Choosing the Right Printer for High-Volume Receipt and Label Printing: A Guide to Brother and Zebra Models

For your specific needs of printing around 500 receipts/labels per day without a requirement for high-quality print, a thermal printer could indeed be a good fit given their efficiency and lower cost per print. Based on your criteria, here are some recommendations and considerations:

1. Printer Type and Brand: Both Zebra and Brother are reputable manufacturers known for reliability and performance in the thermal printing arena. Since you are looking for a cost-effective solution that's reasonably fast and minimizes the need for roll changes, focusing on the capacity and speed of the printer is crucial.
2. Brother QL-820: This model from Brother, mentioned in your scenario, seems to align well with your requirements. It can print up to 110 labels per minute and uses rolls that can accommodate up to 1200 labels, which should reduce the frequency of roll changes. This printer focuses more on functionality and efficiency rather than high-end print quality, which matches your preference for a lower cost per print.
3. Zebra Options: Zebra offers a range of printers that could suit your needs. For high volume, models like the Zebra ZD620 or ZD500 might be suitable. These models are known for their durability and efficiency, and they can handle larger rolls which is advantageous for minimizing roll replacements.
4. Considerations for Roll Size and Connectivity: Since you prefer to change rolls as seldom as possible, look for printers that can handle larger roll sizes. Additionally, consider printers with automatic printing capabilities and connectivity options that match your IT infrastructure, whether it’s USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.
5. Total Cost of Ownership: While the printer's upfront cost is important, also consider the total cost of ownership which includes the cost of consumables like thermal paper or labels, maintenance, and potential repairs. Sometimes, a slightly more expensive printer can be more cost-effective in the long run due to lower operational costs.
6. Availability: As mentioned, popular models like the Brother QL-820 can sometimes be backordered. If immediate availability is crucial, it may be worth exploring similar models from both Zebra and Brother that are readily available.

Given these factors, I recommend comparing a few models from both Brother and Zebra based on their ability to handle the volume you need, connectivity options, roll capacity, and maintenance needs. Checking with a certified partner who can offer direct support and possibly better pricing due to their relationships with manufacturers could also be beneficial.