Videojet Large Character Inkjet Printer Review: What I Learned as a Quality Inspector

When I first started reviewing coding and marking equipment for our packaging lines, I assumed the most expensive unit with the most features was the safest bet. Three line integration projects and one very expensive re-do later, I realized that the real question isn't "which printer is best," but "which printer is best for your specific product, line speed, and substrate."

As a quality compliance manager, I review every coding system before it reaches our production floor—roughly 200+ units annually. I've rejected 12% of first deliveries in 2024 due to specification mismatches, from incorrect print resolution to incompatible inks.

Here's what I've learned about Videojet's lineup, and how to avoid the mistakes I made.

1. Is the Videojet 1620 Printer Still a Good Choice in 2025?

Short answer: Yes, if you're running standard CIJ applications. The 1620 is a workhorse for continuous inkjet coding on porous and semi-porous substrates. We've had one running on our beverage line for three years with only routine maintenance. The real advantage is its original printhead and fluid system—when you use genuine Videojet parts and cleaning solution, the reliability is noticeably better than with generics.

Where I'd pause: If you need high-resolution codes smaller than 4pt or complex 2D DataMatrix codes on non-porous surfaces (like glass or foil), you might be better off with a thermal transfer or laser system.

2. How Reliable Are Videojet's Original Parts and Cleaning Solutions?

Honestly? This was a frustrating lesson for me. During our Q1 2024 quality audit, we tested a batch of third-party cleaning solution against Videojet's original. The generic was cheaper by about 30%. But over a three-month period, we saw clogging in two printheads—costing us $4,200 in service calls and 18 hours of downtime.

According to Videojet's technical documentation (available on their site), their original cleaning solutions are formulated to match specific ink chemistry and prevent crystallization. I can't verify the exact formulation, but the data from our audit was clear: using original parts reduced our maintenance incidents by 60%.

3. Should I Choose a CO2 Laser or Fiber Laser for My Application?

This depends entirely on your substrate and what you're marking.

• CO2 lasers (like Videojet's 3400 series) work best on organic materials: cardboard, paper, wood, plastics, and some coated metals. We use one in Danville for marking cartons, and it's been solid.
• Fiber lasers are ideal for metals, ceramics, and hard plastics. They produce a higher-contrast mark on materials like stainless steel or aluminum.

If you're doing fiber laser engraving for marking machine tags or industrial parts, fiber is the way to go. But don't assume a fiber laser can handle your printed cardboard—it won't (the beam passes through without burning). That mistake cost our facility a $6,000 re-tooling.

4. What's the Real Difference Between CIJ, TIJ, and Laser Marking?

Let me break it down simply:

• Continuous Inkjet (CIJ): Fast, versatile, good for most substrates. The Videojet 1510 and 1620 are CIJ. Best for high-speed lines (up to 300 m/min).
• Thermal Inkjet (TIJ): Higher resolution (up to 600 dpi), but slower. Good for variable data and barcodes on flat surfaces.
• Laser: Permanent, no consumables (except power), but higher upfront cost. Best for high-volume or permanent marking needs.

I used to think laser was always better because it's 'permanent.' What I learned: on a fast-moving line with mixed substrates, CIJ is often more practical. You don't want to laser-mark a plastic bottle one minute and a glass one the next—focus adjustments kill throughput.

5. Does Videojet Offer a 'Budget-Friendly' Option for Small Manufacturers?

The 1280 model is often positioned as an entry-level unit. And it's okay for low-volume operations. But here's the catch: it uses the same ink and parts as the larger units, so your cost per print isn't dramatically lower. The savings come from the lower initial purchase price.

If you're running under 10,000 codes per month, a high-end TIJ (like Videojet's 8610) might be more economical in the long run—less waste, simpler maintenance. Bottom line: don't buy a CIJ because it's what you 'should' buy. Buy the technology that matches your actual volume.

6. What's the Most Common Mistake When Specifying a Coding System?

Hands down: not testing the full system on your actual production line before purchasing.

In 2023, we specified a laser marking system for a new line. The specs looked perfect on paper—correct power, speed, and resolution. When it arrived, it physically fit the line, but the software couldn't handle the sequence of codes our ERP system generated. The integration cost us an additional $12,000 and delayed the launch by six weeks.

Always request a trial or a proof-of-concept with your actual substrates and code logic. Don't skip this step.

7. How Important Is Videojet's Global Service Network?

More than I initially thought. When I started, I focused only on the hardware specs. After a service call in a remote plant where the local support tech arrived within 4 hours, I understood the value.

For critical lines, having a support network that can reach your facility within hours is worth a premium. If you're running international operations, this is often a deal-breaker. Videojet's coverage is genuinely broad—I've used them in North America and Europe with consistent response times.

8. Should I Buy a Used Videojet Printer to Save Money?

Tempting, but risky. I've seen inspection reports where used units had unreported firmware issues or worn ink pumps. A used 1510 can cost half of a new one, but if the printhead is degraded, you'll spend the difference on repairs within a year.

If you're buying used, insist on a service history and a video of the unit operating on its original ink. Generic ink residue is a red flag. Honestly, I'd only recommend used equipment if you have an in-house service team and can afford downtime.

Bottom line: There's no single 'best' Videojet printer. The right choice depends on your speed, substrate, code complexity, and support requirements. Start with your production constraints, not the feature list. That's what I learned—the hard way.