The Epson EcoTank ET-8500 is an A4 photo printer without cartridges. This is a multifunction model that aims for print quality. Its debits are not left out.
The Epson EcoTank ET-8500, similar to the ET-8550 tested on Digital, manages to be a very good photo printer, but also a very good printer at all. We expected no less given its price. Apart from a slightly high average delta E (6.3), this model is flawless.
Strong points
- Exceptionally low cost per page (€0.022).
- Very good photo print quality.
- Good office print quality.
- Good print speeds.
- Convenient touch screen.
- Numerous paper entries.
- Complete connection.
Weak points
- Slightly high color drift for a photo printer.
- Slightly high noise pollution.
NB: The reported price drop is calculated by comparing the lowest price of the day with the average of the lowest prices charged by all merchants for the product last month, with security rules to exclude prices from shops whose the VAT policy is not clear (known as “grey” shops, typically in the case of imports from China).
Alternatively
By attaching a document feeder to it, the Pixma G7050 retains the many qualities of the G6050. In addition to its ridiculous cost per page, it turns out to be a good all-rounder. Compared to a color laser printer, it stands out for its honorable photo performance, although its print speeds are not comparable. However, we regret a control panel that is a stain with regard to its high price. The investment in a G7050 can nevertheless be quickly amortized and its healthier economic model should appeal to those who are at their umpteenth cartridge printer.