I currently own the R1800 Epson printer which does a great job for what I need. But I have just learned that the Epson R1900 printer, which sells for $549, has a $150 rebate on the Epson website for a net price of $399. This is a very good deal in my opinion, but I'm not one to buy a new piece of equipment just because it's a good deal. I was wondering if there was anyone who had experience with both printers who could tell me if the increase in print quality would be worth the $399. My R1800 is 5 years old now and I'm wondering if there have been significant improvements to this line of printers. Thanks for any help you can give!
I would never buy another prosumer model desktop printer again and I've had 3 Epsons. You will pay many times over for this printer in the price of ink alone. Epson uses these printers as loss leaders (or cash cow) to sell its ink. A larger professional model in the 4000 series is much more cost effective in the long run because of the size of the ink cartidges and subsequent cost of ink per print.
Carol,
I owned an R1800 for a couple of years. I had a friend who had the R1900 but he sold it after about a year. The printing quality on the newer one was marginally better. As you know, it's a nice enough printer for color glossy, but if you are aiming to output on matte media or B&W,then there are better choices. Those ink carts are awfully small and pricey too.
If you want to stay with Epson, the 3800 series is a significant step up. The proportional ink costs are far friendlier too. Otherwise, the new Canon MK II 9500 printers look very attractive.
ME
Posted by Mike Karakas on March 4, 2010 at 1:10 PM
Carol,
I too have considered going with the 1900, but decided not to at this time. The 2880 has really peaked my interest and has good reviews, so I'd be curious what others thought of the 2880 in lieu of the 3800.
Before you commit to buying a printer, I'd like to add a few items you may want to consider:
--Will you be producing prints for your own use, or for sale, or both?
--What is the maximum size print width you expect to make over the life of the printer?
--Will your printing volume be low. medium, or high?
--Will you be printing black & white?
--Will you be using a variety of papers from companies other than those from maker of the printer.?
--Do you have a preference for dye-based or pigment-based inks?
--Do you plan to use cut sheet, roll paper, or both?
--How much physical space do you have for the printer. and storage for inks and paper?
--What can you afford in terms of the cost of the printer, ink, and paper?
I believe that by answering the questions posed above, you'll be able to shop more efficiently and you'll get a printer that will meet your current and expected needs.
Thanks everyone. I think I've decided to stick with my R1800 for now as Michael said the R1900 was only marginally better. I only print photos for myself, friends and family. (Friends and family are easy to please when they're getting something for nothing!) But when I do get antsy again I'll definitely consider the more advanced models above that will provide better quality and less ink useage.
I have one further thought. See if you can find an Epson R2400 for sale either used or refurbished. These are very nice printers that will handle 13 in. wide paper and there is a roll paper adapter for it, as well. This printer is capable of making gorgeous prints in both color and B&W.
Discussion
6 repliesThanks,
Rich G
I owned an R1800 for a couple of years. I had a friend who had the R1900 but he sold it after about a year. The printing quality on the newer one was marginally better. As you know, it's a nice enough printer for color glossy, but if you are aiming to output on matte media or B&W,then there are better choices. Those ink carts are awfully small and pricey too.
If you want to stay with Epson, the 3800 series is a significant step up. The proportional ink costs are far friendlier too. Otherwise, the new Canon MK II 9500 printers look very attractive.
ME
I too have considered going with the 1900, but decided not to at this time. The 2880 has really peaked my interest and has good reviews, so I'd be curious what others thought of the 2880 in lieu of the 3800.
Mike
Before you commit to buying a printer, I'd like to add a few items you may want to consider:
--Will you be producing prints for your own use, or for sale, or both?
--What is the maximum size print width you expect to make over the life of the printer?
--Will your printing volume be low. medium, or high?
--Will you be printing black & white?
--Will you be using a variety of papers from companies other than those from maker of the printer.?
--Do you have a preference for dye-based or pigment-based inks?
--Do you plan to use cut sheet, roll paper, or both?
--How much physical space do you have for the printer. and storage for inks and paper?
--What can you afford in terms of the cost of the printer, ink, and paper?
I believe that by answering the questions posed above, you'll be able to shop more efficiently and you'll get a printer that will meet your current and expected needs.
--P
I have one further thought. See if you can find an Epson R2400 for sale either used or refurbished. These are very nice printers that will handle 13 in. wide paper and there is a roll paper adapter for it, as well. This printer is capable of making gorgeous prints in both color and B&W.
--P