Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 Printer Review High-Performance Wide-Format Printing for Office Needs

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 impresses immediately with its robust and professional build. Weighing close to 40 pounds, it’s not exactly portable, but the weight gives it a sturdy, premium feel. Its dimensions of 20.3″ x 38.4″ x 18″ make it larger than your average home printer, but that’s expected for a device capable of wide-format printing. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen is highly responsive and intuitive, making navigation a breeze even for someone who isn’t tech-savvy. The sleek black finish adds to its professional aesthetic, blending seamlessly into office spaces or home setups.

What stood out most to me was the 250-sheet paper tray—a lifesaver during bulk printing tasks. The inclusion of an automatic document feeder (ADF) with a capacity of 50 sheets was another highlight, especially for multi-page scanning or copying. However, the printer’s size might not be ideal for cramped spaces, so keep that in mind if you’re tight on room. Despite its larger footprint, the ergonomics and layout of controls make this a thoughtfully designed piece of equipment.

Performance and Speed

I tested the printer with a variety of tasks, and the PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology lived up to its promise. The speed was quite impressive at 25 black and 12 color ISO ppm, which handled high-volume jobs without breaking a sweat. Printing a vivid 13″ x 19″ poster was not only fast but also showcased excellent color accuracy, thanks to the DURABrite Ultra instant-dry pigment inks. The prints dried almost immediately, making smudging virtually impossible.

Scanning and faxing were equally efficient, with the 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution producing crisp, clear images. Whether I was scanning documents for work or copying old family photos, the results were consistently sharp. However, I did notice that the printer tends to be a bit noisy during operation, which could be disruptive in quieter environments. Still, the reliability for heavy workloads was evident, making it a solid choice for small businesses or home offices.

Key Benefits

• Wide-format capabilities: Prints up to 13″ x 19″, perfect for posters, blueprints, or marketing materials.
• Automatic duplexing: Handles two-sided printing, scanning, copying, and faxing with ease.
• High-speed performance: Ensures quick turnaround for high-volume jobs.
• User-friendly interface: The 4.3-inch touchscreen simplifies navigation and control.

Ease of Use and Connectivity

Setting up the printer was refreshingly simple. The Epson Smart Panel app streamlined the process, allowing me to connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi in minutes. I appreciated the multiple connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi Direct, which ensured compatibility with all my devices. It even works seamlessly with smart assistants like Alexa, making it easy to print using voice commands.

The ScanSmart software deserves a special mention; its user-friendly interface made scanning and editing documents straightforward. I was able to scan directly to cloud storage services, saving time on file transfers. However, I did find the app’s initial learning curve slightly challenging, especially when navigating advanced settings. Once I got the hang of it, though, it was smooth sailing.

Favorable Aspects

• Multiple connectivity options: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, and Alexa integration ensure versatility.
• Enhanced mobile productivity: The Epson Smart Panel app allows for seamless operation from smartphones.
• Efficient scanning: The ScanSmart software streamlines the process of scanning and organizing files.

Areas of Concern

• Size and weight: At nearly 40 pounds, the printer is bulky and requires a dedicated space.
• Noise levels: Can be a bit loud during operation, which might be distracting in quieter settings.
• Restricted ink compatibility: Only accepts genuine Epson cartridges, which limits third-party options.

Product Rivals

Comparing this printer to models like the HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 and the Canon Pixma iX6820, I found that the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 holds its ground well. The HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 matches it in wide-format printing but falls slightly short in terms of print speed. On the other hand, the Canon Pixma iX6820 excels in photo quality but lacks the multi-functionality of the Epson.

Where the WF-7820 truly excels is its all-in-one versatility—scanning, faxing, copying, and wide-format printing all in one machine. However, the reliance on genuine Epson cartridges might deter budget-conscious buyers, as competitors like Canon offer more flexibility with third-party inks. Still, the durability and wide-format capabilities make it a standout choice for demanding environments.

Cost-Effectiveness

Considering the printer’s features, including high-speed performance, wide-format printing, and robust connectivity options, the price feels justified. While it might seem like a significant investment upfront, the long-term reliability and versatility add considerable value. The automatic duplexing and large paper capacity alone save time and reduce paper waste, which is a win for both productivity and the environment.

That said, the exclusive use of Epson cartridges could make operational costs higher than expected. If you’re planning to use this for high-volume jobs, the cost of ink is something to factor into your decision. Despite that, I’d say it offers excellent price-to-quality ratio, particularly for small businesses or creative professionals who need reliable and high-quality prints.

Additional information