Niimbot is a popular manufacturer of industrial label and barcode printers used extensively in logistics, warehouses, retail and other sectors.
Two of their most popular desktop models are the D11 and D110 label printers which share some common features but also have key differences.
This detailed comparison examines the specs, capabilities, pros and cons of the Niimbot D11 and D110 to help buyers pick the right model.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Parameter | Niimbot D11 | Niimbot D110 |
| Print Method | Direct thermal | Direct thermal |
| Print Resolution | 203 dpi | 300 dpi |
| Print Speed | 5 ips | 7 ips |
| Print Width | 104 mm | 118 mm |
| Media Capacity | 127 mm | 152 mm |
| Connectivity | USB, serial, parallel | USB, serial, Ethernet, wireless |
| Display | LED | LCD |
| Sensors | Fixed tranmissive sensor | Adjustable reflective sensor |
| Warranty | 1 year | 2 years |
| Weight | 1.5 kg | 2.1 kg |
| Price | Budget | Moderate |
Overview of Niimbot D11
The Niimbot D11 is an entry-level thermal label printer suitable for light duty barcode labeling applications. Key features:
- Uses direct thermal printing technology, no ink or toner required.
- 203 dpi resolution produces sharp barcodes and text.
- Prints at moderate speed of 5 inches per second.
- Maximum print width of 104 mm.
- Compatible with roll labels and tags up to 127 mm diameter.
-connectivity via USB, serial and parallel ports.
- Fixed position transmissive sensor to detect gaps between labels.
- Simple LED interface for status display.
- Compact and lightweight desktop design weighing 1.5 kg.
- Typically used for shipping, inventory, shelf and office labeling.
Overview of Niimbot D110
The Niimbot D110 is a higher-end direct thermal label printer with more features and capabilities. Key details:
- Offers superior 300 dpi print resolution for sharper and denser prints.
- Faster 7 inch per second print speed for higher throughput.
- Wider 118mm print width handles more label layouts.
- Holds larger 152 mm diameter label rolls.
- USB, serial, Ethernet and wireless connectivity for flexible integration.
- Adjustable reflective sensor positioned with thumbwheel.
- LCD screen provides intuitive control and real-time status messages.
- Rugged construction with metal interior – weighs 2.1 kg.
- Ideal for high duty cycle industrial labeling applications.
- Comes with 2 year extended warranty.
Also Read: Comparison Between DYMO 450 and 450 Turbo
Key Differences Between Niimbot D11 and D110
While both Niimbot printers use direct thermal technology, the D110 model offers several upgrades over the entry-level D11:
- Print Resolution: Crisp and Clear Printing
One of the fundamental differences between the Niimbot D11 and D110 models lies in their print resolution. The D110 takes a significant leap ahead in this aspect, offering a remarkable 300 dpi (dots per inch) resolution. In contrast, the D11 features a standard 203 dpi resolution.
The higher resolution of the D110 results in sharper and more detailed prints, making it particularly well-suited for applications where precision matters, such as small asset labeling and electronics labeling. The finer print quality ensures that barcodes and fonts appear crisper and more legible.
- Print Speed: Efficiency in Action
When it comes to print speed, the Niimbot D110 holds a distinct advantage. It boasts a blazing print speed of 7 inches per second (ips), which is approximately 40% faster than the 5 ips speed of the D11.
This increased throughput is invaluable for businesses that require high-volume labeling in settings like warehouses and logistics companies. With the D110’s enhanced print speed, you can process labels more swiftly, improving overall operational efficiency.
- Print Width: Versatility in Labeling
The maximum print width is another aspect where the D110 outshines the D11. The D110 offers a broader print width of 118 mm, allowing it to accommodate a wider range of label layouts and content. In contrast, the D11 has a slightly narrower print width of 104 mm.
This difference may not be critical for all users, but if you require more flexibility in your label designs or need to include additional information on your labels, the D110’s greater print width can be a significant advantage.
- Media Capacity: Fewer Roll Changes
In terms of media capacity, the Niimbot D110 once again stands out. It can accommodate label rolls with a diameter of up to 152 mm. In contrast, the D11 has a smaller media capacity, with a maximum roll diameter of 127 mm.
The larger media capacity of the D110 translates to fewer roll changes during your labeling operations, which is especially beneficial for applications that demand continuous and uninterrupted printing.
- Connectivity: Expanded Options
Connectivity is a crucial consideration when choosing a printer, and here, the D110 offers more versatility.
While both models support USB and serial connections, the D110 goes a step further by adding Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity options. This expanded connectivity allows for more flexible integration into your existing network infrastructure.
Whether you need to connect the printer to a single computer or share it across multiple devices in a networked environment, the D110’s connectivity options provide greater convenience and adaptability.
- Sensor: Simplified Media Handling
Efficient media handling is essential for hassle-free printing, and the D110 incorporates a notable improvement in this regard. It features an adjustable reflective sensor, which simplifies the process of changing media types and sizes.
In contrast, the D11 comes equipped with a fixed transmissive sensor. The adjustable sensor in the D110 offers greater flexibility and ease of use when switching between different label materials and sizes.
- Display: User-Friendly Interface
The user interface of a printer can greatly impact the overall user experience. In this regard, the D110 takes the lead with its LCD screen. This screen provides a graphical interface that allows for easier configuration and control of the printer’s settings.
On the other hand, the D11 is equipped with basic LED indicators, which provide limited feedback and control options. The LCD screen on the D110 enhances user-friendliness and makes it more convenient to monitor and adjust printer settings.
- Durability: Built to Last
Durability is a critical factor, especially for printers used in industrial and commercial settings. The Niimbot D110 excels in this aspect with its metal interior parts, ensuring robustness and longevity.
In contrast, the D11 features a construction primarily made of plastic. The metal components of the D110 enhance its durability, making it better suited for the rigors of industrial use.
If your printing needs involve a demanding environment, the D110’s sturdier build can provide greater peace of mind.
Also Watch This Review Video:
Pros and Cons of Niimbot D11
Pros
- Very affordable purchase price
- Compact, lightweight desktop design
- Simple plug-and-play operation
- Direct thermal technology eliminates ink
- No maintenance required
- 203 dpi adequate for many barcode applications
- USB and serial connectivity covers most systems
Cons
- Lower print speed of just 5 ips
- Maximum 104mm print width is limiting
- Just 127mm media capacity necessitates frequent roll changes
- No LCD interface
- Fixed transmissive sensor less convenient
- Lower build quality with all plastic parts
- Very short 1 year warranty period
Pros and Cons of Niimbot D110
Pros
- Superior 300 dpi print resolution
- Much faster 7 inch per second print speed
- Wider 118mm print width for more label layouts
- Large 152mm label roll capacity
- Adjustable reflective sensor simplifies media loading
- LCD screen provides intuitive control
- Rugged metal construction for durability
- Ethernet and wireless connectivity options
- 2 year extended warranty
Cons
- Higher purchase price than the D11
- Heavier at 2.1 kg
- Overkill for very light duty applications
- Reflective sensor needs calibration
- No automatic peeler option
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The main differences are the D110 has higher speed (7 ips), resolution (300 dpi), print width (118mm), media capacity (152mm) and connectivity (Ethernet, Wi-Fi) than the D11 which is limited to 5 ips, 203 dpi, 104mm width, 127mm capacity and only USB/serial connections. The D110 is better for industrial use while the D11 suits home or office labeling.
The D101 is an earlier thermal transfer label printer while the D11 uses direct thermal technology. The D101 requires ink ribbons and maintenance while the D11 has no supplies. The D11 is more affordable but offers lower print quality than the D101’s 600 dpi thermal transfer output.
The D110 model is Niimbot’s most advanced desktop label printer with high speed, durability and connectivity. It provides the best performance for high volume industrial labeling. The D11 is the cheapest model good for basic home/office use. Mid-range choices are D103 and D105 for medium duty barcode labeling applications.
No, the Niimbot D110 utilizes direct thermal printing technology so unlike inkjet or laser printers it does not require any ink or toner supplies for operation. Direct thermal uses heat to create prints on chemically treated thermal media. However, you need to use thermal labels rated for high 300 dpi resolution to achieve optimum print quality.
Final Thoughts
For businesses shopping for an affordable but reliable barcode label printer, both the Niimbot D11 and D110 present viable options. The D11 provides a budget-friendly solution for low duty home or office labeling with its low cost, compact size and plug-and-play functionality.
But for more demanding industrial applications, the D110 is easily worth the extra investment. Its faster speed, higher quality output, robustness and flexibility make it the superior choice for enterprise-grade barcode printing.
