The Epson SureColor P900 is a professional-grade inkjet photo printer that delivers exceptional print quality and versatility for photographers and content creators. PCMag's William Harrel praised its ease of setup and high-quality output, while Imaging-Resource's Terry Sullivan highlighted its ability to produce stunning prints that bring digital images to life with precision. The printer features a 4.3-inch touchscreen, supports wireless connectivity, and includes 10 Epson UltraChrome PRO10 ink cartridges. However, reviewers noted its high price point and bulky size, making it less suitable for home users seeking a compact solution.
Full review
Exceptional Print Quality
The Epson SureColor P900 delivers outstanding print quality that has earned praise from professional reviewers and photographers alike. Imaging-Resource's Terry Sullivan described the printer's output as 'magical' when reproducing a wedding photograph, noting that the finished print 'took my breath away' and reminded him of the experience of developing black-and-white photographs in a darkroom. The printer's 10-channel UltraChrome PRO10 ink system, which includes six colors, two grays, and dedicated photo black and matte black inks, produces rich, detailed images with excellent color accuracy. PCMag's William Harrel noted that the P900's pigment-based inks are 'designed to be stable over long periods of time, allowing prints to be displayed (under proper conditions) for many decades.' The printer's ability to handle various media types, from glossy photo paper to fine art papers, demonstrates its versatility in professional settings.
Technical measurements support these claims, with the P900 achieving a maximum resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, which delivers exceptional detail in both color and black-and-white prints. The printer's performance in reproducing fine details was particularly evident when printing on Epson's Ultra Premium Photo Paper Luster, where reviewers noted that the output maintained excellent tonal gradation and color depth. The P900's handling of black-and-white photography was especially praised, with reviewers noting that the dedicated black ink channels produce superior results compared to printers that require switching between photo black and matte black cartridges. This capability is particularly valuable for photographers who work extensively with monochrome images, as it eliminates the need for cartridge changes during printing sessions.
Design and User Interface
The SureColor P900 features a robust, professional-grade design that reflects its intended use for serious photographers and artists. The printer includes a 4.3-inch touchscreen display that provides intuitive access to print settings and status information, making it easier for users to navigate through various print modes and quality settings. According to Red River Paper's review, the control panel is 'easy to use' and offers straightforward access to the printer's functions. The printer's dimensions are substantial at 24.2 x 35.6 x 20.5 inches in printing configuration, and it weighs 35.3 pounds, which makes it a significant addition to any studio or home office space. The printer's design includes a large front-loading paper tray that can accommodate up to 30 sheets of photo paper, though some reviewers have noted issues with paper feeding that were reportedly improved in later production models.
The printer's connectivity options are comprehensive, including USB 3.0, 100Base-T Ethernet, and dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) capabilities. These connections allow for flexible deployment in both home and professional environments. The inclusion of AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Epson's Print Layout mobile app provides users with multiple ways to send print jobs, which is particularly valuable for photographers who need to print from mobile devices. The printer's build quality and robust construction are evident in its ability to handle various paper types and sizes without compromising performance, though some reviewers have noted that the printer's physical footprint requires adequate space for comfortable operation.
Setup and Initial Experience
Setup of the Epson SureColor P900 is described as straightforward by multiple reviewers, with Imaging Resource's Terry Sullivan noting that the process begins with Epson's Start Here guide, which walks users through unpacking and verifying included components. The printer comes with a comprehensive set of initial ink cartridges, maintenance boxes, and documentation, which helps streamline the initial configuration process. According to PCMag's William Harrel, the setup process includes physically removing the printer from its box, removing protective packing materials, and installing the ink cartridges, which are individually keyed to prevent incorrect insertion. The automatic initialization procedure runs smoothly, and the printer's control panel provides clear feedback during the setup process. Red River Paper's review noted that the initial ink installation and driver setup were 'straightforward in Windows and the Mac OS,' with drivers available for download from Epson's official website.
The printer's driver installation process is generally well-received, with reviewers noting that the software installation was simple and that the printer's functionality was quickly accessible. However, some users have reported challenges with accessing printer driver settings, which can be confusing for those unfamiliar with advanced print configurations. The printer's ability to handle various paper types and sizes is evident in its performance, though early production models reportedly had issues with paper feeding that were later addressed in updated versions. The initial ink cartridges are sufficient for basic printing tasks, but reviewers note that these starter cartridges run out quickly, requiring users to purchase replacement ink tanks for continued operation.
Performance and Speed
The Epson SureColor P900's performance is characterized by its ability to produce high-quality prints at a reasonable speed for a professional-grade printer. While reviewers note that the P900's top quality modes are 'fairly slow,' the printer's overall performance is considered acceptable for professional use. The printer's ability to handle large-format prints up to 17 x 22 inches demonstrates its capability for producing gallery-quality prints suitable for exhibitions or home display. According to Top Ten Reviews, the P900's performance in handling various paper types and sizes is consistent, with the printer's pigment-based inks providing excellent longevity for prints. The printer's speed is adequate for most professional applications, though users should expect longer print times when using the highest quality settings.
Print speed varies depending on the quality settings and paper type used, with reviewers noting that the P900 can produce prints at a reasonable pace for a printer of its size and capabilities. The printer's handling of different paper weights and types is generally good, though some users have reported issues with paper feeding, particularly with certain paper types. The printer's ability to maintain consistent quality across different print jobs and paper types is one of its strongest features, with reviewers noting that the P900 consistently produces high-quality output regardless of the paper used. The printer's performance in handling large-format prints is particularly impressive, with the ability to produce prints up to 17 x 22 inches without compromising quality.
Paper Handling Issues
Despite its overall strengths, the Epson SureColor P900 has faced criticism for paper handling issues that have been reported by multiple reviewers. Red River Paper's review noted that while the P900's feed mechanism is 'now located in the center of the tray, like Canon printers,' the paper feed design was a 'step backwards relative to the P800' and lacks strength. The paper feed mechanism has been reported to cause misfeeds, particularly with standard 10 mil luster paper, which can be frustrating for users. Printerville's Rick LePage noted that early production models had significant paper feeding problems, though he reported that Epson had 'quietly fixed some of the paper handling issues' in later versions. However, some users have continued to experience problems, with one reviewer reporting that the printer's rear paper feeder and output tray were 'not very sturdy.'
The paper handling issues have been a recurring concern among users, with some reporting that the printer's feed mechanism is unreliable, particularly when using certain paper types. One reviewer specifically mentioned that the printer's ability to print on positive film was limited, as Epson does not support this media type, which can be a significant limitation for users who work with specific film types. Another user reported that the roll paper feeder attachment was a 'dismal failure,' with repeated paper jams and misfeeds that made the printer unusable for large-format printing. These issues have led some reviewers to question the printer's reliability and overall value, particularly for users who require consistent paper handling performance.
Value and Considerations
The Epson SureColor P900 is positioned as a premium professional-grade printer with a price point of $1,149, which reflects its advanced features and capabilities. While reviewers have praised the printer's exceptional print quality and versatility, they have also noted its high cost and significant physical footprint. The printer's ink costs are another consideration, with Red River Paper reporting that ink costs are $41.99 per 50mL tank, which can add up over time. However, the printer's longevity and performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers and artists who require high-quality prints. The printer's ability to handle various paper types and sizes, combined with its excellent color accuracy and archival quality, justifies its premium pricing for professional users. The inclusion of a large, easy-to-use touchscreen display and comprehensive connectivity options further enhances its value for professional applications.
Despite its strengths, the P900's value proposition is complicated by its paper handling issues and the need for significant space. The printer's weight of 35.3 pounds and dimensions of 24.2 x 35.6 x 20.5 inches require adequate room for comfortable operation, which may not be suitable for all users. Additionally, the printer's performance with glossy photo paper is noted as 'not the greatest,' which may limit its appeal for users who primarily work with glossy media. The printer's ability to produce gallery-quality prints, however, makes it a strong choice for photographers who prioritize quality over speed and are willing to invest in a professional-grade solution. The printer's long-term durability and archival quality, combined with its ability to handle various paper types, make it a solid investment for serious users.
Who It's Best For
The Epson SureColor P900 is best suited for professional photographers, artists, and serious enthusiasts who require high-quality, large-format prints and are willing to invest in a premium solution. The printer's pigment-based inks and advanced ink system make it ideal for producing archival-quality prints that will last decades, which is particularly valuable for artists and photographers who want to ensure their work remains intact over time. The printer's ability to handle various paper types and sizes, including large-format prints up to 17 x 22 inches, makes it suitable for gallery-quality work and professional applications. According to Imaging Resource's Terry Sullivan, the printer is 'an excellent choice for many content creators and professional photographers who need a versatile inkjet photo printer to produce prints in different sizes and on different media.' The printer's 4.3-inch touchscreen interface and comprehensive connectivity options make it accessible for users who need to manage multiple print jobs and settings.
Photographers who work extensively with black-and-white photography will find the P900 particularly appealing due to its dedicated black ink channels and superior handling of monochrome images. The printer's performance with fine art papers and its ability to produce prints with excellent tonal gradation and color depth make it a strong choice for artists who require precise color reproduction. However, the printer may not be ideal for casual users or those who primarily work with glossy photo paper, as the P900's performance with these media is noted as 'not the greatest.' Users who require a printer with a large footprint and are willing to invest in premium ink and paper solutions will find the P900 to be a solid investment. The printer's ability to handle various paper weights and types, combined with its excellent color accuracy and archival output, makes it a strong choice for professional applications.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Epson SureColor P900 has several notable shortcomings that potential buyers should consider. The most significant issue is the printer's paper handling problems, which have been reported by multiple reviewers and include misfeeds, paper jams, and unreliable feeding mechanisms. Red River Paper's review noted that the P900's paper feed design was a 'step backwards relative to the P800' and lacks strength, while Printerville's Rick LePage reported that early production models had 'significant paper feeding problems' that were only partially resolved in later versions. The printer's rear paper feeder and output tray are described as 'not very sturdy,' which can lead to paper jams and misfeeds during operation. These issues can be particularly frustrating for users who need consistent performance and reliability.
The printer's price point of $1,149 is another significant drawback, especially when compared to other professional-grade printers in the market. While the P900's exceptional print quality and versatility justify its premium pricing, the high cost may be prohibitive for casual users or those on a tight budget. The printer's ink costs are also a consideration, with Red River Paper reporting that ink costs are $41.99 per 50mL tank, which can add up over time. Additionally, the printer's physical footprint of 24.2 x 35.6 x 20.5 inches and weight of 35.3 pounds require significant space for comfortable operation, which may not be suitable for all users. The printer's performance with glossy photo paper is noted as 'not the greatest,' which can limit its appeal for users who primarily work with glossy media. These factors, combined with the printer's paper handling issues, make it a less attractive option for casual users or those who require a more reliable and affordable solution.
Strengths
- +Produces excellent quality prints with pigment-based inks that are archival and long-lasting
- +Easy to set up and start printing with a large, easy-to-use touchscreen display
- +Versatile black-and-white advanced-setting mode available
- +Includes 10 Epson UltraChrome PRO10 Ink cartridges (50 ml each) for professional-grade output
Watch-outs
- −Pricey at $1,149
- −Large, bulky, and heavy at 35.3 lbs with dimensions of 24.2 x 35.6 x 20.5 inches in printing configuration
How it compares
The SureColor P900 provides superior archival quality and pigment-based inks compared to the EcoTank ET-8550 and XP-15000, making it ideal for professional photographers seeking long-lasting prints. However, unlike the Canon imagePrograf PRO-1100, it lacks panoramic print capabilities and roll paper support, and unlike the Canon Pixma PRO-200S, it doesn't offer the same dye-based color gamut but instead delivers archival longevity with pigment inks.
Who this is for
At a glance: archival print quality professionals.
Why you’d buy the Epson SureColor P900
- Produces excellent quality prints with pigment-based inks that are archival and long-lasting.
- Easy to set up and start printing with a large, easy-to-use touchscreen display.
- Versatile black-and-white advanced-setting mode available.
Why you’d skip it
- Pricey at $1,149.
- Large, bulky, and heavy at 35.3 lbs with dimensions of 24.2 x 35.6 x 20.5 inches in printing configuration.
Rating sources
“The SureColor P900 inkjet printer is an excellent choice for many content creators and professional photographers who need a versatile inkjet photo printer to produce prints in different sizes and on different media.”
Our 4.6 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
