Epson Et-8550 Vs P700

When it comes to versatile printing solutions, Epson’s ET-8550 and P700 stand out as top contenders. Both printers offer a wide range of features and capabilities, but they differ in some key aspects. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the similarities and differences between these two printers, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

Technology and Ink System

ET-8550: Utilizes Epson‘s EcoTank technology, which features high-capacity ink tanks that can be refilled with affordable bottles. This eliminates the need for frequent cartridge replacements, offering significant savings over time.

P700: Employs traditional ink cartridges, which typically have a lower page yield and higher replacement costs compared to EcoTank systems.

Print Quality

ET-8550: Delivers impressive print quality with vibrant colors and sharp text. It uses pigment-based inks that are resistant to fading and water damage, making it suitable for both personal and professional use.

P700: Known for producing high-quality prints with accurate colors and smooth gradations. It utilizes dye-based inks, which offer a wider color gamut but may be more susceptible to fading over time.

Speed and Efficiency

ET-8550: Boasts faster print speeds compared to the P700, making it ideal for high-volume printing tasks. It can print up to 34 pages per minute in black and 27 pages per minute in color.

P700: Offers slower print speeds, with approximately 20 pages per minute in black and 15 pages per minute in color. However, it excels in producing high-quality photo prints, which may require more time to process.

Paper Handling

ET-8550: Supports a variety of paper sizes and types, including plain paper, photo paper, and specialty papers. It features a rear paper tray with a capacity of up to 250 sheets and a front paper tray for specialty media.

P700: Offers a more limited paper handling capacity, with a rear paper tray that can hold up to 120 sheets of plain paper. It does not have a dedicated front paper tray for specialty media.

Connectivity and Features

ET-8550: Provides wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, allowing for convenient printing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It also supports Ethernet for wired connections and includes a USB port for direct printing.

P700: Offers similar connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Ethernet. However, it lacks a USB port for direct printing.

Cost of Ownership

ET-8550: Generally has a lower cost of ownership due to its EcoTank ink system. The high-capacity ink tanks can be refilled at a significantly lower cost compared to replacing ink cartridges.

P700: Typically has a higher cost of ownership due to its reliance on ink cartridges. While ink cartridges may offer a wider color gamut, they are more expensive to replace and have a lower page yield.

Final Note: Making the Right Choice

The Epson ET-8550 and P700 are both capable printers with distinct strengths and weaknesses. The ET-8550 is a budget-friendly option with fast print speeds and a low cost of ownership, making it ideal for high-volume printing tasks. The P700, on the other hand, excels in producing high-quality photo prints and offers a more compact design. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific printing needs and budget.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which printer offers better print quality for photos?
A: The Epson P700 is generally regarded as having better print quality for photos, thanks to its dye-based inks and wider color gamut.

Q: Can either printer print on canvas?
A: No, neither the Epson ET-8550 nor the P700 is designed to print on canvas.

Q: How often do I need to refill the ink tanks on the ET-8550?
A: The frequency of ink refills depends on your printing volume. However, the high-capacity ink tanks can print up to 6,000 black pages or 5,200 color pages before requiring a refill.