See the main review and index of all 8550 and 8500 videos at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ ICC Profiles available on request. Please just ask if you've any questions? Don't forget the full categorised index of all my videos at www.northlight-images.co.uk/keith-cooper-photography-videos-index/ If you'd like to make a small donation towards my testing, I have a Kofi page: "Buy me a coffee" ko-fi.com/keithcooper
I hadn't registered that the ET-8550 has a scanner (I already have 2 stand-alone high quality page scanners, one with sheet feeder and that makes an 8550 less attractive, plus photographic scanners). So I have tried to figure out what makes it attractive (as you say, ink costs). And I came to a conclusion - your mileage will vary, special prices, cashback, whatever. Based on different sources of ink consumption also, because why would a manufacturer specify with product B what they specify with A. With all those disclaimers, a photo print at default settings (whatever that may be) in ink costs only, for the ET-8550 as reference (i.e. 100%): ET-8550 100% SC-P700 565% SC-P700 524% SC-P900 371% SC-P900 335% Pro-1000 430% This is just printing photos and excludes the costs of ink consumption in "cleaning cycles", excludes "maintenance cartridge" (a dump for ink used to clean the pipes) replacement, purchasing, actual maintenance, office space, energy, etc. and excludes time to calibrate and figure it all out. Because of the scanner, the ET-8550 is not cheap, but the difference in ink costs is huge. It's a pity they don't offer an A2 version too. And, I have not tried to figure out how long the prints will last if you frame them and hang them on the wall.
The ink costs are what does it for many - that coupled with it being easier to experiment with for people when getting into printing. Sure, if you already have a warehouse of kit then less so - it is always a case of 'it depends' - I just found that it appeals to a big chunk of people. It is also the printer which most surpassed my initial expectations, and unlike the smaller Canon G series it has working colour management on Macs
I really appreciate your work. It was on your original video of this printer that I bought it. In the years I’ve owned it I’ve won many photo competitions at my photography club (including mono prints too) . It’s so good and so affordable to run too!
Awesome to hear! Your original review of the 8550 was part of the reason I ended up going with the printer when deciding what to buy. I have loved using it, and the quality has been great.
Thank you so much for your videos. Had this printer for a year now, I've printed photos, greeting cards, posters, stickers, inks are still more than half full. Once I figured out the "AirPrint" problem and used your printer profiles (took a bit of trial & error) and got myself some high quality paper, I never looked back. And I would consider myself a novice printer. I even designed and printed the "Save the Dates" for my brother in law's wedding. Could not be happier.
I took delivery of mine on Sunday and your videos were perfect for the setup. First prints looked great out of the box (with calibration) iPhone setup guide was better than I expected. I’m looking forward to the new videos.
I purchased one about two months ago after watching your video on the ET-8550. I have printed at least 40 A4 photos on Lustre paper and the original inks are still 75% full. Some were a little on the dark side (my fault) but with the printer being so economical on ink i had no concerns with trial and error prints. Even after a week without the printer being used the photo came out flawless. Love this printer and would highly recommend to anyone undecided. Thank you for all your work on these videos Keith 👏
My friend and I were searching for a printer to help with setting up an online print business. Your initial reviews and testing of this printer is what got us hooked on this Epson ET8550. From set up to daily use. This is a great printer and your video review really helped us. So thank you for your diligent work 👍🏽❤️
After having watched your many excellent videos about the 8550, I've taken the plunge, and am having one being delivered tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to printing some of my photos in A3 for the first time. I've just got to find which papers I prefer now. Again, your videos on choosing paper, and your free test charts will be a big help.
Hello, I found your channel because I'm thinking about a printer, between the 18100 and 8550 models. I've watched all the tests you have on your site (more time), the moral is that I've stopped listening to music at work and I always have to play your channel. I was also considering the sc-p900 model but those are different prices in use. You're doing a great job.!
Thank you for doing even more content on the 8550! We have two ET8550s and they’re working perfectly for our sticker business! The ink lasts around 1000 pages of full colour stickers printed so works out nice and cheap. People are ALWAYS commenting on our colour vibrancy and accuracy too. The only downside for us is the potential scoring/Indentation that it makes in the rear feeder with papers as thin as 200gsm. We have definitely found papers that work well, the 300gsm semi-gloss pinnacle pre-scored card being one of the best greeting card stocks that barely get indented. PPD 280gsm satin lustre paper for prints that doesn’t get ANY indentation and a few others. But they’re far and few between unfortunately. However for our general purposes not the end of the world since we laminate most things. We don’t have a ICC profile currently for our sticker vinyl but may look to get one in future. We’ve also been using third party inks in one of our 8550s and epsons in the other. There is a difference. Not in the actual hue of colours but the intensity and depth of colour, it’s much less vibrant with third party inks. The Photo Black is however a slightly different shade when it comes to third party. Epsons ink sides to more of a burgundy brown black, whereas third party tends to side towards a navy blueish black. But for £22 for 6 bottles of 70ml ink… you can’t go wrong. We still like to keep a full tank of Epson for prints however. Overall have loved our 8550s and your reviews Keith had a massive sway on what we invested in. And you gave great advice, guidance and suggestions!
If you could spare some sheets of the vinyl, I'd be happy to look at doing a profile - I've never tested one where the ink actually dried properly. Email me at Northlight?
Well, i took delivery of this printer, and i noticed two of the box corners were a bit bashed in. Unpackaged it, and the white polystyrene on that side was cracked. So thanks Amazon for that! Fingers crossed it works properly. In process of setting it up.
Hi Keith! New to your channel, already learning a lot about printing! Can't wait for more updated infos about this ET-8550! My questions: Any improvement on the roll imprints on some papers/printers? I heard a firmware update fixed the issue. And: I would love to duplex print without borders! The manual says it doesn't support it, maybe it does? Hope this special one fits in your time schedules, thank you so much! Would love to get one, still not 100% in for it.
Glad it's of interest - check the main written review for any updates [profiles for example] www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ No, firmware only addressed issues with paper take-up. Some papers don't go so well some printers [the two I've tested were OK - it's one of my 'will I accept this new printer' tests] No - borderless and duplex isn't physically possible with a printer like this. [or any printer of the type I look at]
@@KeithCooper Thanks so much for this great answer, coffe incoming! 🙂 I will accept the borders on my duplex prints, if you say they're all similar with it. Win is the ICC profiles and great photo prints at a much lower cost than Canonballs! Diving into that link now, thanks!!
I have had this printer for about 3 months. I must admit that the quality is there and economical. I use Permajet matte 240 and glossy 280 papers. The profiles are good, but too much density in the mid tones - 10% for b/w I convert to level of gray this avoids false colors I recommend this machine.
This is great news, Keith! I am getting myself the ET-8550 for Christmas and I will need all the help I can get to set it up and start printing. For starters, since I use an iMac 2017 for all my photo editing, I will be looking at your tutorial on how to properly set the printer up. Thank you!
Excellent - I'll be setting it up on my new MacBook Pro later [Mac OS 15.1]. I already have a video covering the ink fill and things like that, so this will be looking more at setting up for Karen's office!
I have a ET-8550, it is great and ink is not expensive, the quality is very nice. The output tray is Brocken put I just pull it out, I think it has come off the gears inside of course it can’t be opened.
Hi Keith. Thank you once again for this I own this printer 2 years now. It has served me pretty well printing postcards, regular paper and fine art paper as well mainly Fotospeed and Hahnemuhle.The only issue I have is that when I print fineart papers of thickness over 280gm, from left and right side of the print If notice closely I see two straight lines from top to bottom. My believe is that is caused from the rollers feeding out the paper. Many thanks
Could you please tell us what paper configuration we use to ensure that only pigmented black is used? Maybe Plain paper, gray color and optimal quality?
See the discussion in the written review, which discusses this - nothing uses 'only' the pigment black AFAIK www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hello Keith, Nice to see that you're revisiting this little gem. As you already know, mine's been whirring since the end of August and the results are beyond my expectations by quite a bit. The bar was already set high by using the SP-3800 for years before, which rendered beautiful work. Now, the only little-bit nagging doubt are the output roller marks. When viewing a print from normal viewing angles, they're invisible. But from extremer angles, against suitable light, I can see two fine lines running through the inked surface. Since yesterday, I own two 5600K Kaiser LED lights (the one you reviewed for tabletop work a few years ago). Those are plenty bright and reveal the lines more clearly -- including a finely dotted pattern. Again, invisible under more normal lighting. So, this would be my question -- as you asked for: up to where should I just live with them as inevitable on a printer of this build type, as I did up to now, and where should the "unacceptable, so warranty claim" line be drawn? I do look forward to your new/intended ET-8550 series; keep up your useful work! Cheers, HZ PS To be complete, so far I'm using Epson OEM paper (Premium Semigloss A4 and A3+ sheets).
Keith, thanks for your fine review work. I'm hoping you will get a chance to test a couple of Epson's Legacy papers - possibly Platine and/or Fiber? I think both are outside of Epson's recommendations (weight/thickness), but I'm still curious,
Not papers I've ever seen - are these US ones? I've tested quite a few 'better' printers in my original review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@@pmorelli Oh, I know of the name - they are a US product. Hence not available here for me to test/use. Similar to 'Exhibition Fiber' being US branding [and spelling...] - TPP here I was able to test some Red River papers recently - but only because they shipped them to me. They support the 8550 with profiles and given Epson don't make 'their own' papers I'd look somewhere like RR if I had an 8550 in the US?
Your original review and frustration with drm is why I eventually changed from a Pro 10 to this. It's been super reliable even with Canon paper. I wish they had an A2 size too.
Yes, a question. Since I'll only print a few photos a week or month, do you have to run it regularly to keep the print head from clogging? On my ET 4750 (office printer) it seems one of the colors might dry up if not used for a month or two, as it's mostly used for B&W. Thanks.
Keith, I bought my et-8550 a little over two years ago based on your reviews and I could not be happier. As I recall you later did a review on a et- 18000, or something like that. Did Epson ever release that one? Have never seen it in the US. Thanks for your help.
Nice purchase :-) I bought one after you original review and love it... I bought a spare set of inks and maintenance cartridge on purchase as I wasn't sure on the reality of how long the inks would last... I am still on the original inks except the Grey, which seems to be used a lot more than the rest for colour adjustment. I have printed some good negatives for Cyanotypes on this also. Great printer and I look forward to your further investigations into its use.
I’ve had this printer for over a year, and it’s been excellent. I also managed to get an i1Pro 2 at a good price and created custom profiles for it. In my experience, this printer performs exceptionally well with fine art papers from Hahnemühle and Canson, as long as I use custom profiles. One thing I’ve noticed: the black-and-white mode doesn’t work well with fine art papers-it tends to produce greenish tones. However, when printing in color using ICC profiles, the black-and-white output is fantastic. On the other hand, the BW mode works flawlessly on luster and glossy papers.
Yes - profiling is the key. It's why I syggest people look for papers from suppliers who provide/maje them. Your B&W results match what I've covered in the B&W section of the main written review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ Can be excellent, but needs care...
I love the Printer Profiles you made available for download. The only profile I am missing is for the Epson Premium Presentation Paper MATTE. I have the Epson installed profile but your's are significantly larger file size so I suspect they are more accurate.......Brian
This is very timely - I've just bought a new M4 iMac with Sequoia 15.1 and all I'm getting for connecting to this printer is "Air-Print", so the sooner you can give advice on this the better!!
There is a default airprint printer installed - you need to go to add printer and then select software - there will be a list of printers with the et-8550 at the top of the list - this needs selecting Just done it on my 15.1 MBP - worked perfectly - I rename the airprint one to keep it in the list - with a 'z' at the start to shove it to the bottom of the list. I will be covering this in a video but not until later in the week
Thank you for your very informative videos. What are your thoughts on using an ET-8550 with all pigment inks from manufacturers like Farbenwerk in Europe and Precision Colors in the US? I intend to do that to print digital negatives for alternative processes, and was wondering if you had insights on the subject. Thanks!
Thanks - Not on any printer I'd actually paid for... I'll take the 5 year warranty thanks ;-) My general thoughts are that if you want a pigment ink printer, buy a pigment ink printer...
I bought this printer before seeing your videos and after watching them I was so glad that my research beforehand wasn't wasted. Far from it as it is a brilliant printer and I am now printing more photos than I ever did. My question is: should it be turned off after use? I don't because it takes far too long to register on my network and the Connection Checker runs most of the time.
@@KeithCooper Yes butr I don't know if it is also on Apple. It was included in the software bundle from Epson Support when I downloaded the driver, etc.
The 8550 and 8500 have been on my radar for a while now (thanks to Keith's excellent review). For those who have owned them long-term, could you share your experiences regarding their reliability? Do the nozzles tend to clog if the machine isn't used for a few months? Is the print quality consistent over time?
I'd just note that leaving any inkjet unused for months is not a good thing. With this one I will set a dairy reminder for 3 weeks to run off a nozzle check on plain paper if it's not been used. However, since it will also be Karen's office printer, that's less likely.
I bought the L8180 which is the same as the ET8550 except that's what it's called here in Mexico. Despite the bad reviews I've read about this product online regarding the fact that it fails a lot, at least it hasn't failed for me. The only drawback I can say is that it's quite noisy when pulling the sheets from the rear or lower tray.
This is great - glad you still see this as a viable printer - I bought one based on your review. I’m having trouble with colour casts on my black & white prints though with some of my existing stock of high quality, non-Epson papers. I’d love to see your recommendations of paper and settings (and maybe profiles?) for matt, semi-gloss and gloss prints for black & white and colour printing in A4 and A3. Also, how the heck to use the ICC profiles if they’re recommended (!). Love your channel 👍🏻
Thanks - Did you read the B&W section of the main review? I cover this in detail - in particular noting that not one B&W print made with a profile gave me better results than using the ABW print mode. www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ Remember that for me, my videos are supplements to any written stuff ;-) ...Given I've now been asked about profiles for B&W a few times, I suspect I'll be doing a new video about B&W!
@ Thanks Keith - yes I did read that and followed your instructions to use ABW printing. That’s why I was questioning whether your advice was still the same re the use of profiles. I think you’re suggesting to only use profiles for colour prints. The results I got using the Epson Layout software with ABW were much better than my initial attempts - so thanks for that. But only with Epson paper - I was still getting a strong (blue) colour cast on my hahnemuhle paper. Seems I need to invest in some different papers for this printer but I’m unsure which papers give best results. Will stick to Epson papers for now I think.
Yes, profiles for colour. The B/W colour cast can be dialled out to some extent with the ABW tone adjustments, but yes some papers just don't work so well [see the example with the Hahnemuhle paper in the written review] Now I've got a printer back here, I'll do some more testing.
What paper do you recommend for this printer? I'm a film photographer and would love to print myself but also would like to print my own zines as well. Thank you!
See the papers I tested in the main [written review] lots of different photo paper styles As to 'zines' ... no idea. Just note that double sided printing is limited to relatively light paper and has larger margin requirements. www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hi Keith. I purchased an 8500 about 2 years ago. I'm still using the supplied ink and the level is around 50%. Should I top up the ink with fresh or keep using it until the level is near the re-fill mark? ..... Brian
I'm struggling to print on envelopes using the et8550. Gets caught and chewed up each time. I'm doing the right settings both on my iPad and printer control panel and it keeps getting caught in the back rollers, when I've used both cassette 2 and rear feed. Help!
Not sure about this - I've never [ever actually] tried printing an envelope. I can see how the cassette wouldn't work - too much bending. Have you tried putting a few sheets of plain paper behind one at the top? Also try feeding backwards - just remember to invert the print [not even sure if this can be done]
In a Mac, the disk does have the URL for the installer on it, but no actual software. It might be more that CD drives have not been common on Macs for years
Hi your videos are very informative. Looking at buying this in a Black Friday sale in Canada from Best Buy this weekend where I can just go pick it up. Is it better to buy directly from Espon, worried about it being shipped. Should I buy the extended warranty from this retailer for another 4 years. I dont see anything on Espon website that it extends it to 5 years in Cansda just 2 years if you register it.
Thanks - I don't know what that extended warranty covers or for how much. My feeling is that if you use it much, any faults should appear in the 2 years, just give it a thorough test when you get it...
I really love my ET-8550. Still on the first set of ink and have printed nearly 2,000 greetings cards and invitations which I design on Affinity Designer and Affinity Publisher. The quality is great. Have even printed business cards on it (a bit fiddly to be honest). Also print on envelopes too. I'm still learning about profiles and paper types (Affinity seems to have twigged my printer and there are profiles available at page set up).
I just purchased some Inkpress Media Pro Matte Canvas paper (13"x19" from B&H), to experiment with my 8550. At the moment, I don't even know which side to print on. Any info re canvas printing would be appreciated. And just FYI, I found your channel while researching my 8550 purchase, and I have never missed one of your videos since. Turns out I also shoot Fuji GFX, and since I'm a physicist, I especially appreciate your logical and well reasoned insight. Thanks for your efforts.
Thanks - See the mention of canvas printing in the main written review. That's canvas, not a paper BTW - what is sometimes called 'Canvas paper' is just a textured paper. www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ There is a video for this and one for the similar et-8500 too
Hi Keith! In your comparison video between the ET-8550 and the ET-18100 you clearly said that the 18100 was the obvious choice for printing in glossy RC papers. I hope that you could tell us how far behind is the 8550 on such prints, if at all? Are they comparable or is one obviously worse than the other? (I really would prefer to get the 8550 for the better b&w prints but do not want to sacrifice the quality of ALL my color prints to get that )
Likely not in a way many would notice, in print quality. The benefit of the 8550 is the mixed ink set and the flexibility it gives in paper choice. The 8550 does lots of things well - the 18100 does one thing a bit better. The fact we spent money on an 8550 is my real answer ;-)
Having started with a Canon G550 to learn the basics, and having printed almost a thousand pictures with the factory ink (great return of investment!), would this be a good upgrade route? I'd like to go bigger than A4, but it would be mostly for myself, as I haven't even paid for the little G550 with photography, it was worth the 100€ just for learning
I'd suggest yes. The inkset is different, but see the main written review for how this affects paper choices www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Keith, I like your effort to offer good review.s on printers. However, on Amazon there are complaints on the Epson ET 8550 leaving marks on several types of paper. Dan
Yes - I'll not usually read reviews on Amazon or any site selling kit. It's a serious issue in that you've no idea of the experience or competence of people [if they exist] writing such stuff. I may use it in areas I'm not expert in to guide further research, but my experience of 'reviews' in areas I do know about gives me a hefty degree of skepticism ;-) This is why I'm really emphasising checking any new printer.
Hi Keith. I recently hunted down a list of all the firmware updates for the ET8550, which contained explanations of all the various changes to each version. Now I'll be damned if I can find it! Just wondering if you may have found that list as well? I'm fairly sure it came from a Japanese site. Still looking - - - - Oh, yeah, my current version is OP1408. Thanks
Excellent - the lack of support initially was partly because no-one at Epson thought to market this printer at higher end art/photo printing... just 'phone pix'
First, I want to thank you for all of the videos around this printer ! They were really helpful to help me choose whether i would buy an ET-8550 or not ! I wanted to know if you tried to print black and white images on fine art paper ? If yes, did you get good results ? And how do you choose fine art paper (for colour or b&w prints) ? You choose pretty heavy paper but then you need to choose the graining of the paper probably ?
Hello, congratulations on your site, I learned a lot thanks to you. Can you tell me which .ICC profile to use with the Epson "Traditional Phot paper" (soft gloss 235 g/m2) ? I use the Royal gloss 310 .ICC profile from Permajet I could not find the traditional photo paper in the list of paper types in the EPL menu Merci d'avance de Paris :- )
Yes, that is covered in my original main review. It comes from how the paper is fed through the printer. It's a common occurrence with any printer [usually larger ones] with such a feed - mostly covered when I look at using posterboard on some printers
I also would like to know how much space is needed to be able to print without using the flat feeder on the back of the printer - which I will probably never use. Thank you.
The footprint is nominally 532mm x 379mm. I have a detailed look at this in my original review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hi Keith, thanks a lot for your content! This printer is theoretically exceptional considering the print quality at this print cost. Unfortunately, it seems like there is no uniformity among units and many printers with roller marks and other issues are present. I was forced to send back mine due to anomalous little scratches on every print. Also, roller marks were present even if they were barely noticeable. I’m not gonna buy a new one probably. I read about so many people facing issues with this printer. Hoping for a better quality uniformity for the next model.
Yes - this wasn't helped by initial quality issues, with the printer being launched in the midst of covid. I'll be checking this new one very carefully...
Mine was actually a recent one: I bought it some weeks ago from a pretty famous reseller, so I assume it was a unit recently produced (I didn’t check it). Unfortunately, my guess is that quality assurance issues are still present. Hope your printer is fine!
thought i'd add, i've also printed lunchbags for the kids and had good results. Don't forget the thick paper checkbox. Sorry, i don't recall if i used the rear feeder or the back-panel feed!
Keith, I recently had a software update to my ET-8550 and some of the standard Epson paper types appear to have vanished. I am sure I used to use an Epson Matte setting, but that is no longer there. I used that for Fotospeed Matt Ultra 240 and Epson Heavy Weight Matte. Any advice on the current options would be appreciated. I think it was your tip to use Velvet Fine Art for Fotospeed Matt Baryta, which changed my experience 100%; colour that was quite wishy-washy is now deep and vibrant. Nearly 3 years of regular use and I am still loving the 8550.
Excellent - I think that 'VFA use' tip is one of the best 'print quality' ones I've found in all my printer testing! I'll have a look at what appears in the options when set up
Hi Keith, I hope you are well, just purchased this after watching all the reviews you have done. All set up and unfortunately can see track marks on the print, is this something you have come across at all?
I haven't, but others have - on a new printer I would be minded to contact Epson Note that they will ask if it's on Epson paper... this is No.1 on the list of fobbing you off ;-) Worth checking [any printer] on OEM paper just to be sure.
@ thank you so much h for the quick response, yes that was the next step, I have used fotospeed various papers so far, all the same results unfortunately, even tried the thick paper setting and still there. Such a shame as some people are having no issues at all, and tbh looking at your reviews on it I was so happy to get this. To others it maybe ok but just like a pixel peeping I know it’s there now. Thanks again really have been such a help for me starting up and learning more and more
Hi! and thanks for your efforts! I've printed banners up to 13x39" and been thrilled with the results(RedRiver paper). Have you any idea of the longest length i can print? Epson had no answer for me, they responded with info i already have.
Hi Keith. Hopefully your Epson contacts can help with this. There's now an "Epson Print Layout Software FOR LARGE FORMAT PRINTERS" on the Epson UK site, and "Epson Print Layout Software" on the Epson US site. The file names are different and maybe the version numbers. Do you know if they are supposed to be the same thing or is one better than the other for the ET-8550? Thanks.
Ignore what different bits of Epson says and just download whatever is the newest you find. The people who write the web copy just produce what marketing tell them - there is a list of 'supported' printers somewhere, which is incomplete and wrong in equal measures.
I just bought one and my issue is how to use the scanner and save the images in TIFF. It says that it can only save in black and white in tiff. I am trying to scan in my watercolor paintings, many that are slightly bigger than the scanner, so I have to scan them in and then go to a program where I can stitch the scan together before I print. I was really hoping to list several prints before this Friday when everyone goes shopping. But from the video I have seen it suggest 600 dpi and .tif or .tiff. I’m so disappointed this is more complicated when I thought spending this much might make a smoother experience. I have sold the originals that I want to scan in and thy need to be mailed out, so this is another reason I’m stressed. I may try scanning one in smaller that I don’t have to stitch and see what it looks like printed in something besides tiff until I can learn this. I’m sure at some point I’ll be willing to pay someone a little to help me although I’m living on so check at the moment so that is hard too. Took me forever to afford this printer!
@ thank you I as panicking a bit as I needed to mail these out. I was able to scan them in at least, but not in tiff. I will take time to read what you suggest and see if I can find out more
I've already covered this in many different ways - you question covers far too wide a range of printers, without sufficient constraints for what I'd consider a meaningful simple answer.
Here is another thing that makes no sense... this 8550 printer has FOUR paper feeds... yet when trying to print anything from my Mac computer and I use Epsons own photo software it only offers me 2 of them, Cassette 2 or REAR.. I can not choose Cassettes 1 at all. Why is this? How on earth do I choose cassette 1? When I try to print on quality paper from Source 1 it just spits my print out on the cheap thin paper in the front bottom source cassette. So frustrating.
Pick both the size and type of paper - I'll give our new one a check over to see if there are any special requirements BUT not until I've re-read the Mac printing section of the manual!
Did you see the specific papers I tested, in the main written review? www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ I don't have any arches papers...
It appears to be a great printer but many like myself suffered with the lines (pizza cutter) and marks being put into the paper of all types and sizes.
Hi Keith! Thank you for these videos. I recently purchased one of these after having watched your videos on them (among other videos on your channel.) Do you know anything about the printer continously printing everything at a slanted angle? I've only done about 10-15 test prints so far, with 10x15 paper, a4, and a3+, and I've noticed that it seems really difficult for me to print completely straight on the paper. I have been using the Epson print layout program, trying both with and without frames. I've tried doing the alignment setup a couple of times and seem to get a good result when doing those, but everything I've printed so far has come out at a slight slant. Apart from one print, the last time I tried, when I printed straight from Photoshop instead of Epson print layout (or whatever the program is called). Do you have any advice on this? Could my printer be faulty, or is this a known issue that I'm just not clever enough to figure out on my own?
I have the same problem of everything above A4 size printing slanted. I returned the first printer because of it but the replacement is exactly the same, so I have learned to live with it. I got into conversation with a couple of people on the Epson subreddit who also have this issue, one is on their third 8550 and all printed slanted. It is clearly not a widespread issue because more users would be complaining of it.
@@KeithCooper I've now been in contact with Epson support, and unfortunately I seem to have hit a brick wall here: "We have received an update to your case from our technical department. The printer varies where it takes up to 3 millimeters. Unfortunately, it is not possible to improve the print placement further." I can print with full cover when using expansion, if I'm okay with losing a few millimetres from each side of the picture. My other workaround will have to be to either save the pictures with white borders directly in Photoshop, or to use wider border settings in the print program. I bought this printer to make test prints mainly, to help better decide what I send away to get printed for real, so this doesn't bother me too too much. It is a bit disappointing though. Just thought I'd share for some sort of posterity, in case anyone else experiences the same problem.
@@fnicl Thanks for letting me know. As I say, I have learned to live with it, and print now with wide borders so I can trim if need be. I would say some of the slants on my prints have been more than 3 millimeters though. I just don't understand why some users experience this issue with more than one 8550 (including me) yet most users never complain of it. Odd. I hope you can still enjoy your printer regardless :)
Hi Keith, I want to sell framed prints of digital art (not photos). How long would you estimate the prints would last before fading? As I'm not too bothered about colour accuracy, would I be better off investing in a Ecotank pigment printer? Thanks
Wilhelm Research recently published some longevity estimates for the current Claria ET inkset: www.wilhelm-research.com/epson/WIR_Epson_EcoTank_Photo_ET-8500_and_ET-8550_Printers_2024-08-09.pdf Compare with their estimates for the Epson UltraChrome PRO10 pigment inks used in the P700 and P900: www.wilhelm-research.com/epson/WIR_Epson_SureColor_P700_and_P900_Printers_2021_07_23.pdf
Thanks for your reply Keith. As a subscriber have have already searched and watch many of you past videos hoping to find an answer hoping to find an answer to this very question . Could you please tell me which video you are referring to? Thankyou
@@zendreammusic Sorry, YT is really difficult to use/find specific stuff - it's why I created the categorised index at: www.northlight-images.co.uk/keith-cooper-photography-videos-index/ It's also at the bottom of the 8550 videos list in the main review www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
@KeithCooper Im asking you sir, Because I searched on Google about this and found that there are some stores that say it is compatible, but I did not find any video on UA-cam explaining that.
That‘s great. My first printer was the Pro 300 (very happy) and for 1 month I also have the ET 8550 to do more affordable printing. I noticed when printing on it, the border on A4 is around 1mm off, so on one side more and on the other less, not that noticeable but still not perfect. But when I print 10x15cm prints, the borders are way more off or at least noticeable. When I tried Hahnemühle Photo Fineart Cards (285gsm) the problem was huge, this appears be because of the rounded corners. There was also ink spill on the front top where the printer grabs the paper, also a damaged spots. I think the 1mm off is margin of error from the manufacturer, but is there anything to calibrate it or fix it with printing the rounded photo cards? I also tried borderless with the Hahnemühle provided A4 Template for the cards, but the printer still damages the card where it grabs it on the top. Any help appreciated
Said it before and saying it again, thanks for your reviews. Based on your reviews I purchased an 8550 in 2021, learned a lot about printing and have been able to bring most of our printing in house. Request for Questions - I am experiencing a periodic issue with paper not feeding in the Rear Paper Feeder. (Front trays feed ok.) This can occur when single or multiple sheets of Ultra Premium Presentation Matte paper are loaded in the feeder. The paper is always stored in the original package. Thick paper is not turned on but was tested with the same results. What does seem to help is to remove and reload the paper, either a single sheet or multiple sheets. Question - any chance this is a maintenance issue? Thanks
Roller marks on glossy paper seems to smth that is a huge problem for this printer I ve exchange 3 of them from same shop Epson told me to get refund and use other shop instead Packaging wasn't damaged 1 was tested in shop and same thing once it touches gloss its full of roller marks
@KeithCooper i ll get other one from fotospeed but i cant see that that will help As 3 printers did same thing once its on gloss its rollers on it And doesn't metter what paper cheap expensive epson 180gsm or 250gsm Matt satin or other no probs If other one come like this i ll take it apart and remove them as i don't see why they are in use Someone told me that they are for cd 's Leave only 2 rollers on both ends
Nope - this specific printer paid for by our business... Same goes for my work camera gear. Whilst I'm happy to use loan equipment for reviews, since I simply cannot afford to buy stuff [such as the Fujifilm 500mm f/5.6 I'm currently looking at], we've never accepted payment from anyone, nor does anyone get control over what we say. The reviews here complement the ones on the Northlight Images web site - on the site, they date back some 20 years.
I also bought one half a year ago. As for clogging it's a nightmare in comparison to Canon Pro-100! Surely, I hadn't been using it very often but I couldn't have imagined that print test can become worse and worse after each cleaning cycle. And I still can't unclog the BK channel... After experiencing the fail of printing on 8550 I sent the job to my trusty Pro-100 that I hadn't used for a few months at all. It printed perfectly as always.
Consider yourself unlucky - this simply does not equate with the experiences I hear from many others [using OEM ink]. This new one will get used every week and if I get any signs of clogging in the first year I will be surprised. No way would I swap it for a 200, even less a 100
@KeithCooper @KeithCooper after hearing so many praising words about 8550 I also thought it could replace my Pro-100 some day. However, it turned out it's good only for not demanding tasks. I prefer the quality of prints from Pro-100 much more. For example, I wouldn't even try to 'waste' expensive baryta papers on 8550. Prints look 'grainier' and the colours are not as lively. Now it looks like Epson also failed in maintainance field. Sure, at least for me.
Yes paper/media choice and good profiling are vital - as I noted in the review, some baryta papers are not best performing on this printer. I'll be testing some more to clarify this. That said, printer choice is a personal matter - I found the margin limitations of the pro-100 on some media types quite irksome for example, when I reviewed it many years ago.
@@KeithCooper there are easy workarounds to the margin limitations. It's not a problem anymore. The Pro-100's print quality is just amazing! In close up comparisons, the smoothness and colour rendition is even better than from Pro-1000! I have tried about 30+ quite expensive papers. If the inkjet coating is good, prints on all of them, including rag matte papers, look stunning! The only surprise I've got was with the Hahnemuhle Photo Rag Metallic. I had big expectations on it but my prints look rather dull. I wanted to try the pigment BK ink on 8550 but it's clogged :)
Yes - a fine printer, in its day, but those tiny ink carts and general interface never really endeared it to me. But it's always what works for you - the 8550 has clear advantages for many, but yours obviously failed. Anyway both are simply too small for my personal liking - the 8550 is here for Karen not me [even if I do some experiments with it]
The most problematic printer I have ever had. Setting up the cartridge for 6 colors is a difficult and time-consuming process. I got tired of setting it up every time before printing. Replaced with another model 15000
Maybe, but I just cannot agree - it is exceedingly simple to set up with the supplied inks Why would you need to set things up before printing? Load paper, print - that's it?
@@artunyc354 Yes - your et-8550 printer isn't, it's faulty. Sorry, but your experiences are an unfortunate outlier - if someone asked, I'd still suggest the et-8550 over the xp-15000 any day
Hope it goes well, we kept ours even though it leaves some smudges on thicker paper (don't active Thick Paper setting, it ruined the edges and didn't fix anything for us).
See the main review and index of all 8550 and 8500 videos at www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/ ICC Profiles available on request. Please just ask if you've any questions? Don't forget the full categorised index of all my videos at www.northlight-images.co.uk/keith-cooper-photography-videos-index/ If you'd like to make a small donation towards my testing, I have a Kofi page: "Buy me a coffee" ko-fi.com/keithcooper
As I remember you said that the Epson P700 makes better prints on art paper and it last longer ?
I hadn't registered that the ET-8550 has a scanner (I already have 2 stand-alone high quality page scanners, one with sheet feeder and that makes an 8550 less attractive, plus photographic scanners).
So I have tried to figure out what makes it attractive (as you say, ink costs).
And I came to a conclusion - your mileage will vary, special prices, cashback, whatever.
Based on different sources of ink consumption also, because why would a manufacturer specify with product B what they specify with A.
With all those disclaimers, a photo print at default settings (whatever that may be) in ink costs only, for the ET-8550 as reference (i.e. 100%):
ET-8550 100%
SC-P700 565%
SC-P700 524%
SC-P900 371%
SC-P900 335%
Pro-1000 430%
This is just printing photos and excludes the costs of ink consumption in "cleaning cycles", excludes "maintenance cartridge" (a dump for ink used to clean the pipes) replacement, purchasing, actual maintenance, office space, energy, etc. and excludes time to calibrate and figure it all out.
Because of the scanner, the ET-8550 is not cheap, but the difference in ink costs is huge. It's a pity they don't offer an A2 version too.
And, I have not tried to figure out how long the prints will last if you frame them and hang them on the wall.
yes p700 is fully pigment ink [and more inks] - ink costs are higher though
The ink costs are what does it for many - that coupled with it being easier to experiment with for people when getting into printing.
Sure, if you already have a warehouse of kit then less so - it is always a case of 'it depends' - I just found that it appeals to a big chunk of people.
It is also the printer which most surpassed my initial expectations, and unlike the smaller Canon G series it has working colour management on Macs
What a brilliant channel. Such detailed and unbiased content from a clearly knowledgeable contributor. Keep up the great work and thank you.
Thanks, will do!
I really appreciate your work. It was on your original video of this printer that I bought it. In the years I’ve owned it I’ve won many photo competitions at my photography club (including mono prints too) . It’s so good and so affordable to run too!
Glad I could help - It's the only printer I've ever specifically 'recommended' so worth spending some of my own cash...
Awesome to hear! Your original review of the 8550 was part of the reason I ended up going with the printer when deciding what to buy. I have loved using it, and the quality has been great.
Thanks - glad to have helped
Thank you so much for your videos. Had this printer for a year now, I've printed photos, greeting cards, posters, stickers, inks are still more than half full. Once I figured out the "AirPrint" problem and used your printer profiles (took a bit of trial & error) and got myself some high quality paper, I never looked back. And I would consider myself a novice printer. I even designed and printed the "Save the Dates" for my brother in law's wedding. Could not be happier.
Excellent - glad to have been of help!
I took delivery of mine on Sunday and your videos were perfect for the setup. First prints looked great out of the box (with calibration) iPhone setup guide was better than I expected. I’m looking forward to the new videos.
Excellent - I've a few new papers to test as well...
I purchased one about two months ago after watching your video on the ET-8550. I have printed at least 40 A4 photos on Lustre paper and the original inks are still 75% full. Some were a little on the dark side (my fault) but with the printer being so economical on ink i had no concerns with trial and error prints. Even after a week without the printer being used the photo came out flawless. Love this printer and would highly recommend to anyone undecided. Thank you for all your work on these videos Keith 👏
Thanks - glad the info has been of use!
My friend and I were searching for a printer to help with setting up an online print business. Your initial reviews and testing of this printer is what got us hooked on this Epson ET8550. From set up to daily use. This is a great printer and your video review really helped us. So thank you for your diligent work 👍🏽❤️
Glad I could help!
After having watched your many excellent videos about the 8550, I've taken the plunge, and am having one being delivered tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to printing some of my photos in A3 for the first time. I've just got to find which papers I prefer now. Again, your videos on choosing paper, and your free test charts will be a big help.
Have fun!
I bought one after your first review of the printer. Still very satisfied :)
Thanks - Great to hear!
Hello, I found your channel because I'm thinking about a printer, between the 18100 and 8550 models. I've watched all the tests you have on your site (more time), the moral is that I've stopped listening to music at work and I always have to play your channel. I was also considering the sc-p900 model but those are different prices in use. You're doing a great job.!
Thanks - glad to be of help in this.
Great garden Keith, I love the cacti
Thanks! Karen will appreciate that
Excellent, Keith, thanks very much. You've solved the problems I was having with the "Air-Print"
Glad it helped!
Thank you for doing even more content on the 8550! We have two ET8550s and they’re working perfectly for our sticker business! The ink lasts around 1000 pages of full colour stickers printed so works out nice and cheap. People are ALWAYS commenting on our colour vibrancy and accuracy too. The only downside for us is the potential scoring/Indentation that it makes in the rear feeder with papers as thin as 200gsm. We have definitely found papers that work well, the 300gsm semi-gloss pinnacle pre-scored card being one of the best greeting card stocks that barely get indented. PPD 280gsm satin lustre paper for prints that doesn’t get ANY indentation and a few others. But they’re far and few between unfortunately. However for our general purposes not the end of the world since we laminate most things.
We don’t have a ICC profile currently for our sticker vinyl but may look to get one in future.
We’ve also been using third party inks in one of our 8550s and epsons in the other. There is a difference. Not in the actual hue of colours but the intensity and depth of colour, it’s much less vibrant with third party inks. The Photo Black is however a slightly different shade when it comes to third party. Epsons ink sides to more of a burgundy brown black, whereas third party tends to side towards a navy blueish black. But for £22 for 6 bottles of 70ml ink… you can’t go wrong. We still like to keep a full tank of Epson for prints however.
Overall have loved our 8550s and your reviews Keith had a massive sway on what we invested in. And you gave great advice, guidance and suggestions!
If you could spare some sheets of the vinyl, I'd be happy to look at doing a profile - I've never tested one where the ink actually dried properly. Email me at Northlight?
Dear Keith, I bought it after going thru your review n i am happy for it .. thank you :)
Glad I could help!
Well, i took delivery of this printer, and i noticed two of the box corners were a bit bashed in. Unpackaged it, and the white polystyrene on that side was cracked. So thanks Amazon for that! Fingers crossed it works properly. In process of setting it up.
Hope it's OK...
Small thing i noticed. The electrical plug rattles. Anyone else noticed that?
which end?
@@KeithCooper the three pin plug itself
@@tonyhawk123 Just checked and it's part of the fuse holder in mine - seems fine though...
Hi Keith! New to your channel, already learning a lot about printing!
Can't wait for more updated infos about this ET-8550! My questions: Any improvement on the roll imprints on some papers/printers? I heard a firmware update fixed the issue.
And: I would love to duplex print without borders! The manual says it doesn't support it, maybe it does? Hope this special one fits in your time schedules, thank you so much!
Would love to get one, still not 100% in for it.
Glad it's of interest - check the main written review for any updates [profiles for example]
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
No, firmware only addressed issues with paper take-up. Some papers don't go so well some printers [the two I've tested were OK - it's one of my 'will I accept this new printer' tests]
No - borderless and duplex isn't physically possible with a printer like this. [or any printer of the type I look at]
@@KeithCooper Thanks so much for this great answer, coffe incoming! 🙂
I will accept the borders on my duplex prints, if you say they're all similar with it.
Win is the ICC profiles and great photo prints at a much lower cost than Canonballs! Diving into that link now, thanks!!
I have had this printer for about 3 months. I must admit that the quality is there and economical. I use Permajet matte 240 and glossy 280 papers. The profiles are good, but too much density in the mid tones - 10% for b/w I convert to level of gray this avoids false colors I recommend this machine.
Yes - excellent printer - that's why I make my own profiles, but they are quite a bit larger than most paper suppliers will do
This is great news, Keith! I am getting myself the ET-8550 for Christmas and I will need all the help I can get to set it up and start printing. For starters, since I use an iMac 2017 for all my photo editing, I will be looking at your tutorial on how to properly set the printer up. Thank you!
Excellent - I'll be setting it up on my new MacBook Pro later [Mac OS 15.1]. I already have a video covering the ink fill and things like that, so this will be looking more at setting up for Karen's office!
I have a ET-8550, it is great and ink is not expensive, the quality is very nice. The output tray is Brocken put I just pull it out, I think it has come off the gears inside of course it can’t be opened.
I'll tell Karen to be careful with the tray ;-)
Hi Keith. Thank you once again for this
I own this printer 2 years now. It has served me pretty well printing postcards, regular paper and fine art paper as well mainly Fotospeed and Hahnemuhle.The only issue I have is that when I print fineart papers of thickness over 280gm, from left and right side of the print If notice closely I see two straight lines from top to bottom. My believe is that is caused from the rollers feeding out the paper. Many thanks
Glad it's been useful for you - I will be returning to this once I've got this one set up.
@@KeithCooper thank you
Could you please tell us what paper configuration we use to ensure that only pigmented black is used? Maybe Plain paper, gray color and optimal quality?
See the discussion in the written review, which discusses this - nothing uses 'only' the pigment black AFAIK
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hello Keith,
Nice to see that you're revisiting this little gem.
As you already know, mine's been whirring since the end of August and the results are beyond my expectations by quite a bit. The bar was already set high by using the SP-3800 for years before, which rendered beautiful work.
Now, the only little-bit nagging doubt are the output roller marks. When viewing a print from normal viewing angles, they're invisible. But from extremer angles, against suitable light, I can see two fine lines running through the inked surface.
Since yesterday, I own two 5600K Kaiser LED lights (the one you reviewed for tabletop work a few years ago). Those are plenty bright and reveal the lines more clearly -- including a finely dotted pattern. Again, invisible under more normal lighting.
So, this would be my question -- as you asked for: up to where should I just live with them as inevitable on a printer of this build type, as I did up to now, and where should the "unacceptable, so warranty claim" line be drawn?
I do look forward to your new/intended ET-8550 series; keep up your useful work!
Cheers,
HZ
PS To be complete, so far I'm using Epson OEM paper (Premium Semigloss A4 and A3+ sheets).
Thanks - I will look again at this area
@KeithCooper Great, I'm looking forward to it! Cheers, HZ
Keith, thanks for your fine review work. I'm hoping you will get a chance to test a couple of Epson's Legacy papers - possibly Platine and/or Fiber? I think both are outside of Epson's recommendations (weight/thickness), but I'm still curious,
Not papers I've ever seen - are these US ones?
I've tested quite a few 'better' printers in my original review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
I too would be interested in how these papers performed. or if there are ICC profiles for them. Thanks!
I have tested TPP in the original review [aka 'exhibition fiber' in some markets] There is no such thing as the 'legacy papers' in most regions AFAIK?
@@KeithCooper I see them in the US at places like b&h photo, they’re called Epson Legacy Papers.
Can’t seem to post a link or I’d link it here. Sorry!
@@pmorelli Oh, I know of the name - they are a US product. Hence not available here for me to test/use.
Similar to 'Exhibition Fiber' being US branding [and spelling...] - TPP here
I was able to test some Red River papers recently - but only because they shipped them to me.
They support the 8550 with profiles and given Epson don't make 'their own' papers I'd look somewhere like RR if I had an 8550 in the US?
Your original review and frustration with drm is why I eventually changed from a Pro 10 to this. It's been super reliable even with Canon paper. I wish they had an A2 size too.
Yes - I think bigger may come eventually, but there will be no rush from Epson...
Yes, a question. Since I'll only print a few photos a week or month, do you have to run it regularly to keep the print head from clogging? On my ET 4750 (office printer) it seems one of the colors might dry up if not used for a month or two, as it's mostly used for B&W. Thanks.
Set a diary reminder for every two weeks - just run a nozzle check on plain paper - that is enough to exercise the printer.
Do you have to pay extra for the five year warranty that they are currently offering or does it just come with the printer at this time?
Comes with the printer, you just need to register it
Keith, I bought my et-8550 a little over two years ago based on your reviews and I could not be happier. As I recall you later did a review on a et- 18000, or something like that. Did Epson ever release that one? Have never seen it in the US. Thanks for your help.
Thanks - it seems that Epson US just never got round to it ... it sells fairly well in other areas.
Nice purchase :-) I bought one after you original review and love it... I bought a spare set of inks and maintenance cartridge on purchase as I wasn't sure on the reality of how long the inks would last... I am still on the original inks except the Grey, which seems to be used a lot more than the rest for colour adjustment. I have printed some good negatives for Cyanotypes on this also. Great printer and I look forward to your further investigations into its use.
Excellent - if you've any specific question, feel free to email me.
Do they provide any protection plans?
What are they?
There is a 5 year warranty in the UK, but I've no idea about what might be offered elsewhere.
I’ve had this printer for over a year, and it’s been excellent. I also managed to get an i1Pro 2 at a good price and created custom profiles for it. In my experience, this printer performs exceptionally well with fine art papers from Hahnemühle and Canson, as long as I use custom profiles.
One thing I’ve noticed: the black-and-white mode doesn’t work well with fine art papers-it tends to produce greenish tones. However, when printing in color using ICC profiles, the black-and-white output is fantastic. On the other hand, the BW mode works flawlessly on luster and glossy papers.
Yes - profiling is the key. It's why I syggest people look for papers from suppliers who provide/maje them.
Your B&W results match what I've covered in the B&W section of the main written review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Can be excellent, but needs care...
I love the Printer Profiles you made available for download. The only profile I am missing is for the Epson Premium Presentation Paper MATTE. I have the Epson installed profile but your's are significantly larger file size so I suspect they are more accurate.......Brian
Not a paper I've seen - it's a US version I believe?
Will almost certainly be equivalent to one of those available here, but I don't know which.
This is very timely - I've just bought a new M4 iMac with Sequoia 15.1 and all I'm getting for connecting to this printer is "Air-Print", so the sooner you can give advice on this the better!!
There is a default airprint printer installed - you need to go to add printer and then select software - there will be a list of printers with the et-8550 at the top of the list - this needs selecting
Just done it on my 15.1 MBP - worked perfectly - I rename the airprint one to keep it in the list - with a 'z' at the start to shove it to the bottom of the list.
I will be covering this in a video but not until later in the week
Thank you for your very informative videos. What are your thoughts on using an ET-8550 with all pigment inks from manufacturers like Farbenwerk in Europe and Precision Colors in the US? I intend to do that to print digital negatives for alternative processes, and was wondering if you had insights on the subject. Thanks!
Thanks - Not on any printer I'd actually paid for... I'll take the 5 year warranty thanks ;-)
My general thoughts are that if you want a pigment ink printer, buy a pigment ink printer...
I bought this printer before seeing your videos and after watching them I was so glad that my research beforehand wasn't wasted. Far from it as it is a brilliant printer and I am now printing more photos than I ever did. My question is: should it be turned off after use? I don't because it takes far too long to register on my network and the Connection Checker runs most of the time.
I'd leave it on, but I've not noticed any issues in this area... What's a 'connection checker'?
@KeithCooper it's an Epson program that runs and triesto correct any faults in the WiFi connection to the printer.
@@gerarbara OK - thanks, I've never heard of it though, or seen it installed. Is it on windows?
@@KeithCooper Yes butr I don't know if it is also on Apple. It was included in the software bundle from Epson Support when I downloaded the driver, etc.
@@gerarbara Thanks for that I'll look into it I've not seen it anywhere.
The 8550 and 8500 have been on my radar for a while now (thanks to Keith's excellent review). For those who have owned them long-term, could you share your experiences regarding their reliability? Do the nozzles tend to clog if the machine isn't used for a few months? Is the print quality consistent over time?
I'd just note that leaving any inkjet unused for months is not a good thing. With this one I will set a dairy reminder for 3 weeks to run off a nozzle check on plain paper if it's not been used. However, since it will also be Karen's office printer, that's less likely.
I bought the L8180 which is the same as the ET8550 except that's what it's called here in Mexico. Despite the bad reviews I've read about this product online regarding the fact that it fails a lot, at least it hasn't failed for me. The only drawback I can say is that it's quite noisy when pulling the sheets from the rear or lower tray.
Excellent - glad it's working for you!
This is great - glad you still see this as a viable printer - I bought one based on your review. I’m having trouble with colour casts on my black & white prints though with some of my existing stock of high quality, non-Epson papers. I’d love to see your recommendations of paper and settings (and maybe profiles?) for matt, semi-gloss and gloss prints for black & white and colour printing in A4 and A3. Also, how the heck to use the ICC profiles if they’re recommended (!). Love your channel 👍🏻
Thanks - Did you read the B&W section of the main review? I cover this in detail - in particular noting that not one B&W print made with a profile gave me better results than using the ABW print mode.
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Remember that for me, my videos are supplements to any written stuff ;-) ...Given I've now been asked about profiles for B&W a few times, I suspect I'll be doing a new video about B&W!
@ Thanks Keith - yes I did read that and followed your instructions to use ABW printing. That’s why I was questioning whether your advice was still the same re the use of profiles. I think you’re suggesting to only use profiles for colour prints. The results I got using the Epson Layout software with ABW were much better than my initial attempts - so thanks for that. But only with Epson paper - I was still getting a strong (blue) colour cast on my hahnemuhle paper. Seems I need to invest in some different papers for this printer but I’m unsure which papers give best results. Will stick to Epson papers for now I think.
Yes, profiles for colour. The B/W colour cast can be dialled out to some extent with the ABW tone adjustments, but yes some papers just don't work so well [see the example with the Hahnemuhle paper in the written review] Now I've got a printer back here, I'll do some more testing.
What paper do you recommend for this printer? I'm a film photographer and would love to print myself but also would like to print my own zines as well. Thank you!
See the papers I tested in the main [written review] lots of different photo paper styles
As to 'zines' ... no idea. Just note that double sided printing is limited to relatively light paper and has larger margin requirements.
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hi Keith. I purchased an 8500 about 2 years ago. I'm still using the supplied ink and the level is around 50%. Should I top up the ink with fresh or keep using it until the level is near the re-fill mark? ..... Brian
I'd keep using it down to 15-20%
I'm struggling to print on envelopes using the et8550. Gets caught and chewed up each time. I'm doing the right settings both on my iPad and printer control panel and it keeps getting caught in the back rollers, when I've used both cassette 2 and rear feed. Help!
Not sure about this - I've never [ever actually] tried printing an envelope.
I can see how the cassette wouldn't work - too much bending.
Have you tried putting a few sheets of plain paper behind one at the top?
Also try feeding backwards - just remember to invert the print [not even sure if this can be done]
Rookie Query: Why do Epsons come with an install disc for Window systems but not Apple?
In a Mac, the disk does have the URL for the installer on it, but no actual software.
It might be more that CD drives have not been common on Macs for years
Hi your videos are very informative. Looking at buying this in a Black Friday sale in Canada from Best Buy this weekend where I can just go pick it up. Is it better to buy directly from Espon, worried about it being shipped. Should I buy the extended warranty from this retailer for another 4 years. I dont see anything on Espon website that it extends it to 5 years in Cansda just 2 years if you register it.
Thanks - I don't know what that extended warranty covers or for how much. My feeling is that if you use it much, any faults should appear in the 2 years, just give it a thorough test when you get it...
I really love my ET-8550. Still on the first set of ink and have printed nearly 2,000 greetings cards and invitations which I design on Affinity Designer and Affinity Publisher. The quality is great. Have even printed business cards on it (a bit fiddly to be honest). Also print on envelopes too.
I'm still learning about profiles and paper types (Affinity seems to have twigged my printer and there are profiles available at page set up).
Excellent - glad it's working well for you!
Can this be used for pvc printing?
No - the inks don't dry
I just purchased some Inkpress Media Pro Matte Canvas paper (13"x19" from B&H), to experiment with my 8550. At the moment, I don't even know which side to print on. Any info re canvas printing would be appreciated. And just FYI, I found your channel while researching my 8550 purchase, and I have never missed one of your videos since. Turns out I also shoot Fuji GFX, and since I'm a physicist, I especially appreciate your logical and well reasoned insight. Thanks for your efforts.
Thanks - See the mention of canvas printing in the main written review. That's canvas, not a paper BTW - what is sometimes called 'Canvas paper' is just a textured paper.
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
There is a video for this and one for the similar et-8500 too
Hi Keith! In your comparison video between the ET-8550 and the ET-18100 you clearly said that the 18100 was the obvious choice for printing in glossy RC papers.
I hope that you could tell us how far behind is the 8550 on such prints, if at all? Are they comparable or is one obviously worse than the other? (I really would prefer to get the 8550 for the better b&w prints but do not want to sacrifice the quality of ALL my color prints to get that )
Likely not in a way many would notice, in print quality.
The benefit of the 8550 is the mixed ink set and the flexibility it gives in paper choice.
The 8550 does lots of things well - the 18100 does one thing a bit better.
The fact we spent money on an 8550 is my real answer ;-)
@ thank you. I keep hitting the refresh button on your channel to see if a new video has been uploaded on the 8550 😅
Thanks - nothing new for the 8550 for a while. I've a PRO-1100 sitting here which has to go back at some point.
@ 😱😱😱😱 LOL ok, hopefully in the near future then :) if you keep making such videos you are going to have us all printing in the end !!! :)
Having started with a Canon G550 to learn the basics, and having printed almost a thousand pictures with the factory ink (great return of investment!), would this be a good upgrade route? I'd like to go bigger than A4, but it would be mostly for myself, as I haven't even paid for the little G550 with photography, it was worth the 100€ just for learning
I'd suggest yes. The inkset is different, but see the main written review for how this affects paper choices
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Keith,
I like your effort to offer good review.s on printers. However, on Amazon there are complaints on the Epson ET 8550 leaving marks on several types of paper.
Dan
Yes - I'll not usually read reviews on Amazon or any site selling kit.
It's a serious issue in that you've no idea of the experience or competence of people [if they exist] writing such stuff.
I may use it in areas I'm not expert in to guide further research, but my experience of 'reviews' in areas I do know about gives me a hefty degree of skepticism ;-)
This is why I'm really emphasising checking any new printer.
Hi Keith. I recently hunted down a list of all the firmware updates for the ET8550, which contained explanations of all the various changes to each version. Now I'll be damned if I can find it! Just wondering if you may have found that list as well? I'm fairly sure it came from a Japanese site. Still looking - - - - Oh, yeah, my current version is OP1408. Thanks
Unfortunately not... if you find it again please do let me know
Info like this is not common
@@KeithCooper Will do. Thanks for all your work, btw
Ah, I've found a screenshot. All explained in an email I've sent your way
Thanks!
@@andrewbrittenis it possible to share here where you found this information?
Permajet has free icc profiles for et8550
Excellent - the lack of support initially was partly because no-one at Epson thought to market this printer at higher end art/photo printing... just 'phone pix'
First, I want to thank you for all of the videos around this printer ! They were really helpful to help me choose whether i would buy an ET-8550 or not ! I wanted to know if you tried to print black and white images on fine art paper ? If yes, did you get good results ? And how do you choose fine art paper (for colour or b&w prints) ? You choose pretty heavy paper but then you need to choose the graining of the paper probably ?
Thanks - see the main written review... ;-)
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hello, congratulations on your site, I learned a lot thanks to you.
Can you tell me which .ICC profile to use with the Epson "Traditional Phot paper" (soft gloss 235 g/m2) ?
I use the Royal gloss 310 .ICC profile from Permajet I could not find the traditional photo paper in the list of paper types in the EPL menu
Merci d'avance de Paris :- )
It's also known as 'Exhibition Fiber' in the US or sometimes 'TPP'
It's one of the papers I profiled for the original review [the written one]
I love almost everything about this printer but I was dismayed by the margin restrictions on the straight paper path the first time I tried to use it.
Yes, that is covered in my original main review. It comes from how the paper is fed through the printer.
It's a common occurrence with any printer [usually larger ones] with such a feed - mostly covered when I look at using posterboard on some printers
Great advise' love mine thanks again for the content kind sir
Glad to help!
I also would like to know how much space is needed to be able to print without using the flat feeder on the back of the printer - which I will probably never use. Thank you.
The footprint is nominally 532mm x 379mm. I have a detailed look at this in my original review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
Hi Keith, thanks a lot for your content! This printer is theoretically exceptional considering the print quality at this print cost. Unfortunately, it seems like there is no uniformity among units and many printers with roller marks and other issues are present. I was forced to send back mine due to anomalous little scratches on every print. Also, roller marks were present even if they were barely noticeable. I’m not gonna buy a new one probably. I read about so many people facing issues with this printer. Hoping for a better quality uniformity for the next model.
Yes - this wasn't helped by initial quality issues, with the printer being launched in the midst of covid.
I'll be checking this new one very carefully...
Mine was actually a recent one: I bought it some weeks ago from a pretty famous reseller, so I assume it was a unit recently produced (I didn’t check it). Unfortunately, my guess is that quality assurance issues are still present. Hope your printer is fine!
What model would be the alternative for a A2 size? Epson or Canon
There isn't really one.
Look at some of the 24" plotter type printers - note though, they often only print that size on roll paper, not sheet
@@KeithCooper thank you very much
thought i'd add, i've also printed lunchbags for the kids and had good results. Don't forget the thick paper checkbox. Sorry, i don't recall if i used the rear feeder or the back-panel feed!
Ah - not a media I've ever tried ;-)
Keith, I recently had a software update to my ET-8550 and some of the standard Epson paper types appear to have vanished. I am sure I used to use an Epson Matte setting, but that is no longer there. I used that for Fotospeed Matt Ultra 240 and Epson Heavy Weight Matte. Any advice on the current options would be appreciated. I think it was your tip to use Velvet Fine Art for Fotospeed Matt Baryta, which changed my experience 100%; colour that was quite wishy-washy is now deep and vibrant. Nearly 3 years of regular use and I am still loving the 8550.
Excellent - I think that 'VFA use' tip is one of the best 'print quality' ones I've found in all my printer testing!
I'll have a look at what appears in the options when set up
Hi Keith, I hope you are well, just purchased this after watching all the reviews you have done.
All set up and unfortunately can see track marks on the print, is this something you have come across at all?
I haven't, but others have - on a new printer I would be minded to contact Epson
Note that they will ask if it's on Epson paper... this is No.1 on the list of fobbing you off ;-)
Worth checking [any printer] on OEM paper just to be sure.
@ thank you so much h for the quick response, yes that was the next step, I have used fotospeed various papers so far, all the same results unfortunately, even tried the thick paper setting and still there.
Such a shame as some people are having no issues at all, and tbh looking at your reviews on it I was so happy to get this.
To others it maybe ok but just like a pixel peeping I know it’s there now. Thanks again really have been such a help for me starting up and learning more and more
Hi! and thanks for your efforts! I've printed banners up to 13x39" and been thrilled with the results(RedRiver paper). Have you any idea of the longest length i can print? Epson had no answer for me, they responded with info i already have.
I believe it is a metre - but I'm not sure where I saw that...
@@KeithCooper That's where i am too, i'll 'speriment and let ya know
Hi Keith. Hopefully your Epson contacts can help with this. There's now an "Epson Print Layout Software FOR LARGE FORMAT PRINTERS" on the Epson UK site, and "Epson Print Layout Software" on the Epson US site. The file names are different and maybe the version numbers. Do you know if they are supposed to be the same thing or is one better than the other for the ET-8550? Thanks.
Ignore what different bits of Epson says and just download whatever is the newest you find.
The people who write the web copy just produce what marketing tell them - there is a list of 'supported' printers somewhere, which is incomplete and wrong in equal measures.
I just bought one and my issue is how to use the scanner and save the images in TIFF. It says that it can only save in black and white in tiff. I am trying to scan in my watercolor paintings, many that are slightly bigger than the scanner, so I have to scan them in and then go to a program where I can stitch the scan together before I print. I was really hoping to list several prints before this Friday when everyone goes shopping. But from the video I have seen it suggest 600 dpi and .tif or .tiff. I’m so disappointed this is more complicated when I thought spending this much might make a smoother experience. I have sold the originals that I want to scan in and thy need to be mailed out, so this is another reason I’m stressed. I may try scanning one in smaller that I don’t have to stitch and see what it looks like printed in something besides tiff until I can learn this. I’m sure at some point I’ll be willing to pay someone a little to help me although I’m living on so check at the moment so that is hard too. Took me forever to afford this printer!
As I mentioned before - read the [main] written review - it has specific info about art scanning. And it includes stitching sub-scans
@ thank you I as panicking a bit as I needed to mail these out. I was able to scan them in at least, but not in tiff. I will take time to read what you suggest and see if I can find out more
What's the pressing need for tiffs? Do you need 16 bit scans for editing?
A full quality JPEG is no different to an 8 bit TIFF
How to choose between this, P706, P906 beyond the last being bigger. Thank you.
I've already covered this in many different ways - you question covers far too wide a range of printers, without sufficient constraints for what I'd consider a meaningful simple answer.
Here is another thing that makes no sense... this 8550 printer has FOUR paper feeds... yet when trying to print anything from my Mac computer and I use Epsons own photo software it only offers me 2 of them, Cassette 2 or REAR.. I can not choose Cassettes 1 at all. Why is this? How on earth do I choose cassette 1? When I try to print on quality paper from Source 1 it just spits my print out on the cheap thin paper in the front bottom source cassette. So frustrating.
Pick both the size and type of paper - I'll give our new one a check over to see if there are any special requirements
BUT not until I've re-read the Mac printing section of the manual!
Can you test cotton watercolour paper. Something like Arches 300gm
Did you see the specific papers I tested, in the main written review?
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
I don't have any arches papers...
It appears to be a great printer but many like myself suffered with the lines (pizza cutter) and marks being put into the paper of all types and sizes.
Yes, I'll be checking on this - would be grounds for me returning it if it does it on all papers
@@KeithCooper let us know how you get on.
How do you get it to print a true 12 x 12 BORDERLESS print? Thank you 😊
Print on larger paper and invest in a good cutter
12x12 [or any custom size] is not available borderless
Please sir can you explain how to print on pvc card tray 😢
Buy an ET-18100 [or equivalent] - it comes with the tray, the 8550 doesn't?
@KeithCooper Yes et 8550 doesn't have a tray to print pvc card
I don't know if it was a tray for epson l18050 compatible with it if I buy it

No
Hi Keith! Thank you for these videos. I recently purchased one of these after having watched your videos on them (among other videos on your channel.)
Do you know anything about the printer continously printing everything at a slanted angle? I've only done about 10-15 test prints so far, with 10x15 paper, a4, and a3+, and I've noticed that it seems really difficult for me to print completely straight on the paper. I have been using the Epson print layout program, trying both with and without frames. I've tried doing the alignment setup a couple of times and seem to get a good result when doing those, but everything I've printed so far has come out at a slight slant. Apart from one print, the last time I tried, when I printed straight from Photoshop instead of Epson print layout (or whatever the program is called). Do you have any advice on this? Could my printer be faulty, or is this a known issue that I'm just not clever enough to figure out on my own?
That falls into the category of a fault I'd not accept on a new printer...
I have the same problem of everything above A4 size printing slanted. I returned the first printer because of it but the replacement is exactly the same, so I have learned to live with it. I got into conversation with a couple of people on the Epson subreddit who also have this issue, one is on their third 8550 and all printed slanted. It is clearly not a widespread issue because more users would be complaining of it.
@@KeithCooper I've now been in contact with Epson support, and unfortunately I seem to have hit a brick wall here:
"We have received an update to your case from our technical department. The printer varies where it takes up to 3 millimeters.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to improve the print placement further."
I can print with full cover when using expansion, if I'm okay with losing a few millimetres from each side of the picture. My other workaround will have to be to either save the pictures with white borders directly in Photoshop, or to use wider border settings in the print program.
I bought this printer to make test prints mainly, to help better decide what I send away to get printed for real, so this doesn't bother me too too much. It is a bit disappointing though.
Just thought I'd share for some sort of posterity, in case anyone else experiences the same problem.
Hi Sphinx! I've been in contact with the Epson support. See my reply to Keith above. We're gonna have to live with the slant, it seems.
@@fnicl Thanks for letting me know. As I say, I have learned to live with it, and print now with wide borders so I can trim if need be. I would say some of the slants on my prints have been more than 3 millimeters though.
I just don't understand why some users experience this issue with more than one 8550 (including me) yet most users never complain of it. Odd.
I hope you can still enjoy your printer regardless :)
Hi Keith, I want to sell framed prints of digital art (not photos). How long would you estimate the prints would last before fading? As I'm not too bothered about colour accuracy, would I be better off investing in a Ecotank pigment printer? Thanks
Wilhelm Research recently published some longevity estimates for the current Claria ET inkset: www.wilhelm-research.com/epson/WIR_Epson_EcoTank_Photo_ET-8500_and_ET-8550_Printers_2024-08-09.pdf
Compare with their estimates for the Epson UltraChrome PRO10 pigment inks used in the P700 and P900: www.wilhelm-research.com/epson/WIR_Epson_SureColor_P700_and_P900_Printers_2021_07_23.pdf
Depends - see the video I did covering this specific issue
Thanks for your reply Keith. As a subscriber have have already searched and watch many of you past videos hoping to find an answer hoping to find an answer to this very question . Could you please tell me which video you are referring to? Thankyou
@@zendreammusic Sorry, YT is really difficult to use/find specific stuff - it's why I created the categorised index at:
www.northlight-images.co.uk/keith-cooper-photography-videos-index/
It's also at the bottom of the 8550 videos list in the main review
www.northlight-images.co.uk/epson-et-8550-printer-review/
pvc tray for Epson L8050 is compatible with epson et8550
but I dont know how to print pvc card
sir I am waiting for your answer
❤
Are you saying it is compatible or asking if it is?
I didn't think it was possible?
@KeithCooper Im asking you sir, Because I searched on Google about this and found that there are some stores that say it is compatible, but I did not find any video on UA-cam explaining that.
It is not possible as far as I know.
Search actual written articles as well - UA-cam is utterly useless for finding stuff like this ;-)
That‘s great. My first printer was the Pro 300 (very happy) and for 1 month I also have the ET 8550 to do more affordable printing. I noticed when printing on it, the border on A4 is around 1mm off, so on one side more and on the other less, not that noticeable but still not perfect. But when I print 10x15cm prints, the borders are way more off or at least noticeable. When I tried Hahnemühle Photo Fineart Cards (285gsm) the problem was huge, this appears be because of the rounded corners. There was also ink spill on the front top where the printer grabs the paper, also a damaged spots.
I think the 1mm off is margin of error from the manufacturer, but is there anything to calibrate it or fix it with printing the rounded photo cards? I also tried borderless with the Hahnemühle provided A4 Template for the cards, but the printer still damages the card where it grabs it on the top.
Any help appreciated
I'll have a look at paper feed issues in more detail once I've got it going.
@@KeithCooper That would be very interesting, also how precise your unit centers within the borders or if it is also not that good like mine, thanks.
Said it before and saying it again, thanks for your reviews. Based on your reviews I purchased an 8550 in 2021, learned a lot about printing and have been able to bring most of our printing in house. Request for Questions - I am experiencing a periodic issue with paper not feeding in the Rear Paper Feeder. (Front trays feed ok.) This can occur when single or multiple sheets of Ultra Premium Presentation Matte paper are loaded in the feeder. The paper is always stored in the original package. Thick paper is not turned on but was tested with the same results. What does seem to help is to remove and reload the paper, either a single sheet or multiple sheets. Question - any chance this is a maintenance issue? Thanks
Thanks - I'll have a look at the feed. The feed roller is a replaceable part IIRC
Roller marks on glossy paper seems to smth that is a huge problem for this printer
I ve exchange 3 of them from same shop
Epson told me to get refund and use other shop instead
Packaging wasn't damaged
1 was tested in shop and same thing once it touches gloss its full of roller marks
Worth noting - this does happen. Rarely, but that's not a good reason the accept bad kit...
@KeithCooper i ll get other one from fotospeed but i cant see that that will help
As 3 printers did same thing once its on gloss its rollers on it
And doesn't metter what paper cheap expensive epson 180gsm or 250gsm
Matt satin or other no probs
If other one come like this i ll take it apart and remove them as i don't see why they are in use
Someone told me that they are for cd 's
Leave only 2 rollers on both ends
I hope Epson payed you good for the Reviews you made haha
Nope - this specific printer paid for by our business... Same goes for my work camera gear.
Whilst I'm happy to use loan equipment for reviews, since I simply cannot afford to buy stuff [such as the Fujifilm 500mm f/5.6 I'm currently looking at], we've never accepted payment from anyone, nor does anyone get control over what we say.
The reviews here complement the ones on the Northlight Images web site - on the site, they date back some 20 years.
I also bought one half a year ago. As for clogging it's a nightmare in comparison to Canon Pro-100! Surely, I hadn't been using it very often but I couldn't have imagined that print test can become worse and worse after each cleaning cycle. And I still can't unclog the BK channel...
After experiencing the fail of printing on 8550 I sent the job to my trusty Pro-100 that I hadn't used for a few months at all. It printed perfectly as always.
Consider yourself unlucky - this simply does not equate with the experiences I hear from many others [using OEM ink]. This new one will get used every week and if I get any signs of clogging in the first year I will be surprised.
No way would I swap it for a 200, even less a 100
@KeithCooper @KeithCooper after hearing so many praising words about 8550 I also thought it could replace my Pro-100 some day. However, it turned out it's good only for not demanding tasks. I prefer the quality of prints from Pro-100 much more. For example, I wouldn't even try to 'waste' expensive baryta papers on 8550. Prints look 'grainier' and the colours are not as lively. Now it looks like Epson also failed in maintainance field. Sure, at least for me.
Yes paper/media choice and good profiling are vital - as I noted in the review, some baryta papers are not best performing on this printer. I'll be testing some more to clarify this.
That said, printer choice is a personal matter - I found the margin limitations of the pro-100 on some media types quite irksome for example, when I reviewed it many years ago.
@@KeithCooper there are easy workarounds to the margin limitations. It's not a problem anymore. The Pro-100's print quality is just amazing! In close up comparisons, the smoothness and colour rendition is even better than from Pro-1000! I have tried about 30+ quite expensive papers. If the inkjet coating is good, prints on all of them, including rag matte papers, look stunning! The only surprise I've got was with the Hahnemuhle Photo Rag Metallic. I had big expectations on it but my prints look rather dull. I wanted to try the pigment BK ink on 8550 but it's clogged :)
Yes - a fine printer, in its day, but those tiny ink carts and general interface never really endeared it to me. But it's always what works for you - the 8550 has clear advantages for many, but yours obviously failed.
Anyway both are simply too small for my personal liking - the 8550 is here for Karen not me [even if I do some experiments with it]
The most problematic printer I have ever had. Setting up the cartridge for 6 colors is a difficult and time-consuming process. I got tired of setting it up every time before printing. Replaced with another model 15000
Maybe, but I just cannot agree - it is exceedingly simple to set up with the supplied inks
Why would you need to set things up before printing? Load paper, print - that's it?
@@KeithCooper Its not. A has Blue color pattern missing doesn't matter how many cleaning I did.
@@artunyc354 Yes - your et-8550 printer isn't, it's faulty.
Sorry, but your experiences are an unfortunate outlier - if someone asked, I'd still suggest the et-8550 over the xp-15000 any day
Hope it goes well, we kept ours even though it leaves some smudges on thicker paper (don't active Thick Paper setting, it ruined the edges and didn't fix anything for us).
I've heard this, but didn't see it when I was last doing the testing work.