Why Buying Discontinued, Factory-Sealed Brother Label Makers Might Be the Smartest Move You Make This Year

Posted by Bryan L on 07/28/2025

As the owner of PtouchDirect.com, I’ve spent nearly two decades helping customers find the perfect Brother P-touch label maker for their home, office, or job site. And every so often, something unexpected pops up that turns into a win for both us and our customers. That’s exactly what happened recently when Brother cleaned out their warehouse—and we were able to scoop up a limited supply of factory-sealed, discontinued Brother label makers.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Discontinued? That doesn’t sound promising.” But hear me out—because buying one of these models might just be the smartest move you make this year.

What “Discontinued” Actually Means (and Why It’s Not a Red Flag)

When Brother discontinues a model, it doesn’t mean it’s outdated, faulty, or no longer supported. In most cases, it simply means they’ve released a newer version with a slightly updated design or added features most users may never even need. The core functionality—and the quality that Brother is known for—remains unchanged.

The key point here is that factory-sealed means brand new. These units came directly from Brother’s inventory and have never been used or opened. They include all the original materials—starter tape, user manual, and accessories (unless otherwise noted)—just like they did when they first hit the market.

Why These “Retired” Models Are Still Worth Owning

In some cases, discontinued Brother models are actually more desirable than newer ones because of their reliability and ease of use. We’ve had long-time customers ask us specifically for models like the:

Each of these machines earned its popularity because it simply works. And now that they’re no longer widely available, there’s renewed demand from both loyal users and savvy shoppers looking for a deal.

Let’s Talk About Value: What You’re Really Getting

One of the best things about picking up a discontinued, factory-sealed label maker is the value. These models often cost significantly less than current-generation labelers, yet offer nearly identical performance.

Take the Brother PT-D400 for example—it prints crisp, laminated labels in a wide variety of sizes and colors, supports 14 fonts, and can store up to 50 label designs. The only thing it doesn’t include is the AC adapter (sold separately), but it runs just fine on AA batteries.

Or the PT-D600 and its deluxe sibling, the PT-D600VP. These models offer USB connectivity, a full-color display, and PC compatibility. Perfect for offices or small businesses that need to pump out a lot of labels fast.

Bottom line? These machines offer tremendous value at a time when everything else seems to be getting more expensive.


Top Use Cases for Home and Business

Discontinued doesn’t mean limited. In fact, here are some everyday ways these label makers continue to prove their worth:

Home Users:

  • Organize your pantry, spice rack, garage bins, and hobby supplies

  • Label garden markers, kids’ school folders, or seasonal décor

  • One of my favorite use cases? A customer recently used the PT-D400 to label their entire fishing rod collection with line weight, hook size, and lake of origin!

Small Businesses (and Trades):

  • Label wires, cables, switch panels, storage bins, shipping shelves, and more

  • Electrical contractors love the PT-7100 because it's rugged, portable, and prints clear labels on the job site

  • Field service teams can date-stamp maintenance work thanks to the PT-7100’s built-in clock

  • Offices benefit from the PT-2030 for signage, files, folders, and mail bins

Still Compatible With Today’s Supplies

Another reason these label makers hold their value? They all use TZe tapes, Brother’s industry-leading line of durable, laminated label tapes. These tapes are:

  • Waterproof

  • Fade-resistant

  • Available in dozens of color combinations and finishes

  • Compatible with all the models mentioned above

Need help picking the right tape? Try our handy TZe Tape Finder or explore our full line of TZe tapes.

Why Buying From a Trusted Source Matters

Let’s be real—buying “discontinued” gear online can feel risky. Marketplace sellers may not disclose whether the unit is new, used, or refurbished. We’ve even seen customers burned by listings that didn’t include a power cord or came in a generic brown box with missing parts.

When you buy from PtouchDirect.com, you're getting:

  • Factory-sealed, new condition label makers

  • Clear disclosure of what’s included

  • Real human support (yes, we answer the phone!)

  • Over 19 years of experience specializing in Brother products

Don’t Let “Discontinued” Stop You—Here’s Why It’s a Smart Buy

Let’s recap the reasons buying a discontinued, factory-sealed label maker might be the best decision you make this year:

  • You're getting brand-new equipment at a lower price

  • You’ll enjoy the same durable, laminated labeling with TZe tapes

  • You’re buying from a trusted, authorized retailer (that’s us!)

  • These models are simple, reliable, and proven—still preferred by many over flashier, newer versions

  • Perfect for small business owners and home users alike

Final Thoughts: A Rare Opportunity That Won’t Last

Brother doesn’t do warehouse clean-outs often. Once this inventory is gone, it’s gone for good. So whether you’re looking for a backup unit, upgrading from an older model, or buying your first label maker—don’t miss this chance.

Shop Discontinued Brother Label Makers Now


FAQs About Discontinued Label Makers

Q: Will these work with new TZe tapes?
Absolutely! All models mentioned are compatible with current Brother TZe tapes.

Q: Do they come with a warranty?
While they are factory-sealed and new, discontinued models may not carry a Brother warranty. However, we guarantee they are in new condition and stand behind what we sell.

Q: Is the AC adapter included?
Some models (like the PT-D400) do not include an adapter, but one can be purchased separately. See what's included to confirm, i.e., the PTD600 & PTD600VP do have adapters and the VP has a carrying case too!