Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-format vs HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless All-in-One

Overview of the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 and HP Smart Tank Plus 651

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is a high-end printer designed for quality and versatility, while the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 focuses on being a cost-effective solution for home use. The EcoTank ET-8550 is priced at $602.00, significantly higher than the Smart Tank Plus 651, which retails for $329.89, making it about 45% cheaper. This price difference reflects their target markets and intended use cases.

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is marketed as a wide-format printer capable of producing lab-quality photos and graphics, catering to creative projects. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is designed for everyday home use, emphasizing its ease of use and reliability. Both printers feature cartridge-free systems, but they differ in their intended applications and capabilities.

Print Quality and Performance

When it comes to print quality, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 stands out with its 6-color Claria ET Premium inks, allowing for vibrant colors and sharp text. This printer can produce a 4 x 6" photo in as fast as 15 seconds, making it ideal for photo enthusiasts who prioritize quality. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651, while it offers good color documents, is more focused on delivering reliable everyday printing.

Epson highlights that users can print 4" x 6" photos for about 4 cents each, a significantly lower cost compared to traditional ink cartridges. Meanwhile, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 provides up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black pages right out of the box with its included ink, making it a strong contender for high-volume printing needs.

Features and Usability

Both printers come equipped with essential features for modern printing needs. The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 offers a 4.3-inch color touchscreen for intuitive navigation, alongside mobile printing capabilities through the Epson Smart Panel app. This feature allows users to set up, monitor, and operate the printer from their mobile devices, enhancing user experience.

On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 emphasizes its mess-free refill system, which simplifies the ink replenishment process. Users can easily plug the ink bottles into the tank without worrying about spills or complicated maintenance, making it ideal for families and casual users who prefer hassle-free operation.

Cost of Ownership

The cost of ownership is a critical factor when choosing a printer. The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 allows users to save significantly on ink costs, estimating savings of about 80% compared to traditional cartridges. With each replacement ink bottle set capable of printing up to 6,200 pages, the long-term savings are substantial.

In comparison, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 includes up to 2 years of ink in the box, which translates into thousands of pages of cartridge-free printing. While it provides a solid value proposition, the initial cost of the printer is lower, and it may not match the extensive savings potential of the Epson model.

Connectivity Options

Both printers come with wireless connectivity, making it easy to print from mobile devices and computers. The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 supports voice-activated printing, adding another level of convenience for users who prefer hands-free operation. Its compatibility with iOS and Android devices allows for seamless integration into various workflows.

The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 also offers mobile and wireless printing capabilities, ensuring that users can easily print from their smartphones or tablets. While both printers offer excellent connectivity, the Epson model's additional features cater to users who need more advanced options for creative projects and high-quality prints.

Size and Versatility

The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 is designed as a wide-format printer, accommodating media up to 13" x 19" and supporting various types of specialty media, such as cardstock and CDs/DVDs. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for photographers and artists who require more than just standard-sized prints.

In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is more tailored for everyday printing tasks, focusing on standard document sizes. While it can handle borderless prints, it does not offer the same level of media versatility as the Epson model, which is essential for users with specific printing needs.

Brand Reputation and Support

Epson and HP are both well-established brands in the printing industry, known for their quality and reliability. The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 ranks at 1998 in sales, while the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is slightly higher at 1210, indicating a strong market presence and customer trust for both products.

Epson emphasizes the importance of using genuine ink to ensure optimal performance, while HP promotes its innovative tank system that requires minimal maintenance. Both brands provide robust customer support, ensuring users can find assistance when needed.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 and the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 comes down to your specific printing needs. If you prioritize high-quality prints, particularly for photos and creative projects, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 is worth the investment despite its higher price. However, if you're looking for a reliable, cost-effective printer for everyday use, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 offers excellent value with its lower price point and included ink. Ultimately, both printers excel in their respective areas, catering to different user preferences.