Epson WorkForce ET-4500 EcoTank printer review

This EcoTank printer tries to eliminate the need to constantly replace used ink cartridges

Epson WorkForce ET-4500 EcoTank printer review
(Image: © Epson)

Digital Camera World Verdict

It’s not specifically designed for photo printing, but dye-based inks on gloss media have always been a great combination and the ET-4500 delivers a snappy result. Long-term economics are the big attraction, if you aren’t chasing exhibition quality.

Pros

  • +

    Economical for volume printers

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    Multi-function capabilities

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    Great for photobook projects

Cons

  • -

    Average print longevity

  • -

    A4 size is the maximum

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    Expensive initial outlay

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Epson’s EcoTank inkjet printers reverse the customary printer/ink strategy. Small and expensive cartridges are replaced by a continuous ink supply from much bigger user-filled tanks, but the initial purchase price of the printer goes up. Apart from offering a new approach, a prime objective must be to make a sizeable dent in the sale of generic inks in the form of disposable compatible cartridges, refill cartridges or continuous bulk ink systems.

The EcoTank printers’ continuous ink system is not a new concept. Bulk ink supplies linked to replacement cartridges have existed as ‘alternatives’ to genuine ink cartridges for some time. They are promoted as “continuous”, but do require reset procedures when ink levels expire. Epson’s system is truly continuous and is direct to the print head without intermediate cartridges, while anti-clogging devices prevent tube blockages and stop any air bubbles reaching the print heads.

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Australian Camera is the bi-monthly magazine for creative photographers, whatever their format or medium. Published since the 1970s, it's informative and entertaining content is compiled by experts in the field of digital and film photography ensuring its readers are kept up to speed with all the latest on the rapidly changing film/digital products, news and technologies. Whether its digital or film or digital and film Australian Camera magazine's primary focus is to help its readers choose and use the tools they need to create memorable images, and to enhance the skills that will make them better photographers. The magazine is edited by Paul Burrows, who has worked on the magazine since 1982.