One of the most recognizable names in the thermal printing world, ZEBRA, has given us a fantastic thermal printer in the GX430t. Coming in a compact package, the GX430x can switch between the direct thermal printing technology and the thermal transfer printing.
While this printer is not the most affordable option on the market, it has a number of features to back up the high price. People use this printer in a ton of industries, and with its 300dpi output quality, you can print out some sharp-looking barcodes and labels.
If all of that sounds good, let’s jump in and review the ZEBRA GX430t.
Price
$549.00
Dimensions
10″ x 7.6″ x 7.5″
Printing Technology
Direct thermal printing and thermal transfer printing
Our Rating
Overview
The ZEBRA GX430t is a thermal printer with outstanding features that make it a great choice for businesses of all sizes. The compact design and lightweight construction are one of this printer’s strongest selling points, and you will be able to easily move it around until you find a a suitable place for it in the office.
However, its price tag is high and might be too much for most people. But, for those who don’t have a problem with its price tag and need a quality thermal printer, the ZEBRA GX430t should be on the top of their lists.
Performance and Output Quality
With the higher price tag comes the high quality of printing. While most people can settle with 200 dpi, people in some industries need a higher output quality, and the ZEBRA GX430t is there to deliver.
With the 300 x 300 dpi resolution, the text that comes out of the printer is clean and crisp. There are, of course, better quality thermal printers out there, but for this price, the ZEBRA GX430t delivered pretty well.
We mentioned that this printer can use two thermal printing technologies, just don’t forget that in order to print with thermal transfer technology, you will need a ribbon. This technology increases the printing costs but offers a better quality print.
If you are interested in the difference between the two thermal printing technologies or how a thermal printer works, you can check that out here.
We also have to mention the fast printing speeds that the GX430t has. 4in/sec in pretty fast, and with it you will print out a ton of labels in no time.
Connectivity Options and Setup
The ZEBRA GX430t covers an array of connectivity options, which include the standard USB connectivity, Serial, Parallel, and Ethernet, something we were very pleased to see. To get the most out of the printer, we suggest you connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port found on the back of the printer and you will be good to go.
Now let’s move on to the setup. While it takes some time to get it initially set up, the process is not complicated. For Mac and PC users, download and install the newest drivers, connect the printer via USB cable to your device, add the ZEBRA GX430t to the list of printers, and you are ready to print.
Media Size
With the compact size of the printer comes the limitations regarding the largest supported media size. The GX430t supports a maximum width of 4.25″ with the maximum diameter in 5″.
So, those who want to put an 8″ roll in it won’t be able to, but, for most industries, this maximum size is more than enough.
Conclusion
With its high-quality printing and fast printing speeds, this printer is ideal for businesses who need to print labels at low printing costs. While it has its fair share of flaws, like the lack of an LCD, the ZEBRA GX430t provides a lot of value, but it sure will make your office life a lot easier.
