Unlike previous reports that depended on cartridge usage calculations and some assumptions, this report relies on the ink usage reporting provided by the Epson 3800. We printed 10 full coverage 8”x10” image targets using three different media settings. The printer generates a report that details the amount in milliliters of each ink used for that job.
Last update May 2021
Cost of ink by print size for the Epson 3800
| Costs by Media Type / Size | 4x6 | 5x7 | 8x10 | 11x14 | 13x19 | 16x20 | 17x22 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Luster | $0.21 | $0.31 | $0.70 | $1.36 | $2.17 | $2.82 | $3.29 |
| Enhanced Matte | $0.24 | $0.35 | $0.80 | $1.54 | $2.47 | $3.20 | $3.74 |
Cost of ink by print size for the Epson 3880
| Costs by Media Type / Size | 4x6 | 5x7 | 8x10 | 11x14 | 13x19 | 16x20 | 17x22 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Luster | $0.22 | $0.33 | $0.72 | $1.39 | $2.22 | $2.88 | $3.37 |
| Enhanced Matte | $0.26 | $0.39 | $0.88 | $1.69 | $2.72 | $3.52 | $4.11 |
Testing Methods
Preface
The “true cost of inkjet printing” is a source of constant debate in the media and on web forums. Luckily for wide format inkjet printer owners, the mystery is made clear by self reporting ink usage tools included with their printers. This report looks at the cost of ink per square inch for two Epson printers. The goal is to determine the cost for various popular print sizes, and to report those numbers. We have been encouraged to pursue this report even by owners of the Epson 3800 and 3880 because they have expressed a) the desire to see the numbers presented in a clear manner, and b) because of Red River's reputation for honest and informative reporting.
Methodology
Ten 8" x 10" prints of the image at right were made using two different media settings: Premium Luster Photo Paper and Enhanced Matte Paper. All prints were made using 1440dpi print quality with high speed turned off. The Premium Luster setting utilizes the Photo Black ink while the other uses the Matte Black ink installed on the printer.
After each set of 10 prints (all one under one print job), we printed the Job Information report under the Test Print menu at the printer's control panel. The report details the amount in milliliters of each ink used for the job.
Data and Calculations
Ink Cost Calculation
80ml Tank costs $79.00 Updated May 2021. Source: Epson.com
Ink cost = 98.8¢ per mL
Media Used
Each test used 10 sheets of 8.5x11.
Printed area was 8" x 10" for a total of 800 square inches printed per test
Calculations
mL ink used x Ink cost per mL = Cost of Ink Used
Cost of Ink Used / 10 = Cost of an individual 8x10
Cost of 8x10 / 80 sq. inches = Cost per square inch
Cost per square inch x 144 = Cost per square foot
Cost and Usage Data for Epson 3800
| Media | 8x10 Prints | mL Ink Used | Cost Ink Used | Cost/8x10 | Cost/SqInch | Cost/SqFoot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Luster | 10 | 7.23 mL | $7.06 | $0.71 | $0.0088 | $1.27 |
| Enhanced Matte | 10 | 8.32 mL | $8.13 | $0.81 | $0.01 | $1.46 |
Cost and Usage Data for Epson 3880
| Media | 8x10 Prints | mL Ink Used | Cost Ink Used | Cost/8x10 | Cost/Sq Inch | Cost/Sq Foot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Luster | 10 | 7.7 mL | $7.52 | $0.75 | $0.009 | $1.35 |
| Enhanced Matte | 10 | 9.38 mL | $9.16 | $0.92 | $0.011 | $1.65 |
Ink Cartridge Usage Data
Epson 3800
| Media Setting | Black | LK | LLK | C | M | LC | LM | Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Luster | 0.36ml | 1.61ml | 1.87ml | 0.23ml | 0.44ml | 0.93ml | 0.93ml | 0.86ml |
| Enhanced Matte | 0.76ml | 1.77ml | 0.50ml | 0.58ml | 0.66ml | 1.00ml | 1.65ml | 1.40ml |
Epson 3880
| Media Setting | Black | LK | LLK | C | M | LC | LM | Y |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Luster | 0.78ml | 1.48ml | 1.35ml | 0.15ml | 0.40ml | 1.08ml | 1.54ml | 0.92ml |
| Enhanced Matte | 2.06ml | 0.64ml | 1.65ml | 1.05ml | 1.08ml | 0.45ml | 0.59ml | 1.86ml |
Sources of Error
We acknowledge that there are potential errors in testing and calculations. They are listed below:
- Inaccuracy of the remaining cartridge usage figures – The accuracy of the Epson Status Monitor could be called into question. From observations during the printing phase however, the display was consistent in its changes downward. Also, the printer stops immediately or very soon after the display shows no ink.
- “Real world” variables – The types of images printed can make a difference in the overall ink usage. Also, how often a printer is used will change ink usage slightly. Long periods of being left on, automatic cleaning, and manual cleaning cycles all play a role in overall ink usage.
Given possible sources of error, it is fair to attach a margin of error of +/- 10% to our results.
Related Posts and Information
Last updated: June 30, 2023
