Evolis Zenius vs Zenius 2 — What’s Changed and Is It Worth Upgrading?

Short answer: Zenius 2 is the modern update to the much-loved, original Zenius.

It’s a little faster, prints sharper monochrome detail, has smarter software and eco touches, and now comes with a 3-year warranty. If you’re buying new or replacing an older unit, Zenius 2 is the safer long-term pick. Existing Zenius users will find the upgrade refreshingly familiar but clearly improved.

Evolis Zenius earned its place on reception desks across schools, gyms, spas and events because it’s compact, reliable and easy to live with. Zenius 2 keeps that spirit but smooths off the edges: speed bumps, quality tweaks, nicer user experience and a longer warranty, while keeping the same “shoebox, not suitcase” footprint.

If you’re comparing the two new Zenius 2 models, see our companion post: Zenius 2 Classic vs Expert — Which ID Card Printer Is Right for You?

Jump to: Compare models | What’s new in real terms | Should you upgrade? | FAQs

Zenius vs Zenius 2 — side-by-side comparison

What the changes mean day-to-day

Design & ease of use

Both printers load 50 blank cards and work happily on a reception counter. Ribbons drop in, there’s a simple LED interface, and you can feed single cards manually for one-offs. Zenius 2 brings a more refined “whole experience” - the updated driver suite and notifications make day-to-day tasks clearer and quicker.

Print speed & quality

Expect a little less waiting around with Zenius 2, especially in mono, and crisper micro-text/barcodes thanks to the higher 300×1200 mono mode. For everyday photo IDs and branded badges, both deliver professional, edge-to-edge results; Zenius 2 just tightens things up.

Connectivity & compatibility

If you only ever plug into one PC, either model works. If you want to share the printer across multiple computers, the Expert versions add an Ethernet port so IT can put it on the network. Zenius 2 Expert also supports printing from Android/iOS in supported environments - handy for tablet-based check-ins.

Eco & reliability

Both are energy-aware with standby/sleep modes and recyclable plastics. Zenius 2 takes a step further with EASY4PRO (lower-plastic ribbons) and recycled ribbon components - small changes that add up over time. The 3-year warranty is the practical reliability boost most buyers care about.

Should you upgrade from Zenius to Zenius 2?

• Schools & education: If enrolment days get busy or you reissue a lot of lost cards, the faster speeds and 50-card rear hopper option are genuinely helpful. The longer warranty also reduces admin headaches.
• Gyms, spas & golf clubs: Cards see daily wear; the Zenius 2 Expert’s double-overlay ribbon option makes them tougher. If you’re growing, the Expert’s network port makes sharing easy.
• Events & conferences: For single-laptop check-ins, an older Zenius still does the job. For multi-desk or tablet-led registration, Zenius 2 Expert is the better platform.

Bottom line: If your Zenius is still healthy and your needs are light, you don’t have to rush. But if you’re buying new, replacing a tired unit, or you’d benefit from the extra speed/warranty or mobile/network flexibility, go Zenius 2.

FAQs

Is Zenius 2 faster than the original Zenius?

Yes — colour moves from up to 150 to up to 180 cards/hour, and mono from up to 500 to up to 700 cards/hour. That difference is noticeable when you’re running batches.

Does Zenius 2 print better quality cards?

Both produce professional, edge-to-edge results. Zenius 2 adds a higher 300×1200 dpi mode for monochrome, which sharpens small text and barcodes.

Can I share the printer across multiple computers?

Yes with the Expert versions. They add an Ethernet port so your IT team can put the printer on the network. Zenius 2 Expert also supports printing from Android/iOS in supported setups.

What about ribbons — will mine still work?

Both ranges are designed for Evolis High Trust ribbons. For Zenius 2, two popular options are the R5F202E100 YMCKO colour ribbon and the RCT223NAAA BlackFLEX ribbon. If you’re unsure about a specific part code, ask us and we’ll confirm compatibility for your exact model.

Which one should I buy today?

If you’re buying new, Zenius 2 is the smarter long-term choice thanks to better speeds, features and a 3-year warranty. If your current Zenius is working fine and your needs are light, you can keep it running until you’re ready.