Efficiency vs Capacity: Epson EcoTank M3170 vs M3180
What To Know
- If you are on a tight budget and do not require the additional features of the M3180, then the Epson EcoTank M3170 is an excellent choice.
- However, if you require a printer with a larger paper capacity, a built-in LCD screen, and automatic double-sided printing, then the Epson EcoTank M3180 is the better option.
- The Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180 are both excellent inkjet printers that offer a low cost per page, high-quality prints, and a range of connectivity options.
The Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180 are two highly sought-after inkjet printers from Epson’s acclaimed EcoTank series. These printers offer an exceptional balance of affordability, efficiency, and performance, making them ideal for both home and small office use. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Epson EcoTank M3170 vs M3180 to help you make an informed decision about which printer best meets your specific needs.
Key Features
1. Ink Tank System
Both the Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180 utilize Epson’s innovative EcoTank ink tank system. This system eliminates the need for costly ink cartridges, instead using refillable ink tanks that can be easily filled with affordable ink bottles. This feature significantly reduces printing costs and allows for a lower cost per page compared to traditional ink cartridge printers.
2. Print Quality
The Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180 offer excellent print quality for both documents and photos. They utilize PrecisionCore print technology, which delivers sharp text and vibrant colors with a resolution of up to 4800 x 1200 dpi. Both printers are capable of producing high-quality prints that are suitable for a wide range of applications.
3. Print Speed
In terms of print speed, the Epson EcoTank M3170 has a slight edge over the M3180. The M3170 offers print speeds of up to 15 ppm for black and white prints and 7.9 ppm for color prints. The M3180, on the other hand, has print speeds of up to 13 ppm for black and white prints and 6.5 ppm for color prints.
4. Connectivity
Both the Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180 offer a range of connectivity options. They support Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB connectivity, allowing you to print wirelessly from your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Additionally, both printers are compatible with Epson’s mobile printing app, which makes it easy to print documents and photos from your mobile devices.
5. Paper Capacity
The Epson EcoTank M3170 has a larger paper capacity than the M3180. It features a 150-sheet input tray and a 30-sheet rear feed tray. The M3180, on the other hand, has a 100-sheet input tray and a 20-sheet rear feed tray. This difference in paper capacity may be significant if you frequently print large volumes of documents.
6. Additional Features
The Epson EcoTank M3180 has a few additional features that are not available on the M3170. These features include a 1.44-inch LCD screen, which allows you to easily navigate the printer’s settings and view print status. Additionally, the M3180 supports automatic double-sided printing, which can help you save paper and reduce printing costs.
7. Price
The Epson EcoTank M3170 is typically priced lower than the M3180. This price difference is due to the additional features offered by the M3180, such as the LCD screen and automatic double-sided printing.
Which Printer is Right for You?
The best printer for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are on a tight budget and do not require the additional features of the M3180, then the Epson EcoTank M3170 is an excellent choice. It offers a low cost per page, excellent print quality, and a range of connectivity options.
However, if you require a printer with a larger paper capacity, a built-in LCD screen, and automatic double-sided printing, then the Epson EcoTank M3180 is the better option. It offers a more comprehensive set of features and can handle larger print volumes.
Alternatives to Consider
If you are considering the Epson EcoTank M3170 or M3180, you may also want to consider the following alternatives:
- HP DeskJet Plus 4155e: Another affordable inkjet printer with a low cost per page and a range of connectivity options.
- Canon PIXMA G3260: A high-quality inkjet printer with a large paper capacity and a user-friendly interface.
- Brother MFC-J491DW: A multi-function inkjet printer that includes scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities.
Takeaways
The Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180 are both excellent inkjet printers that offer a low cost per page, high-quality prints, and a range of connectivity options. The M3170 is the more budget-friendly option, while the M3180 offers a few additional features, such as a larger paper capacity and automatic double-sided printing. By carefully considering the features and specifications of each printer, you can make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your needs.
Popular Questions
1. What is the difference between the Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180?
The Epson EcoTank M3180 offers a few additional features that are not available on the M3170, including a 1.44-inch LCD screen, automatic double-sided printing, and a larger paper capacity.
2. Which printer has a lower cost per page?
Both the Epson EcoTank M3170 and M3180 offer a low cost per page. However, the M3170 is typically priced lower than the M3180, making it the more budget-friendly option.
3. Which printer is better for high-volume printing?
The Epson EcoTank M3180 is better for high-volume printing due to its larger paper capacity and automatic double-sided printing feature.
