Zebra ZD420
Label thermal · 2018
HP Smart Tank 7301
Inkjet EcoTank · 2022
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Zebra ZD420 lands at 84 and HP Smart Tank 7301 at 84. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Zebra ZD420 if…
- ✓Wireless printing (most)
- ✓Current-gen firmware
- ✓Mature driver support
Pick HP Smart Tank 7301 if…
- ✓Wireless printing (most)
- ✓Current-gen firmware
- ✓Mature driver support
Winner by scenario
Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate testQuality
TieCompared on the quality sub-score
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Reliability
TieCompared on the reliability sub-score
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Speed
TieCompared on the speed sub-score
Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.
Value for money
TieSpecdex score per dollar at MSRP
Effectively tied — similar score-per-dollar at MSRP.
Score breakdown
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Zebra ZD420 | HP Smart Tank 7301 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Label thermal | Inkjet EcoTank |
| Release year | 2018 | 2022 |
Zebra ZD420
- +Wireless printing (most)
- +Current-gen firmware
- +Mature driver support
- −Ink/toner subscriptions (HP)
- −Noisy under heavy loads
- −Paper path varies
HP Smart Tank 7301
- +Wireless printing (most)
- +Current-gen firmware
- +Mature driver support
- −Ink/toner subscriptions (HP)
- −Noisy under heavy loads
- −Paper path varies
FAQ: Zebra ZD420 vs HP Smart Tank 7301
Which is better, Zebra ZD420 or HP Smart Tank 7301? +
Both score 84 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Zebra ZD420 worth the price? +
At $399, Zebra ZD420 delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in quality.
Is HP Smart Tank 7301 worth the price? +
At $399, HP Smart Tank 7301 delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in quality.
Does Zebra ZD420 or HP Smart Tank 7301 last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.