An Electronic Shelf Label (ESL) is an electronic labels that replace the paper labels commonly placed on store shelves to display product information, especially prices. There are various types of electronic shelf labels, including e-paper displays, color ESLs, those with NFC or QR code features, modular ones for large shelves, and those with LCDs.

By understanding the types of electronic shelf labels, you can make an informed decision for a small shop, mini market, or supermarket. This article will discuss the types that are commonly used. Let's take a look so you don't make the wrong choice for your needs.

The Types of Electronic Shelf Label

E-paper ESL

E-paper displays are a type of electronic shelf label that uses electronic paper technology to display product price information. The labels display text and images without requiring electricity continuously, making them energy-efficient. Power is only used when there is a change in information.

Its paper-like appearance makes this type the most widely used in various retail stores. It is typically placed on everyday production shelves, including those for packaged foods, beverages, and household necessities. Its appearance is also pleasing to the eye and can be read clearly even in bright lighting or from an oblique angle.

Color ESL

Color ESL is a type that displays labels more attractively and colorfully. This type of ESL can display colors such as red, yellow, or green to attract attention. However, it must be acknowledged that the colors are not as vibrant as those of an LCD screen.

It is often used for items that you want to highlight on the shelf, such as promotional products or items on sale at a big discount. However, this type should be used selectively because it has higher power consumption.

ESL with NFC or QR code features

ESL with NFC or QR code features is a type that combines connectivity technology with additional information needs. This feature enables customer interaction because QR codes can be scanned. The NFC feature can also be used for fast payments or for integrating applications.

Stores that want to provide an interactive experience to customers are well-suited to use these labels. Customers scan the label with their cell phones and immediately see all the product details.

Modular ESLs

Modular electronic shelf labels are designed for use in stores or supermarkets with large shelves and a high volume of product variants. Their large size allows the labels to display multiple prices simultaneously. They can even provide additional information, such as stock and product categories.

This type of ESL is ideal for display shelves such as dairy shelves, cosmetics shelves, or baby food shelves. This is because these products typically have many SKUs (Stock Keeping Units) with different prices.

ESL LCD

For those who want to display information dynamically, there is a type of electronic shelf label that uses Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology. This screen allows you to display a variety of colors in one panel, such as red, yellow, or green, to attract attention.

ESL LCD has brighter colors than regular color ESL. Although they usually serve the same purpose of highlighting items that are on promotion or heavily discounted, you must be selective when using this type of ESL because it consumes a lot of power.

These are the types of electronic shelf labels you need to know about to get the best signage in your store. The best electronic shelf label manufacturers typically offer all of these types, allowing consumers to select the one that best suits their needs.