Brother P-touch PT-D400AD Label Maker: features, specs and who it suits

The Brother P-touch PT-D400AD is a desktop label maker with a full QWERTY keyboard and a graphical display. It prints laminated labels for filing, shelves, cables, storage boxes and workshop drawers. An AC adapter is included, so it can sit on a desk and stay ready to use.

Typing and previewing labels

The keyboard follows the familiar computer layout, so typing is straightforward. The graphical display lets you check the text and formatting before printing. Brother says this reduces typing errors and cuts down on wasted labels. Labels can have multiple lines, which suits things like a name above a date or a part number under a description.

Fonts, frames and symbols

Brother lists 14 fonts, 10 font styles, 99 frames and over 600 symbols, along with barcodes, all reached through one-touch keys. The printer supports up to 7 font sizes, including large characters. The maximum print height is 15.8 mm, and it can print up to 9 copies of a label in one go.

Memory

The unit saves up to 50 labels in memory. This helps with labels that you reprint often, such as shelf markers, equipment tags or address labels, because you recall them rather than retyping.

Tapes and loading

The printer uses Brother Genuine TZe laminated tapes in five widths: 3.5 mm, 6 mm, 9 mm, 12 mm and 18 mm (about ¾ inch). Brother lists a long run of compatible TZe tape types, including different colours and finishes. The top-loading design makes it easy to change cassettes. Brother says standard TZe tapes are laminated to resist water, heat and fading, and that genuine tapes give the best performance. Only TZe tapes fit, so tapes from other label systems won't work.

Power

The AC adapter is included. The printer can also run on six AA batteries, which are not included. Batteries are useful if you move around a workshop or office, though the adapter is the simpler choice at a desk.

Size and who it suits

It measures about 7.0 x 7.4 x 2.8 inches (roughly 18 x 19 x 7 cm) and weighs 1.6 lb (about 0.7 kg). It suits homes, offices, classrooms and workshops that label things regularly. If you only need a few labels a year, a simpler unit may be enough, and for labels designed on a computer you would want a model with computer connection, which this listing doesn't mention.

What to check before you buy

• Tape width: the maximum is 18 mm; wider labels need a different printer.
• Tape supply: check that the TZe tape types and colours you want are available.
• Power: decide between the adapter and six AA batteries.
• Label content: check that the frames, fonts and symbols cover what you want to print.
• Starter tape: check whether a tape cassette comes in the box.
• Surface: make sure the label's adhesive suits the surface you will stick it to.

The short version

• Brother P-touch PT-D400AD label maker with QWERTY keyboard and graphical display.
• 14 fonts, 99 frames, over 600 symbols and 7 font sizes.
• Stores 50 labels; prints up to 9 copies; maximum print height 15.8 mm.
• Uses TZe tapes from 3.5 mm to 18 mm wide.
• AC adapter included; also runs on six AA batteries (not included).

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.