What To Know
- The ET-8500 features a more traditional design with a front-loading paper tray, while the ET-8550 boasts a more contemporary aesthetic with a top-loading paper tray.
- Both the ET-8500 and ET-8550 come with a generous supply of ink, offering an estimated print volume of up to 14,000 black and white pages or 11,200 color pages.
- The ET-8550 also features a dedicated photo tray that can hold up to 20 sheets of photo paper, making it easier to print high-quality photos without having to manually adjust the paper settings.
Choosing the right photo printer can be a daunting task, especially when considering the vast array of options available. Epson’s EcoTank Photo ET-8500 and ET-8550 are two high-quality contenders that offer exceptional photo printing capabilities. Both models boast impressive features and functionalities, making it difficult to determine which one reigns supreme. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two printers, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
Both the ET-8500 and ET-8550 share a sleek and modern design, seamlessly integrating into any home office or creative space. The compact footprint of these printers makes them ideal for those with limited desk space. However, there are subtle design differences that set them apart. The ET-8500 features a more traditional design with a front-loading paper tray, while the ET-8550 boasts a more contemporary aesthetic with a top-loading paper tray. Both models offer a user-friendly interface with a clear LCD screen for easy navigation and control.
Print Quality and Performance
When it comes to print quality, both the ET-8500 and ET-8550 deliver exceptional results, thanks to Epson’s renowned Claria Photo HD ink technology. This technology produces vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharp details, making these printers perfect for printing professional-quality photos, documents, and other creative projects. The print speed is comparable between the two models, with both printers capable of producing high-quality prints at a decent speed. However, the ET-8550 slightly edges out the ET-8500 in terms of speed for certain types of prints.
Connectivity and Features
Both printers offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. This allows you to print wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, providing flexibility and convenience. Both models also support Epson‘s iPrint app, enabling you to print directly from your mobile device. The ET-8550 takes connectivity a step further by incorporating NFC technology, allowing for seamless wireless printing from compatible devices.
Ink System and Cost
The EcoTank series is renowned for its high-yield ink system, which significantly reduces printing costs compared to traditional cartridge-based printers. Both the ET-8500 and ET-8550 come with a generous supply of ink, offering an estimated print volume of up to 14,000 black and white pages or 11,200 color pages. The ink bottles are easy to refill, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The cost per page is remarkably low, making these printers an excellent investment for those who print frequently.
Paper Handling and Capacity
Both printers offer a variety of paper handling options, including a rear paper tray and a manual feed slot. The ET-8500 has a rear paper tray capacity of 100 sheets, while the ET-8550 boasts a larger capacity of 150 sheets. This extra capacity is particularly beneficial for users who print large volumes of documents or photos. Both printers also support a wide range of media types, including photo paper, plain paper, envelopes, and more.
Special Features and Considerations
The ET-8550 offers a few notable features that set it apart from the ET-8500. It includes a built-in automatic document feeder (ADF) that allows you to scan and copy multi-page documents effortlessly. The ADF can hold up to 30 sheets, making it ideal for office tasks or scanning multiple photos at once. The ET-8550 also features a dedicated photo tray that can hold up to 20 sheets of photo paper, making it easier to print high-quality photos without having to manually adjust the paper settings.
Wrapping Up: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Choosing between the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 and ET-8550 ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a reliable photo printer with excellent print quality and a generous ink supply, both models are excellent choices. However, the ET-8550 offers additional features like an ADF and increased paper capacity, making it a more versatile option for users who need to print, scan, and copy documents regularly.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which printer is better for photo printing?
A: Both the ET-8500 and ET-8550 offer exceptional photo printing capabilities, thanks to Epson’s Claria Photo HD ink technology. The key difference lies in the dedicated photo tray on the ET-8550, which makes it slightly more convenient for printing high-quality photos.
Q: Which printer is more affordable in the long run?
A: Both printers offer significantly lower printing costs compared to traditional cartridge-based models due to their high-yield ink system. The cost per page is remarkably low, making them an excellent choice for those who print frequently.
Q: Does the ET-8550 offer any advantages over the ET-8500?
A: Yes, the ET-8550 includes an automatic document feeder (ADF), a dedicated photo tray, and a larger paper capacity, making it a more versatile option for users who need to print, scan, and copy documents regularly.
Q: Is there a noticeable difference in print speed between the two models?
A: The print speed is comparable between the two models, with both printers capable of producing high-quality prints at a decent speed. However, the ET-8550 slightly edges out the ET-8500 in terms of speed for certain types of prints.
Q: Which printer is the best overall?
A: The best printer ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a reliable photo printer with excellent print quality and a generous ink supply, the ET-8500 is an excellent choice. However, if you need additional features like an ADF, a dedicated photo tray, and increased paper capacity, the ET-8550 is a more versatile option.
