Epson I1600 vs I3200 Printhead: Which One Fits Your Printing Needs Better?

In the digital inkjet printing industry, printheads are the heart of every machine. They define print resolution, color accuracy, speed, and overall output quality. Among the leaders in printhead technology, Epson stands out with its I3200 and the newer I1600 printheads.

But what exactly are the differences between these two models, and which one is better suited for your application—DTF, UV DTF, or eco-solvent printing?

Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.

Epson I1600 Printhead: A Cost-Effective Game Changer

Launched in 2023, the Epson I1600 printhead is a new addition to Epson’s piezoelectric printhead series. Despite being more affordable, it doesn't compromise on core performance.

• Nozzle Count: 1600

• Ink Channels: 4

• Printhead Series:

  • A1 – Water-based inks

  • U1 – UV inks

  • E1 – Eco-solvent inks

• Drop Ejection Precision: High consistency in droplet size

• Durability: Survives 106 billion actuations and 1,500 pressure cleanings at 40KPa

It’s a compact and durable printhead that balances precision with affordability, making it ideal for small to mid-volume printing businesses.

Epson I3200 Printhead: Speed Meets High Resolution

The Epson I3200 has already proven itself across global markets. With double the nozzles of the I1600 and broader ink coverage, it’s known for fast, high-resolution printing.

• Nozzle Count: 3200

• Ink Channels: 8

• Resolution: Up to 600 dpi/color

• Application: High-speed production for DTF, UV, and eco-solvent printing

• Best For: Businesses with high-efficiency needs

Thanks to its speed and resolution, I3200 is widely used in production-level digital printers for textiles, stickers, signage, and more.

Side-by-Side Technical Comparison

I1600 or I3200: Which Printhead Is Right for You?

When choosing between I1600 and I3200, the decision depends on your production priorities:

• Choose Epson I1600 if:

  • You're looking for a budget-friendly printhead

  • Your priority is high resolution over speed

  • You're running a small batch or startup printing business

• Choose Epson I3200 if:

  • You need faster production rates

  • Your business handles large volume printing

  • You want to maximize output efficiency

Both heads are compatible with DTF, UV DTF, and eco-solvent printers, but differ in speed and nozzle count.

AGP’s Use of Epson I1600: Smart, Scalable, Certified

In May 2023, AGP became one of the first manufacturers authorized by Epson to incorporate the I1600 printhead into its product line. Machines like the DTF-A602 and UV-F604 have been engineered for optimized performance using 2/3/4 Epson I1600 heads.

During APPPEXPO 2023 in Shanghai, AGP’s I1600-equipped printers drew wide attention and generated strong sales—proof that this new head meets real-world printing demands with flying colors.

Advantages of AGP I1600 Printers:

• Cost-efficient with high-precision results

• Stable long-term performance with Epson certification

• Flexible configurations for various ink types

Conclusion: Print Smart with the Right Head

Whether you’re scaling up or launching your printing business, understanding the differences between Epson I1600 and I3200 printheads helps you choose wisely.

• I1600: High precision, lower cost, excellent durability

• I3200: High resolution, high speed, proven market performance

At AGP, we’re committed to providing the right printer for your needs, backed by industry-leading printheads and robust support.

Want expert advice on your next printer?
Contact us now to discover which head fits your application best.