Using Claria Ink with Entry-Level Epson Ecotank - is it possible?

[Emeios]

Hello, I've searched the forum but couldn't find a clear confirmation regarding my question.

TLDR:
I'm planning to buy an entry-level Epson Ecotank printer (like ET-2870, ET-4800, ET-2860, etc., I haven't decided on a specific model yet) and use Claria ink (114 ink bottles) instead of the recommended ink. Would this work without issues? I've found some threads mentioning that Claria ink works well with other unofficially compatible Epson Ecotank printers, but I didn't see explicit confirmation for such entry-level Ecotank printers.

Sorry if the answer is obvious, I'm very new to the (2D) printing world, and I'd rather not brick my printer before even using it.

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To add some context:

I'm planning to create a gift that involves some printing. I'd prefer to do the printing myself rather than using a third-party service, since it will require printing on different materials, sizes, and some trial and error.

After finishing this project, and when I'm not actively involved in new ones, I probably won't print very frequently (a few times per month at most). Therefore, I can't justify the expense of a high-end printer, but I still want good-quality/lasting inks for my projects.

From reading various threads, I got the impression that the main difference between entry-level Epson Ecotank printers (ET-2870, ET-4800, ET-2860, etc.) and slightly more expensive models (like ET-8500) isn't primarily hardware but rather the ink they use. For example, printers such as the ET-8500 have two additional ink slots (a grey ink and a pigment black), which seem only really beneficial for photo printing.

My idea is to buy an entry-level printer and use Claria Ink (114) to achieve reasonably good-quality prints that won't fade quickly. Would this work?

Thank you for your time.

P.S.: Since printer and ink model numbers can vary by region, please note that I'm located in Europe.

 

[Ink stained Fingers]

Using the 114 ink instead of another dye ink is not a problem, print quality does not just depend on the inks but very much as well on the type of paper you are going to use - uncoated papers - not specifically for inkjet printing - may create some dull looking prints. You would not get the same color saturation as with papers suited for inkjet printing.

 

[Tony4597]

I am curious so have to ask the question why buy a particular printer and then use the 'wrong ink' for that model as specified by the manufacturer?

At this time I can think of a couple of reasons:

1. Cheaper ink per ml?
But then surely other manufacturers provide compatibles that may score on price?
Been down that route myself with some printers but stick with OEM for photographic and archival qualities

2. Archival attributes?
Is one ink seen to have better fade resistance than another?
If that is the case then has it actually been proven on the intended media for your work? The paper you use can significantly impact the archival permanence of printed work. If the paper you intend to use is not classed as archival then it could be that all bets are of regarding longevity.

 

[Emeios]

Using the 114 ink instead of another dye ink is not a problem

Thank you for your answer! Indeed, I forgot to mention the paper, I had this in mind but didn't mention it this this post.

I am curious so have to ask the question why buy a particular printer and then use the 'wrong ink' for that model as specified by the manufacturer?

In my case, the ink is not cheaper, but it has better fade resistance. Thank you for the details regarding the importance of paper quality for the prints longevity, I'll pay attention to it.

 

[Tony4597]

...
In my case, the ink is not cheaper, but it has better fade resistance. Thank you for the details regarding the importance of paper quality for the prints longevity, I'll pay attention to it.

Is it possible to detail your intended application requiring high fade resistance and your intended substrates, assuming photo papers not in the general running?

If fade resistance paramount then have you considered pigment inks as they are likely to be much more fade resistant and have the advantage of binding to more substrates than dye inks?

Prices for pigment printers and ink likely to be higher of course and may be outside of current budget, but maybe if you can find one a used printer from a reputable source a possibility?