Main points
- The PRO-300 is a slower printer, producing a 4×6″ borderless print in about 90 seconds.
- The PRO-300 offers a wider range of paper handling options, including a rear tray for fine art papers and a roll feeder for continuous printing.
- The Epson ET-8550 is the more practical option, providing faster printing speeds, a more economical ink system, and a user-friendly interface.
The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 and Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 are two widely acclaimed photo printers that cater to the needs of photography enthusiasts. Both printers offer exceptional print quality, but they differ in their features, capabilities, and overall value proposition. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two printers, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Print Quality
Both the Canon PRO-300 and Epson ET-8550 produce stunning prints with vibrant colors, sharp details, and smooth transitions. However, there are some subtle differences to consider.
- Colors: The PRO-300 utilizes a 10-ink system, while the ET-8550 has a 6-ink system. The PRO-300’s additional inks, including chroma optimizer and photo black, provide a wider color gamut and more accurate color reproduction, especially in dark and low-contrast areas.
- Details: The PRO-300’s smaller ink droplets (4 picoliters) compared to the ET-8550’s (5 picoliters) result in finer details and smoother gradations, particularly in high-resolution images.
Printing Speed and Efficiency
The PRO-300 and ET-8550 have contrasting printing speeds.
- PRO-300: The PRO-300 is a slower printer, producing a 4×6″ borderless print in about 90 seconds. However, it offers higher quality prints at the expense of speed.
- ET-8550: The ET-8550 is significantly faster, printing a 4×6″ borderless print in approximately 30 seconds. Its faster speed makes it more suitable for high-volume printing tasks.
Ink System and Cost
- PRO-300: The PRO-300 uses individual ink cartridges, which can be replaced as needed. While this provides flexibility, it can be more expensive in the long run.
- ET-8550: The ET-8550 features a refillable ink tank system. This system is more economical over time, as high-capacity ink bottles are available at a lower cost per milliliter.
Paper Handling
- PRO-300: The PRO-300 offers a wider range of paper handling options, including a rear tray for fine art papers and a roll feeder for continuous printing.
- ET-8550: The ET-8550 has a more limited paper handling capacity, with only a single rear tray for both regular and fine art papers.
Connectivity and Features
Both printers provide wireless connectivity options, allowing for printing from mobile devices and computers.
- PRO-300: The PRO-300 has a built-in Ethernet port for wired connectivity and supports Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print.
- ET-8550: The ET-8550 offers a more comprehensive set of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, and NFC for easy pairing.
Software and Support
- PRO-300: Canon provides a dedicated software suite, Professional Print & Layout, for advanced print control and image editing.
- ET-8550: Epson offers a simpler software solution, Epson Print Layout, which provides basic print settings and image adjustments.
The Verdict: Which Printer Is Right for You?
The choice between the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 and Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 depends on your specific needs and priorities.
- For photographers seeking the highest print quality: The Canon PRO-300 is the clear choice, offering exceptional color accuracy, fine details, and a wide range of paper handling options.
- For photographers who value speed and affordability: The Epson ET-8550 is the more practical option, providing faster printing speeds, a more economical ink system, and a user-friendly interface.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which printer has a longer lifespan?
A: Both the PRO-300 and ET-8550 have a similar estimated lifespan of approximately 3-5 years.
Q: Can I print on canvas with either printer?
A: Yes, both printers support printing on canvas with the appropriate settings and paper type.
Q: Which printer is better for printing large-format prints?
A: The PRO-300 can print up to 13″ x 19″, while the ET-8550 is limited to 11″ x 17″. For larger prints, the PRO-300 is the better choice.
Q: Can I use third-party inks with these printers?
A: Using third-party inks may void the warranty and potentially damage the printer. It is recommended to use genuine Canon or Epson inks for optimal performance and longevity.
Q: Which printer is more portable?
A: The ET-8550 is more compact and lightweight, making it more suitable for occasional travel or use in smaller spaces.