TLDR Review: Epson EcoTank ET-4850 Printer
Pros
- •The cartridgree EcoTank system offers large, easily refillable ink tanks that last a long time, significantly reducing long-term printing costs.
- •Wireless connectivity and Ethernet provide flexible printing options across multiple devices, including smooth compatibility with Mac, Windows, iPads, and iPhones.
- •Multifunctional capabilities include scanning, copying, faxing, automatic document feeder (ADF), and automatic duplex printing, making it ideal for a small office or home business setup.
- •Setup is generally straightforward, especially using the Epson Smart Panel app, with an average time of about 25 minutes.
- •Print quality delivers sharp and clear text documents; color prints are good for documents but less vibrant for photos.
- •Paper and output trays are roomy compared to previous models, supporting higher volume printing.
- •Compact design fits well on desks while protecting internal components from dust.
- •Ink refills are designed to be spilesistant and easy to manage.
- •Prints at a respectable speed of approximately 15.5 pages per minute in monochrome.
- •The touchscreen interface is intuitive and simplifies navigation through printer features.
Cons
- •The initial purchase price is considered high compared to traditional cartridge printers.
- •Connectivity issues are commonly reported, including frequent offline status and WiFi setup challenges.
- •Epson customer service has mixed reviews with some users finding support unhelpful when troubleshooting connectivity or setup problems.
- •Printing photo quality and color vibrancy can be underwhelming; colors sometimes appear faded compared to digital previews.
- •Scanning is slower than expected and lacks advanced features like duplex scanning.
- •The touchscreen is viewed by some as too small for comfortable use.
- •Paper trays, though larger, are made from flimsy plastic and require careful handling.
- •The printer may be slow to wake from idle, adding delays.
- •There is no front USB Host port or NFC connectivity for direct device connection.
- •Users recommend printing regularly (at least weekly) to avoid ink drying and nozzle clogging issues.
Bottom Line
The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 is a solid choice for those needing a versatile, cartridge-free all-in-one printer built for moderate to heavy office use. Its long-lasting ink tanks guarantee significant cost savings and convenience over traditional cartridge models, but be prepared for some connectivity quirks and a slightly steep upfront cost. If you plan to print high volumes of standard documents (both mono and color) and value multi-function features like fax and ADF, this printer serves you well — just keep in mind the slower photo print quality and occasional customer service frustrations. For those prioritizing faster photo printing or advanced scanning, or needing smoother wireless reliability, exploring alternative models might be worthwhile.
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