Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 Review – Save Money & Print More!
Read our comprehensive review of the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 all-in-one printer. Explore features, benefits, performance & see if it’s the right choice for you.
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced work environments, printing challenges are commonplace. From the constant drain on budgets due to expensive ink cartridges to the frustrating slowdowns of outdated printers, many businesses and home offices struggle to find a reliable and cost-effective printing solution. The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 aims to solve these issues, offering a cartridge-free printing experience that prioritizes efficiency, quality, and long-term savings.
Overview
The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 is a versatile all-in-one Supertank printer designed for demanding workgroups and small offices. This powerhouse combines the functionality of a printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine into a single, compact device. Its core design revolves around Epson’s innovative EcoTank refillable ink tank system, eliminating the need for traditional cartridges and significantly reducing printing costs. Featuring a user-friendly touchscreen interface, wireless connectivity, and robust productivity features, the ET-5170 is ideal for businesses and power users who need to produce high-volume, professional-quality documents and images without breaking the bank.
Features
High-Yield Ink Tank System: The EcoTank Pro ET-5170 utilizes a revolutionary ink tank system, replacing expensive cartridges with easily refillable ink bottles. Each bottle provides an exceptionally high page yield, drastically reducing the frequency of refills and the associated costs. This feature is a game-changer for businesses and individuals with significant printing needs, leading to substantial savings over time.
PrecisionCore Printhead for Dependability: Equipped with Epson’s Permanent PrecisionCore printhead, the ET-5170 is engineered for consistent performance and long-lasting reliability. Unlike traditional printheads that can clog or fail, the PrecisionCore printhead is designed to last the lifetime of the printer, minimizing maintenance and downtime, and ensuring exceptional print quality for years to come.
Wireless Smart Connectivity: Seamlessly connect to your network and devices with built-in Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Ethernet connectivity. The ET-5170 supports mobile printing via the Epson Smart Panel app, allowing users to print directly from smartphones and tablets. Voice-activated control adds another layer of convenience, enabling hands-free printing commands.
Duplex Auto-Feeder & Automatic Document Feeding: The integrated duplex auto-feeder automatically prints on both sides of the paper, significantly reducing paper consumption and manual effort. The auto document feeder handles multi-page scanning, copying, and faxing with ease, streamlining workflows and increasing productivity. These features save time and resources for busy users.
Benefits
Dramatically Reduced Printing Costs: The EcoTank ink system provides exceptional savings compared to traditional cartridge-based printers. Users can save up to 80% on ink costs, translating into significant financial benefits over the printer’s lifespan.
Increased Productivity with Fast Print Speeds: With print speeds of up to 17 ppm (black) and 9.5 ppm (color), the ET-5170 handles demanding print jobs quickly and efficiently, keeping up with the pace of a busy office.
Effortless Wireless Convenience: Wireless connectivity and mobile printing capabilities streamline workflows, allowing users to print from anywhere within range and access print jobs on the go.
Professional-Quality Output with Vivid Colors: DURABrite ET pigment ink delivers crisp text and vibrant colors, ensuring professional-looking documents and photos.
Eco-Friendly Cartridge-Free Printing: By eliminating cartridges, the ET-5170 significantly reduces plastic waste, contributing to a more sustainable printing solution.
Usages
Perfect for Home Offices: The ET-5170’s compact design and wireless connectivity make it ideal for home offices, providing reliable printing and scanning capabilities without taking up valuable space.
Ideal for Small Businesses: With its high page yield, low running costs, and multifunctionality, the ET-5170 is a cost-effective solution for small businesses seeking a versatile and efficient printing solution.
Great for Students and Frequent Document Printing: The high-yield ink and fast print speeds make the ET-5170 perfect for students who need to print large volumes of documents for classes and assignments.
Useful for Photo Printing Enthusiasts: While not a dedicated photo printer, the ET-5170’s color accuracy and resolution make it suitable for producing high-quality photos and marketing materials.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional ink efficiency and low running costs
- High-quality prints with vibrant colors
- Versatile all-in-one functionality (print, scan, copy, fax)
- Wireless connectivity and mobile printing support
- Automatic duplex printing for paper saving
- User-friendly touchscreen interface
- Long-lasting PrecisionCore printhead
Cons
- Initial investment cost is slightly higher than cartridge-based printers
- Printing speed, while adequate, isn’t the fastest on the market
- Photo printing quality is good but not professional-grade
FAQs
What is the cost of replacement ink bottles?: Replacement ink bottles for the ET-5170 are remarkably affordable, costing significantly less than traditional cartridges. The initial investment pays off quickly through reduced ongoing expenses.
How fast does the printer print?: The ET-5170 prints at speeds of 17 ppm in black and 9.5 ppm in color, allowing for efficient document processing.
Is the wireless setup easy?: The wireless setup is straightforward and can be completed in minutes using the Epson Smart Panel app or the printer’s user-friendly interface.
Are third-party ink bottles compatible?: While the printer is designed to work best with genuine Epson ink bottles, some third-party options may be available. However, using non-genuine ink may void the warranty and potentially impact print quality.
What is the warranty on the ET-5170?: The ET-5170 comes with a 2-year limited warranty with registration, providing peace of mind and protection against manufacturing defects.
Product Specifications
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| DPI Resolution | 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Ink Type | DURABrite ET pigment ink |
| Page Yield (Black) | 8,000 pages |
| Page Yield (Color) | 6,000 pages |
| Print Speed (Black) | 17 ppm |
| Print Speed (Color) | 9.5 ppm |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, USB |
| Dimensions | 13.7″D x 14.8″W x 13.6″H |
| Weight | 16.1 lbs |
| Duty Cycle | 40,000 pages per month |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Ratings
| Technical Specifications | 4.6 |
| Printing Quality | 4.3 |
| Connectivity & Features | 4.5 |
| Usages & Workflow | 4.2 |
| Value for Money | 4.7 |
Recommendation
The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 is an excellent choice for small businesses and home offices seeking a cost-effective, high-performance all-in-one printer. Its cartridge-free design and impressive page yield significantly reduce printing costs, while its robust features and reliable performance ensure productivity and efficiency.
If you’re tired of constantly replacing expensive ink cartridges and desire a printer that delivers exceptional value over the long term, the Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 is a worthy investment. It’s perfect for those who print frequently, require professional-quality documents, and appreciate the convenience of wireless connectivity and a user-friendly interface.
Conclusion
The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 represents a significant advancement in printing technology. Its innovative ink tank system, combined with its all-in-one functionality and robust features, makes it a standout choice for businesses and individuals alike. While the initial cost may be slightly higher than traditional cartridge-based printers, the long-term savings and convenience far outweigh the investment.
With its exceptional print quality, wireless connectivity, and environmentally friendly design, the ET-5170 is more than just a printer; it’s a smart and sustainable solution for your printing needs. It’s a reliable workhorse that will consistently deliver high-quality results and save you money for years to come.
