New budget Epson EcoTank L121 printer is the L120 in a new case
The L121 uses inktanks and heat-free printing to cut down on operational costs over the long term.
By Ken Wong -
The inktanks are kept in the little step on the side. Image courtesy of Epson.
Epson’s new EcoTank L121 looks to be the replacement for the venerable L120, but on paper, there seems to be little difference between them.
In terms of design, both feature that “step” on the side of the printer. A noticeable and rather ugly compartment that Epson uses to hold the inktanks. Most models have them in the front and this step makes it stand out and I feel at least, adds to the footprint of the L121.
The L121 is a 4-colour, A4, ink tank printer that combines Epson’s Micro Piezo printhead and Heat-Free Technology. This means that it uses no heat during the printing process so less energy is consumed, resulting in cost savings for the business. There are also fewer parts and consumables used that would require replacement from the user.
The L121 is truly just a printer. Image courtesy of Epson.
Printing costs are kept low with the use of ink bottles that can print up to 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 pages in colour, at speeds up to 9.0 ipm for black and 4.8 ipm for colour. But the L120 print speeds weren't far off this either.
It’s rare to see a modern printer that only…prints. Most these days are AIOs even if they lack an ADF. Recent launches from Brother and Canon brought new budget printers that were able to scan and copy as well. But we'll reserve full judgement until we can get a hold of it one to see how it is for ourselves.
Price and availability
Epson says that the EcoTank L121 will be available from the end of July and early August from partners and distributors. Pricing information will also be released closer to date. We will update this article once we receive more information.
Specs/Model | Epson L121 | Epson L120 |
Functions | ||
Print speed | Up to 9 mono / 4.8ipm colour | Up to 9 mono / 4.5ipm colour |
Print quality | 720 x 720 dpi | 720 x 720 dpi |
Paper capacity | 50 sheets standard paper tray | 50 sheets standard paper tray |
Paper holding | Nil | Nil |
Ink bottle yield | 7,500 pages (Mono) / 4,500 pages (Colour) | 7,500 pages (Mono) / 4,500 pages (Colour) |
Connectivity | USB 2.0 connectivity | USB 2.0 connectivity |
Display | Nil | Nil |
Dimensions | 461 x 215 x 130 mm | 461 x 215 x 130 mm |
Weight | 2.4kg | 2.4kg |
Warranty | Two-year warranty | One year warranty |
Price | NA |
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