Epson ET-2850 EcoTank printer. Media choices for photos, art prints and cards

What types of media work best for different images on the ET-2850 EcoTank printer. Looking at photo, art print and cards on the A4 four ink printer. How profiles help explain why some prints look so much better than others.
Is the ET-2850 a good choice for your photo prints? How well does it print cards? How thick card can you use? Does it stack cards for print and can it print borderless?
The test image shown can be downloaded in various forms and sizes from the Northlight Images site, where there are detailed descriptions of the purpose and use for all the different sections.
www.northlight-...
There is a video about the use of such images at
• Better print quality u...
-----------------
My articles and videos are always free to access.
Any help with running this channel is gratefully received.
If you'd like to make a small donation, I have a Kofi page:
"Buy me a coffee" ko-fi.com/keit...
-----------------
I also have some affiliate links which earn me a commission if used.
US Amazon photo/print gear: amzn.to/3l9vJC6
B&H Photo: www.bhphotovid...
Adorama: www.adorama.co...

[@sadepennbrook]

Holy moly! Now THIS is a review. I’m a graphic designer and I think you may have saved me $250 over another $500 photo printer other reviewers just don’t know how to review, and I can’t afford! I don’t care about specs. I want to see how far you can push it! You did just that, Sir!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks! If you've not seen it, do check the main [written] review as well - it's where I can put a bit more detail. www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@JP-rq8jh]

Did you get this printer? Also a graphic designer and looking.

[@bexfx]

This wasn't what I was looking for, but I learn''t some things about printer ink and paper types that I'd never even thought about before. Thanks!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - glad it was of help!

[@brycekampjes2229]

This is a great video. I've no interest in the printer reviewed as I've an ET-8550, but the thinking behind why it works better for matte is well worth understanding. It's Keith explaining his deep knowledge in a very practical specific situation. Watch the video for much more than the review.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks! I'll cover some more detail in the full review. I've an ET-8500 to test after the 2850 - it does have a dye black to go with the pigment black.

[@fhibbard]

..My brother purchased the Epson et_2800 printer About a week ago and we installed it on his Laptop & my laptop both running windows 10, we love it

[@KeithCooper]

Yes a very competent printer for basic printing

[@matthamelin176]

I don't have any questions, as you have answered the ones that I had with this video. What I'd like to say is THANK YOU for this very informative video. You are like a breath of fresh air in posting something totally relevant in what your video title claims, and more. I certainly learned a lot in your explanations involving the inks, settings, papers, ect. I recently purchased this ET model and must say that yes, I was not very impressed with the glossy photo paper print quality. I recently gave up my Epson Photo Stylus R260 printer that I'd been using for many years. It was a very reliable printer that put out quality prints, especially on premium glossy photo paper. It had 6 ink cartridges... one black, one yellow, one light plus one regular Magenta, and one light plus one regular cyan. The glossy photo prints were absolutely gorgeous from that machine. Very rich, vibrant, and deep with colour in the prints I was doing. Too bad that R260 printer was too "rich" in the ink department, and went too "deep" into the ole' pocket at $25 (CAD) for a black cartridge, and $20 a pop for each one of the other 5 cartridges. The running joke was that it was cheaper to "throw away" the printer and go buy a new one once the ink in one cartridge ran out, as they were selling the whole printer complete with all 6 cartridges at the time (8-ish years ago) for the same cost of purchasing the individual inks (actually about $5 less!). Haha!! Wishing I would have kept that printer around if not just for photo glossy prints although, the inks were becoming harder to find as they phase out the older machines. Anyway, thanks once again for the great content hear in a sea of not-so great content at times. Peace!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - appreciated! I've got a look at the ET-8500 in a bit, now that has two blacks, so will print glossy

[@WidenerLaw2007]

Thank you, Keith, for an incredibly informative video!!! You know you business well!! After 8 years of using an Epson WF Pro 4xxx series printer that finally became inoperative, I purchased an Epson ET-3850. Thinking that 8 years of advancements would result in superb photo printing was my mistake. Now, after seeing your video, I understand why. And can see the differences in my old printers composition of CMYK cartridges as opposed to the ET method. I could not understand why the photos looks very poor on photo gloss paper but came out strikingly accurate when I mistakenly left in plain paper on one test print. So now, with your helpful video, I have a way of finding that balance between the settings and the paper where I can print the occasional photo with decent results. Thank you for sharing this great info!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - glad it was of help

[@Olly7497]

Extraordinary time, effort and expertise on show here, on what is a fairly niche subject, so thank you so much (I have this printer). I'm highly impressed with the single take, and fluency of your dialogue too.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks See also the main [written] review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@Aljobritt]

Well no wonder my photos look the way they do!!!! Thank you so much for the great info!😊

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - I've more info in the main written review, if it's of interest www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@AndrewW-ty6ey]

Just spotted that Epson has released ET-2830, ET-2840 and ET-4810 (in addition to the ET-18100 that you mention on your website). Like the ET-2850 these are four-colour printers but interestingly they are full dye-ink printers (rather than the pigment black of the ET-2850) with the larger PrecisionCore print head. No improvement in display and none of them do automatic duplex printing which is a bit disappointing. However, it may be interesting to request Epson to provide you with one of these to evaluate given your very valid concerns over the performance impact of utilising three colour dye + black pigment inks on glossy photo paper. Thanks for all your videos - clear, objective and really informative.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - The four dyes should make for glossy prints and somewhat reduced performance on matt media and plain paper - still a printer for the budget conscious... Of course the 2850 is simply not marketed as a photo printer, so I'm not overly troubled by its performance in that area. More to the point, it's aimed at people who wouldn't notice the CMY printing on gloss ;-) I'm just working on the main [written] 2850 review and will have a video to go with it. Then I've got an 8500 here - that should be a lot more capable! I'll get a look at an 18100 in due course - then possibly one of the 4 dye ones!

[@AndrewW-ty6ey]

@@KeithCooper Thanks for the reply. I've now watched a selection of some of your other videos to further my education, namely: - "How many inks do you really need for inkjet photo and art prints"; - "Buying an inkjet photo printer - dye or pigment inks. Which is best for your photography?"; - "What makes a better photo printer - what matters and what's just marketing"; and - "How good a photo printer do you need and how do you decide from the features". I like the reminder of the fundamentals of having a good photograph to start with, plus having the skill and expertise to know how to get the best out of a printer! Looking forward to both the full 2850 review thence the 8500 review in due course - a slight difference in pricing! Thank you again for imparting your knowledge like this - it is appreciated.

[@hikingwiththedog6078]

Thanks a heap! I really needed to know how well this prints, and you gave me all the data needed. We really appreciate all your thoughtful explanation and time!!

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was helpful! There is more info in my main written review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@oliveringram3056]

Brilliant. Stumbled across this and was hooked from the start. Learnt so much..Thank you.

[@KeithCooper]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lousmaczylo7281]

Printing set to matt works well on Marrutt Pro Photo Satin. Thanks for the tip!

[@KeithCooper]

Excellent - glad it worked.

[@humanthetooth]

Thanks so much for taking the time to make this video! Answered a ton of questions for me

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was helpful! There is more info collected together in the main [written] review at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@DavidTonge-y1s]

This is a very informative video. Using photo paper settings and glossy paper my prints have turned out dull and with a blue/grey cast, white snow scenes show this fault. Using the Matt paper setting, which uses all four inks results in white snow coming out white. I can’t understand why including the black ink so improves the printing of white areas!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks It's printing of light greys, not pure [paper] whites

[@anne-mariejane4595]

Thank you very helpful. I’m a university student in their last year of studying photography. I am seriously considering purchasing this printer for making photo book projects.

[@KeithCooper]

For photo use, it needs good icc profiles and careful choice of paper type See the main [written] review for details www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@anne-mariejane4595]

@@KeithCooper thank you very helpful and much appreciated.

[@Robo_Jo]

What a wonderfully informative video, I've recently bought one of these printers to replace a dead canon. Thank you Keith!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - there's more info and profile/media info in the main [written] review at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@fredrickschanky2570]

I’m learning so much. 10/10

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks

[@wendys.2012]

Thank you so much. This video is EXACTLY what I was looking for. I was about ready to give up on trying to make art prints but this has convinced me to keep trying. I will need to research ICC profiles and see if I can make some improvements to my current prints, which are 4x6 on Red River matte.

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was helpful! there is much more info in the main [i.e.written] review at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/ See the papers I created profiles for.

[@wendys.2012]

@@KeithCooper I look forward to going through this. Do you sell your ICC profiles for commercial use (cards/prints sold on Etsy, for example)?

[@KeithCooper]

The profiles are available on request 'donationware' - just email me?

[@dougsphoto]

Hi Keith thx for your review and sharing your knowledge as for a moment I considered the Epson EcoTank ET-2870 but see I should stick to the 8550. or 8500 as my goal is to make test prints to see that my editing it 100% before I send it for print sales

[@KeithCooper]

Yes, the 8550/8500 are definitely a step up in print quality.

[@kkadir]

Thanks a lot for the detailed explanation: It is hard to find on KZbin.

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it helped!

[@ytuberization]

Thank you, Keith! Interesting idea with the profile which makes use of the pigment black on (semi)gloss. Maybe such 4-ink prints can be improved with some of these protection sprays, like the one of Hahnemühle?

[@KeithCooper]

Yes, that might very well work - I don't have any here to test.

[@mspoetic247]

✨ Thank you for this in-depth explanation ✨

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was helpful!

[@redreaming]

Thanks thats a great Information ! I start to print just my illustration art prints on matte paper, so for this works well, i dont need glossy :)

[@KeithCooper]

Yes - there is rather more detail at: www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@maximilianlindner3319]

Hi Keith, thanks for the great work you did. Nether thought before to use the matte setting for luster paper. Did you check whether the black ink sticks to the luster paper without being rubbed off easily?

[@KeithCooper]

Yes, my first thing to do as the profile target came out of the printer. Ink works just fine. I'll have photos etc in the main [written] review

[@enzocolonna]

amazing presentations as always

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks!

[@shugsbug]

Great review. I'm looking to buy a new printer which will allow me to feed card through as I'm a cardmaker (hobby). Need a printer that allows 300gsm

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - if you've not read it, see the main written review for more info www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/ Remember too that the limit is thickness and that is not the same as weight... 300 gsm tells you nothing about how thick the paper is.

[@hansboon3353]

Good printer review :). I have the Epson ET-2851 & print nice on matt paper like permajet matt plus 240 & FB Matt 285 But I notice that semigloss & ultra gloss don't print bad. Depending what photo image you print. Most case clear picture are not printed bad. Including portrait with skintones outside & photo studio are not print bad in semigloss. But you have also soft printing to predict where out of gamma can cause issue. But icc profiles are essential. Permajet & Photospeed give free profiling service what is not bad as starting point. The ET-2850 also prints long banner size. @ Keith does this mean that all printer that use the Epson inktserie 102 are only printing matt with 4 colors & semigloss or ultra glossy with 3 colors? The printers that use the same ink are: EcoTank ET-15000 / EcoTank ET-2700 / EcoTank ET-2750 / EcoTank ET-2756 / EcoTank ET-2850 / EcoTank ET-2851 / EcoTank ET-2856 / EcoTank ET-3700 / EcoTank ET-3750 / EcoTank ET-3750 Unlimited / EcoTank ET-3850 / EcoTank ET-4750 / EcoTank ET-4850 / EcoTank ET-4856

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - this is not a full review BTW - that is still being written and will be along in due course ;-) The gloss papers can print reasonably for some images - include deep shadow and the deficiencies rapidly show. I don't know about other printer models, but if the inks are the same it's quite likely

[@krystlesterling4202]

Hi may i ask a question cause im thinking of buying ET 2851, after a year you wright this wat do you think of this printer?

[@hansboon3353]

@@krystlesterling4202 I'm still using the ET 2851 printer including for photo printing. I have been printing since December 2021 and still works for personal photo prints. But don't forget that icc profiles are improving the quality or helping for each paper type. Try first the free Red River paper profiles they are a good starting point. After that you can try in Europe for Permajet or Fotospeed papers because they provide free icc profile service. There are limitations compared to the ET 8500 and 8550 like heavy paper types and long banner paper size (I managed to print 1200mm long paper size with the ET 2851). Also no problems with 240 gram Matt paper and 285 gram paper from Permajet. Like mentioned previously comments it only use 4 colours with Matte papers and 3 colours with glossy and ultra glossy. But that doesn't mean it print bad color photos. Only color gamut is less in 3 colours. In case that is important you can invest in the ET 8500 or larger size. There is also a new ET 18100 A3+ size that also allows print on plastic CD's. Black and white photo's can also be a challenge with this printer to get a real neutral photo print. Perhaps an optimised icc profile improves the quality for a more neutral approach. But not as good as the ET 8500 or 8550. Good luck 😁

[@hansboon3353]

@@krystlesterling4202 I'm still using the ET 2851 printer including for photo printing. I have been printing since December 2021 and still works for personal photo prints. But don't forget that icc profiles are improving the quality or helping for each paper type. Try first the free Red River paper profiles they are a good starting point. After that you can try in Europe for Permajet or Fotospeed papers because they provide free icc profile service. There are limitations compared to the ET 8500 and 8550 like heavy paper types and long banner paper size (I managed to print 1200mm long paper size with the ET 2851). Also no problems with 240 gram Matt paper and 285 gram paper from Permajet. Like mentioned previously comments it only use 4 colours with Matte papers and 3 colours with glossy and ultra glossy. But that doesn't mean it print bad color photos. Only color gamut is less in 3 colours. In case that is important you can invest in the ET 8500 or larger size. There is also a new ET 18100 A3+ size that also allows print on plastic CD's. Black and white photo's can also be a challenge with this printer to get a real neutral photo print. Perhaps an optimised icc profile improves the quality for a more neutral approach. But not as good as the ET 8500 or 8550. Good luck 😁

[@saltycoast6422]

This was very helpful thankful

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was of interest - there is lots more detail in the main [written] review at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@andreatthatsme]

Hi Keith. 👋🏾 I found your video while searching if my et-2850 could handle "cardstock". Thank you 😊 I have 2 questions. 1. What cardstock did you have the least issue using? 2. What settings did you use? I want to use it to make tags and bookmarks. Do you have a recommendation for a printer that can handle different cardstock thicknesses including making cards at home? Thank you 😊

[@KeithCooper]

Only card intended for inkjet use [this applies to all the printers I've tested] See the main [written] review for details. www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/ and also a less 'home office' printer www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ and the smaller version www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8500-printer-review/ My written reviews are where the real detail goes... ;-)

[@magnoliannaart]

Brilliant review! What did you say the watercolour paper was called and also the A4 you folded into a border less art card? I couldn’t quite hear what you said. I truly appreciate this review as I just lost my local supplier for art printing when the owner retired and have to hustle to find a temporary solution.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - see the main [i.e. written] review for full details about all the papers I tried and the importance of media settings www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@magnoliannaart]

@@KeithCooper thank you very much 🙏

[@ioanpadureanu5214]

Thank you very much!

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was of interest - I have a new video later today looking more generally about choosing papers and profiles

[@michaelseger903]

My question that led me to your video is #1 How do I get my ET-2850 to print business cards? Or to print wallet size photos on one sheet? I can shrink down a picture but it only gives me one and lots of waisted paper. This ET-2850 works great for printing off the leather patterns. The reason I purchased it. But I would like to have a photo album of the leather items I make but there is no need to have a huge US Letter size picture. Fitting two or four pictures on one paper would work. b\But I cannot figure out how to do that. My apologies if this question is not the type of printer question you answer. I did learn about the matt and gloss papers. So if i ever want to print a picture on something other then regular paper like I have been doing, ill buy matt photo paper.

[@KeithCooper]

Have you looked at the free epson print layout software [EPL] - it allows multiple shots on a page IIRC See the main [written] review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@michaelseger903]

Thank you for taking the time to respond. When I clicked on the EPL link it did take me to the Epson page but the download button for the EPL went to a error msg page. Not your fault I know. Is there another way to get the EPL software though?@@KeithCooper

[@KeithCooper]

Have you checked another epson site? I've come across this issue before - the software is the same in different regions@@michaelseger903

[@sallymcdaid9986]

Just bought this well, 2851, on the understanding it would print 300gsm card, not thick at all, can't get it to worK, what settings should I be using please? The card just whizzes straight through. LOL:)

[@KeithCooper]

See the 2850 review for what I tested [the written one, not the supplementary video] www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@ashtank9416]

Hey Kieth, great video and insights about printing on the ET-2850. I am trying to make up my mind with buying either ET-2850 or ET-3850 (both use different technology when it comes to the printing head). I am more inclined to get the later one due to the ADF (specially for scanning good amount of documents); what are your thoughts about it and would you recommend the ET-3850 than the ET-2850? Appreciate if you can send in your feedback and comments here. Thanks a million.

[@KeithCooper]

The 3850 is perhaps a better choice for office functionality, however I've only tested the 2850, so can't base that on testing...

[@ashtank9416]

Thanks Keith..!

[@laracosta8730]

Thank you so much for the video Keith! I'm interested in buying a printer for myself, I make sticker designs so I'm looking to beinging able to have some saturated color, I tried the Epson 2851 before but I found the colored were not very saturated, and were too blue and pink compared to the original, I was wondering if maybe I could get more saturated colors by changing the advanced settings for the colors instead of just changing the paper type and quality?

[@KeithCooper]

Ah... stickers, forever a problem I'm asked about... :-) The real issue is finding the right media to work in a specific printer. Many don't dry properly or the ink rubs off. I've not yet seen a good 'sticker' media which works well on Canon or Epson inkjet printers [I'm in the UK - if anyone knows any, let me know?] With a media/printer mismatch there are no settings which will make any significant change. If you can get a reasonable print quality, the key to good colour is then colour management, i.e. printing with profiles, but no-one makes such things for sticker materials... I do have a video about printing bright colours, but first you need media which works kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2fWnKFtmbusiJY

[@laracosta8730]

​@@KeithCooper Thank you so much! I have been using the Brother MFC-j430w printer up until now, and the colors were amazing but unfortunately the printer stopped working and it's a very very old model, that's why I'm looking for a new one! The media I'm using is a koala glossy sticker paper, which I tried on the Epson 2851, I will search more about other types of papers to use with the Epson! Cancelar Responder

[@stephen-wahl]

Thanks for your very informative videos. I have an ET7700 and for the last couple years I could never get the 5x7 photo tray not to jam with whatever paper I used. Had tried three or four different ones from Amazon, none of which I knew the thickness of and they all jammed. Just thought it was endemic to the printer because none of the other sizes had a problem. But just tried epsons and there's is 11.8 mil and it seems to be working fine from the photo tray. So I guess I need to find other papers that are under this thickness or around it. Strange that some budget brands don't provide thickness but just the weight or density.. So hopefully that's just the issue and I don't have to bother Epson again. To wonder why what specs it has for paper thickness etc.

[@KeithCooper]

Thickness is what makes a difference to feeding - it's about the physical feed mechanism. 'Weight' doesn't actually give you the thickness - the paper could be soft and thick or dense and thin and still have the same weight [gsm] Cheaper brands rarely provide any proper info ;-)

[@stephen-wahl]

@@KeithCooper bingo and thanks. You live and learn!

[@ClareMardell]

Hello Keith, thank you for the great review of this printer, I have the ET 2850, I originally bought it to use for sublimation but changed my mind, its brand new so thought will keep it for printing prints. I thought I would just run some black and white prints, I tried lots of paper from high-end or low and it leaves roller marks actually it's literally gauging the paper with deep lines which you can feel and see. I saw this video and purchased the Fotospeed Matt Ultra 240 but it's still doing the same, not as bad but it's still visible and you can feel it, did you have that issue at all? Do I have a faulty printer or do I need to change a setting? Thank you so much.

[@KeithCooper]

Some printers do show this effect more - I'd not accept it, but if complaining to Epson, make sure it shows the effect on an Epson paper ;-)

[@babymonkeymind]

have you ever tried printing newsprint on this printer? thank you.

[@KeithCooper]

What do you mean? The paper?

[@babymonkeymind]

Yes, newsprint paper. I’m curious as to how it runs through the machine, and if it would be able to print double-sided without damage. I have been looking at a 49 gsm (33 lb) newsprint paper that comes in A3. Somewhere (in a review on the 2850 that I cannot find again), was a comment about adjusting the amount of ink when doing double sided prints to minimize or avoid bleed through. I’ll be using this machine to create mock ups of an old style comic, using the newsprint. Any advice or experience with using newsprint paper would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for all of the fantastic videos and information.

[@KeithCooper]

@@babymonkeymind Not a paper I've ver seen. Using the matt paper options will use the pigment black, which should be a little better on this paper

[@babymonkeymind]

@@KeithCooper Thanks again for the guidance.

[@Lubnaslatibule]

Which one you woud recommend for graph i designer in same price range?

[@KeithCooper]

Can't help there - I don't track prices. Also I don't know what specifically would be useful or not got graphic design See the actual review for the specs and detail www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@charlesreidy2765]

Thanks for the great information about how this printer behaves with matte/luster/glossy papers. My problem is that my photos have a blue cast to them. Is there a particular profile I should be using? I use "Printer Manages Colors." If I try using "Photoshop Manages Colors" I get a list of various profiles, including two Epson ones. Is there a profile I should be using? I realize it isn't a printer designed for photos, but if I can get prints that look as good as your examples, I could at least print snapshots with it.

[@KeithCooper]

See the actual written review for more info www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/ The profiles I created are available on request for non commercial use

[@cristianx7484]

thanks for the great job you do for us too keith. I wanted to ask where can I find and download the profiles you created for this printer? because when I print a photo on Epson glossy paper, the black is more of a dark blue/purple than black. Thanks again.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - the profiles are available on request - you need to email me at Northlight Images These are the ones listed in the main [written] review at: www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@Kat-69]

Hi Keith, I've got the Epson ET-2850 printer and I'm trying to print a photo of my daughter and granddaughter from my iPad photos, but even though I'm using matte paper it's still coming out too dark and poor quality. What can I do to make the photo come out reasonable quality?

[@KeithCooper]

See the main written review for approaches to deal with the limitations of that printer. That said, printing from any mobile device is starting with one hand behind your back I'm afraid.

[@Kat-69]

I emailed you too, but thanks for the reply on here, looks like I'm not going to get a great result!

[@KeithCooper]

I'm away, so not checking mail at the moment...

[@Art_by_Nicole]

Hi there! Thank you very much for you review. 😃 I have a question. In some other reviews about the Eco-tank from Canon I saw that the inkpads inside the printer are quite fast fully absorbed with ink. If so the printer doesn’t work anymore, but to let it fix costs $200,- That is what the person in the video said. You can replace the pad yourself but the printer doesn’t reset 🥲 Do you have that kind of experience with Epson? I’m looking for a good printer for a while now but ‘the inkpads’ are holding me back. What could you recommend?

[@KeithCooper]

The 2850 has a replaceable maintenance cart - I'll look at this in more detail when I do the actual review

[@hejakma4682]

So if i understand right, the models with 4 dye inks are better for glossy paper and worse for matte? Thanks.

[@KeithCooper]

Yes, in general - does depend on the exact paper and if you have icc profiles

[@jakubolejarczyk2698]

Hello Keith. Thanks very much for your informative videos. Does this model or any other of cheaper ecotank printers have ability to print long A4 prints (baner mode/panoramic)?

[@KeithCooper]

The maximum custom media size on my Mac is 1200mm. so yes, I would expect you can print long - with suitable care in paper handling/choice www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/ That said - I've not tested this...

[@jakubolejarczyk2698]

Thank you very much.

[@EklectikaAaynne]

Hello . . and thanks for this awesome review! QUESTION: I'd like to know the color quality when printing on fabric? I think it might align with your recommendation for great prints on matt paper . . . but I print on fabric using the PIGMENT INKS. Thanks for your help!

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks, but I'm afraid I've no significant textile printing experience, and not on small desktop printers like this.

[@EklectikaAaynne]

@@KeithCooper . . . well, phooey! I print on fabric using my Epson WF-3720 all the time . . . just wanting to find the correct EcoTank. But thanks anyway.

[@EklectikaAaynne]

@@KeithCooper . . . one more question. Do you know of any ET printers that come equipped with the PIGMENT ink? I understand if they have DYE in one shouldn't switch over to PIGMENT. Thanks again for any help you might be able to provide.

[@KeithCooper]

Sorry, I've not looked at all the ecotank printers - there are a lot of them ;-)

[@pizzablender]

The Epson ET-2820 is with a black dye ink, it is okay for glossy paper. But no borderless on A4 paper, sadly.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - I didn't know that model

[@ericlanum8234]

What is the maximum photo paper size that the et-2850 can print? How does a smaller image print on a larger photo page et-2850?

[@KeithCooper]

Max width is ~215mm maximum [custom] length is 1200mm See the full range of sizes in the main [written] review at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/ Small images need scaling in software - many ways of doing it. I'd suggest experimenting with the free Epson Print Layout software (described in the review}

[@ericlanum8234]

@@KeithCooper thank you

[@dunnymonster]

Very interesting results Keith. I'm going to play devils advocate in addition to asking a hypothetical question....So, I currently use the ET2650 with great results which as you are aware is an all dye ink CMYK printer. Should the day come that my ET2650 bites the dust I might only have this ET2850 as an option to replace it. Am I correct in suggesting that even if I purchased a 2850 and filled the black ink reservoir with black dye instead of the supplied black pigment it wouldn't make an ounce of difference to glossy type prints because the black ink feed is effectively deactivated within the driver any time you select the glossy media type? Whilst I accept this printer ( or indeed my ET2650 ) were never sold as " photo printers " this does seem like a very odd move for Epson to do this. Unless you intend only using Matt type papers this renders this printer almost useless for photo printing unless you fool it into using the Matt paper setting but shoving gloss type media regardless. I wonder if this method would yield decent results if the pigment black was swapped for dye ink and a custom ICC profile was made? Would this be a complete disaster as the printer would dispense ink on the assumption it was applying it to a Matt paper. Surely the amount of ink layed down by the printer takes into account the paper surface type so trying to fool the printer would still give unsatisfactory results? Given Epson allow black pigment to mix along with other dye inks on printers like the 8550 why wouldn't they just allow this printer to dispense it's black pigment ink alongside the other dye based colours? Maybe Epson could update the firmware of this printers driver to allow the black channel to be engaged during printing when a glossy media type was used. I'm totally baffled by this decision, what harm could utilising the black pigment channel do mixing it with the other dye inks? Seems to me you'd get results akin to Canons own Selphy Sublimation printers ( which I also own ) which of course derives all it's colours and tones from just CMK as there is no black. Needless to say the Selphy printers whilst decent enough can never produce a decent black which is why I switched to the ET2650 ( that and the ridiculous cost of the Selphy paper/ink sets ) 🙁 This really is a very dumb move for Epson, no doubt the future replacement for this printer ( ET2950 ) will remove the ability to use custom profiles in the driver just like Canon do on their similarly specced printers 😠

[@KeithCooper]

It's all about what's good enough for the target market ;-) Almost anyone wondering why it's three dyes for colour knows too much already ;-) The black pigment is meant for plain/matte media, but will work on shiny media. The gloss differential is really obvious though. I'll include some photos in the main written review. I first tested it to see if it would dry properly [it does]. The printer may well work with a dye ink, but this is Epson's printer, so I'm not trying that... You are right though that you'd need to specify matte media, since the black is turned off for photo media. Don't hold your breath for any change in this - products are aimed at a market... You want better photo printing, get a six colour one like the 8500/8550

[@mariaarzate2060]

Hi! Could the cardstock 80lb work with this printer?

[@KeithCooper]

I don't know [80lb is style of measurement only really used in the US] The real decider is whether it is coated for inkjet use - if not [and any use of the word 'cardstock' always alerts me to this], then it will print poorly

[@de-parawt7051]

Epson work force 7720 , can I use black pigment + dye ink for the rest colors

[@KeithCooper]

Not a printer I've tested I'm afraid

[@krystlesterling4202]

Hi keith do you know wat the difference are between epson ET 2850 and ET 2851?

[@KeithCooper]

Sorry - no ...you will have to read the detailed specs :-(

[@krystlesterling4202]

@@KeithCooperthank you so much for always making time to answer every ones question! Not many youtuber do this🫶🏼

[@Anna-SophiaDilcher]

Thank you Keith for touching on card-stock in your video. I am looking for a printer for cards Size A7 5 1/8 × 7 inches (130×178mm) Thickness 111lb Cardstock (300 g/m

[@KeithCooper]

No printer I've looked at prints particularly well on basic card-stock and very few handle paper that small very reliably (and not borderless). However, it's not something I've tested with such small paper - the commercial approach is to print multiple images on bigger card and cut to size

[@Anna-SophiaDilcher]

@@KeithCooper Thank you for such a prompt reply. If it’s just writing and not any image, would that make a difference at all? All I need it to do is print writing as I am mounting the photos on manually.

[@KeithCooper]

The black pigment ink should print OK

[@LouiseMaidment-zr8hy]

Hi Keith, I have the ET-2856 so basically this printer and it leaves two vertical dents/grooves when I use anything thicker than plain paper. I've tried different paper types eg Marrutt matte 230gsm, PPD satin and admittedly not Epson paper. Epson's only suggestion is for me to use Epson paper but I can't see how that will stop these grooves! Have you seen this type of problem before?

[@KeithCooper]

Yes, I have heard it on occasions, and that's one reason I did the recent video about 'broken' printers ;-) Epson paper will not make any difference - they only need to hear that it failed with Epson paper - pick one listed in the printer settings. This is a regular problem when dealing with 'support' which is running from a script and wants to get rid of you ;-)

[@LouiseMaidment]

Thanks so much Keith - I feel vindicated! I can confidently send it back now and you’re right about Epson support, pretty painful…

[@jamesdevlin1145]

Does this print A5 borderless? I'm looking to print a lot of gloss paper A5s but does this print true borderless or would you recommend another printer for that? Colour exactness doesnt really matter *that* much but the ink tank idea means its way more cost effective. or is there another printer you would recommend for printing A5 gloss borderless?

[@KeithCooper]

Nope - very few printers support A5 borderless I'm afraid - none of the smaller ones I recall. You will have to carefully check the technical specs For some reason, none of the printer makers seem to consider A5

[@jamesdevlin1145]

@@KeithCooper Thank you - saved me a fair chunk of cash with expensive mistakes :)

[@giuseppelembo6864]

Dear Keith, I really like zines and would like to print them by myself. I think the ET 970 printer could meet my expectations, but the original cartridges cost too much, so I would have to use compatible cartridges. Do you think it is still a good solution or is it better to use the ET 2850 with original Epson ink? Thanks in advance.

[@KeithCooper]

Ah - I don't actually know what a 'zine' is... What sort of paper do you use - this is the key as to whether the 2850 might be a worthwhile printer

[@giuseppelembo6864]

@@KeithCooper Thank you. A zine is a small-circulation self-published work of original or appropriated texts and images. It is generally made from plain paper or tar but not photographic paper . You can find several samples on the web.

[@KeithCooper]

Thanks - I just wasn't sure. This printer can do very well on plain papers - you may need to experiment to see which works best with the particular inks. See my notes of the ink set in the main [written] review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@giuseppelembo6864]

Thank you very much Keith for your accurate answer. I think I will probably get the ET 2580 because it uses better inks and then I can economically print thousands of sheets without any problems.

[@robertmirabilio5940]

Can canvas paper be used in the 2850. Or is it too thick? Also how do I make icc profiles for other papers than Epson?

[@KeithCooper]

Canvas [i.e. proper canvas, not 'canvas paper'] does not feed properly. I have seen products called 'canvas paper' which are just a textured paper - they work like any other paper. Two very different media.

[@robertklaric3029]

Hi Keith, my question is regarding L8180 or ET8550, for some reason I can't use Ultra premium luster selection, there is none in the menu of the printer or in my drivers. So I tried to print out with Ultra premium glossy for media type and for ICC I'm using Epson series premium luster. Prints look fine, but I don't know if this is the right selection when it comes to colors especially black color. What is your opinion on this?

[@KeithCooper]

There are papers which do not directly match the media names, so use the closest or whatever is specified with the profile [for 3rd party papers] My default for that paper would be 'premium lustre' or if that wasn't there 'premium semigloss' The 'Ultra' bit is just marketing guff... ;-)

[@robertklaric3029]

@@KeithCooper thank you :)

[@TheCactusTreeStudio]

Hi Keith - i have the ET2850 linked to my iPad and MAC. I have bought a load of 300gm cardstock 21.5cm x 27.9cm - i cannot for the life of me find the setting to change the paper to thick - the printer is just spitting out the paper. I would be so grateful for any tips :)

[@KeithCooper]

The iPad is using AirPrint - so that's never a good printing option For the Mac, you may accidentally have a airprint version of the driver selected - See the discussion of this in the main [written] 2850 review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@TheCactusTreeStudio]

@@KeithCooper thank you SO much !! So kind of you to reply with this useful information. First thing tomorrow I will try and get of the AirPrint ! It’s an old Mac so almost definitely that’s the problem . Thanks again :)

[@tammyguitard-vallier9755]

This is probably a stupid question as I use printers in a general sense that I don’t know anything about art or pictures. Anyway is the art paper that you are referring to similar in a way to card stock? I use 90lb, 110lb and I just bought a really thick one that won’t go thru my printer’s. would I be able to print on the 90lb and 110lb card stock with the 2850? I do have a et-15000 but I converted it to a sublimation printer and can’t use it for regular printing and would like to save a bit of money. Thank you 😊

[@KeithCooper]

I'm afraid that 90/110lb means nothing outside of the US, so I just don't know The paper I'm talking about are typically 300-350gsm Nothing I've ever heard called 'card stock' really prints well in these printers - but I can't say for sure

[@tammyguitard-vallier9755]

@@KeithCooper I looked it up and the 110lb card stock is 100 gsm. I did buy a 300 gsm but it is much too thick to go thru my printer. I am making Memorial cards as my step-mom passed away. I wanted to use the heavier paper but it won’t even go thru my 11 year old printer that does take card stock. Thanks so much for getting back to me 😊 Have a great weekend!!

[@jasonessery5350]

Hey was wondering for printing trading cards it says use 100lb cardstock would this be able to print on it?

[@KeithCooper]

Unlikely it would make a good job of it 100lb cardstock is usually for commercial print I say usually since the term actually has no real meaning outside of the US

[@rachelhowex]

Hi Kieth, Do you know much about printing on shrink plastic? I bought the Epson 2850 and was told it could print on shrink plastic but the printer just feeds the plastic through and then gives an error. I tried applying a little pressure to the top as the printer feeds (as suggested in your video) but its still just feeding the plastic through with no print.

[@KeithCooper]

That is not a media I've ever come across I'm afraid. It's not one listed in any printer specs

[@naomic4390]

Thank you for the video, very informative but I'm still stuck...I'm trying to print on a blank greetings card (the pre folded ones in packs, obviously unfolded when put in printer) on my e2850, i've created a setting for paper size etc but the card just feeds straight through...blank...without any print on. Its driving me nuts been trying for hours...any ideas please 🙏

[@KeithCooper]

Have you read the main [written] review? It can also depend on the software used for printing and system settings www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@naomic4390]

Just read through your link attached, I'm using canva which I think just prints through windows (sorry I'm not great with computer stuff). I mainly use my printer for sublimation as it's converted and never has it not printed and fed a blank through. I'm stumped

[@KeithCooper]

I don't have it here any more so I can't really suggest any more You could ask on the printing forum at dpreview.com Just be sure to give full system and software details - without this it's often very difficult to know what's wrong

[@poppiworth1745]

Hey, just wondered if you found a solution for this.? I was going to purchase this to print cards I’ve made in Canva 😊

[@GreenlifeFin]

Omg I am dying here trying to find a certain model that is not sold out. What Ecotank model of A4 has automatic 2-sideprinting and borderless printing for A4?

[@KeithCooper]

Borderless _and_ double sided? [at the same time] None of them that I know of

[@GreenlifeFin]

@ Ok. How about just borderless A4?

[@KeithCooper]

The et 8500 does IIRC and is good quality for photos. Borderless is always an issue with long term reliability if you print a lot [many thousands] due to the overspray. Depends entirely on what you want the printer for and the quality levels you require

[@GreenlifeFin]

@@KeithCooper Thanks for the important info also about the durability, appreciated.

[@GreenlifeFin]

@KeithCooper I think ET-2856 has 2-sided borderless printing.

[@seasidetreats]

Fantastic video! Very informative, lots of great tips. Thank you.

[@KeithCooper]

Glad it was helpful!

[@GazmanUK77]

is there much difference between this and the ET-2840?

[@KeithCooper]

Sorry, I don't know - 2850 is the number in the UK, check Epson's specs. It could be the same - it might not be

[@GazmanUK77]

@@KeithCooper thanks for the reply I will get too Google

[@KeithCooper]

Check the specs on Epson sites - they are different in different regions

[@luisruivo5235]

Is that possible print in roll paper, thanks if you can hel me !

[@KeithCooper]

Sorry no roll paper support whatsoever. You can cut some paper from a roll and use it at a custom page size but that needs some experimentations- see the main [written] review for more

[@luisruivo5235]

thanks , even impossible with a label sofware ?

[@KeithCooper]

Nothing to do with the software - the printer does not support roll paper

[@mohamedRifae]

Do you recommend to buy it?

[@KeithCooper]

What - the 2850? Sorry, but I have a 20 year review policy of not ever making recommendations ;-) Read the full review and see if it fits what you need... Then, if you have specific questions...

[@RBHMMX]

Well I was going through a bit of buyers remorse not buying this printer but instead of another one but after watching this video I feel like I did not make a mistake 😂

[@KeithCooper]

Glad to have helped!

[@emerichlove7139]

Does it prints A4 borderless?

[@KeithCooper]

Yes, see www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@emerichlove7139]

@@KeithCooper thank you so much

[@patdoe7986]

Could you use luster photo paper on eco tanks

[@patdoe7986]

Nevermind just completed the video lol

[@KeithCooper]

yes :-)

[@chimpy9823]

I bought this printer last week to replace my old Epson photo printer which had died as I was told it was very good at photo printing by a Currys sales assistant 🫣 I echo what you are saying Keith it's pretty poor printing on any gloss papers I've tried. I have a Canon PIXMA on order as the Epson is useless for what I want, buyer beware in my opinion.

[@KeithCooper]

The 2850 is not one for glossy photos - matte yes.

[@Way2go926]

@@KeithCooperwhat about the 3850, will it look decent print on glossy paper?

[@KeithCooper]

@@Way2go926 From a print quality POV I believe it will be very similar to the 2850, si show all the same issues/benefits see: www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/

[@alternative.exposure1981]

I'm having problems with my prints. I have used Epson premium glossy and satin paper and even though they come out correctly sort of but after a couple of hours the blues turn green.

[@chimpy9823]

@@alternative.exposure1981 the 2850 isn't a photo printer IMHO it doesn't use a proper photo black 🫣 I have bought a Canon PIXMA which wipes the floor with my Epson 2850 ! I have given the Epson to my wife for a day to day printer.