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In the world of printers, Epson and HP certainly stand out as the best. These two companies have been dominating the printer market for years, offering high-quality printers that cater to a wide range of needs.
If you’re in the market for a new printer, it’s likely you’re considering one of these two brands. But how do you decide between an Epson and HP? What are the differences between the two printer manufacturers? Which one is better for your needs?
We’ll explore the features, specifications, and performances of both brands’ products to help you make an informed purchasing decision. Whether you’re looking for a printer for personal use, a small office, or a large business, this article will provide you with valuable details and information to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Epson Printer vs. HP: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Epson Printer | HP Printer | |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | High | High |
| Print Resolution | Up to 5,760 x 1,440p | Up to 4,800 x 1,200p |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
| Ink Cartridges | Individual color cartridges | Combo cartridges |
| Additional Features | Scanning, copying, and faxing | Scanning, copying, and faxing |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac, and Linux | Windows, Mac, and Linux |
| Price | Starting at $69.99 | Starting at $74.99 |
- Copy, scan, fax, wide-format printing up to 11x17 inches, two-sided duplex printing
- Wireless printing, AirPrint, automatic document feeder, and more great features
- Color touchscreen
- The HP Smart app allows you to easily set up your printer, scan from your smartphone, order toner, and print from the cloud—such as iCloud, Dropbox and Google Drive
- Up to 50% less cost per page than color lasers with fast print speeds, up to 22 pages per minute black
- Supports high-volume office printing with a paper input capacity of up to 500 sheets with two 250-sheet paper trays
- Use Original HP 952 & HP 952XL ink cartridges for great result print after print; original HP ink prints up to 2x the pages as refilled cartridges
- Print-shop quality — borderless prints up to 13" x 19"
- Operating Systems: Windows 10 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows 8/8.1 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows Vista (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows Server 2003 (SP2) – Windows Server 20167, Mac OS X 10.6.8 – macOS 10.12.x8
- Uses up to 80 percent less power vs. color laser printers
- 500-sheet capacity, dual trays, plus a rear feed for specialty paper; 125-sheet output tray
- Epson strongly recommends the use of Genuine Epson inks for a quality printing experience. Non Epson inks and inks not formulated for your specific printer may cause damage that is not covered by the Epson warranty.
Epson Printer vs. HP: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to choosing a printer, it’s important to consider the features and specifications that matter most to you. Let’s compare the major differences and features between of Epson and HP printers.
Print Quality
Both Epson and HP printers offer high-quality prints, but there are some differences in how they achieve this. Epson printers use advanced printing technology that delivers sharp and vivid prints, even on different types of paper. HP printers use a combination of ink and printhead technology that delivers high-quality prints with a broader range of color accuracy.
Print Speed
Epson printers have a reputation for being slower than HP printers, but this can vary depending on the model. HP printers are generally faster, especially when it comes to black-and-white prints.
Connectivity
Both Epson and HP printers offer similar connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. However, some Epson printers also offer additional connectivity options like NFC and Bluetooth, which can be useful for printing directly from mobile devices.
Ink Cartridges
One of the biggest differences between Epson and HP printers is the type of ink cartridges they use. Epson printers use individual color cartridges, which can be replaced separately when they run out. HP printers use combo cartridges that combine all the colors into one cartridge, which can be more convenient but can also result in higher ink costs.
Additional Features
Both Epson and HP printers typically always allow you to scan, copy, and fax. However, some Epson printers also offer additional features like CD/DVD printing, borderless printing, and automatic document feeders.
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Compatibility
Epson and HP printers are compatible with popular operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Linux. However, some models may have specific compatibility requirements, so it’s important to check before making a purchase.
Cost
Costs vary depending on the HP or Epson model you’re looking at and the features that are included. In general, Epson printers tend to be less expensive, especially when it comes to ink costs. However, HP printers may have a higher upfront cost, but they may also offer a better value over time with more cost-effective ink options.
Paper Handling
Epson printers are usually more versatile when it comes to handling different paper types and sizes. Many Epson printers offer adjustable paper trays and support for different paper sizes and weights, including glossy and matte papers. HP printers may have more limited paper-handling capabilities, which can be a drawback for some users.
Software and Apps
Both Epson and HP offer a range of software and apps to enhance the printing experience. Epson offers software for photo editing and management, as well as mobile printing apps that allow users to print directly from their mobile devices. HP also offers mobile printing apps and software for managing and editing photos, as well as its Smart app, which allows users to print and scan from anywhere.
Warranty
The warranty terms for Epson and HP printers can vary depending on the model and the region. Generally, both brands offer standard warranties that cover manufacturing defects and hardware malfunctions, but extended warranties and support options may also be available.
Epson Printer vs. HP: 10 Must-Know Facts
- Epson printers use PrecisionCore printhead technology that delivers sharp and vivid prints, even on different types of paper.
- HP printers use thermal inkjet technology that delivers high-quality prints with a broader range of color accuracy.
- Epson printers are generally slower than HP printers, but this can vary depending on the model.
- HP printers are generally faster, especially when it comes to black-and-white prints.
- Both Epson and HP printers offer similar connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet.
- Some Epson printers also offer additional connectivity options like NFC and Bluetooth, which can be useful for printing directly from mobile devices.
- Epson printers use individual color cartridges, which can be replaced separately when they run out. HP printers use combo cartridges that combine all the colors into one cartridge, which can be more convenient but can also result in higher ink costs.
- Both Epson and HP printers come with additional features like scanning, copying, and faxing. However, some Epson printers also offer additional features like CD/DVD printing, borderless printing, and automatic document feeders.
- Epson and HP printers are compatible with popular operating systems like Windows, Mac, and Linux. However, some models may have specific compatibility requirements, so it’s important to check before making a purchase.
- The warranty terms for Epson and HP printers can vary depending on the model and the region. Generally, both brands offer standard warranties that cover manufacturing defects and hardware malfunctions, but extended warranties and support options may also be available.
Epson vs. HP Printers: Pros and Cons
Epson
Pros
- Uses PrecisionCore printhead technology that delivers sharp and vivid prints, even on different types of paper
- High print resolution makes them ideal for printing photos and graphics
- Can be used with a wide range of paper types and sizes
- Uses individual color cartridges, which can be replaced separately when they run out, making them more cost-effective
Cons
- Generally slower than HP printers, which may not be suitable for users who need to print large volumes of documents quickly
- Can be more expensive than HP printers, depending on the model
- Some Epson printers may have a higher cost per page due to the use of individual color cartridges
HP
Pros
- Uses thermal inkjet technology that delivers high-quality prints with a broader range of color accuracy
- Generally faster than Epson printers, making them ideal for users who need to print large volumes of documents quickly
- Has a lower cost per page due to the use of combo cartridges that combine all the colors into one cartridge
- Generally more affordable than Epson printers, depending on the model
Cons
- May not be as suitable for printing high-quality photos and graphics as Epson printers
- May be less compatible with different types of paper and sizes
- May be less cost-effective over time due to the need to replace combo cartridges that combine all the colors into one cartridge, even if only one color runs out
- Copy, scan, fax, wide-format printing up to 11x17 inches, two-sided duplex printing
- Wireless printing, AirPrint, automatic document feeder, and more great features
- Color touchscreen
- The HP Smart app allows you to easily set up your printer, scan from your smartphone, order toner, and print from the cloud—such as iCloud, Dropbox and Google Drive
- Up to 50% less cost per page than color lasers with fast print speeds, up to 22 pages per minute black
- Supports high-volume office printing with a paper input capacity of up to 500 sheets with two 250-sheet paper trays
- Use Original HP 952 & HP 952XL ink cartridges for great result print after print; original HP ink prints up to 2x the pages as refilled cartridges
- Print-shop quality — borderless prints up to 13" x 19"
- Operating Systems: Windows 10 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows 8/8.1 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows 7 (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows Vista (32-bit, 64-bit), Windows Server 2003 (SP2) – Windows Server 20167, Mac OS X 10.6.8 – macOS 10.12.x8
- Uses up to 80 percent less power vs. color laser printers
- 500-sheet capacity, dual trays, plus a rear feed for specialty paper; 125-sheet output tray
- Epson strongly recommends the use of Genuine Epson inks for a quality printing experience. Non Epson inks and inks not formulated for your specific printer may cause damage that is not covered by the Epson warranty.
Epson vs. HP Printers: Which is Better for You?
Choosing between an Epson and HP printer ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize high-quality prints, a high print resolution, and additional features like CD/DVD printing and borderless printing, then an Epson printer may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed, affordability, and a lower cost per page, then an HP printer may be the better choice for you.
Both brands offer high-quality printers with a range of features and capabilities, so it’s important to consider all the factors before making a decision.
