So, what exactly is an ink tank printer? Imagine a printer that, instead of using those pricey, often frustrating cartridges, comes with a refillable tank. Yes, you heard that right—refillable! This means you can say goodbye to the frequent trips to the store for new cartridges and hello to a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly way of printing.
Ink tank printers work by drawing ink from these reservoirs, ensuring a smooth and continuous flow to the print head. It’s like having a mini ink factory right inside your printer, constantly ready to churn out page after page of crisp documents and vibrant photos.
Our Pick of the Best Ink Tank Printers
Explore top-tier solutions offering cost-effective, high-quality printing. Elevate your printing experience with our expert recommendations, ensuring efficient and reliable results for all your needs.
Ideal for small to medium businesses, the Canon MAXIFY GX6020 delivers reliable, high-volume printing for your professional needs.
Elevate your photo printing with the Epson EcoTank ET-8500, offering superior quality and precision for your high-resolution images.
Perfect for high-volume home use, the HP Smart Tank 7301 ensures cost-effective and efficient printing, ideal for busy households.
Meet monochrome printing needs with Canon PIXMA GM4020/GM4050, delivering sharp and crisp black-and-white documents for your business or home office.
For all-round home office use, the Epson EcoTank ET-4850 stands out, providing versatile and reliable printing solutions for your diverse needs.
01
Best for Small to Medium Businesses
Canon MAXIFY GX6020 (GX6050 in the UK)
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Extremely low cost per page, especially beneficial for high-volume printing.
- Versatile Connectivity: Easy to connect and print from various devices and networks.
- High Productivity: Fast print speeds and a large auto document feeder enhance office productivity.
- Quality Prints: Produces sharp, durable documents with professional quality.
- User-Friendly: Intuitive touch screen and easy setup process.
Cons
- Size and Weight: Relatively large and heavy, which might be a consideration for smaller office spaces.
The Canon MAXIFY GX6020 (GX6050 in the UK) is best known for its high efficiency and cost-effectiveness in small to medium-sized office settings. It’s a multifunction printer designed to meet the demands of businesses looking for low operating costs, high print quality, and excellent productivity.
Summary
The Canon MAXIFY GX6020 (GX6050 in the UK) stands out as an ideal choice for small to medium-sized businesses prioritising efficiency and cost-effectiveness. With its high page yield, fast print speeds, and multifunction capabilities, it ensures that office productivity remains high while keeping operating costs low. The printer’s connectivity features and user-friendly design further enhance its appeal, making it a versatile office tool. Despite a higher initial investment, the long-term savings on ink and the printer’s robust feature set present a compelling value proposition for businesses looking to optimise their printing operations.
Main Key Features
- High Page Yield: Significant ink yields of up to 14,000 pages from a set of colour ink bottles or 6,000 pages from a black ink bottle.
- Economy Mode: Offers even greater savings on ink, extending the page yield further.
- Fast Print Speeds: Capable of printing at speeds of 24 ipm (images per minute) in black and 15.5 ipm in color.
- Multifunctionality: Includes printing, scanning, and copying capabilities.
- Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connections, along with compatibility with the Canon PRINT app for mobile device printing.
- Auto Document Feeder: Features a 50-sheet ADF for efficient scanning and copying.
- Touch Screen Interface: Equipped with a tiltable 6.9cm colour touch screen for easy navigation and control.
02
Best for High-Quality Photo Printing
Epson EcoTank ET-8500
Pros
- Cost-Efficiency: The EcoTank system drastically lowers the cost per page.
- Exceptional Print Quality: Produces high-quality prints suitable for professional use.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly interface and easy setup process.
- Versatility: Capable of printing on various media types, making it suitable for diverse projects.
Cons
- Size and Weight: Larger and heavier than many home printers, requiring more desk space.
The Epson EcoTank ET-8500 is best known for its high-quality photo printing capabilities and cost-effective ink usage, making it ideal for photographers and small businesses that require frequent colour printing without the high cost of traditional cartridges.
Summary
The Epson EcoTank ET-8500 stands out for its exceptional print quality and cost-effective printing solution, thanks to its innovative EcoTank technology. It’s particularly well-suited for photographers, designers, and small businesses that need to produce high-quality colour prints regularly. While the initial investment is higher than some alternatives, the long-term savings on ink make it a smart choice for users with heavy printing needs. Its versatility in handling different paper types and sizes, combined with user-friendly features like a touchscreen interface and various connectivity options, further enhances its appeal. However, potential buyers should consider the printer’s size and upfront cost when deciding if it’s the right fit for their needs.
Main Key Features
- High-Resolution Printing: Delivers professional-quality photos and documents.
- EcoTank Technology: Uses refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges, significantly reducing ink costs.
- Wide Range of Connectivity Options: Includes Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, supporting a variety of devices and cloud printing services.
- Versatile Paper Handling: Supports a wide range of paper types and sizes, including A4, photo paper, and more.
- Touchscreen Interface: Offers easy navigation and control directly from the printer.
03
Best for High-Volume Home Use
HP Smart Tank 7301 (7305 in the UK)
Pros
- Cost-Effective: Extremely low cost per page and high-capacity ink tanks reduce overall printing costs.
- Versatile Functionality: Can print, scan, and copy, covering all basic office needs.
- Convenient Printing: Wireless connectivity allows for easy printing from smartphones and tablets.
- Eco-Friendly: High-efficiency system reduces waste compared to traditional cartridges.
Cons
- Bulkier Design: The ink tank system may require more space than cartridge-based printers.
- Complex Setup for Some: First-time setup and connecting to wireless networks may be challenging for non-tech-savvy users.
The HP Smart Tank 7301 (7305 in the UK) is best suited for home offices and small businesses looking for a cost-effective printing solution. This model is designed to offer high-volume printing at an extremely low cost per page, thanks to its high-capacity ink tank system.
Summary
The HP Smart Tank 7301 (7305 in the UK) is an excellent choice for users seeking a high-volume, cost-effective printing solution. Its refillable ink tank system offers a significant reduction in printing costs over time, making it ideal for home offices and small businesses with regular printing needs. While the initial purchase price is higher than some alternatives, the long-term savings on ink, combined with the convenience of wireless printing and the versatility of an all-in-one design, make it a compelling option. However, potential buyers should consider the space requirements and be prepared for a possibly complex initial setup.
Main Key Features
- High-Volume Ink Tanks: Comes with up to 3 years of ink included for thousands of pages of printing.
- Print, Scan, and Copy: Offers versatile all-in-one capabilities.
- Wireless Connectivity: Supports mobile and wireless printing.
- Automatic Document Feeder: Includes a 35-page ADF for efficient scanning and copying.
- Auto-Duplex Printing: Automatic two-sided printing to save paper.
- High Print Speeds: Offers fast printing speeds up to 15 ppm (pages per minute) in black and 9 ppm in color.
- Easy Refill System: Spill-free, resealable bottles make refilling the ink tanks mess-free.
04
Best for Monochrome Printing Needs
Canon PIXMA GM4020 / GM4050
Pros
- Economical Ink Usage: Superb yields and low cost-per-page make it ideal for high-volume printing.
- Productivity-Boosting Features: Auto two-sided printing, large paper capacity, and ADF enhance efficiency.
- Versatile Connectivity Options: Easy to connect and manage printing tasks wirelessly.
- Compact Design: Despite its robust functionality, it has a relatively compact footprint for small offices.
Cons
- Monochrome Printing: Only suitable for black and white printing, which might be limiting for some users.
- Initial Setup Complexity: Some users may find the initial setup and connection to Wi-Fi a bit cumbersome.
- Limited Display Features: The two-line mono LCD might not be as user-friendly as a colour touchscreen display.
The Canon PIXMA GM4020 (US) / GM4050 (UK) is best for small to medium-sized businesses and home offices looking for a cost-effective, reliable monochrome inkjet printer with high page yields and low running costs.
Summary
The Canon PIXMA GM4020 / GM4050 stands out as a highly efficient and economical printer for businesses and home offices that require reliable monochrome printing. With features like high page yields, low cost-per-page, and productivity-boosting functionalities such as auto-duplex printing and a large paper capacity, it’s designed to meet the demands of high-volume printing tasks. While it excels in economical operation and efficiency, its monochrome output and basic display might not cater to all user needs. However, for those prioritising cost savings and productivity in black and white printing, the GM4020 / GM4050 is a compelling choice.
Main Key Features
- High Page Yield: Up to 18,000 pages from 3 black ink bottles.
- Low Cost-Per-Page: Economical printing with refillable ink tank.
- Auto-Duplex Printing: Automatic two-sided printing to save paper.
- Large Paper Capacity: 350-sheet plain paper capacity via a two-way feed.
- 35-Sheet Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): For easy scanning and copying.
- Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet for versatile connections.
- Canon PRINT App: For easy management of printing tasks and maintenance.
05
Best for All-Round Home Office Use
Epson EcoTank ET-4850
Pros
- Economical: Significant savings on ink costs with efficient ink usage and included extra black ink bottle.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive Epson Smart Panel app for controlling the printer from smart devices, easy setup, and hassle-free ink refilling.
- Versatility: Supports a wide range of tasks with its multifunction capabilities (print, copy, scan, fax) and connectivity options.
- Reliability: Heat-Free Technology ensures less need for replacement parts and reduced energy consumption.
Cons
- Bulkiness: Slightly larger and heavier than some compact printers, which might be a consideration for users with limited space.
The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 is an all-in-one printer that excels in home and small office settings, offering a cost-effective solution for high-volume printing needs. It eliminates the hassle of frequent cartridge changes with its high-capacity ink tanks, making it ideal for users looking for low operational costs and minimal maintenance.
Summary
The Epson EcoTank ET-4850 stands out as a smart investment for those prioritising cost efficiency, high-volume printing, and minimal maintenance. Its cartridge-free system not only reduces waste but also offers significant savings on ink over time. With comprehensive connectivity options and a suite of productivity-enhancing features, it’s well-suited for a variety of home and small office applications. While the initial purchase price is higher than some competitors, the long-term savings and convenience it offers make it a compelling choice for users looking to reduce their printing expenses without compromising on quality or functionality.
Main Key Features
- Cartridge-Free Printing: High-capacity ink tanks for mess-free refills and up to 3 years' worth of ink included.
- Cost Efficiency: Saves up to 90% on printing costs with ultra-high page yield (up to 14,000 pages in black and 5,200 in color).
- Connectivity: Full Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Ethernet connectivity for versatile printing options from mobiles, tablets, and laptops.
- Productivity: Features a 6.1cm color touchscreen, automatic double-sided printing, 30-page document feeder, fax, and a 250-page front paper tray.
- Speed and Quality: Print speeds of up to 15.5 pages per minute with PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology for reduced energy consumption and high-quality prints.
Cost Efficiency Over Time
One of the biggest perks of ink tank printers is their cost efficiency. Initially, you might find these printers a bit pricier than their traditional counterparts. But don’t let that deter you! The real savings kick in with the ink. Refilling the tanks costs a fraction of what you’d spend on cartridges, and since the tanks hold more ink, you’ll be refilling them way less often. It’s a win-win!
High Yield and Productivity
Speaking of refilling less often, ink tank printers are productivity powerhouses. These bad boys can print hundreds, even thousands, of pages before needing a refill. Whether you’re running a small business, managing household documents, or unleashing your inner artist, an ink tank printer keeps up with your pace, making it a reliable partner in crime.
Quality of Print
Now, let’s talk quality. Ink tank printers are no slouches in the print quality department. Whether it’s sharp, readable text or vibrant, detailed photos, these printers deliver. The continuous ink system ensures consistent quality, so your prints look professional every time.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for an ink tank printer, there are a few key features to keep in mind. Let’s break them down.
Print Quality and Speed
First up, print quality and speed. Nobody likes to wait forever for a single page to print, nor do they enjoy deciphering blurry text. The good news is, ink tank printers offer excellent print resolution and decent speed. Sure, they might not break any speed records, but they strike a great balance between quality and pace, making them perfect for everyday use.
Connectivity Options
In today’s world, being connected is more important than ever. Thankfully, ink tank printers come packed with connectivity options. From traditional USB to WiFi, Ethernet, and even mobile printing capabilities, these printers ensure you can print from virtually anywhere. Whether you’re at your desk or lounging on the couch with your smartphone, sending a print job is just a few taps away.
Maintenance and Durability
Last but not least, let’s talk about maintenance and durability. Ink tank printers are designed for ease of use and longevity. Refilling the tanks is a breeze, and with fewer parts to replace compared to cartridge-based printers, there’s less that can go wrong. Plus, many models come with built-in systems to prevent clogging and ensure the printer stays in top shape for years to come.
FAQs
This is probably the golden question. The answer? Not very often. Thanks to their high-capacity tanks, ink tank printers can go for months, or even years, depending on your print volume, before needing a refill. It’s a stark contrast to the frequent cartridge changes required by traditional printers.
Absolutely! Ink tank printers are designed for efficiency and endurance. Whether you’re running a small business with a constant need for printed materials or a busy household with kids’ projects and documents, these printers can handle the load without breaking a sweat.
Yes, they are! While ink tank printers excel at churning out documents, they’re also quite adept at printing high-quality photos. The key is to use the right type of paper and settings to get those vibrant, detailed images you’re after.
Initially, ink tank printers and laser printers might seem to be on par cost-wise, especially at the higher end. However, when you factor in the long-term savings on ink for ink tank printers versus toner for laser printers, ink tank printers often come out ahead, especially for users with high print volumes.
