Uncovering the Best QZ Tray Alternatives for Seamless Printing
QZ Tray is a widely recognized solution for web-based printing, offering robust features for connecting web applications to local printers and serial devices. Its capabilities for handling various print formats like PCL, ESC/P, EPL, ZPL, and FGL, alongside bi-directional serial communication, make it a go-to for POS and shipping industries. However, specific project needs, budget constraints, or a desire for different feature sets might lead you to seek a QZ Tray alternative. This article explores some of the top competitors and what they bring to the table.
Top QZ Tray Alternatives
While QZ Tray offers a comprehensive solution, the market provides a variety of excellent alternatives catering to diverse printing needs, from cloud-based solutions to dedicated label software. Let's dive into some of the most notable options that can serve as a suitable QZ Tray alternative.
Google Cloud Print
Google Cloud Print allowed users to print from any web-connected device to a cloud-connected printer using their Google Account. As a free, web-based, and Android/Chrome platform solution, it was a significant QZ Tray alternative for simple, ubiquitous printing, though it has since been deprecated.
gLabels
gLabels is a free and open-source program specifically designed for creating labels and business cards within the GNOME desktop environment on Linux. For users requiring a dedicated, open-source label design solution, gLabels offers a compelling QZ Tray alternative focusing on specific printing tasks.
DYMO Label
DYMO Label v.8 software is a free personal application for Mac and Windows, designed to work seamlessly with DYMO LabelWriter® printers. It's an excellent QZ Tray alternative for users primarily printing labels and requiring specific features like sticker creation, offering precise control over label design and output.
ezeep
ezeep is a commercial cloud printing software that caters to enterprise solutions, offering features like Google Chrome Extensions and Remote Printing across Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, Android, iPhone, and iPad. It's a robust QZ Tray alternative for organizations looking to modernize and simplify their print infrastructure with cloud management capabilities.
Printer Pro
Printer Pro is a commercial application for iPhone and iPad that allows printing of attachments, documents, and web pages to any Wi-Fi or USB printer. With features like Print to PDF and Remote Printing, it serves as a mobile-centric QZ Tray alternative, ideal for users needing direct printing from their iOS devices.
Avery Design & Print
Avery Design & Print is a free, web-based software (also available on Mac, Windows, Android, iPhone, and iPad) that simplifies the personalization of Avery products without requiring a download. For users primarily dealing with Avery labels and products, it offers a user-friendly and convenient QZ Tray alternative.
ePrint
ePrint is a freemium iPhone application that enables direct printing from your iPhone or iPod touch to compatible printers. It supports printing contacts, photos, notes, web pages, or PDF files, making it a viable QZ Tray alternative for mobile users with specific printer compatibility.
Printix
Printix Cloud Print Management Service is a commercial, cloud-based solution offering secure print infrastructure across Mac, Windows, Android, iPhone, Chrome OS, and iPad. With features like Azure and Google integration, plus Remote Printing, Printix is a powerful QZ Tray alternative for enterprises seeking complete cloud-managed printing.
PrintNode
PrintNode is a commercial cloud printing service supporting all printers and USB scales, featuring a JSON API for app integration. Available on Mac, Windows, Web, and Magento Community Edition, PrintNode stands out as a rapid QZ Tray alternative, especially for logistics and app integration needs due to its API and remote printing capabilities.
Choosing the right QZ Tray alternative depends heavily on your specific requirements, whether that's platform compatibility, open-source preference, specific printing features like label design, or robust cloud management. Carefully evaluate each option to find the best fit for your printing ecosystem.