Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 review the best wireless all-in-one ink tank printer

Description

Key Benefits of the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 stands out in the world of ink tank printers, blending innovative features with practical functionality. As someone who uses printers regularly, I have to say this device surprised me in more ways than one. The cartridge-free system is a game-changer, offering a cost-effective solution for high-quality printing. Whether it’s borderless 8.5″x11″ photos or everyday documents, this all-in-one printer handles it all effortlessly.

One feature that really impressed me is the 6-color Claria ET Premium Ink system. The colors are vibrant, and the text is insanely sharp. Printing a 4″x6″ photo costs just about 4 cents, which is much better than the typical 40 cents you’d spend with cartridge-based printers. Plus, the ability to print on special media like cardstock and CDs/DVDs adds a layer of versatility that not many printers in this range can compete with.

• Vibrant color printing thanks to the 6-color ink system.
• Cost-effective printing—up to 80% savings with replacement ink bottles.
• Versatile media compatibility, including cardstock, CDs, and DVDs.
• Borderless printing for professional-quality photos and graphics.

If you’re someone who values in-house printing with a touch of creativity, this printer is a solid choice.

Areas for Improvement

While the printer excels in many areas, there are a few shortcomings that I noticed during testing.

For instance, the lack of an automatic document feeder (ADF) feels like a miss for an all-in-one device. Scanning or copying multi-page documents becomes a bit tedious without it. Additionally, while the touchscreen interface is sleek and responsive, navigating some advanced settings could be more intuitive. Lastly, the printer’s size—while not massive—might not be ideal for smaller workspaces.

• No automatic document feeder, limiting multi-page scanning or copying.
• Touchscreen navigation could be more user-friendly for complex tasks.
• The size might be a concern for those with limited desk space.

These aren’t deal-breakers by any means but are worth keeping in mind depending on your workflow.

Design and Build Quality

Aesthetically, the printer is clean and modern, with its white exterior blending seamlessly into most workspaces. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen is a highlight, making it easy to navigate menus and settings. The overall build feels sturdy, and the dual trays offer ample capacity for different media types. I especially appreciated the rear specialty paper tray, which makes handling thicker materials like cardstock a breeze.

However, what struck me the most was how well-thought-out the bottle refill system is. It’s completely hassle-free, with no spills or mess, which is a rare find in printers. This design encourages users to embrace the cartridge-free lifestyle, ultimately saving money and reducing waste.

Performance and Print Quality

In terms of performance, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 delivers what it promises. The ISO print speeds are impressive—16 pages per minute for black-and-white and 12 pages per minute for color. While it’s not the fastest printer out there, it’s more than sufficient for home or small office use.

What really blew me away was the photo printing quality. The resolution goes up to 5760 x 1440 dpi, resulting in crisp, lifelike images. I tested it on glossy photo paper and cardstock, and the results were nothing short of stunning. Even the duplex printing feature works seamlessly, saving both paper and time.

Product Competitors

When compared to other ink tank printers like the Canon PIXMA G6020 and Brother MFC-J995DW, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 holds its own. The Canon offers a slightly higher print speed, but it doesn’t match the color vibrancy or media versatility of the Epson. Meanwhile, the Brother model excels in office-centric features like an ADF but falls short in photo quality and ink efficiency.

What sets the Epson apart is its specialty media support and lab-quality photo printing. If you’re someone who prioritizes design projects, photography, or creative endeavors, this printer has a clear edge over its competitors.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering the features packed into this printer, it offers excellent value for money. The initial investment might seem steep, but the long-term savings on ink costs more than justify it. With replacement bottles lasting up to two years, the savings add up significantly. For anyone tired of constantly replacing cartridges, this is one area where the printer truly shines.

Moreover, the ability to print high-quality photos at home eliminates the need for expensive lab services. Whether it’s for work, school projects, or personal hobbies, the cost-efficiency of this device is undeniable. While it may not suit ultra-budget-conscious buyers, those who value quality and versatility will find it worth every penny.

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