If you’re looking for Epson ink cartridges for your printer, you’ve likely come across the Epson 252 and Epson 252XL. While they may appear similar at first glance, these two cartridge types are designed for different printing needs. In this blog, we’ll compare the similarities and differences between the Epson 252 vs 252XL, covering everything from page yield to cost per page so you can make an informed decision.

Quick Look: Epson Ink 252 vs 252XL

Choosing between Epson’s 252 and 252XL ink cartridges depends largely on your printing habits. The standard-capacity Epson 252 ink cartridge is ideal for occasional users who print infrequently and want to reduce upfront costs. In contrast, the high-capacity Epson 252XL ink cartridge is better suited for frequent or high-volume printing. It offers a larger ink volume and a lower cost per page, making it more economical and hassle-free in the long run.

Epson 252 vs 252XL, What’s the Difference?

While the Epson 252 and 252XL use the same four-color ink cartridges and work with the same printers, they differ primarily in page yield, ink pricing, and cost per page.

Different Page Yield

The primary difference between the Epson 252 and Epson 252 XL ink cartridges lies in page yield.

The standard Epson 252 has a lower capacity, with a yield of approximately 350 pages in black and white and 300 pages in color. This capacity is sufficient if you only print occasionally, such as a few documents or photos per month.

On the other hand, the Epson 252XL ink cartridges are higher-capacity options, with a yield of up to 1,100 pages in black and color. This makes them ideal for users with heavy printing needs, such as small offices or large families who frequently print jobs, work documents, or photos.

Different Ink Price

When it comes to ink prices, Epson 252 ink cartridges offer a lower upfront cost. A four-pack costs approximately $61.79, with the black ink cartridge costing $21.99 and each color ink cartridge costing $14.29. This makes it an attractive option for the average user who prints infrequently and wants to minimize their initial outlay.

However, Epson 252 XL ink cartridges are more expensive. A four-pack costs approximately $137.46, with the Epson 252XL black ink cartridge costing $38.49 and each Epson 252XL color ink cartridge costing $32.99. While the upfront cost may seem high, these cartridges offer a higher page yield, meaning they offer better value in the long run. For frequent printer users, investing in 252XL cartridges, despite the higher initial cost, can actually save money in the long run.

Different Cost Per Page

The true value of the 252XL lies in its cost per page.

The standard 252 ink cartridges cost approximately 6.28 cents per page for black and 4.76 cents per page for each color. This price is acceptable for small print runs, but if you print frequently, the costs can quickly add up.

The high-capacity 252XL ink cartridges, while more expensive upfront, can significantly reduce your cost per page. The black cartridge costs approximately 3.50 cents per page, and each color cartridge costs approximately 3.00 cents per page. Over time, these savings offset the higher initial purchase price, making the 252XL cartridges a more economical choice for frequent printers.

In other words, if you print frequently, the XL version is a smarter investment in the long run.

Epson 252XL vs 252, Which One to Choose?

Choosing between the Epson 252 and 252XL depends primarily on your printing habits.

• Epson 252: Best for occasional printing. If you only print a few pages per week or month, the standard Epson 252 ink cartridges provide enough pages at a low upfront cost. It’s ideal for home users or small printers who don’t require high-volume output.
• Epson 252XL: Best for frequent printing. If you frequently print documents, reports, or photos, the Epson 252XL’s high-capacity ink cartridges and lower cost per page make it a better choice. It reduces the hassle of frequent cartridge replacements and leads to better long-term savings.

By evaluating your typical print volume, you can choose an ink cartridge that strikes a balance between cost, convenience, and efficiency.

Wrap It Up

Epson 252 252XL ink cartridges are both ideal choices, depending on your printing needs. The standard 252 cartridge is economical and suitable for light use, while the 252XL cartridge offers a higher capacity, lower cost per page, and greater convenience for frequent printing. Whether you choose the standard 252 or the high-capacity 252XL, understanding these key differences will ensure you get the most value from your Epson printer.