Brother TX Tapes Discontinued in 2024! Here’s What You Need to Know (and the Best Alternatives)

The time has come for one of Brother’s trusted products to bow out. If you’ve relied on Brother TX Tapes for your labeling needs, you might feel a little apprehensive about their discontinuation. As the owner of PtouchDirect, I’ve worked with countless business owners who depended on these tapes. While change isn’t always easy, I’m here to guide you through it and offer some excellent alternatives to keep your business running smoothly. Let’s dive in.

What Are Brother TX Tapes, and Why Were They So Popular?

Brother TX Tapes first became available in the 1990s, serving as a versatile and high-quality option for labeling needs across various industries. From organizing office supplies to labeling retail inventory and manufacturing parts, these tapes offered durability, a polished look, and reliable performance in diverse conditions. Their popularity endured for decades, partly due to their compatibility with older label printers.

I’ve seen firsthand how TX Tapes transformed workspaces. I remember a client whose chaotic stockroom became an organized dream with simple, consistent labeling using these tapes. For years, they’ve been a go-to for keeping everything in its place.

Why Brother Discontinued TX Tapes in 2024

Although TX Tapes have served countless businesses well, Brother’s decision to discontinue them reflects the natural evolution of technology and labeling needs. For context, the printers that use TX Tapes were discontinued over 15 years ago. Brother has done an admirable job of keeping TX tapes available to support older machines, but as time marches on, it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain compatibility and support for such old technology. Updating drivers for these older label makers has also proven challenging, given advances in connectivity and software.

With newer, more efficient tapes like the TZe series available, Brother decided to focus on products that meet the demands of modern businesses. While change can be disruptive, there are plenty of reasons to look forward to the benefits of upgrading.

Immediate Impacts on Your Business

If you’ve been using TX Tapes, you might be wondering how this change will affect your business operations:

• Supply Availability: TX Tapes have already been phased out, and stock is no longer available. If you’re still using older label makers, it’s essential to transition to a compatible alternative.
• Compatibility: Moving away from TX Tapes means upgrading to a newer label maker, as TX tapes are not compatible with TZe Tapes. This transition presents an opportunity for improved features and capabilities.
• Operational Adjustments: Planning and making the switch now can minimize disruptions and help ensure continued smooth operations.

The Best Alternatives for Brother TX Tapes

The good news is there’s a great successor: the TZe Tape family. Designed for modern business needs, TZe Tapes offer durability, flexibility, and a range of options that surpass the capabilities of TX Tapes.

Why Switch to TZe Tapes?

• Durability: TZe tapes are tough, resistant to scratches and fading, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They provide high performance even in harsh conditions.
• Compatibility: Unlike TX Tapes, TZe Tapes require newer label makers. If you’re still using an old printer, it’s time for an upgrade, as those machines are now more than 15 years old. Keeping their drivers updated with modern technology can be nearly impossible.
• More Options: TZe Tapes come in more size and color combinations, giving you greater flexibility in creating labels that fit your exact needs. This can enhance organization, improve labeling visibility, and give you options for special applications, such as tamper-evident or extra-strength adhesive labels, Heat Shrink Options, Flexible Tapes for Wire and Cable wrapping.

Recommended Replacement Printers

To make the transition easier, here are my top picks for label makers that use TZe tapes:

1. Brother PT-D610BT
   This is a smart, versatile label maker with seamless Bluetooth connectivity and PC compatibility. It allows for advanced label editing, making it perfect for business owners who want speed, convenience, and the ability to customize.
2. Brother PTP750W
   This model offers both wired and wireless connectivity, making it ideal for shared office environments. It supports high-speed, professional-grade label printing, with options that will meet demanding business needs.
3. Brother PTP950NW
   Built for heavy-duty business use, this label maker offers high-resolution prints, advanced cutting options, and the capacity for industrial-grade labels. If your business has complex labeling needs, this is the machine for you.

Transitioning Smoothly to New Tape Options

Switching from TX to TZe Tapes might feel overwhelming, but with a bit of planning, you can ensure a seamless transition:

• Evaluate Your Needs: Determine your current and future labeling requirements before choosing a new printer or tape.
• Try Brother TZe Tapes: Test a few TZe tapes to see how they perform with your labeling tasks. This will help you confirm quality and compatibility.
• Plan for Compatibility: Since TX Tapes and their label makers are outdated, transitioning to a new Brother label maker that uses TZe Tapes will offer more options and enhanced performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will my old Brother printer work with TZe tapes?
No. Label makers that used TX Tapes are not compatible with TZe tapes. You’ll need to upgrade to a newer label maker.

2. Are TZe tapes as durable as TX tapes?
Yes, and in many cases, they’re even more durable. TZe tapes are built to withstand tough conditions, including outdoor environments.

3. Can I use TZe tapes in outdoor conditions?
Absolutely. Many TZe tapes are weather-resistant, fade-proof, and designed to hold up under harsh environmental conditions.

The Benefits of Upgrading to a New Label Maker

Upgrading to a new label maker that uses TZe tapes offers numerous advantages. Not only do you get access to more size and color combinations, but you also gain improved performance, enhanced connectivity options, and modern features that streamline label creation. This means better organization, more professional-looking labels, and a broader range of uses for your business.

Final Thoughts and Support from PtouchDirect

While saying goodbye to TX Tapes might be bittersweet, it’s an opportunity to upgrade and enhance your business operations. At PtouchDirect, we’re here to support you through this transition. Whether you need advice on the best alternatives or assistance in selecting a new label maker, we’ve got your back. Ready to make the switch? Reach out to us for tailored recommendations or to explore your full range of options.

Embrace the change, and see how upgrading can take your labeling game to the next level!