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The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a versatile all-in-one printer that stands out in the photo printer category, particularly for home use. One of its major strengths is the innovative cartridge-free system that significantly reduces ink costs; the EcoTank can replace up to 80 traditional cartridges with its refillable bottles. This can lead to savings of up to 90% on ink, allowing for impressive print yields of around 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 in color. Additionally, it comes with two years' worth of ink right in the box, which means less frequent trips to the store for replacements.
The print quality is noteworthy, using Micro Piezo technology that produces sharp text and vibrant colors, making it suitable for both documents and photos. Its built-in scanner and copier add to its functionality, making it a practical choice for users who need more than just printing capabilities. The connectivity options are modern and user-friendly, supporting wireless printing from smartphones and compatibility with apps like AirPrint.
However, there are some areas for improvement. The print speed is relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute for monochrome and 5 pages for color, which might be a consideration for those needing high-volume printing quickly. While the printer is portable for home use, it may not be the best choice for users needing a compact printer for small spaces, as it is somewhat bulky. Another consideration is that using non-genuine Epson inks can void the warranty, which might deter some users seeking cost-saving alternatives.
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a versatile all-in-one photo printer that suits home office needs, particularly for users who value cost-effective printing. One of its standout features is the cartridge-free ink system, which significantly reduces ink costs—users can save up to 90% compared to traditional cartridges. This model includes enough ink to print thousands of pages, which minimizes the hassle of frequently replacing cartridges. The printer delivers impressive print quality thanks to its Micro Piezo technology, ensuring sharp text and vibrant color photos on various media types.
Print speed is decent, with black and white outputs reaching up to 10 pages per minute and color prints at 5 pages per minute. The EcoTank ET-4800 also excels in connectivity, offering options like Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing capabilities through the Epson Smart Panel App. Its built-in scanner and copier add to its utility, making it a practical choice for those needing multifaceted functionality.
There are some drawbacks to consider. While the print quality is generally high, some users might find that it occasionally doesn't meet professional-grade standards for color accuracy. The printer's size and weight may also make it less portable for those who need a lightweight solution. Additionally, while the initial ink savings are significant, the investment in the printer may seem steep for casual users who don't print frequently.
The HP ENVY Inspire 7955e is a versatile home photo printer that offers a range of features suitable for various printing needs. With a maximum color print resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, it delivers high-quality, vibrant photos that closely match the colors seen on your phone screen. This makes it an excellent choice for printing borderless photos and creative projects at home. The printer's print speed is decent, with up to 15 ppm for black and 10 ppm for color prints, which is adequate for home use but might feel slow for those needing high-volume printing quickly.
The inclusion of automatic duplex printing and a dedicated photo tray enhances convenience and efficiency. Connectivity options are robust, including wired, wireless, mobile, and app-based controls, making it easy to print from various devices. The HP Smart App and HP+ features add value by providing additional functionalities like advanced photo printing, security updates, and mobile printing capabilities.
However, the printer's reliance on HP's original ink cartridges, along with periodic firmware updates to block non-HP cartridges, could be seen as a drawback due to potential higher ink costs. Additionally, while the printer is relatively compact, its weight of 17.9 pounds may affect portability. The 3-month Instant Ink subscription included with the purchase can be a cost-saving benefit, but users should be aware of the monthly fees that apply after the initial period. This printer is well-suited for home users who prioritize high-quality photo printing and appreciate the convenience of wireless and mobile printing options.