Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 Wireless Review: Specs, Pros and Cons

What stands out

• 17 black/9.5 color ISO ppm print speed
• Cartridge-free supertank ink system
• Auto 2-sided printing capability
• Built-in Automatic Document Feeder
• Wi-Fi Direct and Ethernet connectivity

Who it fits

Key specs explained for this printer

Print Speed: 17 black/9.5 color ISO ppm

This speed measures how many pages the printer produces each minute. You get 17 black pages or 9.5 color pages per minute. This helps you finish large documents quickly without waiting. The lack of warm-up time means you can start printing immediately. This is useful for busy offices where time matters. Compare this to slower models that take longer to output pages.

Ink/Toner System: Supertank

A supertank system uses refillable ink tanks instead of disposable cartridges. You fill the tanks with bottles when they run low. This method reduces the cost per page significantly compared to standard cartridges. It also creates less waste since you do not throw away empty cartridges. This system is ideal for users who print many pages every month and want to save on supplies.

Supported Functions: Print, Scan, Copy, Fax

This device handles four main tasks in one unit. You can print documents, scan them to digital files, make copies, and send or receive faxes. Having all these functions saves desk space. You do not need separate machines for each task. This makes it suitable for small offices that need versatility. Check if your workflow requires faxing, as not all modern printers include this feature.

Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet

You can connect this printer to your network using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet cable. Wireless connectivity allows you to print from laptops and mobile devices without cables. Ethernet provides a stable, fast connection for shared office use. This flexibility lets you place the printer in various locations. You can also use Wi-Fi Direct to connect devices without a router.

Design and Build Overview

The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 is a large, white all-in-one unit. According to the listing, it measures 14.8 inches wide, 13.7 inches long, and 13.6 inches high. The printer weighs 16.1 pounds. This size and weight suggest it is built for stability in office environments rather than easy portability. The footprint is substantial, so you need a dedicated desk or cabinet space that can support its dimensions. The white finish is standard for Epson business printers, offering a clean look that blends with typical office decor.

Control is handled by a 2.4-inch color touchscreen. This display allows you to navigate settings, monitor ink levels, and manage jobs directly on the device. You do not need to rely solely on your computer or mobile app for basic operations. The layout includes an automatic document feeder and face-down output tray. These features support high-volume workflows by allowing unattended scanning of multi-page documents and organized output collection. The design prioritizes function over compactness, accommodating the supertank ink system and internal mechanisms required for its speed and duty cycle. This physical arrangement ensures you can handle large print jobs efficiently without constant intervention.

Setup and daily operation guide

Setting up this Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 begins with installing the ink. The listing notes exclusive EcoFit ink bottles that are uniquely keyed. This design ensures you fill the correct reservoir for each color. The bottles feature an auto start and stop mechanism, which simplifies the filling process and reduces the chance of spills. You do not need to handle traditional cartridges, which eliminates the need for complex cartridge installation steps.

For connectivity, the printer supports wireless networks and Ethernet. You can use the Epson Smart Panel app on your mobile device to set up the printer and monitor its status. The listing also mentions Wi-Fi Direct and voice-activated printing. These features allow you to connect from various devices without needing a dedicated computer nearby. The 2.4-inch color touchscreen provides a local interface for basic controls.

Daily use involves loading paper into the 250-sheet tray. The printer handles auto two-sided printing, which saves paper for double-sided documents. If you need to scan multiple pages, the Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) processes them sequentially. The output lands face-down. The PrecisionCore permanent printhead is designed to last the life of the printer. This means you do not need to replace the print mechanism over time. The system is built for high-volume environments, supporting up to 7,500 black pages or 6,000 color pages per set of ink bottles. This reduces the frequency of maintenance tasks.

Before You Buy This Printer

You should verify your office network supports the required wireless and Ethernet connections before installation. The listing highlights the Epson Smart Panel app for mobile setup and monitoring, so ensure your devices are compatible. This unit is designed for high-volume environments, so check if your current paper trays hold enough stock for its 250-sheet capacity. You will need to purchase replacement ink bottles regularly, as the system relies on cartridge-free printing. While the listing mentions a two-year limited warranty with registration, you should confirm the terms directly with the manufacturer. This printer sits alongside other options in Laser Printers & Office Machines as a supertank alternative. Unlike laser models, it uses pigment inks for vibrant color. Consider whether your workflow benefits from its auto two-sided printing and automatic document feeder features. Proper ventilation is also important given its large physical footprint.

Check before you buy

• Confirm wireless and Ethernet compatibility with your office network.
• Check mobile device compatibility for the Epson Smart Panel app.
• Verify paper tray capacity meets your high-volume printing needs.
• Plan for regular replacement ink bottle purchases.

The product at a glance

1

Epson EcoTank Pro All-in-One Supertank Printer

Best for: High-volume color printing offices

Print Output

Color

Printer Type

All-in-One

Supported Functions

Print, scan, copy, fax

Print Speed

Up to 17 black / 9.5 color ISO ppm

Connectivity

Wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet

Ink/Toner System

Supertank

View on Amazon: Epson EcoTank Pro All-in-One Supertank Printer Affiliate link

The Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 is a wireless color all-in-one supertank printer built for high-volume output. It delivers 17 pages per minute in black and 9.5 in color with no warmup time. The system uses low-cost ink bottles instead of cartridges, reducing waste. It includes auto duplex printing, an automatic document feeder, fax capabilities, and a 2.4-inch color touchscreen for easy control.

Pros

• Cartridge-free supertank system saves up to 80 percent on ink costs
• Prints up to 7,500 black or 6,000 color pages per ink set
• 17 ppm black and 9.5 ppm color ISO speeds with fast first page
• Includes automatic document feeder, fax, and auto two-sided printing
• PrecisionCore permanent printhead designed to last the life of the printer

Cons

• Large footprint measures 14.8 inches wide and 13.6 inches high
• Heavy build at 16.1 pounds requires a sturdy surface
• Limited to 2-year warranty with registration

Good fit if

• You need to print high volumes of color documents regularly
• You want to avoid the recurring cost of toner cartridges
• You require fax and scanning functions in a single device

Skip if

• You have limited desk space and need a compact printer
• You prefer laser technology for faster text-only output
• You do not need wireless connectivity or mobile app control

Verdict: Epson EcoTank Pro ET-5170 Wireless suits offices that print heavily in color and want to eliminate cartridge waste. It fits teams that value speed and all-in-one features over a small footprint.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• epson ecotank pro et 5170 wireless alternatives
• best epson color laser printers
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