The Epson EcoTank printer deal flooding Amazon right now looks like a steal, but it’s a trap. The ET-2861 model sits at £150 (down from £239.99), saving you nearly £90. Tempting? Sure. But I’ve found an Epson EcoTank printer deal that undercuts it by £13 and delivers the exact same machine.
Key Takeaways
- Epson EcoTank ET-2861 discounted to £150 at Amazon; ET-2860 available for £137 at Argos
- Both models are functionally identical with no real differences beyond the model number
- Model number variation typically indicates retailer specificity, not hardware changes
- Both include three years’ worth of ink in the box and support print, scan, copy functions
- The ET-2860 represents better value for the same printer experience
Why the Amazon EcoTank Deal Isn’t What It Seems
The Epson EcoTank ET-2861 at £150 is genuinely a good price on a superb printer. But here’s the catch: Argos is selling the Epson EcoTank ET-2860 for £137, and they’re effectively the same printer. The difference between these two models is purely cosmetic—a different model number slapped on for retailer exclusivity. Nothing more.
This is standard practice in consumer electronics. Manufacturers assign slightly different model numbers to the same hardware depending on which retailer stocks it. The ET-2860 at Argos and the ET-2861 at Amazon are built on identical internals, dimensions, and specifications. Both support print, scan, and copy functions. Both let you print directly from your phone. Both come loaded with three years’ worth of ink straight out of the box.
So why pay the Amazon premium when you can grab the identical machine for less?
What Makes This Epson EcoTank Printer Deal Worth Considering
Ink tank printers have transformed the economics of home printing. Instead of replacing cartridges every few months, you refill tanks that hold vastly more ink. The Epson EcoTank ET-2860 and ET-2861 both ship with enough ink to print thousands of pages—roughly three years’ worth of typical home use. That’s a massive advantage over traditional cartridge-based printers, where you’re constantly buying replacements.
The feature set on both models is genuinely solid for budget-conscious buyers. Print quality, scanning capability, and copy functionality are all there. The ability to print from your phone adds convenience for a home office setup. If you’re upgrading from an aging printer or setting up a workspace for the first time, either of these machines will feel like a significant step forward.
The real question isn’t whether this Epson EcoTank printer deal is good—it’s whether you’re paying unnecessarily for the Amazon version when Argos has the same thing for less.
The ET-2860 vs. ET-2861: What’s Actually Different?
Nothing. There is no meaningful difference between the Epson EcoTank ET-2860 and the ET-2861. The change in model number is simply specifying which retailer you bought it from. It’s the same printer, same build, same capabilities, same ink capacity. If you lined them up side by side, you wouldn’t be able to tell them apart without checking the label.
This model-number variation is common across the printer industry. Manufacturers do it to maintain retailer relationships and prevent price comparisons that might undercut partners. For consumers, it means you can often find better deals by shopping around—and in this case, Argos undercuts Amazon by £13 on an identical product.
Should You Buy Now, or Wait?
Both the Amazon and Argos deals are limited-time offers, so stock and pricing can shift. If you need a printer now, the ET-2860 at Argos for £137 is the smarter choice. You’re saving money on an identical machine, which means more cash left over for supplies or other office upgrades. The three-year ink supply in the box takes the pressure off needing to buy cartridges immediately.
That said, printer deals come and go regularly. If neither price works for your budget, waiting for the next sale cycle is reasonable. But if you’re ready to buy today, don’t let Amazon’s prominent listing fool you—check Argos first.
Is the Epson EcoTank ET-2860 a good printer for home use?
Yes. Both the ET-2860 and ET-2861 are superb printers packed with features for home offices and light commercial use. Print, scan, copy, and phone printing all work smoothly, and the three-year ink supply means you won’t face constant replacement costs.
Why is the ET-2860 cheaper than the ET-2861 if they’re the same printer?
Retailers negotiate different pricing with manufacturers. Argos has better terms on the ET-2860, allowing them to undercut Amazon on the ET-2861. It’s the same hardware, different deal—pure retail competition.
Will the ET-2860 work with the same ink as the ET-2861?
Yes, because they’re identical printers. Any ink tank supplies made for the ET-2861 will work with the ET-2860. The internals are the same, so compatibility is guaranteed.
The Epson EcoTank printer deal at Amazon is good marketing, not a good deal. Argos has already beaten it. Save yourself £13 and grab the ET-2860—you’re getting the same printer, the same features, the same three-year ink supply, and a slightly lighter hit to your wallet.
Where to Buy
Epson EcoTank ET-2860 for £137 (was £240) | Shop all printers at Amazon | Epson EcoTank ET-2860 with 3 years' ink: | Epson EcoTank ET-2861 with 3 years' ink: | Canon Pixma TR4755i inkjet printer:
Edited by the All Things Geek team.
Source: TechRadar
