Key Takeaways
- The fi-7160 has been discontinued and replaced by our Ricoh fi-8170, which boasts 32 new patents.
- The fi-8170 scans faster (70 ppm vs. 60 ppm), holds more paper (100-page vs. 80-page ADF), and adds wired Ethernet alongside USB 3.2.
- Both scanners run the same PaperStream software for image cleanup and OCR, so upgrading keeps a familiar workflow.
- For businesses looking for higher scanning speeds, greater ADF capacity, and wired Ethernet connectivity, the fi-870 offers several differences from the fi-7160.
Choosing a business scanner comes down to speed, capacity, and long-term value. While the fi-7160 had a great run, we've replaced it with the fi-8170 desktop scanner. But does the new version live up to the legacy of the last?
If you’re still using an older fi-7160 or are weighing the newer fi-8170, read on to find out exactly how the two differ. This guide covers the specs, discontinuation details, and upgrade value so you can decide whether upgrading is right for you.
fi-8170 vs. fi-7160 at a Glance
The fi-8170 vs. fi-7160 comparison comes down to one core fact: the fi-8170 is the newer, faster replacement for the discontinued fi-7160. Both are part of Ricoh's fi Series document scanners line. The fi-8170 delivers higher throughput, a larger paper tray, and added network connectivity while keeping the same software.
| Specification | fi-8170 | fi-7160 |
|---|---|---|
| Scanning speed | 70 ppm/140 ipm | 60 ppm/120 ipm |
| ADF capacity | 100 sheets | 80 sheets |
| Optical resolution | 600 dpi | 600 dpi |
| Connectivity | USB 3.2 + Ethernet | USB 3.2 only |
| Card/thick-item handling | Manual feed up to 7 mm | Hard cards up to 1.4 mm |
| Status | Available | Discontinued |
Key point: ppm means pages per minute; ipm means images per minute (double ppm for duplex scanning). ADF stands for automatic document feeder — the tray that holds your stack of pages.
What Is the fi-7160 Scanner?
The fi-7160 is a duplex desktop business scanner once marketed as the world's most popular business document scanner. Duplex means it captures both sides of a page in one pass.
It scans at 60 ppm (120 ipm), holds up to 80 sheets in its ADF, and connects via USB 3.2. The fi-7160 also supports flexible feeding for hard or embossed cards up to 1.4 mm thick and was available with TAA compliance and EPEAT Silver certification.
We have now discontinued this scanner. You can still view its specs on our discontinued fi-7160 page.
What Is the fi-8170 Scanner?
The fi-8170 is our next-generation desktop scanner that replaced the fi-7160. We backed it with 32 new patents to improve speed, image quality, and reliability.
It scans at 70 ppm (140 ipm), holds up to 100 sheets in its ADF, and delivers 600 dpi optical resolution. Connectivity options include both USB 3.2 and wired Ethernet.
The fi-8170 features Clear Image Capture (CIC) technology for sharper results and supports manual feed mode for items up to 7 mm thick. It handles an expected daily volume of about 10,000 pages and is Kofax VRS Elite certified.
What Are the Key Differences Between the fi-8170 and fi-7160?
Compared with the fi-760, the fi-8170 offers differences in scanning speed, image processing, connectivity, and document handling.Both share the same software, however, so the learning curve is minimal.
Speed and Paper Handling
The fi-8170 scans 17% faster than the fi-7160 — 70 ppm versus 60 ppm. Its 100-sheet ADF also holds 25% more paper, which means fewer refills during large batch jobs.
Ricoh rates the fi-8170 for about 10,000 pages per day. That extra speed and capacity adds up across months and years for busy teams processing invoices, contracts, or patient records.
Image Quality and Document Protection
The fi-8170 introduces Clear Image Capture (CIC), a proprietary technology that monitors paper movement and adjusts imaging in real time. The result is cleaner scans with fewer distortions.
Both models include multi-feed detection and intelligent paper protection. These features help prevent jams and alert you when two pages feed at once. Better image quality also improves OCR (optical character recognition) accuracy, which makes your scanned text easier to search and edit.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The fi-7160 offers USB 3.2 only. The fi-8170 adds wired Ethernet, so you can place it on your network without a dedicated PC connection.
Both scanners use integrated TWAIN and ISIS drivers. TWAIN and ISIS are industry-standard protocols. They let your scanner work with hundreds of document-management applications without extra setup.
Software: PaperStream on Both Models
Both the fi-8170 and the fi-7160 run the PaperStream software portfolio. This includes PaperStream IP driver software, PaperStream Capture, and ClickScan.
PaperStream IP cleans up images automatically. It straightens skewed pages, removes blank sheets, and enhances faded text. It also includes built-in OCR so your scans become searchable PDFs. If you already use the fi-7160, upgrading to the fi-8170 keeps your workflow nearly identical.
Is the fi-8170 Worth the Upgrade?
For most fi-7160 users, yes — especially for higher volumes and networked workflows. The added speed, larger ADF, and Ethernet support pay off when scanning is a daily task.
Demand for scanning is climbing, not shrinking. Quocirca research on rising scan volumes projects a rise of about 6% next year, and 8% in large organizations. Print volumes, by contrast, fall about 3%.
The broader market also agrees that document scanning still matters. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global document scanner market was valued at $6.60 billion in 2025. It is projected to reach $12.28 billion by 2034 at a 7.2% CAGR while a 2025 AIIM survey found that 61% of intelligent document processing (IDP) workflows still involve paper.
A faster, higher-capacity scanner helps you digitize documents quickly. Your team spends less time hunting and more time working.
Ready to see the full lineup and specs? Click here to learn more.
Ready to make the switch? We stock the Ricoh fi-8170 and can help you match it to your team's daily page volume. Shop the Ricoh fi-8170 to see current pricing and availability, or contact our team, and we will help you confirm it is the right fit before you buy.