Labels & Ribbons for the Zebra ZD421
The Zebra ZD421 takes labels up to 108–118mm wide on 12.7mm or 25mm cores, rolls up to 127mm across, and (on thermal transfer models) 74m or 300m ribbons. Here's exactly what fits, and what to buy.
First, which ZD421 do you have?
| Model | How it prints | Needs a ribbon? | Max label width |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZD421d | Direct thermal | No | 108mm |
| ZD421t | Thermal transfer (roll ribbon) | Yes: 74m or 300m roll | 112mm |
| ZD421c | Thermal transfer (ribbon cartridge) | Yes: Zebra 74m cartridge | 118mm |
The model letter is printed on the label on the back or underside of the printer. Direct thermal models only work with direct thermal labels.
Labels that fit the ZD421
| Specification | ZD421 |
|---|---|
| Label width | 15mm to 108mm (ZD421d), 112mm (ZD421t), 118mm (ZD421c) |
| Label length | 6.4mm to 991mm |
| Core size | 12.7mm or 25mm as standard; 38mm, 50.8mm and 76mm with an optional adapter |
| Maximum roll diameter | 127mm |
| Label thickness | 0.08mm to 0.19mm |
For shipping labels (Shopify, Royal Mail, DPD, Evri and most couriers), the standard size is 4 x 6 inches (102 x 152mm) on a 25mm core. Our own Genie shipping labels are made for exactly this:
- Genie 4x6 shipping labels, 475 per roll, 25mm core
- Genie 4x6 shipping labels, 500 per roll, 25mm core
- Genie 4x6 shipping labels, 600 per roll, 25mm core
Industrial label rolls on 76mm cores are usually too large across for a desktop printer. Stick to 25mm cores unless you've fitted the adapter and the roll is under 127mm across.
Ribbons for the ZD421t
| Specification | ZD421t |
|---|---|
| Ribbon length | 74m (12.7mm core) or 300m (25.4mm core) |
| Ribbon width | 33.8mm to 109.2mm |
| Wind | Ink side out |
Choose a ribbon at least as wide as your label, and pick the grade to match your label material:
| Grade | Best for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Wax | Paper labels: shipping, product and shelf labels | Zebra 2300 wax, 110mm x 74m or 110mm x 300m |
| Wax-resin | Coated paper and some synthetics, more rub resistance | Zebra 3200 wax-resin, 84mm x 74m or TSC 8550 wax-resin, 110mm x 300m |
| Resin | Polyester and polypropylene labels facing heat, chemicals or abrasion | Zebra 5095 resin, 84mm x 74m |
300m ribbons last four times longer than 74m ribbons. The ZD421t comes with adapters for non-Zebra 300m ribbons. See all thermal transfer ribbons.
Common questions
Can I use 4x6 labels on a ZD421? Yes. 102 x 152mm labels on a 25mm core fit every ZD421 model. Use direct thermal labels on the ZD421d.
Will ZD420 or GK420 labels and ribbons fit the ZD421? The ZD421 replaced the ZD420, and uses the same 4-inch media sizes, so labels and 74m or 300m ribbons you used before will normally fit. If you're unsure, send us the part number.
What if my labels are on a 76mm core? You'll need Zebra's optional core adapter, and the roll must be no more than 127mm across. For most desktop users, 25mm cores are simpler.
Can you supply other label sizes? Yes. Our Genie labels are made in our own UK factory. Tell us the size and material you need and we'll quote.
Not sure? We'll match it for you
Send us your printer model and label size, or a photo of your current label roll, and we'll confirm the right labels and ribbon.
Request a sampleAsk usSpecifications from Zebra's ZD421 specification sheet.