The best free label software depends on your printer and label stock. Avery Design & Print is a convenient choice for Avery sheets, while LibreOffice Writer offers flexible label layouts for ordinary printers. For thermal and other vendor-specific printers, start with software made for that printer brand and check the model’s compatibility before installing.
“Free” can mean a free browser tool, a free edition with limitations, or software intended only for a particular printer brand. Compare the options below against your printer, stock, and intended use before choosing.
Quick comparison
| Software | Best for | Free-use or compatibility note |
|---|---|---|
| Avery Design & Print Online | Avery sheets, designs, and mail merges | Browser-based and designed around Avery products |
| ZebraDesigner Essentials | Basic labels and barcodes on Zebra printers | Free Essentials edition; advanced features are in Professional |
| Brother P-touch Editor 6 | Compatible Brother label printers | Free, but printer compatibility depends on the Brother model |
| DYMO Connect for Desktop | Supported newer DYMO printers | Use only with models listed by DYMO |
| LibreOffice Writer | Custom label sheets and ordinary documents | Free; supports predefined and user-defined label formats |
| Canva | Visual designs, stickers, and small batches | Browser-based; some templates and assets may require payment |
| IDAutomation Free Barcode Label Design Application | Basic Code 39 barcode labels | Free license has organization eligibility restrictions |
| LabelTrix | General labels and data-connected printing | Advertised as free; the main page does not specify a Windows build requirement |
| GoLabel | GoDEX barcode printers | Free for GoDEX printer users; Windows version requirements are not specified |
| AzureLabel Free | Windows label production with data sources and automation | Free edition with a paid Pro upgrade |
1. Avery Design & Print Online
Best for: Avery sheet labels, address labels, product stickers, cards, tags, and mail merges.
Avery Design & Print runs in a modern browser, so you do not need to install a Windows desktop application. Choose an Avery product or template, customize the design, and generate a print-ready PDF. Avery says its tool is designed for Avery products; a similar-looking third-party sheet may have different margins or gaps.
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- Bluetooth Wireless Connection: KNAON Bluetooth shipping label printer enables wireless printing. For Mobile users, download the 'FlashLabel Pro' app from APP Store or Google Play for printing. Also, supports Windows and macOS, and can directly connect to the printer by downloading the 'FlashLabel Pro' App. Windows 7 or later computers can also print via Bluetooth by installing the latest advanced driver. Note: All devices CANNOT be connected directly to Bluetooth, and must be used through the 'FlashLabel Pro' app.
- USB Cable Connectivity: This printer ensures seamless USB connectivity with macOS, Windows (7 and above), ChromeOS, and Linux. KNAON printer features a built-in USB drive preloaded with drivers and tutorial videos for a fast and hassle-free setup. For ChromeOS, need to install 'FlashLabel' extension to your Google Chrome.
- Versatile DIY Labeling Options: KNAON Thermal Shipping Label Printer offers a vast selection of pre-designed templates, including 3,000+ templates, 5,000+ icons, and 100+ fonts available in the app. Designed for both professional and personal use, it supports various thermal paper sizes, ensuring effortless customization for all your labeling needs. Ideal for printing DIY shipping labels, barcode labels, thank-you labels, mailing labels, name tags, price tags, and various small thermal labels.
- Seamless Multi-Platform Compatibility: This Bluetooth shipping label printer works effortlessly with all major platforms, including Amazon, eBay, Shopify, USPS, UPS, Etsy, PayPal, Poshmark, DHL, and more, ensuring smooth and efficient label printing. (Note: Save the logistics label as a PDF file on the shipping platforms, then import it into the 'FlashLabel Pro' app for printing).
- Portable & Stylish Design: KNAON multi-function thermal label printer offers user-friendly operation in a compact design. Its perfect size (7.17 x 3.9 x 3.43 inches) makes it simple to store anywhere. With a fast printing speed of up to 180 mm/s and support for paper widths from 1.5 to 4.2 inches. The package also includes 10 test printing papers to get you started right away.
How to print accurately
- Open Avery Design & Print and choose a product or template.
- Customize the text, images, barcodes, QR codes, or variable data.
- Generate the print-ready PDF.
- Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader for consistent printing.
- Choose the correct paper size and print at Actual Size; do not select Fit to page.
- Use a printer media setting such as Labels, Heavyweight, or Cardstock when appropriate.
For spreadsheet-driven labels, use Avery’s mail or data-merge functions. Check that the PDF page size matches your physical stock before printing.
2. ZebraDesigner Essentials
Best for: Basic barcode and text labels on Zebra printers.
ZebraDesigner Essentials is Zebra’s free label-design edition. It supports Windows 10 and Windows 11 desktop editions. The software supports text, graphics, barcodes, and fixed or variable data such as keyboard input, date/time, and counters. Zebra’s release notes identify version 3.3.0.
Install a suitable driver for the exact printer and verify the media size before printing. Zebra recommends its ZDesigner v10 driver where applicable; v5 drivers are also supported for relevant models. Essentials does not include Professional features such as database connectivity, RFID encoding, scripting, or field concatenation. ZebraDesigner Professional is paid after its evaluation period.
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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstall3. Brother P-touch Editor 6
Best for: Compatible Brother P-touch, QL, and other Brother label printers.
Brother promotes P-touch Editor 6 as free software. Its capabilities include text formatting, image import, shapes, tables, barcodes, QR codes, mailing lists, and database-driven labels. Brother also describes support for consecutive text, time, and barcode printing.
How to install it
- Open the Brother support page for your printer model.
- Select your operating system and Windows version.
- Open Downloads and download the printer driver and P-touch Editor.
- Run the downloaded installers and confirm that your printer model is supported.
P-touch Editor is not a universal label maker for every printer brand. Brother warns that some older models may work with Windows 10 software but are not guaranteed or supported on Windows 11.
Rank #2
- Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity for Flexible Use: The RONGTA RP425 Bluetooth thermal shipping label printer is fully compatible with iOS and Android phones/tablets. Simply download the "RONGTA" App from the App Store or Google Play, connect via Bluetooth through the App, and start printing instantly
- Automatic Label Identification: Rongta shipping label printer automatically detects, grabs, and feeds labels, eliminating manual adjustment hassle. It supports all direct thermal labels with a width range of 0.98" to 4.37", covering common sizes such as 4x6" shipping labels, 2x2" circular labels, 2x1" barcode labels, and 1x1" QR code labels
- Easy Installation for Multiple Systems: The Windows and Mac driver software is available on Rongta official website for easy setup. Compatible with Windows 7 and newer, Mac OS 10.11 and newer, and Chrome OS
- Compact and Portable Design: The Rongta thermal label printer features a space-saving compact build with dimensions of 10.2 x 7.4 x 5.3 inches, making it easy to store anywhere on your desk, in a drawer, or during travel
- High-Speed Printing Performance: Features fast printing speed of up to 150 mm/s with 203dpi resolution and thermal printing method, ensuring efficient label production for warehouses, offices, and on-the-go use
4. DYMO Connect for Desktop
Best for: Newer DYMO LabelWriter and LabelManager models listed by DYMO.
DYMO lists DYMO Connect for Desktop Windows v1.6.1, with compatibility beginning at Windows 10. Its support page identifies the LabelWriter 5 series, 450 series, 4XL, and certain LabelManager models. Check the current model compatibility information before installing; DYMO Connect is not the correct application for every DYMO printer.
DYMO also notes that its Fix US Address feature may be temporarily unavailable because of USPS address-verification service limits. If you rely on that feature, check DYMO’s current support information.
5. LibreOffice Writer
Best for: Address labels, return labels, inventory sheets, name badges, and ordinary inkjet or laser printers.
LibreOffice Writer includes a label dialog for commercial sheet formats and user-defined formats. To start, choose File > New > Labels. In the dialog, choose a brand and type or define a custom format, enter repeated text or database fields, and use the Options tab to choose a full page or a single label. Select Synchronize contents when you want changes to the first label copied to the others, then click New Document.
If your stock is not listed, enter its dimensions, margins, rows, columns, and gaps in a user-defined format. Check printer scaling before printing so the page is not resized.
6. Canva
Best for: Visually designed product labels, stickers, favor labels, and small-batch printable designs.
Rank #3
- Label maker for Shipping labels & small business labels
- supports multiple-size wide wireless printing
- Download "RONGTA" app for phone to bluetooth print
- Download computer driver for PC/Laptop to USB print
- Inkless Thermal Printing for Sharp Clarity
Canva works in a browser. Search for Label, choose a template or custom-size design, edit it, then download a printable file such as PDF, PNG, or JPEG. Canva’s editor is free to use, but some templates, graphics, and other elements may be paid or require a Pro account.
Canva is a design tool rather than a dedicated label-stock layout engine. You may need to match the page dimensions, margins, label count, and gaps to your stock yourself. For precise sheet alignment or database mail merges, dedicated label software may be a better fit.
7. IDAutomation Free Barcode Label Design Application
Best for: Basic Code 39 barcode labels for laser, inkjet, or thermal-transfer printers.
IDAutomation’s application supports label design with text, graphics, barcodes, and data sources such as CSV, text files, Excel, and Access. It also documents serial numbers and constant fields. The free edition supports Code 39 and Extended Code 39; other symbologies, including UPC, EAN, Code 128, and QR Code, belong to paid editions.
The free license is restricted to individuals and organizations with gross annual revenue below $500,000 USD, nonprofits, and educational organizations. Government and military organizations are excluded. Organizations outside those conditions must purchase a license.
8. LabelTrix
Best for: General-purpose, warehouse, shipping, shelf, and product labels.
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LabelTrix advertises free software for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its listed capabilities include text and graphics, barcode types such as EAN-13, QR Code, Data Matrix, and PDF417, and data from text files, Excel, and server-based databases. The vendor describes printing to any printer with a suitable operating-system driver.
Rank #4
- 2026 New Version: Compared with traditional label makers, Nelko P21 handheld label maker has half the weight and size, making it smaller, smarter, and ultra-portable. The wireless Bluetooth label maker can slip into your pocket, allowing you to print anytime, anywhere. For great printing results, we recommend using our NELKO thermal label paper. Important Note for iOS Users: Please make sure you have updated your Nelko P21 app to the latest version (V4.8.0) for a great experience
- High-quality Printing: The P21 label maker features BPA-Free Direct Thermal Technology. Equipped with high-speed chips and 203 DPI, the P21 label maker delivers high-definition printing without ink or toner, perfect for back to school supplies. The label maker comes with a long-lasting built-in rechargeable battery for extended use. This label maker prints in monochrome (black text only), and you can create color labels by using color pattern label tapes. Note: Charging adapter not included
- Easy to Use: NELKO label printer connects with iOS & Android phones via Bluetooth. Step 1: Download "Nelko" app from Google Play or App Store. Step 2: Install paper roll. Step 3: Connect P21 via Bluetooth in the APP. Step 4: Choose a quick template and print. It is not compatible with Google Pixel phones running Android 14. This label maker's APP includes 3600+ icons, 700+ borders, 5500+ materials, 750+ templates, 29 languages. Note: This label maker doesn't work with computers
- Multiple Creative Functions & Templates: This app for the label maker provides various features and templates, making it easy to create various designed label stickers in the App with text, QR code, barcode, materials, images, time and borders, etc. The length of labels is fixed, including 14×40mm, 14×50mm, 14×75mm, and more. Please do not tear or damage the green sticker on the back of the label strip, otherwise it will affect the printing effect. Note: Continuous label tapes are not supported
- Design Your Own Labels: This label maker machine with tape is widely used at home, in the office, and at school. At home, it helps organize clothes, food storage, cosmetics, and mailings. In the office, it is ideal for notebook tags, price tags, reminder labels, and other office supplies. At school, it supports teachers and students with name tags, item identification, and classroom organization. You can also use it to create unique back-to-school decorations and fun school supplies for kids
The main product page does not state a specific Windows 10 or Windows 11 build requirement. Test the current Windows installer on your intended system before relying on it for production work.
9. GoLabel
Best for: GoDEX barcode printers and thermal-label workflows.
GoLabel is free for GoDEX barcode-printer users. The vendor describes WYSIWYG label design, standard 1D and 2D barcodes, database connections, network printing, graphics, serial numbers, variables, and date and time fields.
GoLabel is closely associated with GoDEX printers, so do not assume compatibility with another brand. The vendor page does not state a specific Windows 10/11 version number. GoLabel, QLabel, and GoLabel PDF are distinct products; check the vendor listing to choose the intended application.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.10. AzureLabel Free
Best for: Windows label production involving thermal or sheet labels, data sources, and automation.
AzureLabel describes a free edition and a paid Pro upgrade. Its documented capabilities include text, images, shapes, barcodes, Excel and CSV data sources, direct printing through Windows printers, printer-language output, and exports such as PDF and image formats. The documentation also describes roll-label and sheet-label setup, batch printing, print history, and automation options.
The vendor lists more than 90 barcode types. Confirm the current edition’s feature availability and any licensing limits in AzureLabel’s documentation before using it for a production workflow.
The Tool Desk
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- [HIGH TECH LABEL PRINTER] Equipped with a Japanese high tech thermal print head, 203 DPI high printing quality. No ink, No toner, Clean with no mess, economical. Works with both fanfold labels and roll labels. Label size: labels width ranges from 1.57" to 4.1"
- [PRINT WIRELESSLY]The label printer support printing wirelessly. For windows 8 or later and Mac, you can print via Bluetooth. For Android& iOS, you can’t print via Bluetooth on phone, need to download the App "Jadens printer" and print on it.
- [PRINT VIA USB] USB connection works with both Windows (7 and newer) and Mac OS (10.9 and newer) devices. Please long and press the feed button to identify and calibrate label size each time you change labels.
- [WIDE USAGE] JADENS thermal label printer is widely used to print labels from various marketplaces and shipping platforms, such as Endicia, Dazzle, ShipStation, Shipping Easy, Shippo, ShipWorks, Ordoro, eBay, Amazon, Easy, and Shopify. Use JADENS thermal label maker machine to print shipping labels, warehouse labels, market labels, helping increase your productivity. Ideal for your online small business for shipping packages.
- [EASY TO SET UP & RELIABLE AFTER-SALE SERVICE] Set up in one minute. Printer driver, instruction videos and problem shooting videos are provided in U-Disk for better understanding. Offer one year warranty; customer support can be reached out to email, phone, remote control.
Which free label program should you choose?
| Your situation | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Avery sheet labels | Avery Design & Print Online | Templates are designed around Avery products. |
| Custom sheets on an ordinary printer | LibreOffice Writer | It supports commercial and user-defined formats. |
| Brother label printer | Brother P-touch Editor 6 | It is designed for compatible Brother models. |
| Supported DYMO printer | DYMO Connect | It is DYMO’s current application for listed models. |
| Basic Zebra barcode labels | ZebraDesigner Essentials | It is Zebra’s free basic-design edition. |
| Visual designs and small batches | Canva | It offers browser-based templates and custom designs. |
| Basic Code 39 barcode work | IDAutomation Free | It supports Code 39, subject to license eligibility. |
| General labels with data sources | LabelTrix | It supports several barcode types and data sources. |
| GoDEX barcode printer | GoLabel | It is offered for GoDEX printer users. |
| Windows batch or automated jobs | AzureLabel Free | It documents data sources, batch printing, and automation. |
Preventing alignment problems
- Check the stock packaging. Record the brand, product code, sheet size, label dimensions, rows, and columns.
- Choose the correct page format. Use the stock’s actual paper size and exact label layout.
- Disable automatic scaling. Use Actual Size or 100% rather than Fit to page.
- Test on plain paper. Hold the print behind the label sheet up to a light to check alignment.
- Check the feed path. Use the printer’s recommended feed for label stock.
- Use a PDF reader when printing a PDF. Avery recommends Adobe Acrobat Reader rather than a browser’s built-in PDF viewer for consistent output.
FAQ
What is the easiest free label software for Avery sheets?
Avery Design & Print Online is designed around Avery products and runs in a browser. Generate its PDF and print it at Actual Size.
Is ZebraDesigner Essentials free?
Yes. Zebra describes Essentials as its free edition. Professional is a separate paid edition with features such as database connectivity, RFID, and scripting.
Does DYMO Connect work with every DYMO printer?
No. DYMO lists supported models for DYMO Connect and separately provides DYMO Label Software v8.7.4 for older supported devices. Check the compatibility information for your exact printer.
Can LibreOffice Writer create a full sheet of labels?
Yes. Its label dialog supports commercial and user-defined formats. Choose a label type, configure the text or data fields, and create a new document for printing.
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Are all Canva label templates free?
No. Canva’s editor is free to use, but some templates and design elements may be paid or require Pro. Check the assets in your design before downloading.
Which free barcode label software supports Code 39?
IDAutomation’s free edition supports Code 39 and Extended Code 39, subject to its license restrictions. Other barcode formats belong to paid editions.
Why are my labels printing out of alignment?
Common causes include the wrong page or stock format, automatic scaling, or a mismatched printer feed setting. Confirm the physical stock dimensions and print at Actual Size or 100%.
The Bottom Line
Choose Avery Design & Print for Avery sheets, LibreOffice Writer for flexible sheet layouts, and the matching manufacturer software for Brother, DYMO, Zebra, or GoDEX printers. Canva is useful for visual designs, while tools such as IDAutomation, LabelTrix, and AzureLabel serve more specific barcode or data-connected workflows. Check the printer model, stock format, and free-use terms before printing a full run.
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Quick Recap
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