At Computype, we have a service team that specializes in barcode label printers, printer processes and printer troubleshooting. Having worked extensively with various makes and models of label printers—including cab’s EOS printer series—our team knows how these printers perform in comparison to a broad range of label printers.

We are a licensed distributor of cab products because we believe in their quality and performance, and trust their printers to meet the on-demand barcode and label printing needs of our customers.

While we clearly endorse cab in general—we want to ensure our customers have all the details they need to find a printer that truly enhances their processes, so we will be as objective as possible in this review.

Benefits & features

Cab’s EOS printer series is comprised of 4 Models: EOS2, EOS5, EOS2 mobile, and EOS5 mobile. Here we will break down the benefits and features of the EOS Series as a whole, and provide the specs of each model.

Thermal transfer print technology

Especially as it relates to laboratory labeling, we generally recommend thermal transfer over any other print technology due to its durability and affordability. Many of our customers work in harsh environments and need to ensure lasting barcodes—thermal transfer provides that with the bonus of being comparatively inexpensive.

Image resolution options

Both versions of the EOS2 and EOS5 models are available with 2 different dpi options—203 and 300 dpi. Both of these image resolution options are suitable for most standard barcode printing applications.

Compact design

The EOS2 and EOS5 are both desktop models, making either one a good fit for offices, production lines, warehouses or laboratories.

Despite its small size, the EOS2 can hold a 6-inch diameter roll of thermal transfer labels, which gives a wide range of possibilities when it comes to possible applications and processes.

The slightly larger EOS5 can accommodate rolls up to 8-inches in diameter, and is still suited for benchtop operation. You are also able to save standard formats into the cab EOS printer’s database if you want this printer to function as a standalone unit.

User-friendly interface

cab outfits all of their printers with a color touchscreen display. The display operates similarly to a smartphone, making the experience intuitive even for those who aren’t familiar with cab printers.

One feature within the interface that’s especially helpful is the ability to save your label formats—this allows you to easily switch between formats if you have multiple.

You can also re-print a replica of the last label printed in case you only need one more.

Mobility

Each printer comes standard with network connection, this is not a standard feature for most printers. This allows the EOS to work as a standalone product, without the aid of a computer and enables flexibility in regards to where the printer is housed.

Even more, the mobile models of the EOS2 and EOS5 are capable of running on battery power (so long as you purchase a powerful battery.) This gives you the freedom to operate the printer away from power outlets.

Easy to Accommodate Various Label Sizes

Both the EOS2 and EOS5 are capable of accommodating labels up to 4.5 inches in width—making both models suitable for printing anything from shipping labels to cryo-vial labels.

You also have the option to purchase additional slim print rollers to accommodate smaller labels. According to cab, using the slim rollers when printing thinner labels can “prevent print roller wear, print head contamination and errors during material feed.”

Limitations

Just like any piece of equipment, the EOS series has its limitations.

No peel and present

The first notable limitation is the lack of a peel and present option, which has proven to expedite processes in your manufacturing plant, laboratory, or office.

This option removes manual labor and increases precision in your processes, allowing your employees to spend time on more important tasks.

If your processes would benefit from the liner being removed automatically on-demand, you may want to consider other barcode label printing options—like the cab Mach 4s.

Small label sensor adjustment

A small but noticeable limitation is that the label sensor adjustment is a small spindle, sometimes making it difficult for operators with larger hands to access and control the settings.

No 600 dpi option

While 200 or 300 dpi image resolution is suitable for the majority of applications, when you’re working with particularly small labels—such as those applied to the caps and bottoms of tubes and vials 600 dpi is going to be the best option.

Not intended to withstand heavy use

This is a low volume desktop printer—it will not keep up if you need it to run around the clock. For that reason we mostly recommend this printer to facilities labeling 1,500 items or less per week.

Applications

As mentioned above, the cab EOS series of barcode label printers can be used on a desktop, in a lab, in a warehouse, etc. due to its small footprint.

Since it can be used as a standalone printer and comes with standard network connection, it is commonly used in places where computers and other machines typically wouldn’t live. This broadens the possibilities for how you could leverage this printer.

Lastly, while this printer is a great fit for a variety of applications—it’s not engineered to handle large volume, high-demand situations. If you aren’t looking to spend money on an overpowered printer though, an EOS model will be a good choice.

Cost

Cost is always a major consideration when making an investment in a barcode label printer. However, when it comes to the price tag, the cab EOS is a rather reasonable thermal transfer option. The starting price for the EOS2 printer is around $1,200, but this can increase depending on which model you choose, your intended specifications, and added features.

Final verdict

Overall, the cab EOS series is a multi-functional and versatile thermal transfer printer which can benefit companies in various industries. If your facility is looking for an affordable printer and you don’t need to label large quantities of items, we think the EOS series will be a good fit.