Is Epson 502 and 522 Ink the Same?

When choosing the right ink for their Epson printer, many users face a dilemma: are Epson 502 and Epson 522 inks the same? These two cartridges are suitable for different Epson printer models, but understanding their similarities and differences can help you make an informed decision. This blog explores everything you need to know about Epson 502 and 522 ink cartridges, including their compatibility, key differences, and which one is best for your printing needs.

Quick View Epson 502 and Epson 522 Ink

While both the Epson 502 and Epson 522 ink cartridges deliver high-quality prints, there are some key differences between the two. Let’s take a look at how they compare in terms of yield, compatibility, price, and overall performance.

Compatible Epson 502 Ink 4-Pack – Ultra High Yield: 1 Black, 1 Cyan, 1 Magenta, 1 Yellow

• 30-Day Money Back Guarantee & 2-Year Warranty.
• Only 34% of the Original Epson 502 4-Pack Price.
• With Upgraded IC Chips. No Installation Error.
• Fast Delivery within 1-3 Business Days.
• Sale Price: $25.95 (Cost Per Page: 0.10 cents)

Learn more

Add to cart

Epson 502 vs 522 Inks, What’s the Difference?

There are several important factors to consider when comparing Epson 502 and Epson 522 ink cartridges. While both feature extra-large ink bottles for high-volume printing, specific differences in print yield, compatibility, price, and overall performance may influence your decision.

1. Black Ink Yield and Bottle Size

The Epson 502 black ink cartridge comes with a 127ml bottle and has a yield of up to 7,500 pages. This larger ink capacity makes it ideal for users who print a large number of black and white documents, especially in high-demand environments such as offices or schools. The larger bottle capacity also means fewer refills, making it convenient for frequent printers.

On the other hand, the Epson 522 black ink cartridge has a yield of up to 4,500 pages and comes in a smaller 65ml bottle. While the yield is lower than the 502, it’s still suitable for medium to high-volume printing. For users with lower black ink needs, such as those in a home or small office, this yield may be sufficient.

2. Color Ink Yield and Bottle Size

Epson 502 color inks have a 70ml bottle and a 6,000-page yield. This is a high yield for color printing and is ideal for users who print color documents and occasional photos. The larger ink bottle capacity means fewer ink changes over time.

In addition, Epson 522 cyan, magenta, and yellow inks have a 7,500-page yield per bottle, but come in slightly smaller 65ml bottles. Despite the smaller bottle capacity, the higher yield of the Epson 522 series color inks makes them an ideal choice for users who prioritize color printing, such as photographers or design professionals.

3. Printer Compatibility

Epson 502 ink is compatible with a variety of Epson EcoTank, Expression, and WorkForce models, including popular models like the ET-15000, ET-2760, ET-3760, and ET-4760. It’s an ideal choice for home and office use, supporting high-volume printing tasks in a variety of environments.

However, Epson 522 ink is designed specifically for newer Epson EcoTank models, including the ET-2400, ET-2720, ET-2800, and ET-4800. These newer models are generally more affordable, making Epson 522 ink ideal for home users or small businesses looking to reduce printing costs.

The difference in compatible printers is obvious: Epson 502 ink is compatible with a wider range of printers, while Epson 522 is compatible with fewer.

4. Print Performance and Ink Quality

Both ink series offer exceptional print quality. Epson 502 ink offers consistent performance, producing sharp text and vibrant color images. It dries quickly and reduces smudging, ensuring professional-quality output for both documents and photos. Similar to 502 ink, Epson 522 ink also produces sharp text and vibrant color images, making it ideal for document and photo printing.

5. Price and Cost Efficiency

Epson 502 ink is generally slightly more expensive, especially considering its larger bottle size. However, it offers a better cost-per-page ratio for users who print more frequently. Epson 522 ink, on the other hand, is slightly less expensive and may be more cost-effective for users with light to moderate printing needs, especially those using newer Epson EcoTank printers.

Epson 502 vs Epson 522: Which Ink Is Right for You?

Both the Epson 502 and 522 ink cartridges are ideal for users who require high print volumes and professional-quality output. However, the ultimate choice depends on your specific needs:

• Epson 502 ink cartridge: Ideal for users who require a higher ink volume, especially black ink. Epson 502 ink cartridges are ideal for printers used in high-demand environments, such as offices or schools, where a large volume of black and white documents is printed.

• Epson 522 ink cartridge: A good choice for users with more modest printing needs, especially those with the newer Epson EcoTank models. While the Epson 522 ink cartridge has a slightly lower yield, it’s still a good choice for users who frequently print documents and photos.

Compatible Epson 522 Ink 4-Pack – Ultra High Yield: 1 Black, 1 Cyan, 1 Magenta, 1 Yellow

• 30-Day Money Back Guarantee & 2-Year Warranty.
• Only 33% of the Original Epson 522 4-Pack Price.
• With Upgraded IC Chips. No Installation Error.
• Fast Delivery within 1-3 Business Days.
• Sale Price: $23.75 (Cost Per Page: 0.09 cents)

Learn more

Add to cart

Conclusion

Choosing between Epson 502 and Epson 522 ink cartridges ultimately comes down to your specific printing needs. If you have a high-volume printer (especially an older model) or require a higher black ink yield, Epson 502 ink will provide long-lasting results without requiring frequent refills. It’s the best choice for high-volume users. If you have a newer Epson EcoTank model and have a moderate print volume, Epson 522 ink offers a more economical solution, with higher color ink yields and a slightly lower price. By understanding these key differences, you can choose the ink cartridges that best meet your printing needs and budget.