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Zebra ZT421R RFID Printer

A new level of performance, versatility, and ease of use

Zebra ZT421R  -  Zebra's ZT421 Series Industrial Printers provide a new level of performance, versatility and ease of use. The ZT421 is available in three print resolutions and two print widths and addresses a broad array of applications throughout manufacturing, transportation and logistics, retail and more. ZT421 printers are easy to integrate and manage, thanks to Zebra's Print DNA suite of applications, utilities and developer tools that are all powered by Link-OS. The 4.3-inch full-color touch display allows you to quickly navigate printer settings, connectivity options and more. The ZT421 comes standard with Ethernet, Serial, USB, dual USB Host and Bluetooth 4.1. The ZT421 printer is offered in both 4 in. and 6 in. models with 203 dpi and 300 dpi available. Zebra's exclusive RFID On-metal Tagging Solution is the only dedicated option for printing and encoding thicker RFID labels for metal containers and assets.
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Starting at:
$4,588.20
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Print Resolution

Zebra ZT421R RFID Printer Options

  • Zebra ZT42162-T0100A0Z RFID Printer

    Zebra ZT42162-T0100A0Z RFID Printer

    RFID Printers, Zebra ZT421R, Thermal Transfer, 6, 203 dpi, US Cord, Serial, USB, 10/100 Ethernet, Bluetooth 4.1/MFi, USB Host, RFID UHF Encoder: US & Canada, EZPL
    Item on backorder — chat for lead time
    $4,588.20
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  • Zebra ZT42163-T0100A0Z RFID Printer

    Zebra ZT42163-T0100A0Z RFID Printer

    RFID Printers, Zebra ZT421R, Thermal Transfer, 6, 300 dpi, US Cord, Serial, USB, 10/100 Ethernet, Bluetooth 4.1/MFi, USB Host, RFID UHF Encoder: US & Canada, EZPL
    Item on backorder — chat for lead time
    $5,035.26
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Frequently Asked Questions

The Zebra ZT400 Series is a line of industrial thermal printers built on a metal frame with a bi-fold metal media cover, side-loading supplies path and a 4.3-inch full-color touch display. The series comprises two models — the 4-inch ZT411 and the 6-inch ZT421 — each available in 203 dpi, 300 dpi and, on the ZT411 only, 600 dpi resolutions. Both support thermal transfer and direct thermal printing.

The ZT400 Series is used for work-in-process, product ID and serial numbers, and package labeling in manufacturing; order picking, shipping and receiving, cross-docking and compliance labeling in transportation and logistics; distribution center and back-of-store operations in retail; and laboratory, blood bank, asset tracking and pharmacy labeling in healthcare.

Print width and speed are the main differences. The Zebra ZT411 prints up to 4.09 in. (104 mm) wide at up to 14 ips (356 mm/sec), while the ZT421 prints up to 6.6 in. (168 mm) wide at up to 12 ips (305 mm/sec). The 600 dpi resolution option is available on the ZT411 only, as are the 1 in. I.D. core media supply hanger and ink-side-in ribbon supply options.

The ZT421 accepts wider media — 2.00 in. (51 mm) to 7.0 in. (178 mm) in tear/cutter mode versus 1.00 in. (25.4 mm) to 4.5 in. (114 mm) on the ZT411 — and is correspondingly larger at 13.25 in. wide and 40 lbs. (18.14 kg), against 10.6 in. and 36 lbs. (16.33 kg). Choose the ZT421 for wide pallet and shipping labels, and the ZT411 for standard 4-inch work, higher speed, or when 600 dpi is required.

Yes. The Zebra ZT400 Series integrated RFID system is user-upgradable in the field and available on both the 4-inch ZT411 and 6-inch ZT421, so a printer bought for barcode work can be converted when tracking requirements change. It supports tags compatible with UHF EPC Gen 2 V2, ISO/IEC 18000-63 and RAIN RFID protocols, and Adaptive Encoding Technology automatically selects the optimum encode settings.

The ZT411 RFID On-metal Tagging Solution is a separate, field-installable kit — Zebra describes it as the only dedicated option for printing and encoding the thicker RFID labels used on metal containers and assets, which defeat standard RFID media. Note that the on-metal kit is available on the ZT411 only, and not on the 600 dpi model.

The Zebra ZT400 Series comes standard with 10/100 Ethernet, RS-232 Serial, USB 2.0 high-speed, dual USB Host ports and Bluetooth 4.1. Two open communication slots accept internal cards for dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi with Bluetooth, bi-directional parallel, additional 10/100 Ethernet or an applicator interface.

The dual USB Host ports let you connect a scanner and keyboard simultaneously, or use a memory stick to replicate firmware, files and configurations across printers without unplugging peripherals. The Network Connect option attaches ZT400 printers directly to an Industrial Ethernet network with no additional equipment, and the Print Touch app pairs the printer to NFC-enabled devices with a tap, surfacing dynamic QR codes for support content.

In most cases, yes. The Zebra ZT400 Series supports both ZPL and ZPL II, so label formats and applications built for other Zebra printers transfer directly. It also supports EPL and EPL2 with Line Mode for legacy application compatibility, which eases migration from older Zebra desktop printers — note that EPL is available on 203 dpi models only.

For non-Zebra fleets, the Virtual Devices app lets the ZT400 interpret printer languages normally associated with other brands, so existing formats from a competitive printer can often be used without reauthoring. This makes the ZT400 a practical drop-in replacement across mixed printer estates.

Zebra ZT400 Series printers run Link-OS and are supported by Print DNA, Zebra's suite of productivity, management, development and visibility tools. Printer Profile Manager Enterprise, a Print DNA option, is a browser-based console that discovers every Link-OS printer on the network and manages one printer, a defined group or an entire global estate without manually tracking down or configuring individual units.

Print DNA MDM Connectors integrate networked ZT400 printers into an existing AirWatch or SOTI MobiControl deployment, giving a single pane of glass across Zebra devices and printers. Zebra also provides complimentary deployment utilities for initial setup, and visibility tools reporting printer health, usage and performance. Print DNA features vary by model and may require a support contract.

Zebra ZT421R RFID Printer Model Overview

Keep your critical operations running efficiently with Zebra’s ZT421 RFID printers. Building on the field-proven reliability of the Z Series, the ZT400 adds advanced technology that drives versatility, ease of use and performance to a new level.

Key Features:
  • Multiple connectivity options, including the latest Wi-FiThe ZT421 RFID comes standard with Ethernet, USB, USB Host, and Bluetooth 4.1. Add the optional dual-band wireless card with 802.11ac Wi-Fi and its latest security protocols, plus Bluetooth 4.1, for blazing fast and reliable wireless connections.
  • You can count on the ZT421 RFID to print a variety of different label formats on a variety of different media types.
  • The side-loading supplies path makes loading simpler, faster and more intuitive. The color-coded media path guides the user on how to thread the media and ribbon through the printer, while lighted paths make it easy to see, even in poorly lit environments.
  • Factory- or field-installable RFID encoder
  • Print DNA’s innovative applications, utilities and developer tools deliver a superior printing experience through better performance, simplified remote manageability and easier integration.


Pairing rugged quality with UHF RFID capabilities, the ZT400 Series RFID printers/encoders help keep your critical operations running efficiently. Known as price-performance leaders in RFID labeling, the ZT400 Series offers a factory- or field-installable UHF RFID encoder to support a broad range of applications across several industries. See printer status at a glance and manage settings quickly–including RFID–using the large color touch display. Featuring Zebra’s Print DNA suite of applications, utilities and developer tools–all powered by Link-OS®–these printers are easy to integrate, manage and maintain from any location around the globe. Optimized to accurately and efficiently print and encode labels for today’s item-level tracking applications, the ZT400 Series RFID printers give you greater tracking abilities, deeper visibility and enterprise insights in an ever-competitive business environment


Configure Your Way With Multiple Connectivity Options

The ZT400 comes standard with Ethernet, Serial, dual USB Host and Bluetooth 4.1. Add the optional dual-band wireless card with 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for blazing fast and reliable wireless connections.


Built to Handle a Wide Range of Applications Including High-Resolution

You can count on the ZT400 Series to print a variety of different label formats on a variety of different media types. When RFID-enabled, the 4-inch ZT411 and 6-inch ZT421 can print and encode labels as small as 0.6 in./16 mm. And, the ZT411 can print up to 600 dpi for extremely crisp resolution. The ZT411 RFID, available in an on-metal version, is the only dedicated option for printing and encoding on-metal tags and labels


Dual USB Host Ports For Added Flexibility

Dual USB Host ports allow you to directly connect a wide range of USB device types. Use a memory stick to replicate firmware, files and configurations, or easily print and transfer formats. Simplify data entry by simultaneously connecting a scanner and keyboard—with two host ports, there’s no need to plug and unplug peripherals


Designed to Evolve With Your Needs

You can customize the ZT400 Series with a range of media handling options that can be easily installed in minutes. Two open media slots accommodate additional communication options. And, the open architecture, robust processing power and memory can support firmware upgrades and new Print DNA tools for years to come


Large Color Touch Display Makes Operation a Snap

It’s easy to set up and use the ZT400 with its intuitive icon-based interface, including managing RFID settings. The 4.3-inch full-color touch display allows you to quickly navigate printer settings and create frequently used shortcuts. See color-coded alerts from a distance when the printer is paused or in an error state, so you instantly know what the printer needs to stay up and running.


Print and Encode With Ease

Adaptive encoding technology allows for excellent media flexibility and simple RFID calibration, eliminating complex placement guidelines. And, Zebra has globally certified its RFID technology on six continents to support deployments across complex, multinational supply chains


Easy Media and Ribbon Loading

The side-loading supplies path makes loading simpler, faster and more intuitive—even for new users. The color-coded media path guides you on how to thread the media and ribbon through the printer, even in poorly lit environments


Space-Saving Design For an Easier Fit

Constructed using a bi-fold door, these printers are designed to easily fit in space-constrained environments. ENERGY STAR® qualified, they save you money throughout their lifecycle.


Direct Connection to Your Industrial Ethernet Network

With the Network Connect option, you can connect ZT400 printers directly to your Industrial Ethernet network without any additional equipment. This eliminates vulnerability points, improves security and saves man-hours in setup, management and troubleshooting.


Pair Devices and Access Information at a Touch

With the Print Touch™ app, you can pair ZT400 Series printers to NFC-enabled devices with a simple tap. Dynamic QR codes give you immediate access to the data you need, including Zebra how-to videos and product support.


Zebra Print DNA™—Transforming Printers From the Inside

The printer hardware is just the start of what you need to maximize the value of your printers. The ZT400 Series is powered by Link OS, Zebra’s robust printer operating system, and Print DNA, a combination of productivity, management, development and visibility tools. The result is a superior printing experience through better performance, simplified remote manageability and easier integration.


Easily Manage All Your Printers—All From a Single Location

With our comprehensive and flexible remote management tools, you can maintain, secure and troubleshoot printers simply and easily, from anywhere, at anytime. With Printer Profile Manager Enterprise, a Print DNA option, you can manage one printer, a group of specific printers or all your printers anywhere in the world. This browser-based solution lets you instantly discover every Link-OS printer on your network—there’s no need to manually track down, configure or troubleshoot printers. In addition to optional enterprise remote management tools, we offer a full suite of complimentary deployment utilities to simplify initial setup and configuration.


Seamless Integration With Your Device Management System

Get the simplicity of a single pane of glass to manage all your Zebra devices and printers—including the ZT400 Series RFID. With Print DNA’s MDM Connectors, you can easily integrate networked ZT400 printers into your existing AirWatch or SOTI MobiControl device management system.


On-Metal RFID Option Enables Metal Asset Tagging

Zebra offers an optional version of the ZT411 for on-metal RFID tagging. This solution enables users to print and encode on-metal RFID labels such as Silverline that are designed to work on a variety of surfaces including IT assets, tools, equipment, returnable containers and other challenging surfaces. The ZT411 RFID On-metal Solution gives you greater flexibility that is globally available– including simple-to-install, field-upgradeable technology and 300 dpi print quality


Rugged Durability For Demanding Applications

You can count on the ZT400 to serve your business for years. Its durable metal frame holds up in the most demanding environments, while a long life coating protects the printheads when printing in direct thermal mode, reducing the need to replace printheads. Ensure optimal print quality with the printhead element out detection feature. Every detail has been carefully designed and tested to deliver maximum uptime over the printer’s life.


Consistently Exceptional Zebra Certified Supplies

Printing supplies can impact everything from printhead lifespan to operational efficiency. That’s why we design, produce and rigorously pretest our own line of thermal printing supplies to ensure consistent, optimized performance in your Zebra printer.


Maximize Uptime, Business Operations and Printer Visibility With Services

You invest in Zebra printers to boost the efficiency of your critical operations. Now, you can ensure predictable performance and eliminate unbudgeted repair expenses with Zebra OneCare. You get unmatched technical support direct from Zebra, as well as comprehensive repair services, including accidental damage and defined repair turn-around times. And Zebra’s Support and Visibility Services provide the real-time insight into printer operational information you need to increase printer availability and optimize utilization within your workflows.


RFID Features

• Integrated RFID system is user-upgradable in the field • Optional field-upgradeable on-metal version available (ZT411 only) • Prints and encodes tags with a minimum pitch of 0.6 in./16 mm • Supports tags compatible with: UHF EPC Gen 2 V2.1, ISO/IEC 18000-63 and RAIN RFID protocols • Compliant with Global RFID radio to support multinational deployments • Automatically eliminate complex RFID placement guidelines with adaptive encoding technology • Variable inlay placement supports a range of inlay positions for maximum media flexibility • Track performance with RFID job-monitoring tools • Support for industry standard multi-vendor chip-based serialization (MCS) • Supports block permalocking of user memory compatible with ATA Spec 2000 • Integrated RFID reader/encoder 


Standard Features 

• Print Methods: Thermal transfer and direct thermal printing • Construction: Metal frame and bi-fold metal media cover with enlarged clear viewing window • Side-loading supplies path for simplified media and ribbon loading • Thin film printhead with E3™ Element Energy™ Equalizer for superior print quality • Communications: USB 2.0, high-speed, RS-232 Serial, 10/100 Ethernet, Bluetooth 4.1, Dual USB Host • 4.3-inch color touch display with intuitive menu for quick operation and settings management • Bi-colored status LEDs for quick printer status • ENERGY STAR® qualified


Markets and Applications 

Manufacturing • Item-level tagging • Asset tagging • Work-in-process • Product ID/ serial numbers • Packaging labeling • Receiving/put away labeling Transportation and Logistics • Order picking/ packing • Shipping/receiving • Cross-docking • Compliance labeling • Pallet/asset tagging Retail • Back-of-store operations • Item-level tagging • Distribution centers • Security tagging Healthcare • Laboratory labeling • Specimen labeling • Pharmacy labeling • Asset management/ tagging

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