Are you considering the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 for your sublimation projects? In this review, I delve into its features, setup for sublimation, performance in tests, and comparisons with other models, offering a comprehensive look at whether the ET-8550 meets the needs of sublimation crafters. The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 has gained attention among sublimation enthusiasts for its high-quality output and versatile printing capabilities. Designed as a premium EcoTank model, it’s well-suited for users looking to create vibrant sublimation prints, especially on larger formats.
Key Features and Highlights
The ET-8550 offers a range of features that make it ideal for sublimation. Equipped with a six-color ink system, it can deliver vivid, color-rich prints that capture details with high accuracy. This model also supports borderless printing up to 13 x 19 inches, a feature that’s particularly beneficial for those working on large sublimation projects, such as full-sized t-shirts or larger home decor items.
Another standout feature is its high-resolution photo quality output, ensuring that colors remain vibrant and details sharp. The ET-8550’s wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet, allow seamless integration with various devices. Its large display makes setup and monitoring straightforward, especially when fine-tuning settings for sublimation.
Setup and Conversion for Sublimation
Setting up the ET-8550 for sublimation involves a few important steps to ensure optimal results. Users need to replace the original ink with sublimation ink suitable for the EcoTank system. Here’s a breakdown of the setup process:
- Empty Pre-Installed Ink: If your ET-8550 came pre-filled, carefully empty the tanks to avoid mixing regular ink with sublimation ink. The use of syringes can help extract ink effectively, keeping tanks clean for refills.
- Refill with Sublimation Ink: Fill each tank with high-quality sublimation ink. The ET-8550’s EcoTank system allows for easy ink refills, but it’s important to ensure colors are placed in the correct compartments—black, cyan, magenta, yellow, gray, and photo black.
- Adjust Printer Settings for Sublimation: Configuring print settings is essential. Access the printer settings through your connected device, setting it to the highest quality, appropriate color profile, and selecting sublimation paper type if available.
Following these steps will ready the ET-8550 for sublimation, making it adaptable for high-resolution color prints on various substrates.
Performance and Testing
From my research, the ET-8550’s performance in sublimation tests is impressive, particularly when used on polyester fabrics and sublimation blanks like mugs and coasters. According to test results, the ET-8550 delivers vibrant colors with excellent detail retention, making it ideal for both fine detail and full-color designs.
During a specific test I witnessed on polyester fabric and towel blanks, the ET-8550 consistently produced crisp, clear images with rich, saturated colors. For a test on a towel blank, sublimation ink was applied through the EcoTank system, and the towel was pressed with a heat press at 400°F for 60 seconds. The result was a vivid, high-contrast print that remained vibrant even after multiple washes.
Another advantage is the ET-8550’s efficiency in handling larger prints. Its ability to print up to 13 x 19 inches without borders means it’s versatile enough for various sublimation projects.
Pros and Cons
The ET-8550 comes with numerous benefits, especially for users looking to achieve high-quality, vibrant sublimation prints on large surfaces. Some of the main advantages include:
- Exceptional Print Quality: The six-color system provides vibrant and accurate colors, making it perfect for detailed sublimation projects.
- Wide-Format Printing: The ability to print up to 13 x 19 inches expands project possibilities, accommodating larger designs and all-over prints.
- Easy Ink Refilling: The EcoTank system allows for convenient ink refilling, reducing the need for frequent cartridge replacements.
However, there are some limitations:
- Higher Cost: As a premium EcoTank model, the ET-8550 has a higher upfront cost, which may not be ideal for those just starting out.
- Limited to Sublimation-Ready Materials: Like most sublimation printers, it’s limited to printing on materials with a high polyester content or those with a sublimation coating.
The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is an excellent choice for those needing wide-format capabilities, especially for photo and graphic printing, as it supports borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″. However, it’s generally recommended to keep separate printers for sublimation and other uses, like photo or sticker printing, to maintain optimal quality and prevent ink contamination.
Comparison with Similar Models
When comparing the ET-8550 to other EcoTank models, it stands out for its six-color system and large-format capabilities. While models like the ET-4760 and ET-2760 are suitable for smaller sublimation projects, they lack the ET-8550’s additional color range and support for larger print sizes. This model’s enhanced color system is advantageous for users who require intricate color accuracy, especially in professional settings.
Compared to dedicated sublimation printers, the ET-8550 offers the convenience of an EcoTank system with easy ink refills, though it may not match the production speed of high-end commercial sublimation printers. However, for most home users and small businesses, its balance of quality and versatility makes it an attractive option.
Both the EcoTank ET-15000 and ET-8550 offer a similar price range and wide-format capabilities, delivering impressive print quality. The ET-15000 may be more economical in the long run, while the ET-8550 stands out for its broader color depth and faster photo production. Overall, either printer is an excellent choice, with the ET-8550 catering more to high-quality photo needs. If you are mainly looking for wide format sublimation printing, I advise going for the ET-15000.
Conclusion
The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 is a solid choice for sublimation printing, combining high-quality output with the versatility of a large format. Its six-color ink system ensures color accuracy, while its 13 x 19-inch printing capability offers flexibility for larger projects. Although the cost may be a consideration for beginners, its performance and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about sublimation. For hobbyists and professionals alike, the ET-8550 brings the power and quality needed for vibrant, long-lasting sublimation prints.
Having reviewed the pros and cons, let’s consider if this printer is the right fit. In my view, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is an excellent choice for those focused on photo and graphic printing, thanks to its distinct advantages in that area. However, if your main requirement is simply wide-format printing for sublimation, I’d recommend you go for the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 model for sublimation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 be used for sublimation?
- Yes, the ET-8550 can be converted for sublimation by using sublimation ink instead of regular ink. It’s a great option for vibrant, wide-format sublimation projects.
- What types of materials can I print on with the ET-8550 for sublimation?
- The ET-8550 works best on sublimation-ready materials, such as polyester fabrics and specially coated items like mugs, coasters, and other sublimation blanks.
- How does the ET-8550 compare to the ET-15000 for sublimation?
- Both printers offer wide-format capabilities, but the ET-8550 has a six-color ink system for enhanced color depth. The ET-15000 may be preferable for basic wide-format needs.
- What is the maximum print size on the Epson ET-8550?
- The ET-8550 supports borderless printing up to 13″ x 19″, making it ideal for larger sublimation designs and photo projects.
- Is it necessary to keep a separate printer for sublimation and regular printing?
- Yes, it’s generally recommended to maintain separate printers for sublimation and regular printing to avoid contamination and maintain print quality across different types of projects.
