Epson EcoTank ET-5850 Wi-Fi

Overview

The Epson EcoTank ET-5850 is a comprehensive 4‑in‑1 multifunction printer that combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing into one sleek unit. Built around Epson’s PrecisionCore inkjet technology, it delivers high‑quality color output while keeping operating costs low through its refillable EcoTank system.

Design & Build

The device features a compact footprint of 425 × 350 mm and weighs just under 12 kg, making it suitable for both home offices and small businesses. Its front panel hosts a 4.3‑inch touchscreen display that provides intuitive navigation across all functions. The chassis is finished in matte black, giving the machine a professional look without being overly bulky.

Printing Capabilities

Print Speed: Up to 32 pages per minute (ppm) in black and white, and 25 ppm for color documents. Duplex printing is automatic, delivering 21 ppm on A4 sheets.

Resolution: Maximum optical resolution of 4800 × 2400 dpi for crisp text and vibrant images. The printer supports a wide range of media sizes up to A4 (210 × 297 mm), including envelopes, photo paper, and standard office stock.

Ink System: Four individual ink tanks—Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black—each with a capacity that yields approximately 2800–4500 pages. The refillable design eliminates the need for cartridges, reducing long‑term costs.

Scanning Features

Scanner Type: CIS (Contact Image Sensor) delivers high‑resolution scans at 1200 × 2400 dpi. Dual‑side scanning is available with speeds of 11 ppm for black and white and 6 ppm for color.

Scan Formats: Supports BMP, JPEG, TIFF, PNG, PDF, and more. Scans can be sent directly to email, cloud services, or a USB host.

Fax Functionality

The ET-5850 includes a built‑in Super G3 fax modem capable of transmitting at 33.6 kbps. Fax operations support both color and monochrome documents, with features such as automatic error correction (ECM), address book management, and the ability to send faxes via email or PC.

Connectivity & Networking

Wireless: Supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards, including Wi‑Fi Direct for direct device-to-device printing without a router.

Wired: RJ‑45 Ethernet port and USB B interface provide reliable network and local connections.

Software Support: Compatible with Windows (XP to 10), macOS (Snow Leopard onward), and various server editions. Epson Connect, Apple AirPrint, and mobile printing apps are fully supported.

Paper Handling & Capacity

The printer offers three paper trays: two standard trays each holding 250 sheets and a third tray with a 125‑sheet capacity for envelopes or thicker media. An automatic document feeder (ADF) can process up to 50 pages per job, making multi‑page copying and scanning efficient.

Key Performance Metrics

• Print Speed: 32 ppm (black), 25 ppm (color)
• Duplex Print Speed: 21 ppm (A4)
• Scan Speed: 11 ppm (B/W), 6 ppm (color)
• Ink Capacity: 2800–4500 pages per tank
• Power Consumption: 19 W during operation, 8 W in sleep mode, 7 W standby

User Experience & Convenience

The 10.9‑cm touchscreen allows users to quickly switch between printing, copying, scanning, and faxing modes without navigating complex menus. The device’s auto‑duplex feature saves paper, while the ADF reduces manual handling for large documents.

Maintenance is straightforward: ink tanks are refillable via a simple tap of a nozzle, and the printer provides clear on‑screen prompts when levels are low. Firmware updates can be applied over Wi‑Fi or USB, ensuring the machine stays current with security patches and feature enhancements.

Environmental & Economic Benefits

The EcoTank system dramatically cuts waste by eliminating disposable cartridges. With an estimated cost per page of a fraction of traditional inkjet printers, it is ideal for users who print frequently or require high‑volume color output.

Energy Star certification confirms the ET-5850’s efficient power usage, contributing to lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact.

Conclusion

The Epson EcoTank ET-5850 stands out as a versatile, high‑performance all‑in‑one solution that balances speed, quality, and sustainability. Its robust feature set—spanning printing, scanning, copying, faxing, and wireless connectivity—makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable office productivity without the recurring expense of traditional cartridges.