Zebra ZD421
The Zebra ZD421 is a 4-inch-class desktop label printer for retail, shipping, stock identification and other business labelling tasks.
Choose direct thermal or thermal transfer printing, 203 or 300 dpi resolution, and the connections required by your workstation or network. Tell us your label size, application and expected volume so we can help select the configuration.
Looking for a printhead, platen roller or another ZD421 spare part? →

Direct thermal or thermal transfer?
The ZD421d prints on heat-sensitive direct thermal media without a ribbon. The ZD421t uses a thermal transfer ribbon with compatible labels, and can also operate in direct thermal mode with the appropriate media and settings. The choice depends on the label material, intended use and required resistance.
Resolution also matters when specifying a printer or replacement part. A 203 dpi and a 300 dpi version use different printheads and platen rollers. Send us an example label or describe its dimensions and content if you need help choosing the resolution.
Zebra ZD421 specifications at a glance
| Printer format | 4-inch-class desktop label printer |
|---|---|
| Printing methods | Direct thermal (ZD421d); thermal transfer (ZD421t) |
| Resolution | 203 dpi; optional 300 dpi configuration |
| Maximum print speed | 152 mm/s at 203 dpi; 102 mm/s at 300 dpi |
| Standard interfaces | USB and USB Host |
| Connection options | Ethernet, serial and wireless options, depending on configuration |
| Printer platform | Link-OS with Zebra Print DNA tools; ZPL and EPL support |
| Media sensing | Movable reflective/black-mark sensor and transmissive/gap sensing |
Daily operation and system integration
The three-button interface and five status indicators help operators check printer status. Colour-coded touch points guide media handling, while the movable media sensor accommodates different label and tag formats.
USB and USB Host are standard. Network, serial and wireless requirements should be specified when selecting the printer. Bluetooth Low Energy supports setup through Zebra’s mobile setup tools; it should not be confused with a connection option required by your printing application.
ZPL and EPL support can help when integrating the printer into an existing labelling workflow. Zebra Print DNA tools provide setup, management and security functions. If you are replacing a GK-series or another installed printer, tell us which software and label layouts you use so we can check the requirements.
Choose the version for your application
The wider ZD421 family also includes healthcare and ribbon-cartridge versions. This page covers the standard ZD421d and ZD421t configurations and their listed spare parts. If your identification label shows ZD421-HC or ZD421C, include the complete model and serial number in your enquiry so we can identify the correct equipment or component.
English datasheet
The English ZD400 series datasheet includes the ZD421. Compare the models and configuration options before ordering.
Download the English datasheet (PDF)
Zebra ZD421 spare parts
Need spare parts for your Zebra ZD421?
Request printheads, platen rollers and other Zebra ZD421 spare parts. Select the component and quantity below. We will check compatibility, availability and pricing for your printer.
Printheads for Zebra ZD421
Match the printhead to the printing method and installed resolution: ZD421d direct thermal and ZD421t thermal transfer use different part numbers.
| Part and printer | Part number | Quantity | Quotation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 203 dpi printheadZD421d standard (direct thermal) | P1112640-019 | ||
| 300 dpi printheadZD421d standard (direct thermal) | P1112640-020 | ||
| 203 dpi printheadZD421t (thermal transfer) | P1112640-218 | ||
| 300 dpi printheadZD421t (thermal transfer) | P1112640-219 |
Platen rollers for Zebra ZD421
Choose the roller for the correct printer version and resolution. The parts below are for the standard versions listed in the table.
| Part and printer | Part number | Quantity | Quotation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 203 dpi platen rollerZD421d standard (direct thermal) | P1112640-061 | ||
| 300 dpi platen rollerZD421d standard (direct thermal) | P1112640-062 | ||
| 203 dpi platen rollerZD421t (thermal transfer) | P1112640-216 | ||
| 300 dpi platen rollerZD421t (thermal transfer) | P1112640-217 |
Unsure of the part number? Send a photo of the component and the printer identification label, including its serial number. Changing resolution may require other components as well as the printhead; ask us to check the configuration before ordering.
Another part needed, or a printer fault?
Send us a photo or describe the fault. We will help identify the appropriate replacement part or suggest how to proceed with a repair. You can ask about any Zebra ZD421 spare part, including sensors, cutters, power supplies, boards and mechanical components.