Key points
- However, the ET-4850 boasts a slightly higher print resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi compared to the ET-3850’s 4800 x 1200 dpi, resulting in marginally finer details and smoother gradients.
- The ET-4850 can print up to 15 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white and 11 ppm in color, while the ET-3850 prints at a slower pace of 10 ppm and 5 ppm, respectively.
- However, the ET-4850 has a slightly larger paper capacity, with a 250-sheet front tray and a 100-sheet rear tray, compared to the ET-3850’s 150-sheet front tray and 50-sheet rear tray.
The Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 are two highly sought-after ink tank printers that have garnered significant attention in the market. Both printers offer exceptional printing capabilities, but they also have distinct features and specifications that set them apart. This comprehensive comparison guide will delve into the key differences between the Epson ET-3850 vs ET-4850, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your specific printing needs.
Print Quality
Both the Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 utilize Epson’s PrecisionCore technology, delivering sharp and vibrant prints. However, the ET-4850 boasts a slightly higher print resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi compared to the ET-3850’s 4800 x 1200 dpi, resulting in marginally finer details and smoother gradients.
Print Speed
The Epson ET-4850 outperforms the ET-3850 in terms of print speed. The ET-4850 can print up to 15 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white and 11 ppm in color, while the ET-3850 prints at a slower pace of 10 ppm and 5 ppm, respectively. This difference in speed becomes noticeable when printing large volumes of documents or photos.
Paper Handling
The Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 both offer versatile paper handling capabilities. Both printers can accommodate a wide range of paper sizes, including legal, letter, and photo sizes. However, the ET-4850 has a slightly larger paper capacity, with a 250-sheet front tray and a 100-sheet rear tray, compared to the ET-3850’s 150-sheet front tray and 50-sheet rear tray.
Connectivity
The Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 provide a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Ethernet. Both printers can be easily integrated into home or office networks, allowing for wireless printing from various devices. However, the ET-4850 offers an additional feature called NFC (Near Field Communication), which enables quick and convenient printing from compatible smartphones or tablets by simply tapping them on the printer.
Ink System
The Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 utilize Epson’s EcoTank ink system, which eliminates the need for traditional ink cartridges. Instead, these printers come with high-capacity ink tanks that can be refilled with affordable ink bottles. Both printers offer a low cost per page, but the ET-4850 has a slightly lower cost per page due to its higher ink capacity.
Other Features
In addition to their core printing capabilities, the Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 offer a range of other features:
- Automatic Duplex Printing: Both printers can automatically print on both sides of the paper, saving time and paper.
- Scanner: The ET-4850 has a built-in flatbed scanner, allowing for scanning, copying, and faxing documents.
- Color LCD Display: The ET-4850 features a 2.4-inch color LCD display for easy navigation and printer status monitoring.
Deciding Factor: Your Printing Needs
The choice between the Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you prioritize print quality and speed, the ET-4850 is the better option. However, if you have a smaller budget or only need basic printing capabilities, the ET-3850 offers excellent value.
The Verdict: Epson ET-4850 for Superior Performance
Overall, the Epson ET-4850 emerges as the winner in this comparison. It offers superior print quality, faster print speeds, a larger paper capacity, NFC connectivity, and a built-in scanner. While the ET-3850 is a budget-friendly option, the ET-4850’s enhanced features and lower cost per page make it the better choice for demanding printing tasks.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I refill the ink tanks myself?
A: Yes, both the Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 use refillable ink tanks that can be easily filled using affordable ink bottles.
Q: What type of paper can I use with these printers?
A: Both printers can handle a wide range of paper types, including plain paper, photo paper, and specialty paper.
Q: Can I print wirelessly from my smartphone or tablet?
A: Yes, both the Epson ET-3850 and ET-4850 offer Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct connectivity, allowing for wireless printing from various devices.