Main points
- In the realm of home printing, Epson’s EcoTank series has emerged as a formidable force, offering exceptional value and convenience.
- The choice between the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 and ET-4800 depends on your specific printing needs and budget.
- Both printers offer excellent print quality, but the ET-2850 has a slightly higher resolution (5760 x 1440 dpi) compared to the ET-4800 (4800 x 1200 dpi).
In the realm of home printing, Epson’s EcoTank series has emerged as a formidable force, offering exceptional value and convenience. Two of its most popular models, the ET-2850 and ET-4800, have garnered widespread attention for their impressive features. But which one is right for you? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Key Features and Differences
Print Speed and Resolution:
- ET-2850: Print speed of 15 ppm (black) and 7.5 ppm (color); resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi
- ET-4800: Print speed of 25 ppm (black) and 12 ppm (color); resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi
Connectivity:
- ET-2850: Wi-Fi, USB, and Wi-Fi Direct
- ET-4800: Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, and USB
Print Volume:
- ET-2850: Recommended monthly print volume of 100-400 pages
- ET-4800: Recommended monthly print volume of 200-800 pages
Ink Capacity:
- ET-2850: Includes 100ml black ink and 50ml color inks
- ET-4800: Includes 127ml black ink and 70ml color inks
Advantages of Epson EcoTank ET-2850
Budget-Friendly Option: With a lower price point, the ET-2850 offers exceptional value for occasional printers.
Compact Design: Its compact footprint makes it ideal for space-constrained areas.
Easy Ink Refilling: The user-friendly ink tanks allow for mess-free and cost-effective ink refills.
Advantages of Epson EcoTank ET-4800
Faster Print Speed: The ET-4800 boasts a significantly faster print speed, making it ideal for high-volume printing.
Ethernet Connectivity: The Ethernet port provides a stable and secure wired connection, ensuring reliable printing.
Higher Ink Capacity: The larger ink tanks offer a longer page yield, reducing the frequency of refills.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 and ET-4800 depends on your specific printing needs and budget.
Choose the ET-2850 if:
- You have a limited budget.
- You print occasionally (less than 400 pages per month).
- You prefer a compact printer.
Choose the ET-4800 if:
- You need faster print speeds.
- You print high volumes (more than 400 pages per month).
- You require Ethernet connectivity.
- You want a printer with a higher ink capacity.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Epson EcoTank ET-2850 | Epson EcoTank ET-4800 |
| — | — | — |
| Print Speed (Black/Color) | 15 ppm / 7.5 ppm | 25 ppm / 12 ppm |
| Print Resolution | 5760 x 1440 dpi | 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, USB |
| Recommended Monthly Print Volume | 100-400 pages | 200-800 pages |
| Ink Capacity (Black/Color) | 100ml / 50ml | 127ml / 70ml |
| Price | Less expensive | More expensive |
Ink Costs and Savings
Both the ET-2850 and ET-4800 utilize Epson‘s EcoTank ink, which offers exceptional savings compared to traditional ink cartridges. The replacement ink bottles cost approximately $10-$15 per color, resulting in significantly lower ink costs per page.
Takeaways: The Best Choice for Your Needs
Ultimately, the best choice between the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 and ET-4800 hinges on your individual printing requirements. Consider your budget, print volume, and connectivity needs to make an informed decision. Both printers offer exceptional value and convenience, but one may better suit your specific circumstances.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which printer has the higher print quality?
Both printers offer excellent print quality, but the ET-2850 has a slightly higher resolution (5760 x 1440 dpi) compared to the ET-4800 (4800 x 1200 dpi).
2. Can I print photos on both printers?
Yes, both the ET-2850 and ET-4800 can print photos with vibrant colors and sharp details.
3. Which printer is more energy-efficient?
Both printers are Energy Star certified, indicating their commitment to energy efficiency. However, the ET-2850 consumes slightly less power than the ET-4800.
4. Can I use third-party ink with these printers?
Using third-party ink may void the warranty and potentially damage the printer. It is recommended to use genuine Epson EcoTank ink.
5. How often should I refill the ink tanks?
The ink tanks should be refilled when the ink level indicator shows that they are low. The frequency of refills depends on your printing volume.