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Whenever people talk about affordable thermal label printers, the JADENS 268BT tends to come up. On JADENS’ own site it costs between $95.99 and $134.99, depending on the color and the bundle, and Amazon and Best Buy sell it too.
Our sources were the official spec sheet, The Gadgeteer’s hands-on review and customer feedback on Best Buy. We used them to weigh up whether the praise is deserved.
Key Specs
The 268BT prints at 150mm/s with a 203 DPI resolution. It handles labels between 1.57 and 4.1 inches wide.
That range covers the common 4×6 shipping label, along with 3×3 and 2×1 formats.
Compatibility covers Windows, Android and iOS, and you can connect over either Bluetooth or USB. On MacOS the printer is limited to USB, as the hands-on review says Mac does not support Bluetooth here.
At 4.13 lbs and 9.1 by 5.9 by 5.9 inches, the printer is small enough to fit into a desk corner.
Inside the Box
- Printer with a dual-functional label holder
- Power supply
- USB cable plus a USB-A to USB-C adapter
- Thumb drive containing the drivers
- User manual and sample 4×6 labels
What Reviewers Say
The Gadgeteer called the printer fantastic overall. The review singled out the auto label calibration for removing the guesswork of alignment.
Buyers appreciate not having to purchase ink or toner. Thermal prints also come out waterproof.
The Gadgeteer’s review also lists three real drawbacks:
- No WiFi, so you are limited to Bluetooth and USB
- No Bluetooth support on MacOS
- A barrel-style power plug rather than USB-C, so running it from a portable power bank is limited
These limits are minor for a desk printer. They start to matter only when you print away from your desk.
How It Stacks Up
In JADENS’ own lineup, the 268BT is the most fully specced Bluetooth model the brand offers. It supports a wider range of label widths than the budget 668BT.
Rollo is the rival to watch. On top print speed, the 268BT ties it at 150mm/s, yet it costs about half as much. What you lose is WiFi and the metal housing.
Who Should Buy It
The 268BT suits shippers who need dependable 4×6 labels, true Bluetooth support and no ongoing ink expense. At under $135, it is one of the easiest picks around.
People on Windows or a mobile device enjoy complete wireless printing. Mac owners should expect to rely on the USB cable, not Bluetooth.