in sunlight or heat.
If your business requires permanent, abrasion-resistant, or outdoor labels, GoDEXās dual-mode capability is a major advantage.
Software Comparison: GoLabel vs P-touch Editor
GoLabel (GoDEX)
- Free and included with every GoDEX printer
- Drag-and-drop interface for text, barcodes, and logos
- Variable data import from Excel or CSV files
- Automatic printer calibration and label templates for UPS, USPS, and Amazon
P-touch Editor (Brother)
- Basic label design tool with fixed templates
- Limited integration with shipping platforms
- Works best for address or office labels rather than industrial labeling
Overall, GoLabel offers greater flexibility for professional barcode and shipping workflows. Learn more in our detailed GoLabel Software Setup Guide.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both printers offer Wi-Fi and USB connections, but GoDEX also adds Ethernet and RS-232 ports ā essential for networked warehouse setups. Brother printers are simpler to connect but rely heavily on their proprietary mobile apps.
GoDEX printers integrate directly with Shopify, Amazon Seller Central, ShipStation, UPS, and FedEx through GoLabel or Windows drivers ā no extra software required.
Cost and Long-Term Value
At first glance, Brother printers appear cheaper, but they rely on expensive DK-series rolls. Each roll is pre-sized and non-refillable, increasing long-term costs.
GoDEX printers work with any compatible label rolls, including custom or bulk options from McAuley Labels ā plus, they come with a 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty.
Businesses printing over 1,000 labels per month typically save more with GoDEX thanks to lower supply and maintenance expenses.
Best Choice by Business Type
| Business Type | Recommended Printer | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Home Office / Etsy Sellers | Brother QL-1110NWB | Compact, easy setup, ideal for light use |
| Amazon / Shopify Sellers | GoDEX RT700i+ | Faster, compatible with GoLabel and 4x6 shipping labels |
| Warehouse / Industrial | GoDEX ZX420i+ | Heavy-duty, Ethernet connectivity, 5,000+ labels per day |
| Auto Shops / Oil Change Centers | GoDEX DT200+ | Perfect for service reminders and custom sticker printing |
Ā
Verdict: GoDEX vs Brother ā Which Should You Choose?
If youāre running a business that depends on speed, durability, and flexible label sizes, GoDEX is the clear winner. It offers industrial performance, free professional software, and a longer warranty ā all at a lower total cost of ownership.
Brother printers remain a strong choice for home users or light labeling needs, but GoDEX outperforms them in scalability, material compatibility, and long-term value.
š·ļø Explore GoDEX printers at McAuley Labels ā all include a 3-Year Warranty and free GoLabel software.
FAQ ā GoDEX vs Brother Label Printers
- Which printer is better for high-volume shipping labels?
- GoDEX. Itās built for 24/7 commercial use and can print thousands of labels daily without overheating.Ā
- Do Brother printers support thermal transfer ribbons?
- No. Brother uses direct thermal labels only, which can fade over time. GoDEX supports both direct and transfer printing for durable labels.Ā
- Is GoLabel software free?
- Yes. Every GoDEX printer includes free lifetime access to GoLabel design software with no subscription fees.Ā
- Can Brother printers print Amazon 4x6 shipping labels?
- Yes, but only with Brotherās DK rolls. GoDEX printers handle all 4x6 labels from any supplier.
- Which brand has a longer warranty?
- GoDEX printers include a 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty ā one of the longest in the industry.
Ā