Email: info@grisprint.com Phone: +8613539140137

Printhead Specifications


Ricoh MH5320, MH5340, MH5421 Specs Compared: Differences and Replacement Guide

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:

  • MH5320 / MH5340: February 2024 release
  • MH5421: April 2017 release

All data is 100% from official documentation — no assumptions, no marketing claims.


1. Overview of Each Model

ModelRelease DateTypical Use
MH5320Feb 20242-color systems using UV, solvent, or aqueous inks
MH5340Feb 20244-color systems (CMYK, white, clear) with UV/solvent/aqueous inks
MH5421Apr 2017Legacy 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.


2. Detailed Specification Comparison

All data sourced from official Ricoh PDFs.

ParameterMH5320MH5340MH5421
Nozzle Count1,280 (4 × 320, staggered)1,280 (4 × 320, staggered)1,280 (4 × 320, staggered)
Print Width54.1 mm54.1 mm54.1 mm
Resolution600 dpi (via 4×150dpi rows)600 dpi600 dpi
Binary Drop Volume5 pl5 pl7 / 14 / 21 pl*
Greyscale4 levels (5–15 pl)4 levels (5–15 pl)4 levels (ink-dependent)
Max Jetting Frequency50 kHz50 kHz30 kHz
Ink CompatibilityUV, Solvent, Aqueous, OthersUV, Solvent, Aqueous, OthersAqueous ink only
Viscosity Range10–12 mPa·s10–12 mPa·s11 mPa·s
Surface Tension28–35 mN/m28–35 mN/m28–35 mN/m
Max Color Inks Supported2 colors4 colors2 colors
Operating TemperatureUp to 60°CUp to 60°CUp to 50°C
Temperature ControlIntegrated heater & thermistorSameSame
Dimensions (W×D×H)89 × 66.3 × 24.51 mm89 × 66.3 × 24.51 mm89 × 69 × 24.51 mm
Weight228g (with cable)228g (with cable)155g (without cable)
Source: Ricoh MH5320_5340.pdf (Feb 2024), MH5421_5441.pdf (Apr 2017)


3. Can MH5421 Be Replaced with MH5320 or MH5340?

Not directly. Key differences must be evaluated:

FactorCompatibility
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.


4. MH5320 vs MH5340: What’s the Difference?

Despite common rumors, voltage is not specified in official docs.

The only documented difference is:

  • MH5320: Supports up to 2 ink colors
  • MH5340: Supports up to 4 ink colors

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.


5. Can These Printheads Be Used for DTF Printing?

Ricoh does not recommend or support DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing with any of these models.

Reasons:

  • DTF inks often contain PVA particles that can clog nozzles
  • Viscosity and surface tension may fall outside optimal range
  • Long-term reliability is not guaranteed

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.


6. Recommended Applications

ModelBest For
MH5320UV flatbed printers, dual-color marking systems, industrial coders
MH5340Multi-color roll-to-roll, hybrid printers with white/clear ink
MH5421Legacy textile printers, aqueous label printers (maintenance only)


7. Stock & Supply Information

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

👉 [Contact Us for Quote]


8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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.


Looking for the Ricoh MH5320/MH5340/MH5421  printhead?  

- Ricoh MH5320 >>  

- Ricoh MH5340 >>  

- Ricoh MH5421 >>  

👉 Click on a model above to view details, check specifications, or start a product consultation.

Email: info@grisprint.com  Inquire Now >>

CATEGORIES

LATEST NEWS

CONTACT US

Contact: Vicky Wei

Phone: +8613539140137

Email: info@grisprint.com

Address: 809Room , 8F, lianchuang Business Center ,No.67 Gongye Road , Mingzhi Street , Longhua District . Shenzhen City . Guangdong Province . China .518110

Leave a message

Top