Epson ET-8700 EcoTank Printer Tested: Best Supertank Printer for Small Offices?

The Epson Workforce Pro ET-8700 EcoTank Color All-in-One Supertank Printer is designed for small offices and home users who need high-volume, low-cost printing without frequent cartridge replacements. With its refillable ink tanks and wireless connectivity, this printer aims to reduce long-term costs while delivering sharp color prints and fast output. This review breaks down whether the ET-8700 lives up to the hype for busy workspaces that prioritize efficiency and reliability over one-time purchase price. The ET-8700 features a sturdy, office-grade build with a sleek front panel that houses the large 2.4-inch color touchscreen. Its footprint is substantial at 16.7" x 22.8" x 17.7" when printing, but the compact storage dimensions (16.7" x 21.1" x 14.1") make it manageable in tight spaces. Weighing 40.6 lbs, it’s built to stay put during high-volume jobs. The front-loading paper tray holds up to 250 sheets, and the rear tray supports specialty media like envelopes and cardstock. The ink system uses Epson’s proprietary R02X and R02L cartridges, which are designed to be filled from bottles—eliminating the need for traditional cartridges and reducing waste. The printer includes two black and three sets each of cyan, magenta, and yellow ink bottles, providing a starting supply for thousands of pages. Performance is where the ET-8700 shines. It delivers up to 12 ISO ppm in black and 8 ISO ppm in color, with first-page-out times under 6 seconds in both modes. The EcoTank system drastically cuts per-page costs—often to less than a penny per page in black and a few cents in color—making it ideal for businesses with heavy printing needs. Wireless and Ethernet connectivity ensure seamless integration into office networks, and Epson’s Print Layout software supports advanced scanning, copying, and faxing functions. Compared to competitors like the Brother MFC-J995DW, which also uses an inkjet tank system but lacks Ethernet, the ET-8700 offers more robust connectivity and higher print speeds. HP’s OfficeJet Pro 9025e, while faster in some tasks, relies on traditional cartridges and has higher ongoing costs. Value hinges on usage. For small businesses or home offices printing 5,000+ pages per year, the ET-8700’s low cost per page and high reliability make it a smart investment. It’s less ideal for casual users due to its size and initial setup complexity. Buyers should note that Epson warns against third-party ink, which may void functionality. Overall, this printer delivers professional-grade results with minimal long-term expense—ideal for those who prioritize efficiency and cost savings over upfront affordability.