It's time to upgrade my Epson 2200 printer. It's in need of repair, which would not be a cost-effective option. My choices are:
Epson R2400
Epson R2880
Epson 3800
HP B9180
Canon 9500
I would prefer purchasing a new printer but a used one is not out of the question.
I know that the Epson 3800 is a great deal compared to the R2400/R2880 because of the lower ink costs and the fact that you get much more ink from the get-go -- that extra ink in the box bridges the cost between the 13" and 17" Epsons. However, I do not think I make enough prints to warrant splurging for the Epson 3800. The 3800 would definitely be a splurge for me -- if it is the best choice based on what I say below then fine, I will pay the extra money. But the other, cheaper, printers on my list would be much easier on my wallet.
On average, I make 5 prints each week ranging from 8x10 to 13x19. So, about 250 prints per year. However, that usage is not steady. Some weeks I will make 25+ prints, but sometimes I will go a couple of weeks without making a print at all. About 60% of the prints I make are B&W. And about 75% of my prints are on matte paper, so the wasted ink when switching from photo black to matte black on the Epsons is a concern. I do not see myself making any prints larger than 13x19 on a regular basis, so the sole reason I would go for the Epson 3800 would be the lower ink costs and the large amount of free ink that ships with the printer.
I'm leaning towards the HP B9180 because of the larger ink capacity compared to the Epson R2400/R2880 and Canon 9500. I think it's a good compromise between those and the Epson 3800. And from what I have read, the ink cost savings with the Epson 3800 only comes into effect when you make a good deal more prints than what I normally do. And also, from what I have read, the HP B9180 seems to be a better choice for my intermittent usage.
I know that the quality of prints of any of the printers on my list is superb and will be a significant upgrade from my Epson 2200. Based on the information I gave on my printing habits, which printer would you recommend and why?