For almost unlimited creative freedom in the creation of labels, consider the Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker. The pre-installed P-touch Editor label design software empowers you to create labels using any of your PC's installed TrueType fonts, graphics, logos or symbols. You can conveniently design durable, laminated labels using your PC keyboard and monitor and print exactly what you see on your screen. A full version of the software available on the included CD-ROM.
This labeler has an auto format function which allows you to quickly create labels up to about 1.0"/24mm wide for file folder tabs, binders, computer and home entertainment cables, CD jewel cases and more. You simply select a label format, choose your font and style, and type your label text. When finished, simply press print - your label is automatically formatted and cut to the size you need.
| Hardware Features | |
|---|---|
| Model Type | PC Connectable |
| Tape Family | TZ |
| Tape Sizes | 1/8" (3.5mm), 1/4" (6mm), 11/32" (9mm), 1/2" (12mm), 3/4" (18mm), 1.0" (24mm) |
| Tape Length | 26.2' (8.0 m) |
| Tape Technology | Thermal Transfer |
| Tape Types | Standard Laminated, Flexible ID, Extra Strength Adhesive , Non-Laminated Iron-on Fabric |
| LCD | N/A |
| Print Resolution | 180 dpi |
| Print Speed | up to 3/8" (10mm)/sec |
| Keyboard Zones | N/A |
| Cutter | Automatic |
| Batteries | 6 x "AA" batteries (not included) |
| AC Adapter | AD-24ES (included) |
| Interface | USB |
| Colors | Housing: white / gray |
| VLAN | --- |
| Number of Fonts | Uses All TrueType Fonts |
| Font Styles | Uses All TrueType Fonts |
| Point Sizes | Scalable |
| Number of Styles | Any resident on user's computer |
| Built-in Symbols | 694 |
| Types of Styles | Any resident on user's computer |
| Text Insert | Yes |
| Database Printing | Yes, requires installation of full version of P-touch Editor 5.0 Software (CD-ROM included) |
| Text Framing / Fill Pattern | Yes / Yes - requires installation of full version of P-touch Editor 5.0 Software (CD-ROM included) |
| Maximum Print Height | 3/4" (18mm) |
| Maximum Print Lines | Unlimited |
| Multi-Block | Yes |
| Label Length Setting | Yes |
| Auto Incrementation | Alpha / Numeric |
| Auto Numbering | 1-5000 / A-Z / a-z - requires installation of full version of P-touch Editor 5.0 Software (CD-ROM included) |
| Horizontal Alignment | Left, center, right, justified |
| Vertical Printing | No |
| Mirror Printing | Yes |
| Rotate Printing | Yes |
| Text Insert | Yes |
| Multi-Copy Print | Up to 200 |
| Hardware Platforms | N/A |
| Date/Time Stamp | No |
| Auto Formats | Yes - requires installation of full version of P-touch Editor 5.0 Software (CD-ROM included) |
| Barcoding |
Stand alone - no Connected to PC - yes |
| PC Connectivity | USB |
| Compatible Operating Systems | Windows 2000 / XP / Vista / 7 |
| Model Details | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 2.6 x 7.4 x 4.4" (66.0 x 188.0 x 112.0mm) |
| Weight | 1.3 lb (590 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
Best Uses
Most Liked Positive Review
Works as Advertised
I was looking for a simple dedicated printer to simply produce labels for CD splines that are no more than 5mm. This does that. I was also also easily able to label all of ...Read complete review
I was looking for a simple dedicated printer to simply produce labels for CD splines that are no more than 5mm. This does that. I was also also easily able to label all of the ethernet cables to the routers I have in the house. The same thing for all of the HDMI cables going into my AV processor. I can see other application as well, such as when I need to label any kind of document, including letters.
I did not install the CD so I cannot address the advanced capabilities. Note that I found the installation directions brief and helpful and that if you are installing the CD software, it is important to not have the unit plugged in. In addition, there is a switch that will need to be changed on the unit.
As to complaints, it is too early for me to do a fair assessment, but I do wish that it had USB or Micro SDHC reading ability for jobs where there is no need to have a PC. Also, this is not an environmentally sound product as quite a bit of the printed product is wasted blank space that you have to manually cut to your desired size. For my jobs thus far, it approaches 50% wastage.
If I'm reading the online replacement cartridges cost quotes accurately, they are from a third to half as much as I paid for the printer. I will not be using the printer so often that it is a deal breaker for me, but for others it may be worthwhile examining what the cost per job amounts to and look at the alternatives.
In summary, for me it does what I want it to conveniently.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great label maker that wastes tape
This is a great product that is ruined by the fact that Brother has chosen not to address the 23mm of wasted 'pre-feed' each time you print out a label. Brother for a company...Read complete review
This is a great product that is ruined by the fact that Brother has chosen not to address the 23mm of wasted 'pre-feed' each time you print out a label. Brother for a company that claims to be about "environmental issues and helping the earth" seems to not want to address this 23mm of wasted tape which adds up very quickly. According to Brother's customer service in the U.S. "all the PT series label makers use one inch of tape as part of their printing calibration program and this value cannot be changed". Maybe Brother does not wish to change this because it helps them sell more tape? If you do want to save on tape then plan your labels out and try to print them out in batches or have plenty of spare tape on hand. One star lost for Brother's lack of interest in addressing this waste and another star lost for the actual waste of tape. The print quality is okay for the price point but it's only 180dpi so keep that in mind. A sample photo of the print quality and the 23mm pre-feed waste will explain better. I'm still happy with the PT-2430PC but just wish it didn't waste all that tape. B&H pricing and service on this product was excellent as usual. SUPER FAST processing and ship out. Thank you again B&H!!!
Reviewed by 12 customers
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Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
I have been using this product for over the past 3 years. It is one of the most easiest & user-friendly products available on the market with one drawback, it has a tendency to waste label tape. The manufacturer of this product should address the customers' concerns with this issue and correct it accordingly.
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
A number of reviews are utterly disgusted with Brother's corporate move in designing this (and other) label printers that purposely wastes an inch of space for every label.I would LOVE to see them get punished for this. A class action lawsuit? A news story that confronts Brother on this issue? Someone must have a good idea out there.Let's bring them accountable for this.OH. I just want to add, this makes me feel REALLy good about buying generic toners for my brother laser printers, which cost $. I don't have to give another penny to this unethical company.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
This is a great product that is ruined by the fact that Brother has chosen not to address the 23mm of wasted 'pre-feed' each time you print out a label. Brother for a company that claims to be about "environmental issues and helping the earth" seems to not want to address this 23mm of wasted tape which adds up very quickly. According to Brother's customer service in the U.S. "all the PT series label makers use one inch of tape as part of their printing calibration program and this value cannot be changed". Maybe Brother does not wish to change this because it helps them sell more tape? If you do want to save on tape then plan your labels out and try to print them out in batches or have plenty of spare tape on hand. One star lost for Brother's lack of interest in addressing this waste and another star lost for the actual waste of tape. The print quality is okay for the price point but it's only 180dpi so keep that in mind. A sample photo of the print quality and the 23mm pre-feed waste will explain better. I'm still happy with the PT-2430PC but just wish it didn't waste all that tape. B&H pricing and service on this product was excellent as usual. SUPER FAST processing and ship out. Thank you again B&H!!!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
My office was a complete mess of files that labels came off of, faded over time or just lacked the necessary information needed. My purchase of the P-Touch was the best addition to our office equipment and has put a smile back on my face when looking for specific files. I have just purchased a second one for other applications. A MUST HAVE FOR YOUR OFFICE!
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
I bought this for general office labelling, equipment labelling and network/cable tagging.
There is no trouble setting up or operating the printer with no software to install if you want the simple version or an easy to use more advanced version. I have been happy so far with the quality of the output and ease of use. My unit came with US power pack as ordered but like most equipment these days it can run on the different Australian voltage and frequency by just using a cheap plug adapter. I have not tried the other varieties of tape yet but expect to do so once I determine all my needs.
Note that it is more effective on tape usage to use the chained printing command as otherwise about 20mm of tape is wasted each time to start the printout.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
I was looking for a simple dedicated printer to simply produce labels for CD splines that are no more than 5mm. This does that. I was also also easily able to label all of the ethernet cables to the routers I have in the house. The same thing for all of the HDMI cables going into my AV processor. I can see other application as well, such as when I need to label any kind of document, including letters.
I did not install the CD so I cannot address the advanced capabilities. Note that I found the installation directions brief and helpful and that if you are installing the CD software, it is important to not have the unit plugged in. In addition, there is a switch that will need to be changed on the unit.
As to complaints, it is too early for me to do a fair assessment, but I do wish that it had USB or Micro SDHC reading ability for jobs where there is no need to have a PC. Also, this is not an environmentally sound product as quite a bit of the printed product is wasted blank space that you have to manually cut to your desired size. For my jobs thus far, it approaches 50% wastage.
If I'm reading the online replacement cartridges cost quotes accurately, they are from a third to half as much as I paid for the printer. I will not be using the printer so often that it is a deal breaker for me, but for others it may be worthwhile examining what the cost per job amounts to and look at the alternatives.
In summary, for me it does what I want it to conveniently.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
Works really well with my iMac, but I did have to dig around the internet for the driver (brother.jp) and software (brother.com).
I really don't understand why the software wasn't included on the disk, would have been 5 stars if it was.
I like having access to all the fonts, clip art, barcodes, QR codes etc. to be able to make unique labels.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
I give this two stars only because I can generally get it to print 1/2" labels eventually and with input from my computer as opposed to fumbling with an independent labeling device.
It wastes 1/2 an inch of tape every time you print, it doesn't like to change the length of tape when you imput data. Data randomly changes when you are trying to format fonts and troubleshooting is very very frustrating.
Not particularly happy with this machine.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
This was the first time ordering from B&H but I found[...] the price of [$] couldn't be beat(here in Canada [$]).[...]The printer was in excellent condition and worked as it is designed.The one thing I found annoying with this printer is it cuts of .400" of tape before each label is printed leaving a pile of stubs on the desk. I have used the 9500 model and it partially cuts that portion leaving it attached to the label paper backing, making less mess and easier to peel the label off the backing.Not a big issue but makes you wonder why.It is what it is and all is good.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
We used the PT2430PC to replace a very old P-Touch. This unit is very easy to use and really is "plug & play". It's easy to move from PC to PC and handles all of our printing needs.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
We have a lot of different gear in the same style cases, so the 1" labels help differentiate everything on the shelf. I love that the software is contained on the unit itself, so it can be used on different computers without having to install software over and over again.
The only downside is that a lot of extra space is printed on the edges of the labels and it cannot be adjusted.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Brother P-Touch PT-2430PC PC Connectable Label Maker:
We use this printer to create calibration labels for measuring devices and equipment. Font selection is good, labels are sharp and clear, and the laminated cover protects the label information in a shop environment.
Displaying reviews 1-12