Is the DX5 or the i3200 better?

Neither is universally better. The DX5 suits mature eco-solvent/solvent platforms; the i3200 has more nozzles and is built for DTF, DTG, UV and fast eco-solvent work. The right choice depends on your printer and ink.

Can I replace a DX5 with an i3200?

Not directly — they use different boards and interfaces. Upgrading a DX5 machine to i3200 is done with a conversion kit, available for models such as Mimaki JV33 and Mutoh VJ-1604/VJ-1624/VJ-1638.

DX5 vs i3200: Choosing the Right Epson Printhead

The Epson DX5 and the Epson i3200 are the two most common printheads in Chinese wide-format printers, but they serve different jobs. Here is a straight comparison so you can pick correctly.

	DX5	i3200
Nozzles	1,440 (8 rows x 180)	3,200 (8 rows)
Technology	Micro-Piezo (5th gen)	PrecisionCore MicroTFP
Resolution	up to 1,440 dpi	300 / 600 npi (2 rows)
Droplet	approx. 1.5-21 pl	approx. 3.8-12 pl
Ink	eco-solvent / solvent / water	A1 water / E1 eco-solvent / U1 UV
Typical use	eco-solvent & solvent signage	DTF, DTG, UV, fast eco-solvent

Choose the DX5 when…

You run an eco-solvent or solvent printer (Flora, Wit-Color, Gongzheng, Allwin, Galaxy and similar Chinese platforms).
You are replacing the existing head in an older Roland, Mimaki or Mutoh that was built around the DX5.
You need the mature, widely-available head with a large installed base. See DX5 printheads for Chinese printers.

Choose the i3200 when…

You print DTF, DTG, UV or high-speed eco-solvent work and want more nozzles (3,200) for faster throughput.
You are building or upgrading a machine that specifies the i3200 platform. Browse Epson i3200 printheads.

Upgrading an older printer to i3200

If your Mimaki JV33, JV150/JV300 or Mutoh VJ-1604/VJ-1624/VJ-1638 is still mechanically sound, an i3200 upgrading kit replaces the old heads and boards for higher speed and lower running cost — without buying a whole new machine. See upgrading kits or the i3200 kit for Mutoh VJ-1604/VJ-1624/VJ-1638.

Still unsure?

Send your printer model and current head label. We recommend the right head (and whether an upgrade makes sense) before you order. Contact Jayce for a recommendation.