Epson WorkForce 30 Color Ink Jet Review
Fast print speeds and print capabilities on multiple paper types don't compensate for weaknesses identified by users, which include poor output, excessive/unreliable ink usage, and loud and noisy print runs.
This machine seems to have lots of flash in the form of speedy printing and appealing features. The product description boasts laser-quality printouts at speeds that best the competition. But Epson WorkForce 30 Color Ink Jet reviews refute the product claims. In Epson WorkForce 30 Color Ink Jet reviews on Amazon, users tell of blurred and wavy text, misaligned prints, and problems printing out web pages. Users posting Epson WorkForce 30 Color Ink Jet reviews on CNET gripe about needing to realign heads, frequent error messages, clumsy paper feed, and rapidly disappearing ink. Consumers seem outraged at the high cost of replacement cartridges -- Epson brand, only, please -- and also complain about the noise level. And yet, we read some Epson WorkForce 30 Color Ink Jet reviews that express satisfaction with this model, in particular, the quality of the text, color graphics, and photo output.
The Epson Workforce 30 boasts an impressive 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution and built-in double- sided printing capability. It accepts paper as small as 3.5 x 5 and as large as 8.5 x 14, as well as plain, matte, and glossy. This low-cost printer is Energy Star-certified but has no connectivity except through a USB cable to your computer.
Given its price in the upper third of the cheap range for inkjet printers and the totality of unenthusiastic and negative reviews, the Epson WorkForce 30 Color Ink Jet fails to win our vote. It probably doesn't deserve yours, either.
Other Recommended Inkjet Printers
Canon Pixma iP2600
With solid resolution, decent print speeds, and the ability to print on more paper sizes than many of its peers, the Canon Pixma iP2600 is a good entry-level printer that produces photos without borders. Reviewers are impressed with the output but users gripe that it gobbles ink and the feeder frequently malfunctions. Read more »
Canon PIXMA iP4820
This new user- and environmentally-friendly inkjet from Canon packs a whopping 9600x2400 dpi and produces high-quality photo prints at what passes for lightening speed in the budget category. Automatic two-sided printing and 300-sheet paper capacity help compensate for the absence of copy, scan, and fax capabilities. Experts are slightly more impressed than consumers. Read more »
Canon PIXMA MP495 Wireless Inkjet Photo All-In-One
Canon PIXMA MP495 Wireless Inkjet Photo All-In-One (starting at $49, Amazon
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Another new inkjet from Canon, this one features built-in wireless printing and scanning and churns out good color photos of 4800x1200 dpi. Users like the wireless capabilities, print quality, easy installation, and quiet operation of this entry-level all-in-one.
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HP Deskjet 3050 All-in-One Printer
This wireless inkjet printer scans, prints, and copies, and includes templates for calendars, games, and specialty paper. Users report installation is a breeze and most are satisfied with its print performance, although quite a few gripe about noisy operation and a handful report difficulty setting up the wireless. Read more »
