Buying Epson compatible inks?

[Reptyle]

Hello anyone familiar with name brand compatible inks. Looking on the net for the cheapest prices on ink for my epson 2200, I have come across a host of sites selling Epson "compatible" ink. They list their product with the same part numbers as Epsons. I am wondering if anyone has any information on using these type inks. Are they similair to the multi-chrome inks I now use. Are they 99 year archivable, colorfast, waterproof, are they OK to run through my printer?

[Gerdav43]

I've talked to people that have used these inks without success. I recommend sticking with manufacturer inks. I have found the best prices at places like COSTCO. You would be suprised. I save at least 35 to 45% off what places like Best Buy or Staples would sell it for. Check it out. You save the membership fee on your first purchase.

[scottbergerphoto]

Hello anyone familiar with name brand compatible inks. Looking on the net for the cheapest prices on ink for my epson 2200, I have come across a host of sites selling Epson "compatible" ink. They list their product with the same part numbers as Epsons. I am wondering if anyone has any information on using these type inks. Are they similair to the multi-chrome inks I now use. Are they 99 year archivable, colorfast, waterproof, are they OK to run through my printer?
Don't take this the wrong way, but you bought what is probably the best inkjet photo printer on the market today. The colors this printer produces are simply outstanding. Why compromise that and possibly reduce the longevity of your printer to save a few bucks?
Just my 2c,
Scott

[Reptyle]

Yeah- I didn't think buying these compatible inks was the best idea, but retailers make it sound so good. Thanks for the input.

[Ken Fong]

I agree with Scott...stay with Epson inks for now. They seem to be coming down in price a little (maybe there is more supply now), especially if you buy the inks as a set (at B&H for example).
If you do print a lot, there seems to be some CIS (Continuous Inking Supply) setups for the 2200 now, but I don't know anything about how well it compares with the Epson ink. I probably do not print enough to justify such a system right now.
I've never seen Epson 2200 inks at Costco (it does not seem to be the printer for the 'masses')...that would be great though. For the 2200, we typically had to go to local photography supply stores or online. I'm just recently starting to see it at Staples and OfficeDepot. I'm not sure I would ever 'stock up' however, I'd like to buy it fresh.

[Motorsports Photo]

From what I have read the "compatible" inks are to blame for most uncleanable head clogs. That hassle should be enough to keep you away!

This does not apply to the CIS systems. I havent heard about any problems other than color profiles with them.

-Pete

[scottbergerphoto]

From what I have read the "compatible" inks are to blame for most uncleanable head clogs. That hassle should be enough to keep you away!

This does not apply to the CIS systems. I havent heard about any problems other than color profiles with them.

-Pete
Like your new Avatar!
Scott

[Radtech1]

Try www.oddparts.com

Not exactly the cheapest 3rd party around, but I have had great results with the Canon compatable. Also, can't beat them for integrety. Had good experience with returns, too. (No problem with the ink - that particular Lexmark printer commited suicide, so I no longer needed the ink.)

Rad

[Reptyle]

Thanks again for the good info- Reptyle.