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There is never a single “best” hardware setup that fits every store, and your budget is a deciding factor. That said, the setup below is what we recommend for most e-commerce shops: reliable, carrier-agnostic equipment at a sensible price point. We have a dedicated page for each part where you can read more and see other options.
zd421d

Printer

Zebra ZD421d label printer
ds2278-black-cradle-front-right-facing

Barcode scanner

Zebra DS2278-SR wireless scanner

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Printer

Our recommendation is the Zebra ZD421d (USB + Bluetooth).
  • Resolution: 203 dpi, sharp enough for clear, scannable labels.
  • Speed: fast printing that keeps up with daily order volume.
  • Label size: handles labels for all carriers, up to a maximum width of 108 mm.
  • Price: a strong price point for a dedicated label printer.
The USB + Bluetooth version keeps the price point low, and you are not locked in: Wi-Fi or Ethernet (one or the other, not both) can be added later with an extra module that connects to the bottom of the printer. If you already know you will be printing from several different computers, consider going for a Wi-Fi or Ethernet version up front instead. For setup, label sizes by carrier, and automatic printing with the Smart Send print client, see Print setup.

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Barcode scanner

Our recommendation is the Zebra DS2278-SR wireless model with a charging base.
  • Symbologies: reads both 1D and 2D barcodes.
  • Durability: built to survive being dropped on the floor.
  • Hands-free use: the presentation stand lets you scan items without holding the scanner.
A cheaper alternative is the corded Zebra DS2208-SR. It scans just as well, but the stand is not nearly as good and the cable often ends up getting in the way, so we recommend the wireless DS2278-SR for most setups. If you need more, the Zebra DS3678-ER is a more rugged and more expensive option that offers much greater read distances. To learn how barcodes fit into picking and packing, see Warehouse management.