Epson EcoTank ET-2720 Printer Review: 2026 Performance & Features
Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs
In today’s fast-paced digital environment, selecting the right printer is critical for both personal and professional productivity. Whether you’re managing home documents, handling small office workflows, or supporting mobile workforces, the printer you choose must balance performance, cost efficiency, and reliability. Printers serve as essential tools for generating physical outputs, from routine reports to high-resolution graphics, and their capabilities directly impact workflow efficiency. Key considerations include print quality, speed, connectivity options, and long-term maintenance costs. For users prioritizing low operational costs and sustainability, inkjet printers like the Epson EcoTank series offer compelling advantages through their tank-based ink systems. However, for environments requiring high-volume printing or specialized media handling, laser or thermal printers may be more suitable. Understanding these trade-offs ensures that your printing solution aligns with your specific workload demands and output expectations. This review evaluates the Epson EcoTank ET-2720’s capabilities across these dimensions, providing a data-driven analysis to help users make informed decisions.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Printer Type | All-in-One Inkjet Printer |
| Printing Technology | 4-color (CMYK) drop-on-demand MicroPiezo inkjet |
| Print Resolution | 5760 x 1440 dpi (optimized) |
| Print Speed | 10.5 ppm black, 5.0 ppm color (ISO) |
| Media Sizes | A3, A4, A6, Letter, Legal, Tabloid |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0, Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Wi-Fi Direct |
| Duty Cycle | 1,500 pages per month (recommended) |
| Ink System | EcoTank ink with refillable tanks |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
| Additional Features | Borderless photo printing, voice activation, duplex scanning |
The EcoTank ET-2720’s combination of high-resolution printing, versatile connectivity, and refillable ink tanks makes it well-suited for users requiring cost-effective, multi-functional printing. Its support for large media sizes and borderless photo printing expands its utility for both professional and creative applications. The inclusion of voice-activated features and wireless connectivity enhances user convenience, particularly in environments where mobility and ease of setup are priorities.
Print Quality and Resolution
The EcoTank ET-2720’s print quality is defined by its 4-color MicroPiezo inkjet technology and 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution, which together enable sharp text and vivid color output. This resolution is particularly effective for documents requiring fine detail, such as spreadsheets, charts, and photographic prints. The printer’s ability to produce borderless photo prints at high resolution makes it a strong contender for users needing to create high-quality images or marketing materials. However, the resolution specifications are based on ISO standards, which may differ from actual performance in real-world scenarios. For instance, print density and color accuracy can be influenced by factors such as paper type and environmental conditions. The printer’s support for A3 media sizes further enhances its versatility, allowing users to handle larger documents without compromising resolution. While the 5760 x 1440 dpi rating is impressive, users should note that color consistency may vary depending on the specific paper and ink formulations used.
Color Accuracy and Media Compatibility
The ET-2720’s color accuracy is supported by its 4-color (CMYK) ink system, which allows for a wide color gamut. This makes it suitable for tasks requiring precise color reproduction, such as graphic design or professional photography. However, the printer’s performance with specialty media, such as glossy photo paper or textured surfaces, may vary. The inclusion of a flatbed scanner with 1200 dpi optical resolution ensures that scanned documents maintain clarity, but users should be aware that the printer’s color management features may require calibration for optimal results. For environments where consistent color output is critical, the ET-2720’s specifications suggest it could meet basic requirements, though advanced color profiling may be necessary for specialized applications.
Text and Graphic Output
The printer’s text output is well-suited for standard office documents, with crisp, legible fonts and minimal smearing. The 10.5 ppm black print speed ensures that text-heavy documents are completed quickly, which is beneficial for users handling large volumes of paperwork. However, color print speed at 5 ppm may be slower for users requiring frequent color printing. The printer’s ability to handle both simplex and duplex printing, though limited to single-sided output, is adequate for most office tasks. Users should also consider that the printer’s performance with mixed media, such as combining text and images, may depend on the specific paper type and print settings used.
Photo Printing Capabilities
The ET-2720’s borderless photo printing feature expands its utility for creative and professional applications. The printer’s ability to produce high-resolution images on various media, including glossy photo paper, is a significant advantage for users needing to create visual content. However, the printer’s photo printing performance is constrained by its reliance on the standard CMYK color model, which may not fully capture the color range of professional photo paper. Users should also be aware that the printer’s default settings may require adjustment for optimal photo output, particularly when using third-party media. While the ET-2720 is well-suited for casual photo printing, advanced users may need to invest in additional calibration tools or media to achieve professional results.
Connectivity and Device Compatibility
The EcoTank ET-2720’s connectivity options include USB 2.0, Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), and Wi-Fi Direct, which provide flexibility for different user environments. The inclusion of Wi-Fi Direct allows for seamless printing from mobile devices without the need for a router, making it ideal for users with limited network access. However, the printer’s support for mobile printing protocols may be limited compared to more advanced models, which could affect its usability in highly mobile or remote work environments. The printer’s compatibility with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows and macOS, ensures broad device support, but users should verify that their specific devices are listed in the supported systems. For users requiring advanced network features or cloud integration, the ET-2720’s connectivity options may fall short compared to more modern printers.
Wireless Printing and Setup
The ET-2720’s wireless printing capabilities are enhanced by its support for Wi-Fi Direct, which simplifies the setup process for users without a router. This feature is particularly beneficial for home users or small offices where network configuration may be complex. However, the printer’s reliance on Wi-Fi Direct may limit its ability to integrate with larger networks or cloud-based printing services. The setup process is generally straightforward, with the included CD-ROM and manual providing clear instructions, though users may need to consult online resources for more advanced configurations. The printer’s compatibility with mobile printing apps and protocols ensures that users can print from smartphones and tablets without significant setup hurdles.
USB and Ethernet Connectivity
For users preferring wired connections, the ET-2720’s USB 2.0 port provides a reliable alternative to wireless printing. The USB interface ensures stable data transfer and is particularly useful for environments where network reliability is a concern. The printer’s Ethernet port offers additional connectivity options for networked environments, allowing for centralized printing and management. However, the Ethernet port’s utility is limited to basic network printing and does not support advanced features such as cloud printing or remote management. Users requiring more sophisticated network integration may need to consider alternative printers with enhanced connectivity capabilities.
Mobile and Cloud Integration
The ET-2720’s support for mobile printing protocols, such as Wi-Fi Direct and standard Wi-Fi, makes it suitable for users who frequently print from smartphones and tablets. However, the printer’s lack of cloud printing integration may be a drawback for users relying on services like Google Cloud Print or Apple AirPrint. The printer’s compatibility with mobile apps and operating systems is generally good, but users should ensure that their devices meet the specified system requirements. For users needing advanced cloud integration or remote access, the ET-2720’s current connectivity options may not fully meet their needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Cost-Effective Ink System: The EcoTank ET-2720’s refillable ink tanks reduce long-term printing costs, with each ink set providing up to 4,500 pages. This makes it an attractive option for users prioritizing operational efficiency.
- High-Resolution Printing: The 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution ensures sharp text and vivid color output, suitable for both standard documents and high-quality photo prints.
- Versatile Connectivity: The printer supports USB 2.0, Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi Direct, offering flexibility for different user environments and device compatibility.
- Borderless Photo Printing: The ability to produce borderless prints on various media expands its utility for creative and professional applications.
- User-Friendly Features: Voice activation and a color LCD display enhance usability, particularly for users seeking convenience and ease of operation.
- Durable Build and Warranty: The printer’s robust design and 2-year limited warranty provide reassurance for long-term reliability and support.
Cons
- Limited Color Print Speed: The 5 ppm color print speed may be slower for users requiring frequent color printing, which could affect productivity in high-volume environments.
- Restricted Media Compatibility: While the printer supports a wide range of media sizes, its performance with specialty papers may vary, requiring users to adjust settings or use specific media types.
- Basic Connectivity Options: The lack of advanced cloud printing integration may limit its usefulness for users relying on cloud-based services or remote access.
- Single-Sided Printing Limitation: The printer’s support for duplex printing is limited to single-sided output, which may not meet the needs of users requiring double-sided printing without additional trays.
- Setup Complexity for Advanced Networks: While the printer’s wireless setup is straightforward, integrating it into complex network environments may require additional configuration steps.
Final Verdict: Who This Printer Is Best For (and Who Should Skip It)
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is best suited for users who prioritize cost-effective, multi-functional printing in home or small office environments. Its refillable ink system, high-resolution output, and versatile connectivity make it an excellent choice for those who need to print documents, photos, and scans without frequent ink replacements. The printer’s borderless photo printing and voice-activated features add convenience for creative and casual users. However, the ET-2720 may not be the best option for users requiring high-speed color printing, advanced cloud integration, or specialized media handling. Its limited duplex printing capabilities and basic connectivity options could be drawbacks in environments with complex network requirements or high-volume printing needs. For users seeking a balance between affordability and performance, the ET-2720 remains a strong contender, particularly for those who value sustainability and ease of use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 support borderless photo printing?
Yes, the EcoTank ET-2720 is designed for borderless photo printing, allowing users to create high-resolution images on various media, including glossy photo paper. This feature is ideal for both casual and professional photography applications.
What is the print resolution of the EcoTank ET-2720?
The printer offers a print resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, which ensures sharp text and vivid color output. This resolution is suitable for both standard documents and high-quality photo prints, though results may vary based on media type and environmental conditions.
How does the EcoTank ET-2720’s ink system work?
The EcoTank ET-2720 uses a refillable ink tank system with uniquely keyed EcoFita bottles, allowing users to easily refill each color tank. This design reduces long-term printing costs and minimizes waste compared to traditional ink cartridges.
What connectivity options are available for the EcoTank ET-2720?
The printer supports USB 2.0, Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), and Wi-Fi Direct connectivity. These options provide flexibility for different environments, including wireless printing from mobile devices without the need for a router.
Is the EcoTank ET-2720 suitable for small office use?
Yes, the EcoTank ET-2720 is well-suited for small office environments due to its multifunctional capabilities, including printing, scanning, and copying. Its cost-effective ink system and versatile connectivity make it a practical choice for low to moderate printing volumes.
What is the print speed of the EcoTank ET-2720?
The printer can print up to 10.5 ppm in black and 5.0 ppm in color, based on ISO standards. This speed is adequate for most office tasks, though color print speed may be slower for users requiring frequent color printing.
Does the EcoTank ET-2720 support duplex printing?
The EcoTank ET-2720 supports single-sided printing (simplex) but does not have a built-in duplex printing feature. Users may need to manually flip pages for double-sided printing, which could affect workflow efficiency for high-volume tasks.
What media sizes does the EcoTank ET-2720 support?
The printer supports a wide range of media sizes, including A3, A4, A6, Letter, Legal, and Tabloid. This versatility allows users to handle various document and photo printing needs without requiring multiple printers.
