Star Micronics Introduces ESC/POS™-Compatible mC-Label2 Multifunction Printers for Legacy Label Printer Upgrades

The mC-Label2 multifunction printer now supports ESC/POS emulation.

Four new mC-Label2 models bring ESC/POS emulation, 300 dpi printing, modern connectivity, and versatile labeling capabilities to businesses upgrading legacy printing systems.

Somerset, NJ – October 14, 2026 – Star Micronics, a global provider of point-of-sale (POS) hardware, cloud printing, and labeling solutions, today announced four new ESC/POS-compatible models in its mC-Label2 multifunction label printer series. Designed to help businesses modernize aging labeling hardware, the new models combine ESC/POS emulation with the mC-Label2’s compact design, high-resolution printing, and connectivity options.

For businesses and software providers that rely on legacy ESC/POS-based printing systems, replacing outdated hardware can create compatibility challenges and add development costs. The new mC-Label2 models provide a potential migration path to modern labeling technology while supporting existing ESC/POS command environments.

Modern Label Printing with Legacy ESC/POS Compatibility

The new mC-Label2 models bring ESC/POS emulation to Star’s compact, 2-inch labeling platform, letting businesses and independent software vendors (ISVs) evaluate newer hardware without necessarily replacing existing software applications.

Key capabilities include:

  • ESC/POS Emulation: Supports ESC/POS-based printing environments, helping reduce potential software redevelopment requirements during hardware upgrades.
  • 300 dpi Printing: Produces sharp barcodes, text, graphics, and detailed labels.
  • Flexible Connectivity: Choose USB-C and Ethernet models or X4 models with additional Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Versatile Media Options: Select models supporting die-cut and linerless labels or dedicated barcode labeling configurations.
  • Cloud-Ready Technology: Supports CloudPRNT Next and StarIO.Online, Star’s fully managed cloud printing service, enabling cloud-connected label printing, remote printer monitoring, and centralized device management without requiring custom cloud printing infrastructure.
  • Compact Design: Front-loading, front-exit operation accommodates space-constrained retail counters, workstations, and labeling areas.

Four New mC-Label2 ESC/POS Models

Model Part Number Configuration
MCL21Ci BK US ESCP 37955400 Wired label and linerless label printer with cutter
MCL21Ci LBL BK US ESCP 37955410 Wired barcode label printer with tearbar
MCL21CWBi BK US ESCP 37955420 X4 multi-connectivity label and linerless label printer with cutter
MCL21CWBi LBL BK US ESCP 37955430 X4 multi-connectivity barcode label printer with tearbar

All four models support adjustable label widths up to 2 inches, USB-C with Power Delivery, Ethernet connectivity, SteadyLAN, and peripheral connectivity.

“For many businesses, the biggest obstacle to replacing a legacy printer isn’t the hardware itself. It’s the software environment built around it. By bringing ESC/POS emulation to the mC-Label2, we’re giving businesses and software partners a practical path toward modern labeling technology while helping protect their existing software investments.”

 Christophe Naasz, Global Director of Business Development at Star Micronics 

Helping Businesses Move Beyond Legacy Label Printers

From retail merchandise and barcode labeling to inventory identification and foodservice applications, businesses increasingly need printers that can accommodate evolving workflows and connectivity requirements.

The new ESC/POS-compatible mC-Label2 models expand Star’s options for businesses seeking to replace older labeling hardware while retaining compatible software workflows. For ISVs and resellers, they also introduce new opportunities to support customer hardware upgrades without requiring a complete change in POS or labeling applications.

For more information about the Star Micronics mC-Label2 printer series, visit starmicronics.com.

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About Star Micronics

Star Micronics is a global provider of point-of-sale (POS) hardware, cloud printing, and labeling solutions that help businesses connect digital workflows to real-world operations. Serving retail, hospitality, healthcare, and service industries, Star delivers printing, labeling, cash management, self-service, and cloud-based technologies designed to support scalable, connected, and automated environments. Star’s solutions support Android, iOS, Windows, and web-based platforms and extend into the cloud through services such as CloudPRNT Next and StarIO.Online, Star’s fully managed cloud printing service.

Visit starmicronics.com or follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, or LinkedIn to learn more.


Media Contact:

Christin Trilone

Star Micronics America, Inc.

ctrilone@starmicronics.com

848-216-3318

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