The Epson WorkForce WF-7310DTW stands as a testament to Epson’s commitment to delivering versatile office printers capable of handling demanding tasks. Designed primarily for businesses and professionals, this printer strikes a balance between high-speed duplex printing, large format support, and affordability in its initial purchase price. However, its niche focus, reliance on ink cartridges, and lack of multifunctionality leave room for improvement. Here, we provide an exhaustive review of the printer, covering its specifications, performance, advantages, and limitations.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Printer Type | Inkjet |
| Color Output | Color |
| Connectivity | USB, Ethernet, WiFi, WiFi Direct |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic |
| Maximum Resolution | 4,800 x 2,400 DPI |
| Paper Capacity | 500 sheets (250 per cassette) + rear tray |
| Paper Sizes Supported | A3+, A3, A4, A5, A6, B4, B5, Custom |
| Operating Systems | Windows XP–10, MacOS 10.6.8 or later |
| Dimensions | 515 x 400 x 298 mm |
| Weight | 13.5 kg |
| Display | 6.1 cm LCD |
| Price | ~$200/£180 |
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Key Features and Design
Unpacking and Setup
The WF-7310DTW is securely packaged, featuring foam protection and a foil wrap to prevent damage during transport. Inside the box, you'll find:
- Main printer unit
- Individual ink cartridges (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black)
- Power cord
- Driver CD and quick start guide
Setup is straightforward, with clear on-screen prompts guiding users through ink cartridge installation and driver setup. The device lacks a companion app but connects effortlessly to networks via WiFi, Ethernet, or USB.
Build and Ergonomics
This printer is sizable and robust, weighing 13.5 kg. It features:
- A motorized output tray
- Two paper cassettes (250-sheet capacity each)
- Rear paper feeder for A3+ and specialty media
While its sturdy build enhances durability, the absence of a scanner makes it less versatile for multi-function needs. The 2.4-inch LCD and button interface simplify navigation but feel outdated compared to touchscreens.
Performance Overview
Printing Speed
The WF-7310DTW excels in speed, particularly for black-and-white documents. Performance tests reveal:
| Print Type | Speed (per page) |
|---|---|
| Black-and-white | ~3 seconds |
| Color documents | 8–14 seconds |
| Duplex printing | 6–18 seconds |
For large jobs, such as reports or contracts, its rapid processing ensures minimal downtime, a crucial feature for busy offices.
Print Quality
The printer delivers excellent results across multiple scenarios:
- Text Documents: Crisp and legible, even at small font sizes.
- Color Graphics: Vibrant with smooth gradients, ideal for presentations.
- Photo Prints: Surprisingly high-quality for an office printer, though slower drying times are required on glossy paper.
Advantages
High Throughput and Versatility
- Dual cassettes and a rear feed enable seamless handling of different media sizes.
- Supports large-format A3+ sheets, making it suitable for architectural plans or posters.
Connectivity
With WiFi Direct, Ethernet, and USB support, the WF-7310DTW integrates effortlessly into any office setup. Mobile printing via Apple AirPrint and Epson Connect adds convenience.
Ease of Use
- Accessible cartridge slots with color-coded keys prevent errors.
- Firmware updates and driver installation are straightforward.
Limitations
Running Costs
While the upfront price is reasonable, cartridge expenses add up quickly:
| Cartridge Type | Pages Yield | Cost (Approx.) | Cost/Page |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 350 pages | $15/£12 | ~$0.04/£0.04 |
| Color | 300 pages | $62.95/£54.99 | ~$0.16/£0.13 |
These costs make the WF-7310DTW less economical for high-volume printing compared to Epson's EcoTank models.
Feature Gaps
- No Scanner: Limits functionality for offices requiring document digitization.
- No External Storage Support: USB stick and SD card printing are unavailable, restricting standalone use.
Comparison with Alternatives
| Feature | WF-7310DTW | Epson EcoTank ET-3850 | HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duplex Printing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scanner | No | Yes | Yes |
| Running Cost/Page | Higher (cartridges) | Lower (refillable tanks) | Moderate |
| A3+ Support | Yes | No | No |
| Mobile Printing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
The Epson WF-7310DTW is an exceptional choice for offices requiring fast, high-volume duplex printing and occasional large-format support. While its print quality and ease of use shine, the reliance on costly cartridges and lack of multifunctionality may deter some buyers. For those who prioritize speed and format flexibility, this printer remains a competitive option, though alternatives like the Epson EcoTank line may offer better value for long-term usage.