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The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a versatile, all-in-one color printer best suited for home use. One of its standout features is its cartridge-free printing system, which uses high-capacity ink tanks, leading to significant savings on ink costs. The ink bottles can print up to 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 in color, which means fewer replacements and less waste compared to traditional cartridges. This makes it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for those who print frequently. The print quality is impressive, thanks to Epson’s Micro Piezo Heat-Free technology, which ensures sharp text and vibrant color prints on various paper types.
The built-in scanner and copier add convenience for home users who need more than just printing capabilities. Connectivity options are modern and flexible, including Wi-Fi and USB, and it supports mobile printing via apps and voice-activated commands. However, its print speed is relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute (ppm) for monochrome and 5 ppm for color, which might not be ideal for users who need fast printing. The paper handling capacity is moderate, with a 100-sheet input tray, which should be sufficient for home use but may require frequent refills for heavier tasks.
The printer’s size and design are compact, making it easy to fit into most home office spaces. While the initial cost of the printer might be higher than some alternatives, the long-term savings on ink can justify the investment. Additionally, using genuine Epson ink is recommended to maintain optimal performance and avoid warranty issues. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is perfect for home users looking for an economical, high-quality printer with added scanning and copying functions, although its slower print speed and moderate paper handling capacity might be limiting for more demanding tasks.
The Brother MFC-L3780CDW is a robust color printer ideal for small businesses and offices. It delivers high print quality with a maximum resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi, ensuring clear and vibrant documents. Its print speed is impressive at 31 pages per minute, both for color and monochrome, which is efficient for high-volume tasks. Additionally, the single-pass duplex copy and scan functionalities contribute to productivity by allowing simultaneous double-sided operations.
Connectivity options are versatile, with dual-band Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB interfaces, making it easy to integrate into various network environments. The printer also supports mobile device connections, which is convenient for on-the-go printing needs. However, its size and weight (47.8 pounds) may be cumbersome for smaller spaces and could require a dedicated spot.
The cost and yield of the replacement toner cartridges are worth considering, especially for businesses with high printing demands, as they might drive up the operational costs. The inclusion of a 4-month Refresh Subscription Trial can be a cost-effective start but monitoring long-term costs is essential. The machine's paper handling is decent with a 250-sheet capacity, though heavy users might need the optional additional paper tray. Automatic duplex printing is a significant plus, reducing paper usage and manual intervention. The LED display is straightforward but might lack the sophistication of a touchscreen interface.
The Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer is a solid choice for home users and small home offices needing a compact device that can print, scan, copy, and fax. It offers good print quality with a high resolution of up to 1200 x 6000 dpi on Windows, which means your color and black-and-white prints will look sharp and detailed. Print speeds are decent for its category, with up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 ppm in color, so it handles everyday tasks without long waits.
Connectivity is flexible, supporting both wireless (Wi-Fi) and USB connections, plus you can print and scan directly from popular cloud services through the 1.8” color display or the Brother Mobile Connect app, which simplifies mobile device management. Paper handling is convenient with a 150-sheet tray and a 20-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) for scanning or copying multipage documents, plus automatic duplex printing to save paper by printing on both sides.
Ink usage runs on LC501 series ink cartridges, which may have a moderate cost per page compared to some ink tank printers. However, the printer includes a trial for Brother’s Refresh subscription service, which can help manage ink supply. Its size is compact enough for limited desk space, but it weighs nearly 17 pounds, so it’s not the lightest option if you move often. Additional features like faxing and energy-saving certifications add value. This model suits users seeking an easy-to-use color printer for moderate home or home office workloads with good quality prints and versatile connectivity, while those needing heavy printing or the lowest ink costs might want to explore other options.