Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 review wireless color printer with scanner and copier
Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 review wireless color printer with scanner and copier
- The 4.3-inch color touchscreen makes navigation and settings adjustments effortless, offering a smooth and intuitive experience.
- Revolutionary ink savings with its cartridge-free system ensure long-term cost efficiency and less frequent refilling.
- Prints on a variety of media, including cardstock, envelopes, CDs, and DVDs, adding versatility for creative projects.
- Claria ET Premium 6-color ink provides vivid, lifelike details with exceptional color accuracy for stunning outputs.
- Wireless printing capabilities enable you to print seamlessly from anywhere, adding unmatched convenience.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Description
A Game Changer for Photo Enthusiasts and Professionals
Testing out the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer, I immediately noticed its versatility and appeal to both casual users and professionals. As someone who dives into various printing needs—from photos to cardstock—this printer does more than just the basics. Its 6-color Claria ET Premium ink system delivers vibrant and vivid outputs that genuinely breathe life into your images. Every print feels like a mini artwork, and the edge-to-edge printing feature ensures that even the smallest details don’t go unnoticed.
Positives
- Exceptional print quality: The colors are rich, and the details are sharp. This makes it ideal for photo enthusiasts or even small business owners looking to print high-quality marketing materials.
- Cartridge-free design: I absolutely love how the EcoTank system eliminates the need for traditional cartridges. The ink reservoirs hold a massive amount, so I don’t have to constantly worry about replacements.
- Versatile media support: Whether I’m printing on cardstock, envelopes, CDs, or DVDs, this printer handles it all seamlessly.
- User-friendly interface: The 4.3-inch color touchscreen makes navigation a breeze. Adjusting settings or selecting print options feels straightforward and intuitive.
- Wireless connectivity: Printing directly from my phone or laptop using Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct is incredibly convenient.
Downsides
That said, no product is without its flaws, and this printer does have a few quirks:
- Initial setup: Filling the ink reservoirs can be a bit nerve-wracking if you’re not used to it. I had to be extra careful to avoid any spills.
- Size: The printer is rather large, which might be an issue if your workspace is tight.
- Learning curve: While the touchscreen is helpful, exploring all the printer’s features takes some time.
Design and Build
The design is sleek and modern, with its white finish giving off a premium vibe. However, it’s not just about aesthetics—the layout is thoughtfully designed. The large ink reservoirs are easy to access, and the paper trays feel sturdy. One thing I appreciated was how quiet the printer operates. Printing late at night didn’t disturb anyone else in the house, which is a huge plus for me.
Who Is This Printer For?
From my experience, this EcoTank printer is perfect for photographers, small business owners, or even families who want a reliable device for various printing needs. Its ability to handle high-resolution photos, customizable gifts, and professional presentations makes it versatile and practical.
Highlights
- Cost-effective ink usage: The EcoTank technology drastically reduces ink costs over time.
- Edge-to-edge printing: Perfect for creating borderless photos or impactful flyers.
- Multi-functionality: Besides printing, the built-in scanner and copier are great for day-to-day tasks.
Areas for Improvement
While I’m a fan of the printer, there are a few limitations worth mentioning:
- Lack of duplex scanning: It’s a bit surprising that this feature isn’t included, given the price range.
- Not ideal for high-volume offices: If you need to churn out hundreds of documents daily, this may not be the best fit.
- Price point: While the long-term ink savings are great, the upfront cost might be a hurdle for some.
Competing Products
Comparing this EcoTank model to other popular options like Canon’s Pixma series or HP’s Smart Tank printers, the Epson edges ahead in print quality, particularly for photos. The Canon Pixma G6020, for instance, offers a robust tank system but falls slightly short when it comes to vibrancy and clarity. HP’s Smart Tank 7602, on the other hand, is user-friendly but doesn’t handle specialty media like CDs or DVDs as effectively.
Where the competition might have an edge is in compact design or faster print speeds. Yet, the EcoTank’s focus on photo and creative printing makes it a niche product that stands out for its intended audience.
Cost Efficiency
The printer might seem like a significant investment initially, but considering the massive ink savings, it’s worth every penny. I’ve printed countless photos and documents without needing a refill, and the ink reservoirs still have plenty left. For anyone tired of constantly buying cartridges, this is a game changer.
Testing this printer was a rewarding experience. It’s not perfect, but its innovative features, stunning print quality, and long-term cost benefits make it a standout choice for creative professionals and families alike.
