The Ultimate Showdown: Epson ET-8550 vs P700 – Unraveling the Superior Printer
What To Know
- In the realm of home and office printing, Epson has established itself as a formidable force, offering a wide range of printers catering to diverse needs.
- The P700, on the other hand, has a print speed of 13 ppm in black and white, and 7.
- On the other hand, if you demand the highest possible resolution, enhanced paper handling capabilities, and the added convenience of automatic double-sided printing, the P700 may be the better fit.
In the realm of home and office printing, Epson has established itself as a formidable force, offering a wide range of printers catering to diverse needs. Among its latest offerings, the Epson ET-8550 and P700 stand out as compelling choices for those seeking high-quality printing capabilities. However, the choice between these two exceptional printers can be a daunting task. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the key differences between the Epson ET-8550 and P700, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific printing requirements.
Resolution and Print Quality
The Epson ET-8550 boasts a remarkable resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi, while the P700 offers a resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi. Both printers deliver exceptional print quality, capturing intricate details and producing vibrant colors. However, the slightly higher resolution of the P700 may provide an edge in terms of sharpness, especially when printing high-resolution images or graphics.
Ink System
One of the key differentiators between the ET-8550 and P700 lies in their ink systems. The ET-8550 employs Epson’s innovative EcoTank system, which utilizes large refillable ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges. This system offers significant cost savings over time, as ink bottles are typically much cheaper than cartridges. In contrast, the P700 uses a more conventional cartridge-based ink system, which may require more frequent replacements and higher printing costs.
Print Speed
When it comes to print speed, the Epson ET-8550 has a slight advantage over the P700. The ET-8550 can print up to 15 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white, and 11 ppm in color. The P700, on the other hand, has a print speed of 13 ppm in black and white, and 7.5 ppm in color. While the difference in speed may not be substantial for occasional printing tasks, it can become noticeable when handling large print volumes.
Connectivity Options
Both the Epson ET-8550 and P700 offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, and USB. This allows you to print wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, making it convenient for both home and office environments. Additionally, both printers support Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print, enabling seamless printing from mobile devices.
Paper Handling Capabilities
The Epson ET-8550 and P700 have similar paper handling capabilities, with both printers offering a rear paper tray that can accommodate up to 150 sheets of plain paper. However, the P700 has an additional rear specialty paper feeder that can handle up to 50 sheets of thicker or specialty paper, such as photo paper or cardstock. This added flexibility may be beneficial for users who require printing on a variety of paper types.
Additional Features
Beyond their core printing capabilities, the Epson ET-8550 and P700 offer a range of additional features that enhance their functionality. The ET-8550 comes equipped with a built-in automatic document feeder (ADF) that can hold up to 30 pages, making it convenient for scanning, copying, and faxing multiple documents at once. The P700, on the other hand, has a built-in duplexer that allows for automatic double-sided printing, reducing paper consumption and saving money.
Price and Value
The Epson ET-8550 and P700 fall into different price ranges. The ET-8550 is typically priced lower than the P700, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the P700 offers certain advantages, such as a slightly higher resolution, an additional specialty paper feeder, and a built-in duplexer. Ultimately, the best value for your money will depend on your specific printing needs and budget constraints.
Informed Choice: Epson ET-8550 vs P700
Choosing between the Epson ET-8550 and P700 requires careful consideration of your printing requirements. If you prioritize cost savings, high-volume printing, and convenience, the ET-8550 with its EcoTank system and ADF is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you demand the highest possible resolution, enhanced paper handling capabilities, and the added convenience of automatic double-sided printing, the P700 may be the better fit.
FAQs
Q1. Which printer has a lower cost per page?
A1. The Epson ET-8550 typically has a lower cost per page due to its EcoTank ink system, which utilizes refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges.
Q2. Can both printers print borderless photos?
A2. Yes, both the Epson ET-8550 and P700 support borderless photo printing, allowing you to create stunning prints without white borders.
Q3. Which printer is better for high-resolution photo printing?
A3. The Epson P700 has a slightly higher resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, making it a better choice for printing high-resolution photos and graphics.
Q4. Can I use third-party ink with the ET-8550?
A4. Epson does not recommend using third-party ink with the ET-8550, as it may affect the printer’s performance and warranty.
Q5. Which printer has a larger paper capacity?
A5. Both printers have a rear paper tray that can accommodate up to 150 sheets of plain paper, but the P700 has an additional rear specialty paper feeder that can handle up to 50 sheets of thicker or specialty paper.
