TSC MH261 vs Zebra ZD421
Side-by-side comparison of barcode printers specs, hardware, and features to help you pick the right one for your use case.
6-inch wide industrial printer, ideal for wide logistics labels and large-area manufacturing labels.
Zebra's next-generation desktop printer with built-in Print DNA smart software suite, multiple connectivity options, easy operation and enhanced security.
Which one should you pick?
Both TSC MH261 and Zebra ZD421 are proven barcode printers options sold through JUNJI as an authorized distributor. TSC MH261 suits users who prioritize cost efficiency and Taiwan-local support. Zebra ZD421 is a better fit for large-scale deployments needing vendor parity. Request a quote and we'll match you to the exact configuration for your workflow.
Full spec comparison
| Specification | TSC MH261 | Zebra ZD421 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Method | Direct Thermal / Thermal Transfer | Direct Thermal / Thermal Transfer |
| Resolution | 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) | 8 dots/mm / 12 dots/mm |
| Print Speed | 305 mm/s (12 ips) | 6 ips / 4 ips |
| Print Width | 168 mm (6.61") | 203 dpi: 104 mm (4.09"); 300 dpi: 108 mm (4.27") |
| Max Print Length | 14,732 mm (580") | 991 mm (39") |
| CPU | High performance 32-bit RISC | — |
| Memory | 256 MB SDRAM / 512 MB Flash (microSD expandable to 32 GB) | 256 MB SDRAM / 512 MB Flash |
| Sensors | Gap | Multi-point transmissive + full-width reflective + print head opening sensor |
| Media Types | Continuous paper / die cut labels / black mark (bottom only) / folded / notched | Roll or folded sheet: labels (die-cut or continuous, thermal or thermal transfer)/tags/receipt paper (continuous, thermal)/wristbands |
| Media Width | Max 172.7 mm (6.8") | ZD421t: 15 – 112 mm (0.585 – 4.41"); ZD421c: 15 – 118 mm (0.585 – 4.65"); ZD421d: 15 – 108 mm (0.585 – 4.25") |
| Media Roll OD | Max 203.2 mm (8") | Max 127 mm (5") |
| Media Core | 38.1 / 76.2 mm (1.5" / 3") | Standard 12.7 / 25 mm (0.5" / 1"); optional adapter 38.1 / 50.8 / 76 mm (1.5" / 2" / 3") |
| Ribbon Length | Max 450 m | Roll: 300 m or 74 m; Cartridge: 74 m |
| Ribbon Width | 50.8 – 178 mm (2" – 7") | Roll: 33.8 – 109.2 mm (1.33" – 4.3"); Cartridge: 109.2 mm (4.3") |
| Interface | Parallel | Standard USB 2.0 + USB Host + Bluetooth LE; optional 10/100 Ethernet + RS-232 Serial + Wi-Fi 802.11ac + Bluetooth 4.1 |
| Programming Language | TSPL-EZD | ZPL II / EPL2 / Link-OS |
| Display | 4.3" color LCD + buttons | — |
| Construction | Die-cast metal printing mechanism, transparent viewing window | — |
| Dimensions | 357 (W) × 313 (H) × 514 (D) mm | Thermal transfer: 267 × 202 × 189 mm; Thermal: 220.8 × 177.5 × 150.7 mm; Ribbon cartridge: 254 × 202 × 177 mm |
| Weight | 17.8 kg (39.24 lbs) | Thermal transfer: 2.05 kg; Thermal: 1.35 kg; Ribbon cartridge: 2.3 kg |
| Certification | — | ENERGY STAR, meets Energy Efficiency Level VI |
| Power | — | External transformer 100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz, output 24 VDC 2.5A |
Differences highlighted. Data source: JUNJI product catalog (22 spec rows compared).