Epson Stylus Color 880

The resolution tests were also dealt with impressively, and the Epson still managed to produce straight lines even on a 300dpi pattern, although this is a far cry from the gargantuan resolutions boasted on the packaging. However, as with other Epson models we've tested, the lines were of varying thickness and spacing when they should have been completely even. The only real issue with the resolution tests though, was that while the colour patterns were printed fairly accurately, the composite black patterns came out as roughly shaded blocks with little trace of any straight lines, which could well be down to a driver issue.

Minor complaints aside, for the initial price of £135 the Epson Stylus Color 880 offers fantastic value for money. The photo results alone rival printers costing a lot more, and working out at 8.3p per colour page at 20 per cent CMYK coverage, it's also more economical to run than the HP 990Cxi, although you don't have the advantage of replacing a fresh print head every time. Epson needs to work on its plain black text quality, but the improved print speed is a good move forward, as are the quiet acoustics. If you're working with a mid-range budget then the 880 comes highly recommended.

Author: Ben Hardwidge