Epson EcoTank 3850 vs HP Smart Tank 7301: The Ultimate Ink Tank Printer Showdown

In the realm of home and office printing, ink tank printers have emerged as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cartridge-based models. Among the leading contenders in this category are the Epson EcoTank 3850 and the HP Smart Tank 7301. Both printers boast impressive features and low running costs, but which one is the better choice for your needs? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Epson EcoTank 3850 and the HP Smart Tank 7301, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Epson EcoTank 3850 and HP Smart Tank 7301 are both compact and sleek printers, with a modern design that will complement any home or office décor. The EcoTank 3850 has a slightly smaller footprint, measuring 14.5 x 10.4 x 5.4 inches, while the Smart Tank 7301 is slightly larger at 17.7 x 13.6 x 7.1 inches.

Both printers feature a user-friendly control panel with a color LCD display. The EcoTank 3850’s control panel is located on the front of the printer, while the Smart Tank 7301’s is on the top. Both control panels provide easy access to printing functions, including copying, scanning, and faxing.

Ink System and Running Costs

The main difference between the Epson EcoTank 3850 and the HP Smart Tank 7301 lies in their ink systems. The EcoTank 3850 uses Epson’s EcoTank technology, which features refillable ink tanks that can be filled with high-capacity ink bottles. The Smart Tank 7301, on the other hand, uses HP’s Smart Tank technology, which also features refillable ink tanks but uses smaller ink cartridges.

In terms of running costs, the Epson EcoTank 3850 has a clear advantage. With its high-capacity ink tanks, the EcoTank 3850 can print up to 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 pages in color before needing to be refilled. The HP Smart Tank 7301, on the other hand, has a lower page yield of 2,500 pages in black and 8,000 pages in color.

Print Quality

Both the Epson EcoTank 3850 and the HP Smart Tank 7301 produce high-quality prints. The EcoTank 3850 uses Epson’s PrecisionCore printhead technology, which delivers sharp text and vibrant colors. The Smart Tank 7301 uses HP’s Thermal Inkjet technology, which also produces sharp text and vibrant colors.

In terms of print resolution, the EcoTank 3850 has a slightly higher resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, compared to the Smart Tank 7301’s 4800 x 1200 dpi. However, the difference in print resolution is negligible and both printers produce excellent print quality for everyday use.

Print Speed

The Epson EcoTank 3850 and the HP Smart Tank 7301 offer comparable print speeds. The EcoTank 3850 can print up to 15 pages per minute (ppm) in black and 8.5 ppm in color. The Smart Tank 7301 can print up to 12 ppm in black and 6 ppm in color.

For most users, the difference in print speed between the two printers is not significant. However, if you need to print large volumes of documents frequently, the EcoTank 3850 may be a better choice.

Connectivity and Features

The Epson EcoTank 3850 and the HP Smart Tank 7301 offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB. Both printers can also print from mobile devices using the Epson iPrint app or the HP Smart app.

In terms of features, the EcoTank 3850 and the Smart Tank 7301 both offer basic printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. However, the EcoTank 3850 has a few additional features, including a built-in ADF (automatic document feeder) and a duplexer (for two-sided printing).

Verdict

Both the Epson EcoTank 3850 and the HP Smart Tank 7301 are excellent ink tank printers that offer low running costs and high-quality prints. However, the EcoTank 3850 has a few advantages over the Smart Tank 7301, including higher page yield, faster print speeds, and more features.

If you need a printer that can handle high-volume printing and offers a wide range of features, the Epson EcoTank 3850 is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget and do not need as many features, the HP Smart Tank 7301 is a solid option.

The Final Takeaway

Ultimately, the best printer for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you need a low-cost printer that can handle high-volume printing, the Epson EcoTank 3850 is the better choice. If you are on a budget and do not need as many features, the HP Smart Tank 7301 is a solid option.

Information You Need to Know

Q1: Which printer has a higher page yield?
A1: The Epson EcoTank 3850 has a higher page yield of 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 pages in color, compared to the HP Smart Tank 7301’s 2,500 pages in black and 8,000 pages in color.

Q2: Which printer is faster?
A2: The Epson EcoTank 3850 is faster, with print speeds of up to 15 ppm in black and 8.5 ppm in color, compared to the HP Smart Tank 7301’s print speeds of up to 12 ppm in black and 6 ppm in color.

Q3: Which printer has more features?
A3: The Epson EcoTank 3850 has more features, including a built-in ADF and a duplexer, compared to the HP Smart Tank 7301.