Epson i3200-A1 vs i3200(8)-A1HD & i3200-U1 vs i3200-U1HD: Understanding the Differences

Compare Epson i3200-A1 vs i3200(8)-A1HD and i3200-U1 vs i3200-U1HD. Official specs on 1200dpi, 8-color support, drop size, dimensions, and compatibility. Choose the right model for your printer.

The Epson i3200 series is a cornerstone of industrial inkjet printing, known for its reliability, high resolution, and PrecisionCore MicroTFP technology. However, with the introduction of high-density (HD) variants — the i3200(8)-A1HD and i3200-U1HD — confusion has arisen about their differences from the standard i3200-A1 and i3200-U1 models.

Despite similar appearances, these are not interchangeable. This article compares the standard and HD versions based strictly on official Epson specifications, helping you make the right choice for your printing system.

1. i3200-A1 vs i3200(8)-A1HD: Aqueous Printhead Evolution

Both printheads are designed for aqueous ink and share the same core PrecisionCore technology. However, the i3200(8)-A1HD is a high-density upgrade with enhanced capabilities.

Key Upgrades in i3200(8)-A1HD:

• Supports up to 8 colors (vs 4 in i3200-A1)
• 1,200 dpi resolution using 4 nozzle rows (ideal for photo-quality output)
• Slightly larger dimensions: +1.1 mm in height (36.7 mm vs 35.6 mm)

⚠️ Note: Although the i3200(8)-A1HD is compatible with the same driver boards and waveforms as the i3200-A1, the 8-color and 1,200 dpi modes require system-level support.

2. i3200-U1 vs i3200-U1HD: UV & Weak Solvent High-Density Upgrade

Both models support UV or weak solvent inks and are built for industrial durability. The i3200-U1HD offers significant performance enhancements.

Key Upgrades in i3200-U1HD:

• Supports up to 8 colors (vs 4 in i3200-U1)
• 1,200 dpi resolution capability for ultra-fine detail
• Higher binary drop volume: 6.0 pl vs 5 pl
• Different 4-level gray performance: includes a larger 12.0 pl drop at 12.0 kHz
• Taller housing: 36.7 mm vs 35.6 mm

⚠️ Note: The drop performance and frequency differ, meaning waveform tuning and driver compatibility cannot be assumed even if physical dimensions are similar.

3. Physical and Mechanical Differences

Despite visual similarity, the HD models are not drop-in replacements.

The +1.1 mm increase in height may cause interference in tightly packed printhead carriages. Always confirm mechanical clearance before integration.

⚠️ 4. Can They Be Interchanged?

No. The i3200-A1 and i3200(8)-A1HD (or i3200-U1 and i3200-U1HD) are not interchangeable, even within the same ink type.

Reasons:

• Different maximum resolution: 600 dpi vs 1,200 dpi
• Different color support: 4 vs 8 colors
• Physical size mismatch: Height difference may cause mechanical issues
• Drop performance variation: Especially in 4-level gray mode
• System compatibility: HD models may require updated firmware, drivers, and control boards

Using the wrong model can result in:

• Poor print quality
• Misregistration
• Mechanical damage
• Ink system failure

5. How to Identify Genuine Models

To avoid counterfeit or mislabeled units, always check the product label on the printhead body.

Both HD models are clearly marked with "HD" and specify support for 8 colors.

Conclusion

The i3200(8)-A1HD and i3200-U1HD are high-density, high-resolution upgrades to the standard i3200-A1 and i3200-U1, respectively.

Summary:

• Same ink type, same nozzle count, but enhanced capabilities
• 1,200 dpi resolution and 8-color support are the key upgrades
• Physical dimensions differ — HD models are taller
• Not interchangeable — always match the printhead to your system’s specifications

Choose the right model based on your application:

• For high-detail aqueous printing → i3200(8)-A1HD
• For high-resolution UV printing → i3200-U1HD
• For standard 4-color, 600 dpi systems → i3200-A1 or i3200-U1

Ensure authenticity, verify compatibility, and achieve optimal print performance.