POS Supply Solutions Blog


Zebra Labels - Which One is Best for Your Needs?


Ordering Zebra Thermal Labels can seem like a daunting task when faced with the extensive variety of sizes and materials available in our catalog. From Direct Thermal Labels to Thermal Transfer Labels, as well as sub categories like Z-perform, Z-Select, PolyPro, Z-Xtreme, and more, one could get overwhelmed.

As a registered reseller and proud partner in the Zebra PartnerConnect Program, we're here to help! A good first place to start is the Zebra Material Naming Conversion Chart.



As the chart suggests, you can narrow down the options by answering five questions:

1. Printer Model

2. Resistance (chemical, scratch, etc.)

3. Environment (indoors or outdoors, temp, etc.)

4. Surface (Metal, plastic, rough, curved, etc.)

5. Size (Length, width, perforations, slits, etc.)


Here is a real life example from one of our customers.

A restaurant called into our customer service team and asked what item would be best to label plastic shelves in their walk-in refrigerator using the popular Zebra LP2844 printer. With that information we could answer the five questions:

Printer ModelZebra LP2844
Resistance Minimal chemical resistance
Environment Cold Temp, Indoors
Surface Plastic
Size 4 X 6 Direct Thermal

Based on the answers, we determined the Zebra Z-Select 4000D Direct Thermal Labels would best suit their needs. Why? The Z-Select material works on cold temperature applications, which was perfect for the refrigerator. And the direct thermal doesn't require a ribbon, which means their overall operating expenses will be lower.

Need more help? See all our Zebra Label offerings or give us a call at 888-431-5800. We are your Zebra Printer Supply Experts!