Compare Ricoh MH5320, MH5340, and MH5421 printhead specs: ink compatibility, nozzle count, resolution, drop size, dimensions, weight, color support, and replacement options. Data from official Ricoh d
If you're upgrading a UV flatbed printer, replacing a failed printhead, or designing a new industrial inkjet system, you may be wondering:
What’s the difference between the Ricoh MH5320, MH5340, and MH5421? Can one replace another?
This guide compares the three models based on official Ricoh datasheets:
All data is 100% from official documentation — no assumptions, no marketing claims.

| Model | Release Date | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| MH5320 | Feb 2024 | 2-color systems using UV, solvent, or aqueous inks |
| MH5340 | Feb 2024 | 4-color systems (CMYK, white, clear) with UV/solvent/aqueous inks |
| MH5421 | Apr 2017 | Legacy aqueous-only systems (textile, label printing) |
Note: The MH5320 and MH5340 offer more than double the service life with aqueous ink compared to the MH5421.
All data sourced from official Ricoh PDFs.
| Parameter | MH5320 | MH5340 | MH5421 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nozzle Count | 1,280 (4 × 320, staggered) | 1,280 (4 × 320, staggered) | 1,280 (4 × 320, staggered) |
| Print Width | 54.1 mm | 54.1 mm | 54.1 mm |
| Resolution | 600 dpi (via 4×150dpi rows) | 600 dpi | 600 dpi |
| Binary Drop Volume | 5 pl | 5 pl | 7 / 14 / 21 pl* |
| Greyscale | 4 levels (5–15 pl) | 4 levels (5–15 pl) | 4 levels (ink-dependent) |
| Max Jetting Frequency | 50 kHz | 50 kHz | 30 kHz |
| Ink Compatibility | UV, Solvent, Aqueous, Others | UV, Solvent, Aqueous, Others | Aqueous ink only |
| Viscosity Range | 10–12 mPa·s | 10–12 mPa·s | 11 mPa·s |
| Surface Tension | 28–35 mN/m | 28–35 mN/m | 28–35 mN/m |
| Max Color Inks Supported | 2 colors | 4 colors | 2 colors |
| Operating Temperature | Up to 60°C | Up to 60°C | Up to 50°C |
| Temperature Control | Integrated heater & thermistor | Same | Same |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 89 × 66.3 × 24.51 mm | 89 × 66.3 × 24.51 mm | 89 × 69 × 24.51 mm |
| Weight | 228g (with cable) | 228g (with cable) | 155g (without cable) |
Source: Ricoh MH5320_5340.pdf (Feb 2024), MH5421_5441.pdf (Apr 2017)
Not directly. Key differences must be evaluated:
| Factor | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Ink Type | ❌ MH5421 is aqueous ink only. Do not use it with UV or solvent inks. |
| Depth | ❌ MH5421 is 69mm deep; MH5320/5340 are 66.3mm deep — mechanical fit may not align. |
| Weight | ❌ MH5421 weighs 155g (no cable); MH5320/5340 weigh 228g (with cable) — motion system load increases by ~47%. |
| Jetting Speed | ✅ MH5320/5340 support up to 50kHz, faster than MH5421’s 30kHz. |
| Service Life | ✅ MH5320/5340 last over twice as long with aqueous ink. |
Conclusion:
If replacing MH5421 in an aqueous ink system, MH5320 is the closest successor — but only after full mechanical, electrical, and ink compatibility validation.
Despite common rumors, voltage is not specified in official docs.
The only documented difference is:
All other specs (nozzles, drop size, frequency, dimensions, ink compatibility) are identical.
Selection Tip:
Choose MH5340 if your system requires more than 2 colors (e.g., CMYK + white).
For 2-color applications, MH5320 is sufficient and often more cost-effective.
Ricoh does not recommend or support DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing with any of these models.
Reasons:
Some users attempt MH5320 with filtered aqueous-based DTF inks, but success depends on ink quality, maintenance, and system tuning.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This guide provides only official specification data. We do not recommend or support DTF use.
| Model | Best For |
|---|---|
| MH5320 | UV flatbed printers, dual-color marking systems, industrial coders |
| MH5340 | Multi-color roll-to-roll, hybrid printers with white/clear ink |
| MH5421 | Legacy textile printers, aqueous label printers (maintenance only) |
We are a global supplier of Ricoh MH5320, MH5340, and MH5421 printheads.
✅ In stock – ready to ship worldwide
✅ DHL/FedEx – tracked, insured, customs support
✅ Bulk pricing – volume discounts for OEMs and integrators
Q: Can MH5320 replace MH5421?
A: It can be evaluated, but only if the system uses aqueous ink and mechanical fit is confirmed.
Q: Is MH5340 more expensive than MH5320?
A: Yes, typically — due to higher color channel support.
Q: Do these printheads work with UV ink?
A: MH5320 and MH5340: Yes. MH5421: No, aqueous ink only.
Q: Can I get the official datasheets?
A: Yes, we can provide the PDFs upon request.
Disclaimer: All specifications are from official Ricoh documents. Actual performance depends on system integration, ink, and operating conditions. We supply printheads only and do not assume responsibility for compatibility or application suitability.
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