Thanks Keith you are a indispensable font of printer/printing knowledge. Earlier this year after much agonizing about chioce I bought a Canon Pro 4100 large format printer. After much advice (confusing at best) it seemed like the professional way to go with it's pigment archival ink Whilst I am very happy with B&W printing I must say the colour side of things leaves a lot to be desired. So I would say that if a person was after a printer with 'popping' colour, pigment is not the way to go. Dye based inks although not 'archival' have better vibrancy. You live and learn.
The 4100 will do very well with the right media/profiling, but it's always going to show against dyes and ultra glossy paper. My review is of the almost identical PRO-2000 [before started videos]
As a Mac user this has been very instructive as I'm considering the ET8550, so the colour management information has persuaded me that's the way to go. I do need good quality prints but dye based inks are sufficient and cost effective for me. I sometimes think printer reviews are much like camera reviews insofar as they are far more significant to the user as opposed to the comment feedback from the customer/end user. Most lay people just want good quality and aren't pixel peeping or whatever the printed version of that is. Thanks.
Keith, thank you for the warning about overspray on borderless prints. I have a MacBook Pro, ET-8550 and a Wi-Fi account. I downloaded driver software from Epson and am printing wireless with great results.
Your thoughts and advice are so simple to understand which I find so refreshing.I bought an Epson et8500 and Im very pleased so bought a cheap Epson for the wifes office on your advice - thanks
Hello Keith, I got my L8180 (ET-8550) 3 months ago and very pleased with it. It actually exceeded my expectations. Surprised what this little printer can do.
Thank you Keith for your youtube vids, I could watch them for hours, very interesting. I have now bought the Epson et-8550 and put a new head in my Canon ip8750. So if need be, I can use this printer for the thicker media. I dont know if you seen people on youtube pulling out the pizza wheels on there new et 8550 just to try and stop the lines, somthing I would not want to do on a new printer.
Sorry to hear of your loss. I bought an ET-8550 after watching your videos and reading the written review more than a few times! I'm rather pleased with it and slowly extending my paper choices. I bought it for the running costs and to continue learning. I was very tempted by a P700/900 but knew I'd get fed up of "wasting" money on prints that weren't what I hoped for. I'll upgrade it at some point I'm sure, but it's actually proven to be better than I'd hoped. The only slight concern I have is how long the dye will take to fade, but can always reprint in the future. The P5370 could be something for me in the distant future, the larger cartridges making the cost per print somewhat less scary :-) Re ink subscriptions - I had one with HP. Still do actually, and I'll probably keep my Envy for borderless 6x4 prints as it's already filthy inside (though no negative consequence to the printed side of any photo/document). I found it really good, and saved me a fortune. It's gone up to £2.99 now for 50 prints per month - as long as you're aware of the con, you can make sure you win. Printing just a full stop on a page counts as 1, as does a full colour borderless a4 print. You can roll forward unused prints within reason to use later too.
@@KeithCooper Definitely is, I can see people getting their fingers burnt quite easily. It's one of those cases where the devil is in the detail. I must say though when I had a faulty cartridge (first one in about 40 cartridges), they gave me a new cartridge delivered next day and 2 months free printing on the highest plan, so the customer care is pretty good.
Thanks very much. Yes, the subscription is very much a business thing for us - I could still do most of my personal work with my [purchased] copy of Photoshop CS6 ;-)
I am currently on Keith´s printer academy (watching your printer videos) :) Decided to buy printer in 24. The most important for me is bw prints. Thanks for all you hard work! Kind of decided on the Canon Pro 300.
A tip you might find useful: Rather than pure BW, which a lot of average printers do not do so well, give a shot at some quadtone type interpretations that are nearly BW. My experience is that they really sing.
QT style inks are not easily available in some markets apart from direct import. There isn't a multi-black option for the 300 that I know of? QTR for example, does not support Canon printers.
Interesting answers. Not heard about this quadtone type interpretations. Well I am a beginner in printing. I am not married to the Canon 300 but is / was kind of drifting towards it, liked the reviews and price. But one who mainly make bw photos (daily carry is a Leica Q2 monochrome) maybe should look at Epsons for this reason?
Keith. Thank you as always. One thing that attracted me to ink-tank printers was that I could see how much ink was in the tanks before doing a large print, and top-up if necessary. With cartridges on smaller printers, apart from being expensive in themselves, I would be tempted to change one or more before printing, or run out of a colour during a print. I’d be interested to know how you manage cartridges on your printers.
The only printer I regularly use is the P5000, where I know that I can let the printer yell at me several times about a cart being very low before changing - they are also bigger [220ml carts]When testing printers I do try and run them to empty to get a feel for this - it's often something I'll mention in the main [written] reviews.
Kieth I've noticed when I click on links in your videos it takes me to the 8550 printer. I suspected this was a hint at your top choice for most people.
Keith I appreciate your work and ability to communicate. You mentioned that you weren't a fan of Lightroom. I would be interested in learning more about you recommend for editing photos. TY
Thanks - A personal dislike, not one I make strongly as a recommendation ;-) I do perhaps need to revisit this since the latest version does not require a catalog [one of my gripes] I've used Photoshop for nearly 25 years though, so I think in terms of layers and masked/blended adjustments.
Another very happy ET8550 user. Had issues with thicker paper but using the rear slot sorted that out. Had a problem recently when the printer stopped half way through A3 prints. Turned out to be the Wi-Fi link and a simple 'old fashioned' USB cable solved the issue. Epson help chat were very helpful in getting to the cause of the problem, by the way. Thanks for sharing Keith, keep up the good work!
Hello, this is a great video. I am a Mac Pro and Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator user needing a new printer for my home office. I currently use an old HP OfficeJet x585 Color MFP which has been great. But, it has now started to have many issues after several years of use (back and top feeder problems). I typically print around 25-50 pages per month for standard work documents (B&W) and some flyers (color) for my small business. I prefer a printer with a bottom tray ready to go when needed. I often use the top auto feeder for scanning, copying, and printing. I sometimes use the printer to make cards and invitations for holidays and birthdays on card stock. I also print glossy photos in sizes 4 x 6, 5 x 7, or 8.5 x 11 for my family. I say the photos must look at least decent to good.
Thanks - I don't tend to look at office style printers like that I'm afraid. There are so many of them - I tend to just concentrate on photo performance
Just got the Epson 8550. Have been using an HP Office Pro but the inks run out so quick and while my mother had a relatively inexpensive subscription for ink ($50 a year), I find it criminal that HP makes it so you cannot use your ink if you cancel the subscription. Plus, I wanted to finally print out some professional photos whilst having a ton of ink to work with. Now to do research on what papers to buy. I assume the stock ink should suffice for any photo type needs. Definitely going to avoid border less prints for a while though
The initial ink should give a good run of prints - there is no good reason not to use the OEM inks. See all the linked info/videos at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hi Keith, nice and helpful video. Bought Epson L8180 (ET-8550)this year with help from your videos. and I can say that for now I'm very satisfied. Colors are beautiful and same as they are on my calibrated monitor, and the best part is that it's dirty cheap to print. I'm using Solution Daily Luster paper, sharp and accurate colors and no special profile, just Epson's Luster working great. My only concern is, how long will prints last? If they are displayed in frame with glass in room, not in direct sunlight...
Thanks Keith. Your reviews are great! I'm in the process of taking my photography into the next stage: home printing. I'm based in Singapore, and all I can find is the Epson EcoTank L8050 and L18050. I wonder if they are the same/similar in quality at least to the ET8550/8500 you mentioned?
Hi Keith, Like all your reviews. I need a replacement for my Epson Pro 3880 and most reviews are more focused on glossy paper but I am using only various matte papers (including Kozo) and about half is B&W. I was reading many review of the Pro-1000 and P900 (could also wait for the P5370 for better paper handling) but is there a preference for matte paper and B&W?
Both pretty good with the right media choices [i.e. pick the paper after the printer] See the B&W sections of each review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-sc-p900-printer-review/ www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-1000-printer-review/ I reviewed the PRO-1000 when it first came out [so no video!] long enough ago for each one that I'd have to re-read my own reviews to remember what they were like [that's the written reviews, I don't watch my own videos!]
thanks so much! i'm thinking of getting a starter inkjet printer for graphics, drawings, text art, and photos. i want to print on cardstock and the thickest papers i can print on to then add paint and mixed media art work on top. i use a mac. i'm torn between an ink tank printer from Canon (G620 which i believe is the same as the G550 you were discussing but including a scanner) or an Epson ET-2800 (could also jump up to the 2850). The epson has only 4 inks, and the canon has 6. epson doesn't make a very affordable option with 6 inks, it's only once you get to the ET-8500 which is out of my budget. do you think it matters to get the Canon vs. the Epson? Does the extra ink colors matter much, or could I save a little and go with the epson? thanks!
If you'r using a Mac, remember that colour management can be problematic on the Gxx0 printers See my written reviews of the 550 and 2850 for much more nuanced analysis of this www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/ www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-g550-printer-review/ The inks do matter, but less than many think The real key is colour management and media selection. Get the wrong media, something not meant for inkjet [card stock] and no mater what printer you have, the results will likely look awful...
@@KeithCooper thanks for the tips. what i mostly use is a printmaking paper actually. i’m open to changing the paper i use, but must be heavy stock and able to accept water-based paints, inks, acrylics, and some watercolor. do you think both printers could handle something like this? i am confused about how to know which way to go!
If you want to print with the inkjet printer, then the paper needs to be inkjet compatible. Pick some other paper and results are unpredictable - typically poor. It's also important to make sure you select the right media setting - all in the main reviews [remeber my videos are often but trailers for the actual written reviews]
Will a Mac be ok for a Canon-300? I ordered a laptop to go with my new printer. I am an absolute beginner. I have never had a good printer and I’m not sure I will see the difference of using color management. I hope to get to that point with practice.
i enjoy your videos very much Question....For black & white Photos & illustrations on regular paper Will 1200 DPI be much better Than 600 DPI... laser printer? is 1200 DPI noticeable for casual reading of a graphic novel Black & white thanks
DPI numbers for lasers have a slightly different meaning to ink jet ones. I've not however tested a laser for over 20 years, so I can't offer any real help with this one.
Hey Keith, I am looking for a very good printer that can print beautiful images on cast vinyl for wraps. Im having a hard time finding the right one. Something that is also economical on ink usage as well would be amazing lol. What are your thoughts?
Unlikely any of the aqueous inkjet printers I test will work with that media [unless it's specifically produced for such ink] You need to go to a commercial printer dealer and ask what works with it - expect considerable expense... Ask the suppliers of the media what works with it?
After being generally unimpressed by the send-out print services, I am now considering purchasing a professional grade printer. I only plan on doing a few, maybe 20-30 total full size A3 prints per year and then maybe doing some holiday cards so like 4 x 6“, 30-40 prints of those. What printer would you recommend? I’m thinking the canon pro 200 might be better than the Epson Ink tank 8550 because I hear the latter clog if you don’t use them a lot.
Not sure where you 'hear ' that' ;-) Not from me... If you don't use any printer enough, you'll get problems - I've a video today, covering just this Either printer will do you well, with good profiles and paper choices
Do you have any recommendations for budget friendly printers for crisp color printing I'm printing colorful labels and struggling to find the perfect one under £500 😊
My reason for a printer:.. I'm scanning my charcoal and graphite drawings and sketches. I will be printing so as to frame and possibly sell. (No need for photo printing)... any ideas?
Pigment ink with a printer with good B&W performance would be ideal [PRO-300 P700] Maybe on some papers the ET-8550 might do - see my detailed reviews www.northlight-images.co.uk/photography-articles-and-reviews/printing-paper-reviews-articles/
I cant afford a large printer and also I have a large volume of print quality photos so I decided to buy the canon selphie 1500 because the colours produced are exceptional on such a tiny compact printer. If the print comes out really well on the selphie, then I know im good to blow it up larger using a lab without worry of losing quality. I print what I think looks good on screen with the selphie, walk away for a couple of weeks and come back and only the very odd really good photo gets sent away to a lab, but I still have my little photo album regardless with minimal cost
I received my factory new Epson ET-8550 last week and upon opening the box instantly noticed a heavy mold/mildew smell coming from inside the package. I didn't unpack the printer further but instead contacted the retailer to ask for a new replacement unit. The employee handling the issue said this is totally normal, as apparently a lot of new electronics are processed with a fungicide or similar product that can smell a lot like actual mold. She said this is common occurence with for example new Apple products, and that the smell should disappear within a few days. I've kept the unit for now, I tried to investigate this further but was unable to find much information on this topic, especially concerning Epson products. I haven't had this happen with my previous electronics purchases so I was wondering have you experienced odd smell with any of your Epson printers or packaging? Thinking whether I should just return the unit or give it a go. Thank you for the awesome channel and content, keep up the good work!
Hello Keith and thank you for your informative videos! I've been using my Canon Pro 300 for couple of years and printed borderless photos as well. In pro 300 there is no maintenance cartridge so all those spilled ink droplets find their placeses somewhere inside the printer. But do you know what kind of impact the cumulated spilled ink would show in my future prints if any? Ps. I've purchased and read your book of tilt-shift lenses. It was very well written and informative as well!
Thanks - the strip under the print head is supposed to be where hte ink goes, but fins droplets will spread around the printer. A good clean of the plastic under where the print head goes can be useful, but test first with some slightly damp kitchen paper to see if there is much there. Watch not to clean the head support bars, since this usually needs keeping slightly greased. Paper dust with ink is the bigger issue, but that depends on the paper types
@@KeithCooperThanks for the tips! Indeed I found wet ink absorbed into the long narrow strip of foam under the print head as you said. Interesting how the ink was still wet even though it has been few weeks since I printed last time. That wetness after a long period of idle time may be a good indicator when it's time to absorb excess ink to a kitchen paper. I use mainly textured art paper so paper dust is an evident outcome. Although it didn't look bad after two years of usage. Seems that brushing the papers before printing really helps.
I have a question about the ET-8550 and Canon Pro 200 ( I am looking at a dye ink printer). My most important factor is printing very small scaled illustrations on brochure like paper. I don't have the best of luck with my purchase of Epson printer of quality and color accuracy. I was wondering which of the 2 might be more suitable for my need?
Check the linked 'print resolution' articles from each main [written] review www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-200-printer-review/ www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
What about HP? I don't recall you mentioning them, or even a review in modern memory. Not that I could come to recommend one (save their larger commercial laser jets but they are beyond your scope).
Hello Keith! I have a very specific use case, would love your advice. I need a new printer for my professional portrait/fashion portfolio. I print from photoshop on a Mac, 8.5x11 borderless - 300-350 gsm rag paper. Would you be kind enough to advise a “best” printer option? I print probably 20 images a month or so :)
Very informative. Would be helpful to hear your views about colur laser printer for 2 pages print per week ( ocaasionaly with minimal colours) If you can review some printer models available in india that will be quite helpful.
Sorry - I've not used a laser printer for over a decade. Just not the sort of printers I cover. As to printers in India? I don't sell printers, so I've no idea what is specifically available or not, in any country outside of the UK. Also - the printers are loans, so someone needs to send me them for me to test. I cannot afford to buy stuff, yet alone have the space ;-)
HI Keith, and thanks for your always great reviews. I have a question for you : what is the best solution/ printer to start a little photo printing business (print photos from others and y photos ?). i'm hesiting between 5300 and 7500. Price are not really far, they are two printers for production. twice are big/huge ;) But what about print quality ? cost by page ? 5300 is more recent, but 7500 has 2 extra colours (greys for blak and white). You reviewed twice, what can be your advice about this choice ? Thanks a lot for your feedback, from France.
I'd take a P7500, but purely because it's 24" not 17" Of course that depends on what you're printing and what size? [and for who...] Quality wise - not many could detect any difference with good papers and profiles The P5300 does have that paper cassette, so can just be loaded up with sheets - all depend on the size However... you mention a business. Far more important to work out that side of things and see if one choice jumps out. The business aspects are the real areas to explore.
@@KeithCooper thank you for your answer Keith. my target is only photographers and informed customers. I already have a HP Latex 365 for every day print (really effective) and epson 6200 for sublimation. I want only good quality, medium size (sometime to laminate, etc ...), and actractive cost per m2/page. Of course, my line is calibrated. Extra question : do you considere that internal spectro worth it, contrary to external spectro (like i1 pro) ? I think its very expensive when it's integrated, but so easy to use ... (owned on HP 365 ... so easy to generate ICC profile). Thx for your great work.
The Spectroproofer is pretty useless unless you have specific software to use it with. I believe it may now be supported by the mirage RIP, but don't know for sure With the other stuff, the P5300 may fit in with your other kit just fine - this is why I never make recommendations - no one ever tells me all the factors I'd need to know ;-) Not a problem though, since I don't sell printers ;-) :-)
@@KeithCooper yep but you answered : no visible difference (quality), even if 5300 is more recent. I'll take a 7500. Easier to store (thank to stand). Thx Keith
Almost in the end you say something like it's a dye based printer and you may not want that. What are the cons of dye based printer other than the cost of cartridges?
Dyes are usually thought of as having shorter lifetimes before fading. The life varies a lot with precise ink set, the media and environmental conditions. Pigment inks in the right conditions could last 100+ years. Dye black inks also tend to show a degree of illuminant metamerism, making them much less useful for good quality B&W
I agree about subscriptions, you said you stay away from them, but don’t you have an Adobe subscription? I thought you used Adobe camera raw. If not, what would you suggest?
Yes - I have an adobe subscription - or more to the point, our business does. Yes, it is a money making scheme from Adobe, we just decided it was worth it for us. Anything archived will always open in my purchased copy of CS6 though ;-) in this video though, I was particularly thinking of print related ones. They may be a good idea for some, but read the fine print...
@@KeithCooper I've stuck at CS4/5, after updating from ye olde PS 3.1, PS5, , and CS1. I was so annoyed with losing a (for me) pretty essential basic process in the last big upgrade, I decided never to upgrade again- for ages I had to run CS1 alongside 4 and 5 to be able to do what I wanted- something which even the crappiest free software does as a matter of course. I now sulkily use a workaround, which wastes my time and unless I do extra backups, risks damaging images. Every time I do it, it reminds me to curse Adobe and not want to give them any more of my money. And I don't do subscriptions, I don't want to lose control of updates and lose even more of the functions I need. Downside, CS5 wont cope with the most recent RAWs from my Sony DSLR- no converter for the ARW files for it- , but the free Capture One that came with the DSLR in question is enough for my purposes.
Hello Keith, I am buying a printer, but I want to seriously move from amateur to just one step above amateur and I am a beginner, and I am using a Sony 5000 because I am in a wheelchair, also I don’t have good use of my hands and I am getting dumber, but I don’t want to stay at amateur or beginner so I am watching your videos. I like your videos so far you are fair, you are a good photographer and printer, I want to make a little bit of wow, I just got a new laptop with a good screen for this hobby I want to make cards, T-shirts and crafts, folk work, but just a little better than amateur but if I could say, (sorry about your dad) I am disabled senior so less handling of the printer workings?
Thanks - Quite a range of requirements - not sure about T shirts though. For all the printers I've tested, just check the written reviews for actual detail www.northlight-images.co.uk/photography-articles-and-reviews/printing-paper-reviews-articles/
I can't define 'easy to handle' in any meaningful way... Hence my suggestion to look at the actual reviews - A PRO-200 is simple, but inks will cost more than an et-8550
Hi Keith, I watch your videos quite often! Just one tip - go slower and clearer on your introduction. If someone is new, you can’t clearly make out what you said.
Sorry - somewhat unlikely to happen. I find real difficulty with scripts - it is the style it is. I do appreciate it's not to everyone's taste, but scripts, music and introductory sequences are not in the plans... This is broadly the same style you'll get if I do a talk for a camera club, speak at a conference or teach :-)
Thanks Keith you are a indispensable font of printer/printing knowledge. Earlier this year after much agonizing about chioce I bought a Canon Pro 4100 large format printer. After much advice (confusing at best) it seemed like the professional way to go with it's pigment archival ink Whilst I am very happy with B&W printing I must say the colour side of things leaves a lot to be desired. So I would say that if a person was after a printer with 'popping' colour, pigment is not the way to go. Dye based inks although not 'archival' have better vibrancy. You live and learn.
The 4100 will do very well with the right media/profiling, but it's always going to show against dyes and ultra glossy paper.
My review is of the almost identical PRO-2000 [before started videos]
As a Mac user this has been very instructive as I'm considering the ET8550, so the colour management information has persuaded me that's the way to go. I do need good quality prints but dye based inks are sufficient and cost effective for me. I sometimes think printer reviews are much like camera reviews insofar as they are far more significant to the user as opposed to the comment feedback from the customer/end user. Most lay people just want good quality and aren't pixel peeping or whatever the printed version of that is. Thanks.
Yes - I may be a working architectural photographer, but I do appreciate many just want some nice looking prints ;-)
Keith, thank you for the warning about overspray on borderless prints.
I have a MacBook Pro, ET-8550 and a Wi-Fi account. I downloaded driver software from Epson and am printing wireless with great results.
Excellent - take care with paper dust as well, it does not mix well with ink over spray
Your thoughts and advice are so simple to understand which I find so refreshing.I bought an Epson et8500 and Im very pleased so bought a cheap Epson for the wifes office on your advice - thanks
Great to hear! - thanks
Hello Keith, I got my L8180 (ET-8550) 3 months ago and very pleased with it. It actually exceeded my expectations. Surprised what this little printer can do.
Yes - of all printers I've tested in the last few years, it was the one which most exceeded my expectations
Thank you Keith for your youtube vids, I could watch them for hours, very interesting. I have now bought the Epson et-8550 and put a new head in my Canon ip8750. So if need be, I can use this printer for the thicker media. I dont know if you seen people on youtube pulling out the pizza wheels on there new et 8550 just to try and stop the lines, somthing I would not want to do on a new printer.
Thanks - glad it's of use!
Love your videos and your way of explaining things. Thank you for sharing your knowledge 😊
Thanks for that - appreciated!
Sorry to hear of your loss.
I bought an ET-8550 after watching your videos and reading the written review more than a few times! I'm rather pleased with it and slowly extending my paper choices. I bought it for the running costs and to continue learning. I was very tempted by a P700/900 but knew I'd get fed up of "wasting" money on prints that weren't what I hoped for. I'll upgrade it at some point I'm sure, but it's actually proven to be better than I'd hoped. The only slight concern I have is how long the dye will take to fade, but can always reprint in the future. The P5370 could be something for me in the distant future, the larger cartridges making the cost per print somewhat less scary :-)
Re ink subscriptions - I had one with HP. Still do actually, and I'll probably keep my Envy for borderless 6x4 prints as it's already filthy inside (though no negative consequence to the printed side of any photo/document). I found it really good, and saved me a fortune. It's gone up to £2.99 now for 50 prints per month - as long as you're aware of the con, you can make sure you win. Printing just a full stop on a page counts as 1, as does a full colour borderless a4 print. You can roll forward unused prints within reason to use later too.
Thanks very much...
I do know of people making good use of subscriptions, but it's something to go into after reading the fine print.
@@KeithCooper Definitely is, I can see people getting their fingers burnt quite easily. It's one of those cases where the devil is in the detail.
I must say though when I had a faulty cartridge (first one in about 40 cartridges), they gave me a new cartridge delivered next day and 2 months free printing on the highest plan, so the customer care is pretty good.
Annual subscription is the exact reason i refuse to get lightroom/photoshop, also condolences to you and your family on the loss of your father
Thanks very much.
Yes, the subscription is very much a business thing for us - I could still do most of my personal work with my [purchased] copy of Photoshop CS6 ;-)
You are an amazing person and we love you. We trust your judgement. Also, please accept my condolences for your loss.
Thanks - much appreciated
very good, very useful. thanks. i know what is happening when i print all the way to the edge, but i had not thought to print smaller and crop.
Can be an easier option for some work...
I am currently on Keith´s printer academy (watching your printer videos) :) Decided to buy printer in 24. The most important for me is bw prints. Thanks for all you hard work! Kind of decided on the Canon Pro 300.
A tip you might find useful: Rather than pure BW, which a lot of average printers do not do so well, give a shot at some quadtone type interpretations that are nearly BW. My experience is that they really sing.
Excellent - but do read the B&W supplement in the main [written] review - far more info than I can include in the videos
QT style inks are not easily available in some markets apart from direct import.
There isn't a multi-black option for the 300 that I know of? QTR for example, does not support Canon printers.
Interesting answers. Not heard about this quadtone type interpretations. Well I am a beginner in printing. I am not married to the Canon 300 but is / was kind of drifting towards it, liked the reviews and price. But one who mainly make bw photos (daily carry is a Leica Q2 monochrome) maybe should look at Epsons for this reason?
The place to look is here, and the associated forum
www.quadtonerip.com/html/QTRoverview.html
groups.io/g/QuadToneRIP
Keith. Thank you as always.
One thing that attracted me to ink-tank printers was that I could see how much ink was in the tanks before doing a large print, and top-up if necessary. With cartridges on smaller printers, apart from being expensive in themselves, I would be tempted to change one or more before printing, or run out of a colour during a print.
I’d be interested to know how you manage cartridges on your printers.
The only printer I regularly use is the P5000, where I know that I can let the printer yell at me several times about a cart being very low before changing - they are also bigger [220ml carts]When testing printers I do try and run them to empty to get a feel for this - it's often something I'll mention in the main [written] reviews.
Kieth I've noticed when I click on links in your videos it takes me to the 8550 printer. I suspected this was a hint at your top choice for most people.
Not deliberate AFAIK - but it's the most viewed one
Keith I appreciate your work and ability to communicate. You mentioned that you weren't a fan of Lightroom. I would be interested in learning more about you recommend for editing photos. TY
Thanks - A personal dislike, not one I make strongly as a recommendation ;-)
I do perhaps need to revisit this since the latest version does not require a catalog [one of my gripes]
I've used Photoshop for nearly 25 years though, so I think in terms of layers and masked/blended adjustments.
Another very happy ET8550 user. Had issues with thicker paper but using the rear slot sorted that out. Had a problem recently when the printer stopped half way through A3 prints. Turned out to be the Wi-Fi link and a simple 'old fashioned' USB cable solved the issue. Epson help chat were very helpful in getting to the cause of the problem, by the way. Thanks for sharing Keith, keep up the good work!
Excellent - it's a good printer.
Good informational video Keith.
Thanks 👍
Hello, this is a great video. I am a Mac Pro and Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator user needing a new printer for my home office. I currently use an old HP OfficeJet x585 Color MFP which has been great. But, it has now started to have many issues after several years of use (back and top feeder problems). I typically print around 25-50 pages per month for standard work documents (B&W) and some flyers (color) for my small business. I prefer a printer with a bottom tray ready to go when needed. I often use the top auto feeder for scanning, copying, and printing. I sometimes use the printer to make cards and invitations for holidays and birthdays on card stock. I also print glossy photos in sizes 4 x 6, 5 x 7, or 8.5 x 11 for my family. I say the photos must look at least decent to good.
Thanks - I don't tend to look at office style printers like that I'm afraid.
There are so many of them - I tend to just concentrate on photo performance
Just got the Epson 8550. Have been using an HP Office Pro but the inks run out so quick and while my mother had a relatively inexpensive subscription for ink ($50 a year), I find it criminal that HP makes it so you cannot use your ink if you cancel the subscription. Plus, I wanted to finally print out some professional photos whilst having a ton of ink to work with. Now to do research on what papers to buy. I assume the stock ink should suffice for any photo type needs. Definitely going to avoid border less prints for a while though
The initial ink should give a good run of prints - there is no good reason not to use the OEM inks.
See all the linked info/videos at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Thank you for your honest review. :)
Thanks
Hi Keith, nice and helpful video. Bought Epson L8180 (ET-8550)this year with help from your videos. and I can say that for now I'm very satisfied. Colors are beautiful and same as they are on my calibrated monitor, and the best part is that it's dirty cheap to print. I'm using Solution Daily Luster paper, sharp and accurate colors and no special profile, just Epson's Luster working great. My only concern is, how long will prints last? If they are displayed in frame with glass in room, not in direct sunlight...
I don't have any specific info on this - I'd expect decades, but this is an aspect of testing I cannot do.
Thanks Keith. Your reviews are great!
I'm in the process of taking my photography into the next stage: home printing.
I'm based in Singapore, and all I can find is the Epson EcoTank L8050 and L18050.
I wonder if they are the same/similar in quality at least to the ET8550/8500 you mentioned?
No - they are the same as the et-18100
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-18100-printer-review/
Hi Keith, Like all your reviews. I need a replacement for my Epson Pro 3880 and most reviews are more focused on glossy paper but I am using only various matte papers (including Kozo) and about half is B&W. I was reading many review of the Pro-1000 and P900 (could also wait for the P5370 for better paper handling) but is there a preference for matte paper and B&W?
Both pretty good with the right media choices [i.e. pick the paper after the printer]
See the B&W sections of each review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-sc-p900-printer-review/
www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-1000-printer-review/
I reviewed the PRO-1000 when it first came out [so no video!] long enough ago for each one that I'd have to re-read my own reviews to remember what they were like [that's the written reviews, I don't watch my own videos!]
thanks so much! i'm thinking of getting a starter inkjet printer for graphics, drawings, text art, and photos. i want to print on cardstock and the thickest papers i can print on to then add paint and mixed media art work on top. i use a mac. i'm torn between an ink tank printer from Canon (G620 which i believe is the same as the G550 you were discussing but including a scanner) or an Epson ET-2800 (could also jump up to the 2850). The epson has only 4 inks, and the canon has 6. epson doesn't make a very affordable option with 6 inks, it's only once you get to the ET-8500 which is out of my budget. do you think it matters to get the Canon vs. the Epson? Does the extra ink colors matter much, or could I save a little and go with the epson? thanks!
If you'r using a Mac, remember that colour management can be problematic on the Gxx0 printers
See my written reviews of the 550 and 2850 for much more nuanced analysis of this
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-2850-printer-review/
www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-g550-printer-review/
The inks do matter, but less than many think
The real key is colour management and media selection.
Get the wrong media, something not meant for inkjet [card stock] and no mater what printer you have, the results will likely look awful...
@@KeithCooper thanks for the tips. what i mostly use is a printmaking paper actually. i’m open to changing the paper i use, but must be heavy stock and able to accept water-based paints, inks, acrylics, and some watercolor. do you think both printers could handle something like this? i am confused about how to know which way to go!
If you want to print with the inkjet printer, then the paper needs to be inkjet compatible.
Pick some other paper and results are unpredictable - typically poor.
It's also important to make sure you select the right media setting - all in the main reviews [remeber my videos are often but trailers for the actual written reviews]
Will a Mac be ok for a Canon-300? I ordered a laptop to go with my new printer. I am an absolute beginner. I have never had a good printer and I’m not sure I will see the difference of using color management. I hope to get to that point with practice.
Yes - I only have Macs here.
See the main [written] PRO-300 review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-300-printer-review/
i enjoy your videos very much
Question....For black & white Photos & illustrations on regular paper Will 1200 DPI be much better Than 600 DPI... laser printer?
is 1200 DPI noticeable for casual reading of a graphic novel Black & white
thanks
DPI numbers for lasers have a slightly different meaning to ink jet ones. I've not however tested a laser for over 20 years, so I can't offer any real help with this one.
Hi Keith, do you think we will ever see an eco tank all pigment printer?
Yes - but if it were next year (or even 25), I'd be very surprised
@@KeithCooperThank you, guess I will stay with my ET-8550 which I bought after watching your videos and am extremely happy with.
Hey Keith, I am looking for a very good printer that can print beautiful images on cast vinyl for wraps. Im having a hard time finding the right one. Something that is also economical on ink usage as well would be amazing lol. What are your thoughts?
Unlikely any of the aqueous inkjet printers I test will work with that media [unless it's specifically produced for such ink]
You need to go to a commercial printer dealer and ask what works with it - expect considerable expense... Ask the suppliers of the media what works with it?
Excellent advice
Thanks
After being generally unimpressed by the send-out print services, I am now considering purchasing a professional grade printer. I only plan on doing a few, maybe 20-30 total full size A3 prints per year and then maybe doing some holiday cards so like 4 x 6“, 30-40 prints of those. What printer would you recommend? I’m thinking the canon pro 200 might be better than the Epson Ink tank 8550 because I hear the latter clog if you don’t use them a lot.
Not sure where you 'hear ' that' ;-) Not from me...
If you don't use any printer enough, you'll get problems - I've a video today, covering just this
Either printer will do you well, with good profiles and paper choices
Do you have any recommendations for budget friendly printers for crisp color printing I'm printing colorful labels and struggling to find the perfect one under £500 😊
Sorry, I don't sell printers so I don't really track prices.
It's not the sort of application I test for either, so there could be several or none...
My reason for a printer:.. I'm scanning my charcoal and graphite drawings and sketches. I will be printing so as to frame and possibly sell. (No need for photo printing)... any ideas?
Pigment ink with a printer with good B&W performance would be ideal [PRO-300 P700]
Maybe on some papers the ET-8550 might do - see my detailed reviews
www.northlight-images.co.uk/photography-articles-and-reviews/printing-paper-reviews-articles/
I cant afford a large printer and also I have a large volume of print quality photos so I decided to buy the canon selphie 1500 because the colours produced are exceptional on such a tiny compact printer. If the print comes out really well on the selphie, then I know im good to blow it up larger using a lab without worry of losing quality. I print what I think looks good on screen with the selphie, walk away for a couple of weeks and come back and only the very odd really good photo gets sent away to a lab, but I still have my little photo album regardless with minimal cost
An interesting choice - media costs could be off-putting for some. That and colour management issues. But as ever, if it works for you...
I received my factory new Epson ET-8550 last week and upon opening the box instantly noticed a heavy mold/mildew smell coming from inside the package. I didn't unpack the printer further but instead contacted the retailer to ask for a new replacement unit. The employee handling the issue said this is totally normal, as apparently a lot of new electronics are processed with a fungicide or similar product that can smell a lot like actual mold. She said this is common occurence with for example new Apple products, and that the smell should disappear within a few days. I've kept the unit for now, I tried to investigate this further but was unable to find much information on this topic, especially concerning Epson products. I haven't had this happen with my previous electronics purchases so I was wondering have you experienced odd smell with any of your Epson printers or packaging? Thinking whether I should just return the unit or give it a go.
Thank you for the awesome channel and content, keep up the good work!
Never had this at all - I've opened a few printers over time.
I'd be very suspicious if I was sent a printer [UK] and it had a 'smell'...
Hello Keith and thank you for your informative videos! I've been using my Canon Pro 300 for couple of years and printed borderless photos as well. In pro 300 there is no maintenance cartridge so all those spilled ink droplets find their placeses somewhere inside the printer. But do you know what kind of impact the cumulated spilled ink would show in my future prints if any?
Ps. I've purchased and read your book of tilt-shift lenses. It was very well written and informative as well!
Thanks - the strip under the print head is supposed to be where hte ink goes, but fins droplets will spread around the printer. A good clean of the plastic under where the print head goes can be useful, but test first with some slightly damp kitchen paper to see if there is much there.
Watch not to clean the head support bars, since this usually needs keeping slightly greased.
Paper dust with ink is the bigger issue, but that depends on the paper types
@@KeithCooperThanks for the tips! Indeed I found wet ink absorbed into the long narrow strip of foam under the print head as you said. Interesting how the ink was still wet even though it has been few weeks since I printed last time. That wetness after a long period of idle time may be a good indicator when it's time to absorb excess ink to a kitchen paper.
I use mainly textured art paper so paper dust is an evident outcome. Although it didn't look bad after two years of usage. Seems that brushing the papers before printing really helps.
Yes - dust from paper can be quite an issue over time
I have a question about the ET-8550 and Canon Pro 200 ( I am looking at a dye ink printer). My most important factor is printing very small scaled illustrations on brochure like paper. I don't have the best of luck with my purchase of Epson printer of quality and color accuracy. I was wondering which of the 2 might be more suitable for my need?
Check the linked 'print resolution' articles from each main [written] review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/canon-pro-200-printer-review/
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
What about HP? I don't recall you mentioning them, or even a review in modern memory. Not that I could come to recommend one (save their larger commercial laser jets but they are beyond your scope).
My last test was the Z3200 24" in 2009 [iirc]
I've been regularly asking them [Z9] but response comes here none...
Hello Keith! I have a very specific use case, would love your advice. I need a new printer for my professional portrait/fashion portfolio. I print from photoshop on a Mac, 8.5x11 borderless - 300-350 gsm rag paper. Would you be kind enough to advise a “best” printer option? I print probably 20 images a month or so :)
Pro 300 or P700
Very informative.
Would be helpful to hear your views about colur laser printer for 2 pages print per week ( ocaasionaly with minimal colours)
If you can review some printer models available in india that will be quite helpful.
Sorry - I've not used a laser printer for over a decade. Just not the sort of printers I cover.
As to printers in India? I don't sell printers, so I've no idea what is specifically available or not, in any country outside of the UK. Also - the printers are loans, so someone needs to send me them for me to test.
I cannot afford to buy stuff, yet alone have the space ;-)
HI Keith, and thanks for your always great reviews. I have a question for you : what is the best solution/ printer to start a little photo printing business (print photos from others and y photos ?). i'm hesiting between 5300 and 7500. Price are not really far, they are two printers for production. twice are big/huge ;) But what about print quality ? cost by page ? 5300 is more recent, but 7500 has 2 extra colours (greys for blak and white). You reviewed twice, what can be your advice about this choice ? Thanks a lot for your feedback, from France.
I'd take a P7500, but purely because it's 24" not 17"
Of course that depends on what you're printing and what size? [and for who...]
Quality wise - not many could detect any difference with good papers and profiles
The P5300 does have that paper cassette, so can just be loaded up with sheets - all depend on the size
However... you mention a business. Far more important to work out that side of things and see if one choice jumps out. The business aspects are the real areas to explore.
@@KeithCooper thank you for your answer Keith. my target is only photographers and informed customers. I already have a HP Latex 365 for every day print (really effective) and epson 6200 for sublimation. I want only good quality, medium size (sometime to laminate, etc ...), and actractive cost per m2/page. Of course, my line is calibrated. Extra question : do you considere that internal spectro worth it, contrary to external spectro (like i1 pro) ? I think its very expensive when it's integrated, but so easy to use ... (owned on HP 365 ... so easy to generate ICC profile). Thx for your great work.
The Spectroproofer is pretty useless unless you have specific software to use it with.
I believe it may now be supported by the mirage RIP, but don't know for sure
With the other stuff, the P5300 may fit in with your other kit just fine - this is why I never make recommendations - no one ever tells me all the factors I'd need to know ;-) Not a problem though, since I don't sell printers ;-) :-)
@@KeithCooper yep but you answered : no visible difference (quality), even if 5300 is more recent. I'll take a 7500. Easier to store (thank to stand). Thx Keith
Almost in the end you say something like it's a dye based printer and you may not want that. What are the cons of dye based printer other than the cost of cartridges?
Dyes are usually thought of as having shorter lifetimes before fading. The life varies a lot with precise ink set, the media and environmental conditions.
Pigment inks in the right conditions could last 100+ years.
Dye black inks also tend to show a degree of illuminant metamerism, making them much less useful for good quality B&W
I agree about subscriptions, you said you stay away from them, but don’t you have an Adobe subscription? I thought you used Adobe camera raw. If not, what would you suggest?
Yes - I have an adobe subscription - or more to the point, our business does. Yes, it is a money making scheme from Adobe, we just decided it was worth it for us. Anything archived will always open in my purchased copy of CS6 though ;-)
in this video though, I was particularly thinking of print related ones. They may be a good idea for some, but read the fine print...
@@KeithCooper agreed! Thanks for the explanation. I so respect your work and appreciate it.
@@KeithCooper I've stuck at CS4/5, after updating from ye olde PS 3.1, PS5, , and CS1. I was so annoyed with losing a (for me) pretty essential basic process in the last big upgrade, I decided never to upgrade again- for ages I had to run CS1 alongside 4 and 5 to be able to do what I wanted- something which even the crappiest free software does as a matter of course. I now sulkily use a workaround, which wastes my time and unless I do extra backups, risks damaging images. Every time I do it, it reminds me to curse Adobe and not want to give them any more of my money. And I don't do subscriptions, I don't want to lose control of updates and lose even more of the functions I need. Downside, CS5 wont cope with the most recent RAWs from my Sony DSLR- no converter for the ARW files for it- , but the free Capture One that came with the DSLR in question is enough for my purposes.
How about sublimation printers for chromaluxe prints on aluminum?
Send me one [and ink and media] and I'll happily do a very detailed review...
Way beyond what I can afford to experiment with I'm afraid
Hello Keith, I am buying a printer, but I want to seriously move from amateur to just one step above amateur and I am a beginner, and I am using a Sony 5000 because I am in a wheelchair, also I don’t have good use of my hands and I am getting dumber, but I don’t want to stay at amateur or beginner so I am watching your videos. I like your videos so far you are fair, you are a good photographer and printer, I want to make a little bit of wow, I just got a new laptop with a good screen for this hobby I want to make cards, T-shirts and crafts, folk work, but just a little better than amateur but if I could say, (sorry about your dad) I am disabled senior so less handling of the printer workings?
Thanks - Quite a range of requirements - not sure about T shirts though.
For all the printers I've tested, just check the written reviews for actual detail
www.northlight-images.co.uk/photography-articles-and-reviews/printing-paper-reviews-articles/
@@KeithCooper sorry, mostly just need the good, easy one to handle, thank you
I can't define 'easy to handle' in any meaningful way...
Hence my suggestion to look at the actual reviews - A PRO-200 is simple, but inks will cost more than an et-8550
I can hear and understand well, my hearing aid that is Bluetooth works well!
That's good - glad it's of interest...
My condolences
Thanks
Hi Keith, I watch your videos quite often! Just one tip - go slower and clearer on your introduction. If someone is new, you can’t clearly make out what you said.
Thanks - noted
@@KeithCooper Yeah Keith (no offence) but you do tend to mumble your name and business.
Always found that Keith being modest :) No problem finding that info if you want to @@Neil-Aspinall 🤣
Hi Keith. Thank you, you are absolutely a delight to follow. Ciao
@@ArneHalvorsen63 then move along. Why watch him then!
I think you need to go straight to the point 😅 to much filler on the video . Maybe a script will help
Sorry - somewhat unlikely to happen.
I find real difficulty with scripts - it is the style it is.
I do appreciate it's not to everyone's taste, but scripts, music and introductory sequences are not in the plans...
This is broadly the same style you'll get if I do a talk for a camera club, speak at a conference or teach :-)