Hands-on Review: Epson EcoTank ET-4850 printer

The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 all-in-one printer is more than a typical office machine—it's a printing revolution. By eliminating the need for traditional ink cartridges, this device offers seamless operation and significant cost savings, making it an attractive option for home offices and small businesses.

More Than Just Printing

The EcoTank ET-4850's standout feature is its integrated ink tank system. With an ink capacity to print up to 14,000 black-and-white pages or 5,200 colour pages straight out of the box, users won't need to worry about frequent refills. Replacement ink bottles are designed for ease of use, with unique keys that prevent misfiling. The result? Less waste, fewer interruptions, and more time to focus on your work.

The printer also offers a 250-sheet paper tray, reducing the need for constant reloading. For multitaskers, the 30-sheet Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) and auto two-sided printing streamline workflows, enabling users to handle scanning, copying, and faxing with ease.

Hands-on experience

Setting up the EcoTank ET-4850 was refreshingly simple. The 2.4-inch colour touchscreen provided an intuitive interface for navigation, while the Epson Smart Panel app added versatility, allowing remote management from both iOS and Android devices. Connecting to Wi-Fi was seamless, and Wi-Fi Direct ensured smooth printing without relying on a router.

During testing, the EcoTank delivered high-quality prints with impressive speed, thanks to Epson's PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology. This innovation enhances accuracy by generating up to 40 million dots per second. The result was clear text and vivid, professional-grade colours, ideal for everything from invoices to borderless A4 photos.

The printer's performance extended to its fax capabilities. Sending a fax was quick—3 seconds per page—and the memory could store up to 100 pages. For those reliant on digital workflows, the PC-Fax feature enabled users to send documents directly from their computers, saving both paper and time.

Eco-friendly credentials

Epson's focus on sustainability shines in the EcoTank ET-4850. By replacing traditional cartridges with refillable tanks, plastic waste is significantly reduced. Each set of replacement ink bottles equates to roughly 161 standard cartridges, contributing to a more environmentally conscious printing approach.

Connectivity for modern workflows

The EcoTank ET-4850 supports the latest wireless standards, including Apple AirPrint, making it compatible with iPads and iPhones. Printing emails, web pages, and presentations directly from mobile devices was effortless and required no additional software or cables. For those who prefer wired connections, the built-in Ethernet port adds extra flexibility.

Who Is It for?

The EcoTank ET-4850 is ideal for professionals and small businesses that prioritise cost efficiency and environmental responsibility. Its high-capacity ink system makes it perfect for high-volume printing, while its versatility ensures it can easily handle varied office tasks.

Room for improvement

Despite its many strengths, the EcoTank ET-4850 could benefit from a slightly larger display screen. The 2.4-inch touchscreen, though functional, might feel cramped during complex operations. Additionally, its price point may deter casual users, though the long-term savings on ink easily justify the initial investment for frequent printers.

Final thoughts

The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 is a game-changer for anyone tired of the traditional cartridge model. Its blend of cost efficiency, eco-conscious design, and robust functionality makes it a standout choice in the crowded all-in-one printer market. Whether you're a small business owner or a home office user, this printer is an investment in quality, reliability, and sustainability.

With a three-year warranty upon registration, Epson also provides peace of mind, ensuring this printer continues to deliver value well into the future. For those seeking a versatile, high-performance printer, the EcoTank ET-4850 is hard to beat.