Dont believe the hype!! (Epson Stylus Photo 870)

Member Name: flymo

Product:	Epson Stylus Photo 870
Date:	15/12/00 (146 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: As usual exceptional quality.

Disadvantages: Still chipped and still not long life.

Hype is here and this printer isnt what it is made out to be.
Epson have had a lot of embarrassement to deal with when it comes to the so-called photo targetted printers. The 1270 was meant to be the printer that gave us photo quality with long life prints when using their specified medias. This turned out to be a failure as the media wasnt up to the actual lifetime expectancy so the printer failed it`s test.
Now we have the 870 which is the new version of the 1270 but in a smaller form. The prints are just as excellent quality as can be expected from Epson`s piezo printers but is then let down by the same combination again. Same inks as normal but they must be combined with the medias specified.
The printer has its annoying limitation in the fact that the cartridges are chipped, so anyone wanting to put other inks in, that do actually last, will not be able to.
This is where the 870 must be avoided if you are expecting long life prints. The quality is very good but is nothing different to any other Epson printers on their range.
The hype isnt always the truth.
Until Epson sort out the media problems then do not be tempted, have patience or pick another Epson for a cheaper price and compatibility with alternative inks.

Summary: