Epson is introducing four new multifunction “Small-in-One” printers — three in the Expression Premium series, and one in the Expression Photo series. All four models use a multi-tank ink system and Epson’s Claria Premium inks, and are designed to handle photo printing. There’s nothing revolutionary about them over their predecessors, but they are typical upgrades.
The Expression Photo XP-960 ($299) is a six-color machine that can print photos and documents up to 11 x 17, ideal for those who want to make large prints. Epson says the Claria inks can deliver photo lab-quality prints (Epson calls it “Ultra HD”). The XP-960 has a rated print speed of 11 seconds for a 4 x 6 photo. With the 4.3-inch touchscreen and built-in card slots, you can, without a PC, make edits such as auto photo correction and red-eye removal. You can also print photos from or scan and share photos to Facebook (via mobile app).
With built-in Wi-Fi, the XP-960 supports cloud-based printing and direct printing from mobile devices. If the printer is connected to the Internet, you can print to it from any location. Besides wireless, it also offers Ethernet. The XP-960 also supports printing onto compatible CD/DVD blank media, and a variety of specialty paper via the rear paper feed. For scanning, the lid has been designed to hold original documents in place when opening and closing.
In the Expression Premium series, the XP-830 ($199), XP-630 ($149), and XP-530 ($129) are five-color systems. While they lack the extra ink — which the XP-960 uses to render very subtle hues — and the ability to handle 11 x 17 paper, these are still photo-capable printers. Function-wise, the Premium machines are similar, but they have the convenience of automatic duplexing (two-sided printing). The XP-530 and XP-630 have a rated photo print speed of 20 seconds for 4 x 6 prints, while the XP-830 can do it in 12 seconds. The XP-630 adds a 2.7-inch touch screen and USB port, as well as the ability to print onto optical media.
The XP-830, which is a more office-centric MFP, builds on top of the XP-630 with a 4.3-inch touchscreen with “gesture navigation” (similar to a smartphone), envelope and specialty paper printing, 30-page automatic document feeder, auto extend/retract output tray, Ethernet, and fax. All Expression Premium printers have Wi-Fi and the same wireless features as the XP-960.
