Continuous Label Tape
Tape printers print on a continuous label tape, which is supplied in a cartridge (or roll for embossers). The labeller prints your text (usually 1 line of text, but can be more) on the tape which is then cut using a built in tape cutter.
Useful for filing, shelving, electrical, industrial, audio-visual and general home/office labelling.
These are the original style label makers, where the letters are literally pressed into the plastic tape. This gives the text a 3D effect, and also means the text can't fade or be rubbed off because it's not printed. Ideal for outdoor use.
Just turn the dial to the appropriate letter, and squeeze the trigger to emboss it.
These are the most popular label makers and are suitable for home or office use, and use thermal technology to print on special label tape.
These types of printers are suitable for labelling clean, flat, smooth surfaces. If you want to label curved or rough surfaces or are in a more dirty environment then consider the industrial label machines - especially for cable marking.
Industrial or Professional label printers are used by a variety of professional workmen (eg. Plumbers, Electricians, IT / Audio Visual professionals etc) for labelling worksites, cables, patch panels, switches, equipment, warehouse shelving and so on.
They typically have their own ranges of specialist labels with extra adhesive properties and flexible materials, and also come with specialist functions such as fixed width printing to help with patch panels etc.