Epson Ecotank Photo Et 8500 Wireless Color All In One Supertank Printer Review

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer emerges as a game-changer for photo enthusiasts and home users seeking exceptional print quality and unprecedented ink economy. This isn’t just another printer. it’s a strategic investment designed to slash your printing costs, particularly for high-volume photo printing, while delivering vibrant, professional-grade results. Forget the constant dread of emptying expensive ink cartridges. the ET-8500’s supersized ink tanks mean you can print thousands of photos and documents before even thinking about a refill, making it an ideal choice for anyone tired of the traditional cartridge merry-go-round. Its ability to produce stunning borderless photos, sharp documents, and its versatile connectivity options solidify its position as a top contender in the all-in-one printer market, offering a compelling blend of performance, convenience, and long-term savings.

Here’s a comparison of the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 with some noteworthy alternatives and complementary products:

• Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer

  

  • Key Features: Cartridge-free printing with supersized ink tanks, 6-color Claria ET Premium Inks Gray and Photo Black, print/scan/copy, wireless Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, automatic duplexing, dedicated photo and paper trays, 4.3″ color touchscreen.
  • Average Price: $699 – $799
  • Pros: Extremely low per-page print costs, exceptional photo quality, large ink capacity, versatile media handling, good connectivity.
  • Cons: Higher initial purchase price, slower document print speeds compared to some laser printers, ink refilling can be a bit messy if you’re not careful.

• Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-Format All-in-One Supertank Printer

  • Key Features: Similar to ET-8500 but adds wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″, 6-color Claria ET Premium Inks, supersized ink tanks.
  • Average Price: $799 – $899
  • Pros: All the benefits of the ET-8500 plus wide-format printing capability, ideal for larger photo prints and creative projects.
  • Cons: Even higher initial cost, larger footprint.

• Canon PIXMA G620 Wireless MegaTank Photo Printer

  • Key Features: MegaTank ink system refillable tanks, 6 dye-based inks, print only no scan/copy, wireless, compact design.
  • Average Price: $299 – $349
  • Pros: Excellent photo quality for the price, lower initial cost than EcoTank, high page yield, compact.
  • Cons: Print-only functionality, not all-in-one, slightly slower, ink system may be less robust than Epson’s for extremely high volumes.

• HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e All-in-One Printer

  • Key Features: Traditional cartridge-based system often promoted with Instant Ink subscriptions, fast document printing, duplexing ADF, print/scan/copy/fax, strong security features.
  • Pros: Very fast for documents, robust business features, often comes with HP Instant Ink trials for convenience though long-term costs vary.
  • Cons: Cartridge-based system means higher long-term ink costs, especially for photos, less optimized for photo quality than EcoTank.

• Brother MFC-J4335DW INKvestment Tank Printer

  • Key Features: Hybrid ink tank/cartridge system INKvestment, print/scan/copy/fax, wireless, automatic document feeder, up to 1-year of ink in-box.
  • Average Price: $199 – $249
  • Pros: Good value for money, decent page yield for the price, strong for general home office use, compact.
  • Cons: Not specifically designed for photo enthusiasts, photo quality may not match EcoTank, ink system is not truly cartridge-free.

• Professional Photo Paper

  • Key Features: Various finishes glossy, semi-gloss, matte, luster, different weights and thicknesses, optimized for inkjet printing.
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on brand, size, and quantity $20 – $50+ for a pack.
  • Pros: Enhances photo print quality significantly, provides a professional look and feel, better archival properties than plain paper.
  • Cons: Can be expensive, choosing the right paper for your printer and ink can be a learning curve.

• Printer Cleaning Kit

  • Key Features: Includes cleaning solution, lint-free cloths, swabs, and instructions for maintaining print heads and rollers.
  • Average Price: $15 – $30
  • Pros: Essential for prolonging printer lifespan and maintaining print quality, helps prevent clogs and streaks, good for proactive maintenance.
  • Cons: Requires careful handling and adherence to instructions, not a substitute for professional servicing if major issues arise.

Unpacking the EcoTank Advantage: Why Cartridge-Free Matters

Let’s cut to the chase: the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 is built around a philosophy that fundamentally redefines printer ownership. Traditional cartridge printers are notorious for their “razor and blade” business model – sell the printer cheap, then recoup profits through exorbitantly priced ink cartridges. Epson’s EcoTank line, particularly the ET-8500, flips this script entirely. Instead of tiny, disposable cartridges, you get supersized, refillable ink tanks. This isn’t just a minor tweak. it’s a paradigm shift for anyone who prints regularly, especially photos.

The Economics of EcoTank: Real Savings, Not Just Hype

The most immediate and impactful benefit of the ET-8500’s EcoTank system is the drastic reduction in per-page printing costs. Imagine this: with traditional cartridges, printing a high-quality 4×6 photo could set you back anywhere from 20 to 50 cents, sometimes even more. With the ET-8500, that cost plummets to just a few cents per photo.

• Initial Ink Yield: The printer comes with enough ink to print thousands of pages – an estimated 6,700 color pages or 6,200 black-and-white pages. For photos, we’re talking about approximately 2,300 4×6-inch photos right out of the box. This is an absolutely staggering amount compared to what you’d get from standard cartridges.
• Replacement Ink Bottles: When you do finally need to refill, the replacement ink bottles are incredibly affordable. We’re talking about prices that are a fraction of what you’d pay for a single set of traditional cartridges, yet they contain far more ink. This ensures that the low running costs aren’t just a first-year perk but a continuous reality throughout the printer’s life.
• Transparent Cost Analysis: Epson is quite upfront about the yields. This transparency allows consumers to perform a realistic cost analysis, factoring in the higher initial purchase price against the dramatic long-term savings. For a photo enthusiast who prints dozens or even hundreds of photos a month, the payback period for the ET-8500’s upfront cost is surprisingly quick.

Environmental Impact: Less Waste, More Sense

Beyond the financial benefits, the EcoTank system also presents a compelling environmental argument.

Think about the sheer volume of plastic waste generated by discarded ink cartridges every year. It’s immense.

• Reduced Cartridge Waste: By eliminating the need for single-use cartridges, the ET-8500 significantly reduces plastic waste going into landfills. This aligns with a growing consumer demand for more sustainable product choices.
• Sustainable Packaging: Epson often uses more environmentally friendly packaging for their ink bottles, further minimizing the overall footprint.
• Long-Term Printer Lifespan: The design of the EcoTank system, with its robust refillable tanks, can encourage users to maintain their printers for longer, rather than discarding them when ink costs become prohibitive, further reducing electronic waste. This is a win-win for your wallet and the planet.

Photo Quality: A Deep Dive into Claria ET Premium Inks

For a printer explicitly marketed as a “Photo” EcoTank, print quality is paramount. The ET-8500 doesn’t just deliver. it excels, largely thanks to Epson’s proprietary 6-color Claria ET Premium Ink system. This isn’t your standard four-color CMYK setup. the inclusion of Photo Black and Gray inks makes a significant difference, especially for photographic output.

The Power of Six Inks: Beyond CMYK

Traditional four-color printers often struggle with the nuances of photographic printing.

They can produce decent images, but often lack the depth, smoothness, and fine detail required for truly professional-looking prints.

The ET-8500’s six-ink system addresses these limitations directly:

• CMYK Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black: These are the core process colors for general printing.
• Photo Black: This is a key differentiator. While standard black ink is optimized for crisp text on plain paper, Photo Black is formulated for glossy and semi-gloss photo papers. It provides deeper, richer blacks in photographic images, enhancing contrast and detail, especially in shadow areas. Without a dedicated Photo Black, standard black ink can look somewhat dull or even green on photo paper.

Vibrant Colors and Exceptional Detail

The combination of these inks, coupled with Epson’s Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology, results in prints that are genuinely impressive.

• Color Vibrancy: Colors pop with accuracy and saturation, mirroring what you see on a well-calibrated screen. Blues are vivid, reds are rich, and greens are lush. The printer consistently reproduces a broad spectrum of colors, making it suitable for everything from family snapshots to artistic endeavors.
• Sharpness and Detail: Text, even at small font sizes, is razor-sharp. More importantly for photos, fine details in images are rendered with remarkable clarity. You’ll notice subtle textures, individual strands of hair, and intricate patterns that might get lost on lesser printers.
• Smooth Gradients: The grayscale ink, in particular, contributes to incredibly smooth gradients, eliminating the banding often seen in areas of gradual color or tonal change, such as skies or skin tones.
• Archival Quality: Claria ET Premium Inks are designed for longevity. When paired with high-quality photo paper, prints are resistant to smudging, smearing, and water damage, and boast excellent fade resistance. This means your cherished memories will remain vibrant for decades, which is a crucial consideration for photographers.

Versatility in Media Handling: Beyond Standard Paper

A true “photo” printer isn’t just about ink. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 2021 Review

It’s about its ability to handle a wide array of media.

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 shines brightly in this regard, offering multiple paper feed options that cater to diverse printing needs, from everyday documents to specialized photographic output.

Dedicated Paper Trays: Efficiency and Convenience

The ET-8500 features a thoughtful design with multiple input sources, reducing the need to constantly swap paper types.

• Front Paper Cassette Main Tray: This tray typically holds up to 100 sheets of plain paper or a smaller stack of standard photo paper sizes like 4×6, 5×7. It’s perfect for your everyday document printing or for general photo runs.
• Rear Paper Feed Specialty Media: This is where the magic happens for serious photo enthusiasts. The rear feeder is designed for thicker, heavier, and more specialized media. This includes:
  • Thick Photo Papers: Think professional glossy, luster, or matte photo papers up to a certain weight often 300 gsm or more, depending on specifications. The straight-through path minimizes curling and ensures proper ink adhesion.
  • Fine Art Papers: For artists and serious photographers, the ability to print on fine art papers opens up a world of creative possibilities. These papers often have unique textures and compositions that require careful handling.
  • Card Stock: If you’re printing greeting cards, invitations, or business cards, the rear feed can easily handle card stock without jamming.
  • CD/DVD/Blu-ray Disc Printing: A unique feature of the ET-8500 is its dedicated tray for direct printing onto compatible inkjet-printable CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. This is fantastic for creating custom media for events, backups, or gifts. This tray slides into a slot on the front, providing a precise guide for printing labels directly onto your discs.

Borderless Printing: Professional Finish

For photos, borderless printing is a non-negotiable feature for a professional look. The ET-8500 supports borderless printing for a wide range of standard photo sizes, including 4×6, 5×7, 8×10, and letter 8.5×11 inches.

• Seamless Photos: Borderless prints eliminate the white edges, making your photos look like they came straight from a photo lab. This is crucial for framing, albums, and any application where a clean, full-bleed image is desired.
• Software Integration: The Epson print drivers are well-integrated to facilitate borderless printing, guiding you through the settings to ensure your images are correctly scaled and cropped to the edge of the paper.

Automatic Duplexing: Saving Paper, Saving Time

While primarily a photo printer, the ET-8500 doesn’t skimp on convenience for document printing. It features automatic duplexing for two-sided document printing.

• Reduced Paper Consumption: This is a straightforward way to cut down on paper usage by half, which is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
• Professional Documents: Double-sided printing often gives documents a more professional and polished appearance, especially for reports or manuals.
• Time-Saving: You don’t have to manually flip and re-feed paper, saving you time and hassle for multi-page documents.

This comprehensive media handling capability transforms the ET-8500 from just a photo printer into a truly versatile all-in-one workhorse for any home or small office environment.

Connectivity and Smart Features: Seamless Integration

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 embraces modern connectivity, offering a suite of wireless options and smart features that ensure seamless integration with your devices and workflows.

Robust Wireless Connectivity: Print from Anywhere

The ET-8500 provides multiple wireless avenues for printing, giving you flexibility and convenience.

• Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/a/ac: This is the standard for connecting to your home or office network. Once connected, any device on the same network can access the printer. This is essential for printing from multiple computers, laptops, and smart devices without physical connections.
• Wi-Fi Direct: This allows your device smartphone, tablet, or laptop to connect directly to the printer without needing a router or existing Wi-Fi network. It’s incredibly handy for guest printing or when you’re in a location without network access. Simply connect to the printer’s direct Wi-Fi signal, and you’re ready to print.
• Ethernet: For those who prefer a wired, more stable connection, an Ethernet port is included. This is particularly useful in environments where wireless signals might be unreliable or for a dedicated workstation.
• USB: Of course, the traditional USB connection is also available for direct printing from a single computer, offering a simple plug-and-play experience.

Mobile Printing Solutions: Print with a Tap

Epson has invested heavily in mobile printing solutions, recognizing that many users now interact with their printers primarily through smartphones and tablets.

• Epson Smart Panel App: This free app, available for iOS and Android, is the central hub for mobile printing. It allows you to:
  • Print Photos and Documents: Select files directly from your device, cloud storage like Dropbox, Google Drive, or social media.
  • Scan to Mobile: Scan documents directly to your phone or cloud services.
  • Check Ink Levels: Monitor ink levels at a glance.
  • Perform Maintenance: Run nozzle checks, head cleanings, and firmware updates.
  • Troubleshoot: Get quick access to troubleshooting tips and support.
• Apple AirPrint: For Apple users, AirPrint provides effortless printing from iPhones, iPads, and Macs without installing any drivers. Simply select the print option, choose your ET-8500, and print.
• Mopria Print Service: Similar to AirPrint, Mopria offers a universal print solution for Android devices, simplifying printing from a wide range of apps.
• Epson Connect: This suite of services includes:
  • Email Print: Assign a unique email address to your printer and simply email documents or photos to it from anywhere in the world, and they will print automatically. This is fantastic for printing while away from home or for sharing the printer with family members.
  • Remote Print Driver: Install a special driver on your computer to print to your Epson printer from a remote location via the internet.
  • Scan to Cloud: Directly scan documents to popular cloud services like Dropbox, Evernote, Google Drive, and OneDrive.

Intuitive User Interface: 4.3″ Color Touchscreen

Navigating all these features is made easy by the printer’s 4.3-inch color touchscreen. Vinylly Review

• User-Friendly Experience: The touchscreen provides a clear, intuitive interface for managing print jobs, scanning, copying, checking ink levels, and configuring network settings. The menus are well-designed and easy to understand.
• Preview and Edit: You can preview photos from an inserted SD card or USB drive directly on the screen before printing, and even perform basic edits or cropping.
• Guided Setup: The initial setup process is guided step-by-step on the screen, making it straightforward even for less tech-savvy users.

These robust connectivity and smart features ensure that the ET-8500 isn’t just a powerful printer but also a highly accessible and convenient device that integrates seamlessly into any modern digital lifestyle.

Scanner and Copier Functionality: All-in-One Convenience

While the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 excels in photo printing, it’s a true all-in-one device, offering robust scanning and copying capabilities that enhance its utility for both creative projects and everyday home office tasks.

The inclusion of these features makes it a versatile hub for your digital and physical documents.

High-Quality Flatbed Scanner: Capturing Detail

The ET-8500 features a high-resolution flatbed scanner, capable of capturing images and documents with excellent clarity and color accuracy.

• Optical Resolution: It typically boasts a high optical resolution e.g., 1200 x 4800 dpi or higher, which is crucial for preserving fine details in photos and text. This means your scanned images will be sharp and true to the original.
• Document and Photo Scanning: It’s equally adept at scanning both documents and delicate photos. The flatbed design prevents damage to originals, making it ideal for old family photos, fragile documents, or thick items like books and magazines.
• Versatile Scan Destinations: You can scan directly to various destinations:
  • Computer: Scan to a connected PC or Mac using Epson Scan software.
  • Cloud Services: Utilize the Epson Smart Panel app or the printer’s direct controls to scan to popular cloud platforms like Dropbox, Google Drive, Evernote, and OneDrive. This is a huge convenience for archiving and sharing.
  • USB Drive: Scan directly to a USB flash drive inserted into the printer’s front USB port, no computer required.
  • Email: Scan documents and automatically attach them to an email, ready to send.

Intuitive Copying Features: Quick Duplication

The copying function on the ET-8500 is straightforward and efficient, making it easy to duplicate documents or photos.

• Color and Black & White Copying: You can make both color and monochrome copies.
• Resolution and Quality Settings: Users can adjust copy quality draft, standard, high and resolution to suit their needs, balancing speed with detail.
• Multiple Copies: Easily select the number of copies directly from the control panel.
• Resize and Fit-to-Page: The printer often includes options to enlarge or reduce copies, or to automatically fit an original to a specific paper size.
• ID Card Copy: A handy feature for copying both sides of an ID card onto a single sheet of paper, useful for administrative tasks.
• Borderless Copying: For photos, the ability to make borderless copies ensures that duplicated images maintain a professional, clean look.

Software Integration and Enhancement

Epson provides comprehensive software packages that enhance the scanning and copying experience.

• Epson Scan 2 or similar: This powerful scanning software allows for advanced adjustments like color restoration, dust removal, text enhancement, and more. It provides granular control over scanning parameters for optimal results.
• OCR Optical Character Recognition: Often bundled with Epson’s scanning software or available as an add-on, OCR technology can convert scanned documents into editable text files like Word or searchable PDFs. This is invaluable for digitizing paper documents and making them searchable and editable.
• Epson Photo+: This software facilitates creative projects, often allowing for easy photo layout, template use for greeting cards, calendars, and disc labels.

The integrated scanner and copier functionality significantly broadens the appeal of the ET-8500, transforming it from a mere printing device into a complete digital imaging hub for the home or small office.

Performance Metrics: Speed, Noise, and Reliability

When evaluating a printer, it’s essential to look beyond features and dive into real-world performance.

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500, while prioritizing photo quality and ink economy, also delivers competitive speeds and good overall reliability for its class.

Print Speed: Balancing Quality and Haste

It’s important to differentiate between document print speeds and photo print speeds, as they involve different processes and ink usage. Asrock Z590 Phantom Gaming Itxtb4 Review

• Document Print Speed ISO ppm: For black text documents, the ET-8500 typically offers speeds around 16 pages per minute ppm in black and about 12 ppm in color. While this isn’t blistering fast like some laser printers or dedicated office inkjet machines, it’s perfectly adequate for most home and small office document needs. For reference, a typical office laser might hit 20-30 ppm.
• Photo Print Speed: This is where the ET-8500 truly shines for its intended purpose. It can produce a 4×6-inch borderless photo in as little as 15-20 seconds depending on quality settings. For an 8×10 or letter-sized photo, it might take 1-2 minutes. These speeds are impressive for a printer producing such high-quality photo output, especially considering the detailed ink application.
• First Page Out Time FPOT: The time it takes for the first page to emerge is relatively quick, meaning you’re not left waiting endlessly for a simple print job to start.

It’s crucial to note that print speeds can vary based on document complexity, paper type, software settings, and connectivity method.

For the quality it delivers, the ET-8500 offers a solid balance of speed.

Noise Levels: Quiet Operation

Printers, especially older models, can be surprisingly noisy, often a distraction in a home office or quiet environment. The ET-8500 is generally considered to operate at a moderate to low noise level.

• Printing: During active printing, you’ll hear the mechanisms at work, but it’s typically a soft whirring and feeding sound rather than a loud clatter. This is particularly true for document printing.
• Photo Printing: When laying down ink for high-quality photos, the process is often slower and more deliberate, leading to a smoother, less intrusive sound profile.
• Standby: In standby mode, the printer is virtually silent, only making minimal noise during occasional self-maintenance cycles.

While specific decibel dB ratings might vary, user reviews consistently indicate that the ET-8500 is a relatively quiet printer, which is a significant advantage for home use where concentration is important.

Reliability and Maintenance: Keeping It Running Smoothly

The EcoTank system is designed for long-term reliability, but like any precision instrument, it benefits from proper care.

• Ink System Longevity: The fundamental design of the EcoTank system, with its robust tanks and refillable bottles, is intended to be more durable than frequent cartridge swaps that can strain print heads.
• Print Head Maintenance: Epson’s Micro Piezo print heads are known for their durability. However, like all inkjet print heads, they can experience clogs if the printer is left unused for extended periods. The printer includes built-in maintenance routines:
  • Nozzle Check: A quick test print to ensure all ink nozzles are firing correctly.
  • Head Cleaning: Software-driven routine that forces ink through the nozzles to clear minor clogs.
  • Power Cleaning: A more aggressive cleaning cycle for stubborn clogs, though it uses more ink.
• Firmware Updates: Epson regularly releases firmware updates that can improve performance, add features, and address potential bugs. It’s advisable to keep the printer’s firmware updated for optimal operation.
• User Maintenance: The ink refilling process is designed to be mess-free with keyed bottles, but users should still exercise caution to avoid spills. Regular cleaning of the exterior and dust prevention can also contribute to longevity.

Overall, the ET-8500 strikes a good balance between speed and quality, operates quietly, and, with proper maintenance, is designed for reliable long-term performance, making the most of its cartridge-free ink system.

Comparison to Competitors: Where the ET-8500 Stands

Understanding the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500’s position in the market requires looking at its strengths and weaknesses relative to key competitors.

While many printers offer all-in-one functionality, few match its specific blend of photo quality and ultra-low ink costs.

Vs. Traditional Cartridge Printers e.g., HP OfficeJet, Canon PIXMA, Epson Expression Home/Premium

• Cost of Ownership: This is the most glaring difference. Traditional cartridge printers have a lower initial price tag, but their running costs, especially for photos, are astronomically higher. The ET-8500’s higher upfront cost is quickly offset by the savings on ink, particularly for medium to high-volume users. This is a crucial “total cost of ownership” calculation that often favors EcoTank.
• Ink Management: Cartridge printers require frequent and expensive cartridge replacements. The ET-8500 offers a fill-it-and-forget-it experience for thousands of prints.
• Photo Quality: While some high-end cartridge printers like Epson’s Photo XP models or Canon’s PRO series can offer comparable or even superior photo quality with more dedicated photo inks, they do so at a much higher per-print cost. For consumer-grade photo printing, the ET-8500’s 6-color system often surpasses standard 4-ink cartridge printers.
• Speed: Traditional office-focused cartridge printers like HP OfficeJet Pro models often boast faster document print speeds due to different print head technologies. The ET-8500 is respectable but not the fastest for pure document throughput.

Vs. Other Ink Tank Systems e.g., Canon MegaTank, Brother INKvestment Tank

• Ink System Design: While all ink tank systems aim to reduce ink costs, there are differences. Epson’s EcoTank has been a pioneer and is generally very well-regarded for its spill-free refill system. Canon’s MegaTank models are also excellent, often competitive on ink costs and photo quality.
• Photo-Specific Focus: The ET-8500 and ET-8550 is specifically designed for photo enthusiasts with its 6-color Claria ET Premium inks. Many other ink tank printers like some Canon MegaTank G-series or Brother INKvestment are more general-purpose, focusing on document printing with good-enough photo quality. If photos are your priority, the ET-8500’s ink set is a distinct advantage.
• Media Handling: The ET-8500’s dedicated rear paper feed and CD/DVD printing capabilities are features not found on all competitor ink tank models, making it more versatile for creative projects.
• Wide Format ET-8550: The ET-8550’s ability to print up to 13×19 inches is a niche but powerful feature that few other ink tank printers offer at its price point.

Vs. Laser Printers e.g., Brother, HP, Canon LaserJets

• Technology: Laser printers use toner powder and heat, excelling in rapid, high-volume black and white document printing. They are typically faster for documents and have lower per-page costs for mono text.
• Photo Quality: Laser printers are generally not recommended for high-quality photo printing. Their color fidelity and ability to reproduce gradients and fine detail on photo paper are significantly inferior to inkjet printers, especially those with multiple photo inks like the ET-8500. Toner also tends to have a glossy, less archival finish on photos.
• Cost: While toner cartridges can be expensive, they yield many more pages than inkjet cartridges. However, for color photos, the ET-8500’s per-photo cost still crushes even color laser printers.
• Maintenance: Laser printers are generally low maintenance but toner replacement can be messy. Inkjet, specifically EcoTank, is also relatively clean.

Conclusion: The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 carves out a specific niche. It’s the go-to choice for photo enthusiasts and home users who print a significant volume of photos and want to dramatically reduce their long-term ink costs without compromising on quality. While it has a higher initial price and isn’t the fastest for plain document printing compared to office-focused models, its unparalleled ink economy for photos, combined with its 6-color system and versatile media handling, makes it a compelling and often superior value proposition for its target audience over time.

Setting Up and Maintaining Your ET-8500: Getting Started and Staying Optimized

Getting your Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 up and running, and then keeping it in peak condition, is a straightforward process. Qnap Ts 451D2 Review

Epson has designed the printer and its accompanying software to be user-friendly, even for those who aren’t tech wizards.

Proper setup and regular, simple maintenance will ensure you get the best print quality and extend the life of your printer.

Initial Setup: A Seamless Experience

Epson has put considerable effort into making the initial setup of EcoTank printers as smooth as possible.

1. Unboxing and Preparation: Carefully remove the printer from its packaging, taking off all protective tapes and packing materials. This usually involves bright orange or blue tapes that are easy to spot.
2. Power On and Language Selection: Plug in the power cord and turn on the printer. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen will guide you through the initial setup steps, starting with language selection.
3. Ink Filling: The Key Step: This is the defining feature of EcoTank.
   • Open the Ink Tank Units: Locate the ink tank covers on the front of the printer.
   • Open the Ink Bottle Caps: Each ink bottle is keyed to fit only its corresponding color tank, preventing accidental mistakes. The bottles are designed for spill-free filling. simply invert the bottle into the tank’s nozzle, and the ink will flow until the tank is full, then stop automatically.
   • Fill Each Tank: Fill all six ink tanks Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, Photo Black, Gray to the fill line.
   • Close Caps and Covers: Once filled, cap the bottles and close the tank covers.
4. Initial Ink Charging: After filling, the printer will begin an “ink charging” process. This pulls ink from the tanks into the print head. This step can take 5-10 minutes and should not be interrupted. It’s crucial for preparing the print head for its first prints.
5. Software Installation:
   • Download from Epson Website: The most reliable method is to go to Epson’s official support website, search for the ET-8500, and download the latest drivers and utility software for your operating system Windows or macOS.
   • Follow On-Screen Prompts: The installer will guide you through connecting the printer USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet and installing necessary drivers and applications like Epson Scan, Epson Photo+, and the Epson Smart Panel app.
6. Test Print: Once software is installed, perform a test print to confirm everything is working correctly.

Routine Maintenance: Keeping Print Quality High

Regular, simple maintenance can prevent common issues like clogs and ensure consistent print quality.

1. Print a Nozzle Check Pattern Weekly/Bi-weekly: This is the most important routine maintenance. From the printer’s control panel or the Epson software on your computer, run a nozzle check. This prints a small grid pattern. If there are any breaks or missing segments in the lines, it indicates clogged nozzles.
2. Perform a Head Cleaning If Nozzles are Clogged: If the nozzle check shows clogs, run a head cleaning cycle. This pushes ink through the nozzles to clear them. You might need to perform 2-3 head cleanings for stubborn clogs. Be aware: Head cleaning uses a small amount of ink, so don’t do it unnecessarily.
3. Power Cleaning For Persistent Clogs – Use Sparingly: If regular head cleanings don’t resolve persistent clogs, the printer has a “Power Cleaning” option. This is a more aggressive cleaning and uses a significant amount of ink. Only use it as a last resort before contacting support.
4. Keep Ink Tanks Full: Don’t let ink levels drop too low. While the printer won’t stop until critically low, keeping tanks adequately filled helps prevent air bubbles from entering the lines.
5. Use the Printer Regularly: The best defense against print head clogs is consistent use. Try to print at least a few pages even a simple nozzle check once a week to keep the ink flowing.
6. Dust Prevention: Keep the printer in a relatively dust-free environment. Use a dust cover if the printer will be idle for extended periods. Dust can accumulate on rollers and inside the printer, potentially affecting print quality or causing paper jams.
7. Clean Exterior: Periodically wipe down the exterior of the printer with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.

By following these simple setup and maintenance steps, you can ensure your Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 remains a reliable and high-performing asset for all your printing needs, especially your stunning photos.

Conclusion: Is the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 Right For You?

So, after deep into the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500, the big question remains: Is this printer the right investment for you? The direct answer is a resounding yes, if you are a photo enthusiast, a creative individual, or a home user who prints a moderate to high volume of both photos and documents and are fed up with the perpetual cycle of expensive ink cartridges.

This printer is not just about putting ink on paper. it’s about shifting the paradigm of printing economics. Its cartridge-free Supertank system is the star of the show, delivering incredibly low per-page costs, especially for photos, that simply can’t be matched by traditional cartridge printers. This means you can print thousands of vibrant, high-quality photos without wincing at the ink bill. The inclusion of 6-color Claria ET Premium Inks Photo Black and Gray elevates photo quality significantly, producing stunningly vibrant colors, deep blacks, smooth gradients, and sharp details that are truly professional-grade.

Beyond the photo prowess, the ET-8500 offers impressive versatility in media handling, from standard paper to thick card stock, fine art papers, and even direct CD/DVD printing, thanks to its dedicated rear feed and multiple trays. Its robust connectivity options—Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, and a suite of mobile printing apps—ensure seamless integration with all your devices. Add to that a high-resolution flatbed scanner and intuitive copier functions, and you have a true all-in-one hub for your home or creative space.

Who will benefit most from the ET-8500?

• Photographers Amateur & Semi-Pro: If you regularly print your own photos for albums, frames, or portfolios, the cost savings alone make this printer a no-brainer.
• Creative Professionals/Hobbyists: Artists, scrapbookers, and crafters who need high-quality output on various media types will appreciate its versatility.
• Families with Kids: Printing school projects, photos, and creative crafts without worrying about ink costs is a huge relief.
• Home Office Users with Photo Needs: If your home office requires both crisp documents and occasional high-quality photo prints, this printer balances both efficiently.

Who might consider alternatives? Asus Rog Strix Z590 I Gaming Wi Fi Review

• Users with Strict Budget Constraints Initial Cost: The upfront price is higher than basic cartridge printers. If you print very rarely, the long-term savings might not justify the initial investment.
• Pure Document-Focused Offices: If your primary need is lightning-fast, high-volume black-and-white document printing, a laser printer might be a more cost-effective and faster option though terrible for photos.
• Users Needing Wide Format Beyond 13×19: For very large prints, you’d need a specialized wide-format printer like the ET-8550 or professional photo printers.

In essence, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 is more than just a printer. it’s a smart, long-term investment in high-quality, cost-effective printing. It empowers you to print more of what you love without the constant concern of ink expenses, making it a standout choice for anyone serious about their printed output.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main advantage of the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500?

The main advantage is its cartridge-free Supertank ink system, which provides incredibly low per-page printing costs, especially for photos, by using large, refillable ink tanks instead of expensive cartridges.

How much ink does the Epson ET-8500 come with?

The Epson ET-8500 typically comes with enough ink to print approximately 6,700 color pages, 6,200 black-and-white pages, or around 2,300 4×6-inch photos right out of the box.

What kind of ink does the ET-8500 use?

It uses 6-color Claria ET Premium Inks, which include standard Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black, plus dedicated Photo Black and Gray inks for superior photo quality, deeper blacks, and smoother gradients.

Can the Epson ET-8500 print borderless photos?

Yes, the Epson ET-8500 supports borderless printing for various standard photo sizes, including 4×6, 5×7, 8×10, and Letter 8.5×11 inches, providing a professional finish.

Does the ET-8500 have automatic duplexing for two-sided printing?

Yes, the ET-8500 features automatic duplexing two-sided printing for documents, helping to save paper and provide a more professional look.

Is the Epson ET-8500 a good printer for professional photographers?

It’s an excellent printer for amateur and semi-professional photographers who want high-quality prints at a low cost. For professional photographers needing very specific color accuracy or extremely large formats, specialized professional photo printers might be considered, but the ET-8500 offers exceptional value for its class.

Can I print directly from my phone or tablet to the ET-8500?

Yes, you can print directly from your phone or tablet using Wi-Fi Direct, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, or the Epson Smart Panel app.

Does the Epson ET-8500 support CD/DVD printing?

Yes, a unique feature of the ET-8500 is its ability to print directly onto compatible inkjet-printable CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs using a dedicated tray.

How do I check the ink levels on the ET-8500?

You can check ink levels directly on the printer’s 4.3-inch color touchscreen, through the Epson Smart Panel app, or via the Epson printer software on your computer. Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 Review

Is the ink refilling process messy?

No, Epson’s EcoTank ink bottles are designed with a keyed, auto-stop spout that fits uniquely into each color tank, making the refilling process virtually spill-free and mess-free.

What is the print speed for documents on the ET-8500?

The document print speed is typically around 16 pages per minute ppm for black-and-white and about 12 ppm for color ISO speeds.

How fast does the ET-8500 print a 4×6 photo?

It can print a 4×6-inch borderless photo in as little as 15-20 seconds, depending on quality settings.

Can the ET-8500 scan documents and photos?

Yes, it features a high-resolution flatbed scanner capable of scanning both documents and delicate photos.

What is the maximum scan resolution of the ET-8500?

The maximum optical scan resolution is typically 1200 x 4800 dpi, allowing for excellent detail capture.

Does the ET-8500 have an Automatic Document Feeder ADF?

No, the Epson ET-8500 does not have an Automatic Document Feeder. Scanning and copying multiple pages requires manual placement on the flatbed. Note: The ET-8550 also does not have an ADF.

Can I scan directly to a USB drive with the ET-8500?

Yes, you can scan directly to a USB flash drive inserted into the printer’s front USB port without needing a computer.

Is the ET-8500 noisy when printing?

The ET-8500 generally operates at a moderate to low noise level, making it suitable for quiet home or office environments.

How often should I perform a nozzle check on the ET-8500?

It’s recommended to perform a nozzle check weekly or bi-weekly to ensure all ink nozzles are firing correctly and prevent clogs.

What should I do if the print quality is poor or there are streaks?

First, perform a nozzle check. If there are breaks in the pattern, run a head cleaning cycle from the printer’s maintenance menu or software. Repeat up to 3 times if necessary. Forza Horizon 5 For Pc Review

Can I connect the ET-8500 to my home network via Ethernet?

Yes, in addition to Wi-Fi, the ET-8500 includes an Ethernet port for a wired network connection.

Does the ET-8500 support cloud printing services?

Yes, through Epson Connect and the Epson Smart Panel app, you can print from and scan to various cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Evernote.

What is the purpose of the Gray ink in the ET-8500?

The Gray ink helps produce smoother tonal transitions and reduces graininess in black and white prints, and contributes to a wider color gamut and more natural skin tones in color photos.

Can I print on specialty papers like card stock with the ET-8500?

Yes, the ET-8500’s rear paper feed is designed to handle thicker media like card stock, fine art papers, and specialty photo papers.

What operating systems are compatible with the ET-8500?

The ET-8500 is compatible with common operating systems including Windows and macOS. Drivers are available for download from Epson’s website.

Is the initial cost of the ET-8500 higher than traditional printers?

Yes, the initial purchase price of the ET-8500 is typically higher than comparable traditional cartridge-based all-in-one printers, but its long-term ink savings usually justify the investment.

How long do prints from the ET-8500 last?

When printed with Epson Claria ET Premium Inks on high-quality photo paper, prints from the ET-8500 are designed for excellent archival quality and fade resistance, lasting for decades under proper display conditions.

Can I use third-party ink with the Epson ET-8500?

While third-party inks might be available, it’s generally not recommended by Epson. Using non-Epson ink can void your warranty, potentially damage the print head, and may result in suboptimal print quality and longevity.

Does the ET-8500 have a touchscreen display?

Yes, it features a 4.3-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation and control.

What’s the difference between the ET-8500 and the ET-8550?

The primary difference is that the ET-8550 is a wide-format printer capable of printing up to 13″ x 19″, whereas the ET-8500 prints up to 8.5″ x 11″ Letter/A4 size. Both use the same 6-color ink system. Wyze Cam Pan V2 Review

Is the Epson ET-8500 good for home office use?

Yes, it’s very suitable for home office use, offering crisp document printing, reliable scanning and copying, and the added benefit of exceptional photo printing and low running costs.