In the used offset market, Heidelberg, MAN Roland and Komori dominate buyer shortlists. Their supply stability, parts availability and depreciation curves differ markedly, so matching a model to your order mix and budget beats comparing prices alone. This guide puts the three brands side by side in practical terms.
- Heidelberg: represented by the SM/CD 102, SORZ and Speedmaster SM74, with highly interchangeable electrical and pneumatic components and the deepest used inventory; 5+1 colour and perfecting configurations are relatively plentiful.
- MAN Roland: the R700/R800 series is known for high output and multi-unit combinations, with strong press extension capability for book and packaging work; third-party service resources are somewhat thinner.
- Komori: the L/LS series leads on speed and energy efficiency, with robust control systems (KHS/PCC) and a gentler learning curve; most used units are 2010 or newer.
1. Match the model to your order mix
For short-run packaging and commercial work, look first at the Heidelberg SM74 four-colour and Komori LS429, typically RMB 1.2 to 1.8 million used, with plenty of room for upgrades. For medium-run packaging and book work, prioritise the MAN Roland R704 five-colour with UV and Heidelberg CD102-5, where budgets reach RMB 3 to 4.2 million and residual values hold steadier. For high-volume packaging and publishing, target recent Heidelberg Speedmaster XL75/106 and Komori GX40 units, where automation and inline inspection decide the negotiating position.
2. Source and inspection checklist
Once the model is fixed, put four items on the inspection list and document each one: measured condition of every printing unit, blanket and cylinder measurements, dampening circulation and water-circuit cleanliness, and the brands and ages of electrical cabinet components. The same model can differ by more than 40 percent in price depending on age, so always price against measured running hours, impression counts and the electrical bill of materials rather than a refurbished exterior.
Conclusion: Heidelberg wins on parts depth and supply, suiting multi-colour and perfecting configurations; MAN Roland excels at long unit trains and UV packages for medium-to-high output; Komori offers energy efficiency and easy operation for fast, short jobs. Fix the model from your order mix first, then screen by budget and age.
