Best Parallel Printers of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Parallel printers are a type of computer printer that uses a parallel interface to connect to a computer. These printers were widely used in the 1980s and 1990s before being replaced by USB printers. The parallel interface allowed for faster data transfer and printing speeds compared to older serial interfaces. Parallel printers are typically larger and noisier than USB printers, but they can still be useful for older computers or for printing in industrial settings where a USB connection may not be available. They are also often used in point-of-sale systems and can be more reliable than USB printers in these applications.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Epson LX-350 Dot Matrix Printer Cover#TOP 1
Epson LX-350 Dot Matrix Printer
ftb score rating icon9.9
Zebra ZP450 Label Printer Cover#TOP 2
Zebra ZP450 Label Printer
ftb score rating icon9.8
ZEBRA GK420d Label Printer Cover#TOP 3
ZEBRA GK420d Label Printer
ftb score rating icon9.6

Top 10 Parallel Printers

#TOP 1

Epson LX-350 Dot Matrix Printer

C11CC24001
1-(Pack)
Epson LX-350 Dot Matrix Printer Cover
Epson C11CC24001 LX-350 Dot Matrix Printer - 9 pin - Up to 347 char/sec - Parallel/Serial/USB
ftb score rating icon9.9
FTB Score

The Epson LX-350 is a compact dot matrix printer with fast and durable 9-pin technology, ideal for front and back office applications needing continuous paper or multi-part stationery. It prints up to 347 characters per second and has a mean time between failure of 10,000 operating hours. The LX-350 has parallel, serial, and USB interfaces, and is energy-efficient for less power consumption.

What We Like
Fast and durable 9-pin technology
Compact design fits neatly onto desks
MTBF of 10,000 operating hours
Multiple interfaces: parallel, serial, and USB
Energy-efficient model for less power consumption
#TOP 2

Zebra ZP450 Label Printer

ANYHDD
ZP450-PRINTER
Thermal
Large
Zebra ZP450 Label Printer Cover
Zebra ZP450 (ZP 450) Label Thermal Bar Code Printer - USB, Serial, and Parallel Connectivity 203 DPI Resolution with Power Cord + USB 2.0 Cable + Microfiber Cloth (Renewed)
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

The Zebra ZP450 Printer is designed for seamless integration in various low-volume printing settings, such as offices and shipping areas. With its multiple connectivity options, including USB and Serial, you can easily connect it to your devices. This printer excels in label production, delivering fast printing speeds of up to 5 inches per second and a resolution of 203 dpi, making your labeling tasks quick and efficient. Its compact and sturdy design ensures durability, so you can rely on it for daily use without worry. Plus, it accommodates a wide range of label types, providing flexibility for your shipping and labeling needs.

What We Like
Multiple connectivity options
Fast label printing speeds
Durable and compact design
Compatible with various labels

ZEBRA GK420d Label Printer

Zebra Technologies
GK420d
Black
ZEBRA GK420d Label Printer Cover
ZEBRA GK420d Direct Thermal Desktop Monochrome Printer Print Width of 4 in USB Serial and Parallel Port Connectivity GK42-202510-000
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

The ZEBRA GK420d Label Printer is a reliable and easy to use direct thermal printer that connects via USB, Serial, and Parallel. It is compatible with media rolls that have a 1 in core, a max diameter of 5 in, and a max width of 4.25 in. It can create high-quality address, shipping, mailing, file folder, barcode, and binder labels as well as name tags with a max print speed of 5 in/sec, 203 dpi, and is Energy Star approved. Tested and certified by Zebra engineers, it is designed for durability and frequent use.

What We Like
Compatible with media rolls that have a 1 in core, a max diameter of 5 in, and a max width of 4.25 in
Max print speed of 5 in/sec, 203 dpi, and is Energy Star approved
Tested and certified by Zebra engineers to provide optimal performance and reduce printer downtime
#TOP 4

Zebra GX420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer

GX420t
Zebra GX420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer Cover
Zebra - GX420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer for Labels, Receipts, Barcodes, Tags, and Wrist Bands - Print Width of 4 in - USB, Serial, and Parallel Port Connectivity (Renewed)
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

The Zebra GX420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer is an easy-to-use label printer that connects via USB, serial, or parallel port, and is compatible with thermal transfer label rolls with 1 in core, max diameter of 5 in, and max media width of 4.25 in. It prints using thermal transfer technology, which uses a wax/resin ribbon instead of expensive ink or toner. With best-in-class print speed, improved efficiency and profitability, the GX420t can create high-quality labels for various purposes. It prints 6 in/sec at 203 dpi, Energy Star approved and supports on-demand printing, which allows you to print exact quantities, saving time and money. It works with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems using current CUPS printer drivers.

What We Like
Easy to use
No need for expensive ink or toner
High-quality printing
#TOP 5

Bixolon STP-103III Thermal Printer

Bixolon
STP-103IIIPG
black
Bixolon STP-103III Thermal Printer Cover
Bixolon STP-103IIIPG Series STP-103III Thermal Pos Printer, 2" Size, Parallel Cable, CD Port, Black
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Bixolon STP-103III is a compact thermal printer designed for efficient label printing. It comes with a parallel cable, allowing for easy connectivity to various devices, enhancing your printing setup. The inclusion of a CD port provides added versatility, making it simple to integrate with existing systems. Its sleek black design not only looks professional but also fits seamlessly into any workspace. With these features, you can expect reliable performance and convenience, streamlining your printing tasks and improving productivity.

What We Like
Easy connectivity with parallel cable
Versatile CD port
Sleek, professional design
Compact size for any workspace
#TOP 6

ZEBRA GX420d Label Printer

GX42-202510-000
black
ZEBRA GX420d Label Printer Cover
ZEBRA GX420d Direct Thermal Desktop Printer Print Width of 4 in USB Serial and Parallel Port Connectivity GX42-202510-000
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The ZEBRA GX420d Printer is designed for ease of use, connecting seamlessly via USB, Serial, or Parallel ports. You can print on media rolls with a 1-inch core and a maximum width of 4.25 inches, making it versatile for various labeling needs. Utilizing direct thermal technology, it eliminates the need for thermal ribbons, saving you time and hassle. With a print speed of up to 6 inches per second, this printer enhances your productivity by quickly producing high-quality labels for shipping, barcoding, and more. Energy Star approved, it also helps you save on power costs while maintaining performance.

What We Like
Easy connectivity options
Direct thermal printing
Fast print speed
Energy-efficient
#TOP 7

ZEBRA GC420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer

GC420-100510-000
White
ZEBRA GC420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer Cover
ZEBRA GC420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer Print Width of 4 in USB Serial and Parallel Port Connectivity GC420-100510-000
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The ZEBRA GC420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer is an affordable and easy-to-use printer that connects via USB, Serial, and Parallel ports. It utilizes thermal transfer technology and can print using Direct Thermal technology which requires the use of direct thermal media but no ribbon required. With a max print speed of 4 in/sec, 203 dpi, and Energy Star approval, it is great for low to medium volume printing applications and can create address, shipping, mailing, barcode labels, name tags, wrist bands, and receipts. The printer is tested and certified by Zebra engineers to provide optimal performance and reduce printer downtime.

What We Like
Easy to use and connect via USB, Serial, and Parallel ports
Can print using both thermal transfer and Direct Thermal technology
Affordable, reliable, and great for low to medium volume printing applications
#TOP 8

Zebra - GX420d Direct Thermal Desktop Printer

GX42-202510-000-cr
black
Zebra - GX420d Direct Thermal Desktop Printer Cover
Zebra - GX420d Direct Thermal Desktop Printer for Labels, Receipts, Barcodes, Tags, and Wrist Bands - Print Width of 4 in - USB, Serial, and Parallel Port Connectivity (Renewed)
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The Zebra GX420d Direct Thermal Desktop Printer is an easy-to-use printer that connects via USB, serial, or parallel port. It is compatible with direct thermal label rolls with 1 in core, max diameter of 5 in, and max media width of 4.25 in. The printer uses direct thermal technology, which eliminates the need for expensive ink or toner. The GX420d can create high quality address, shipping, mailing, file folder, barcode, and binder labels as well as name tags, wrist bands, and receipts. It prints 6 in/sec at 203 dpi, is Energy Star approved, and on demand printing allows you to print exact quantities instead of wasting 8.5 x 11 sheets of labels. It can be used with Windows 10 and above, Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard and above, and Linux systems using current CUPS printer drivers.

What We Like
Easy-to-use printer that connects via USB, serial, or parallel port
Uses direct thermal technology, which eliminates the need for expensive ink or toner
Creates high quality address, shipping, mailing, file folder, barcode, and binder labels as well as name tags, wrist bands, and receipts
Prints 6 in/sec at 203 dpi, is Energy Star approved, and on demand printing allows you to print exact quantities instead of wasting 8.5 x 11 sheets of labels
Compatible with Windows 10 and above, Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard and above, and Linux systems using current CUPS printer drivers
#TOP 9

ZEBRA GK420t Thermal Transfer Printer

GK420t
black
small
ZEBRA GK420t Thermal Transfer Printer Cover
ZEBRA GK420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Monochrome Printer Print Width of 4 in USB Serial and Parallel Connectivity GK42-102510-000
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

The ZEBRA GK420t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer is an easy-to-use device that connects via USB, Serial, and Parallel. It is compatible with media rolls that have a 1-inch core, a maximum diameter of 5 inches, and a maximum width of 4.25 inches. This printer uses Thermal Transfer Technology, which requires the use of a thermal ribbon, and can also print using Direct Thermal technology, which requires the use of direct thermal media but no ribbon. It is designed for durability and frequent use, and can create high-quality address, shipping, mailing, file folder, barcode, and binder labels as well as name tags. It has a max print speed of 5 in/sec, 203 dpi, and is Energy Star approved.

What We Like
Compatible with media rolls that have a 1-inch core, a maximum diameter of 5 inches, and a maximum width of 4.25 inches
Uses Thermal Transfer Technology, which requires the use of a thermal ribbon
Max print speed of 5 in/sec, 203 dpi, and is Energy Star approved
#TOP 10

ZEBRA GX430t Thermal Transfer Printer

GX430t
Black
ZEBRA GX430t Thermal Transfer Printer Cover
ZEBRA GX430t Monochrome Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer Print Width of 4 in USB Serial and Parallel Port Connectivity GX43-102510-000
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

The ZEBRA GX430t Thermal Transfer Desktop Printer is easy to use and offers compatibility with a variety of media rolls. Its thermal transfer technology requires the use of a thermal ribbon, but it can also print using Direct Thermal technology. With fast print speeds of up to 4 in/sec and 300 dpi resolution, this printer can create high-quality labels for address, shipping, barcode, and name tags. It is Energy Star approved and tested by Zebra engineers to provide optimal performance and reduce printer downtime.

What We Like
Easy to use with multiple connectivity options
Thermal transfer technology for high-quality labeling
Fast print speeds of up to 4 in/sec and 300 dpi resolution
Buying Guide Image

The Ultimate Parallel Printers Buying Guide

How to Choose the Perfect Parallel Printer for Your Needs

Are you in the market for a new parallel printer but don't know where to start? With so many options and features available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one for your needs. In this article, we'll break down the key factors to consider when choosing a parallel printer.

Types of Parallel Printers

There are two main types of parallel printers, dot matrix and laser. Dot matrix printers use pins to create images or text on paper, while laser printers use toner and heat to create the same effect. Dot matrix printers are slower, but they are more durable and can handle thicker paper, making them ideal for businesses that need to print invoices or receipts. Laser printers are faster and produce higher-quality prints, making them ideal for offices that need to print documents quickly and efficiently.

Connectivity Options

Parallel printers can connect to your computer in several ways, including through a parallel port, USB, or Wi-Fi. Parallel ports are the traditional way of connecting a printer to a computer, but they are becoming less common as newer technologies emerge. USB connections are faster and more reliable, making them a popular choice for most users. Wi-Fi connections allow you to print from anywhere in your home or office, but they can be slower and less reliable than USB connections.

Print speed and quality are important factors to consider when choosing a parallel printer. If you need to print a lot of documents quickly, look for a printer with a high print speed. Print quality is also important, especially if you need to print photos or graphics. Look for a printer with a high resolution and color depth for the best print quality.

Paper Handling

Paper handling is another important factor to consider when choosing a parallel printer. If you need to print on different types of paper, such as cardstock or labels, look for a printer with multiple paper trays or manual feed options. Some printers also have automatic duplexing, which allows you to print on both sides of the paper without having to flip it over manually.

Maintenance and Cost

Finally, consider the maintenance and cost of the printer. Some printers require more maintenance than others, such as replacing toner cartridges or cleaning the print heads. Make sure to factor in the cost of these supplies when choosing a printer. Additionally, consider the cost of the printer itself and whether it fits within your budget.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect parallel printer for your needs can be a daunting task, but by considering the factors outlined above, you can make an informed decision. Remember to consider the type of printer, connectivity options, print speed and quality, paper handling, and maintenance and cost when making your decision. By doing so, you'll be able to find the perfect printer to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a parallel connection printer?

A parallel port is an interface allowing a personal computer (PC) to transmit or receive data down multiple bundled cables to a peripheral device such as a printer. The most common parallel port is a printer port known as the Centronics port.

2. What is the purpose of parallel port?

The parallel port interface was originally known as the Parallel Printer Adapter on IBM PC-compatible computers. It was primarily designed to operate printers that used IBM's eight-bit extended ASCII character set to print text, but could also be used to adapt other peripherals.

3. What is difference between serial port and parallel port?

A serial port is able to transmit a single stream of data at a time. A parallel port is able to transmit multiple data streams at a time.

Editor's Notes

During our parallel printer research, we found 24 parallel printer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,740 customer reviews through our big data system to write the parallel printers list. We found that most customers choose parallel printers with an average price of $285.75.

The parallel printers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of parallel printers, including Epson, ANYHDD, Zebra Technologies, Zebra, Bixolon. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 799 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.