Compact Design, Hidden Features
The Epson Expression Photo XP-8800 Wireless Color All-in-One replaces its predecessor, the XP-8700, offering a compact yet feature-rich design. Measuring just 5.6 x 13.7 x 13.4 inches (H x W x D) and weighing 14.6 pounds, it fits easily into a home office. A 4.3-inch touchscreen simplifies navigation, while a hidden compartment reveals a USB port, SD card slot, and disc print tray tucked beneath the main paper tray. Setup is simplified with downloadable software, and automatic printhead alignment ensures worry-free maintenance. Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB connectivity cater to a wide range of user needs, but Ethernet is notably missing.
Flexible Paper Handling and Brilliant Photo Results
The XP-8800 comes with dual paper trays (one 100-sheet main tray for legal-size paper and another 20-sheet photo tray) that supports automatic two-sided printing of letter-size documents. Its rear manual feed slot accommodates specialty media, including 47-inch banners. Photo printing uses a six-ink system, which produces lab-quality results on glossy paper. However, direct copying results in a noticeable loss of quality, so a scan-and-print workflow is better suited for duplication.
Performance: A combination of speed and accuracy
In speed tests, the XP-8800 printed a 4×6 photo in 29 seconds, slightly behind competitors such as the Canon Pixma TS9521C. Text and graphics on plain paper were acceptable, but colors were light, and fine text edges occasionally blurred. Graphics on photo paper, however, were very sharp. Water and highlighter tests showed that the ink did not smudge easily, but slight water stains appeared on plain paper.
Competitive Strengths and Limitations
Although it lacks an automatic document feeder and wide-format scanning, the XP-8800 excels in versatility. Competing models like the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 offer lower ink costs and 13×19-inch printing, while the XP-970 adds Ethernet and 11×17-inch support. However, the XP-8800’s balance of photo quality, compactness, and features makes it a good choice for families that prioritize legal-size printing and the occasional photo project.
Final Recommendation
For families seeking a compact, photo-capable all-in-one without the need for wide format, the Epson XP-8800 earns our Editors’ Choice award. Its intuitive design and reliable output justify the $299 price tag. To extend the life of your printer, consider investing in high-quality printer replacement batteries from https://www.ultrabookbattery.com/printers-battery. Their batteries come with a one-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring your device stays powered for years of seamless creativity！