Epson i3200 Series Upgrade Path: From A1 to HD to U1HD – Which Is Right for You?

Confused about upgrading Epson i3200 printers? Compare A1, A1HD & U1HD for aqueous or UV workflows—and find the right path without replacing your whole system.

You’ve invested in Epson i3200-based printers. Now your customers are asking:

“Can I get higher speed or better quality without buying a whole new machine?”

“Is it worth upgrading to HD—or should I just wait for U1HD?”

As a distributor, you need clear, actionable answers—not marketing fluff.

This guide cuts through the noise with real-world compatibility notes, retrofit realities, and a 3-year TCO view—so you can advise confidently and close faster.

Already know the basics?
→ See how i3200-A1 compares to A1HD (same nozzle count, smarter layout)
→ Understand why i3200-U1 runs UV & eco-solvent

When Should You Recommend i3200-A1HD?

The i3200-A1HD isn’t about more nozzles—it’s about smarter ink placement.

Key facts (per Epson official docs):

• Same total nozzles: 3,200 (8 rows × 400) — identical to A1
• But 8 ink channels (vs 4 on A1) → allows single color to use 4 adjacent channels for higher dot accuracy
• Finer grayscale: Supports 4-level gray (3.8 / 6.1 / 9.4 pl) vs A1’s 3-level
• Same effective resolution: 1200 dpi (via 4-row staggered layout)
• Ink type: Aqueous only
• Dimensions: 69.1 × 59.5 × 36.7 mm (matches A1 mechanically)

Upgrade reality:

• Mechanically compatible with A1 mounts
• Requires updated waveform & firmware (check RIP support)
• Best for: Photo, fine art, textile sublimation where smooth gradation matters

Your pitch: “Same footprint, same nozzle count—but sharper gradients and more stable jetting at high speed.”

Can You Retrofit i3200-U1 or U1HD into an Existing Machine?

The i3200-U1HD is built for harsh chemistries—but retrofitting is complex.

Official specs (from Epson U1HD datasheet):

• Ink compatibility: UV-curable, eco-solvent, weak solvent
• Viscosity range: 5–7 mPa·s (vs 3–4 for aqueous A1/A1HD)
• Droplet performance: 3.9 / 5.6 / 12.0 pl (4-level gray)
• Same 3,200 nozzles, 8 channels, 1200 dpi effective

Retrofit feasibility:

• Mechanical fit: Yes (same external dimensions)
• Ink system: Must be chemically resistant (PTFE tubing, stainless fittings)
• Electronics: Requires higher drive voltage and UV-specific waveforms
• Firmware: Not backward-compatible with aqueous-only controllers

Your advice: “Don’t retrofit U1HD into an aqueous machine. Use it in new UV/eco-solvent builds—or as a full-system upgrade.”

Learn more: Why i3200-U1 runs UV & eco-solvent

TCO Comparison: Standard vs HD Over 3 Years

While nozzle count is the same, print quality stability drives real ROI.

Key insight: The A1HD reduces banding in grayscale prints—critical for premium applications. The U1HD isn’t “faster,” but enables new ink types your A1 can’t handle.

So… Which One Is Right for Your Customer?

Use this decision guide:

• Printing aqueous + need smoother photos? → i3200-A1HD
• Moving to UV or eco-solvent? → i3200-U1HD (in a new or fully rebuilt system)
• Running basic signage on a budget? → i3200-A1 is still reliable

Remember: All i3200 variants share the same 33.8 mm print width and 1200 dpi effective resolution. The difference lies in ink compatibility, grayscale control, and channel architecture.

Still unsure which i3200 variant fits your upgrade plan? Whether you’re building a new printer, upgrading an existing system, or advising a client—we’ll help you choose the right printhead based on real specs, not marketing claims. Just share: Current setup (printer model or ink type) Target application (aqueous photo, UV signage, etc.) Key goal: speed, quality, or ink flexibility? We’ll send a clear recommendation—backed by Epson’s official documentation. Email us: info@grisprint.com ｜ Inquire Now >>