For years, the Evolis Zenius 1 has been a reliable workhorse for high-quality, single-sided ID card printing. However, as technology evolves, so must our tools. Following the successful launch of the Zenius 2, Evolis has officially announced the end-of-life (EOL) period for the Zenius 1, starting May 4, 2026.

If your organization relies on the Zenius 1, don’t worry—you aren’t being left in the dark. Here is everything you need to know about the transition and how to ensure your card issuance remains seamless.

Key Dates for Zenius 1 Retirement

If you are looking to purchase additional Zenius 1 units to match your current fleet, please take note of these critical deadlines:

• Last Call for Orders: October 12, 2026

• Final Shipping Date: November 30, 2026

Long-Term Support: Peace of Mind

Evolis understands that a printer is an investment. Even though the Zenius 1 is being retired, they are committed to supporting your existing hardware for years to come:

• Spare Parts: Available until November 30, 2031 (5 years post-EOL).

• Consumables (Ribbons/Cleaning Kits): Available until November 30, 2036 (10 years post-EOL).

Why Upgrade to the Zenius 2?

The Zenius 2 isn’t just a replacement; it’s a significant upgrade. Since its release in September 2025, it has set a new standard for compact ID printing. When you make the switch, you’ll benefit from:

• Enhanced Feature Set: Improved connectivity and smarter encoding options.

• Superior Quality: Refined print head technology for even sharper imagery.

• Competitive Pricing: Better performance without a drastic jump in cost.

• Modern Reliability: Built to handle the security demands of 2026 and beyond.

We’re Here to Help You Migrate

Change can be daunting, especially when it involves integrated security systems. Whether you want to move to the Zenius 2 or explore other industry-leading ID card printer options that might better suit your evolving needs, our team is ready to guide you.

Moving a specific project? We can help EliteID users navigate a flawless migration to ensure your existing card designs and databases work perfectly with the new hardware.

Contact us today to discuss your upgrade path, request a quote for the Zenius 2, or learn more about our full range of ID solutions. Let’s make sure your card printing stays ahead of the curve!