If you’ve been considering switching to a bottle-based ink tank printer, there’s a good chance you’ve come across two of the most talked-about models on the market: the Epson EcoTank 2800 and the HP Smart Tank 5000. Both offer cost-saving refillable ink tank systems, and both are great entry-level options. But which one is actually better for your needs?

I’m The Printer Guy, and in this expert comparison, I’ll break down the real-world differences between these two popular printers—based on hands-on testing, print quality, ease of use, long-term maintenance, and overall value.

Quick Links to Shop or Save on Ink

• Epson EcoTank 2800 👉 Shop Now
• HP Smart Tank 5000 👉 Buy Here
• Epson Compatible Ink (502/522) – Save Now
• HP Smart Tank Ink Replacement – Get the Deal

Core Similarities: What Do These Printers Have in Common?

Both the EcoTank 2800 and the Smart Tank 5000 are designed to replace traditional ink cartridges with bottled ink refills, which significantly reduces your cost per page. Here’s what they both offer:

• Print, Copy, and Scan functionality
• Standard paper size support up to 8.5” x 14”
• No auto-duplex (double-sided) printing
• Dye-based ink systems (not pigment)
• Wi-Fi and mobile printing support
• Compatible with third-party bottled ink

They’re both solid choices for home use, but when you dive deeper, the differences become clearer.

Key Differences: Epson EcoTank 2800 vs. HP Smart Tank 5000

1. Display and User Interface

• Epson EcoTank 2800: Features a color display (not touchscreen) with navigation buttons. This makes basic functions like copying and maintenance much more intuitive.
• HP Smart Tank 5000: Offers a monochrome display with very limited information. Most tasks are handled via the HP Smart App, which is excellent—but you’re reliant on your phone or computer.

Verdict: Epson wins for having an onboard, user-friendly display.

2. Ink Tank Design

• HP Smart Tank 5000: Ink tanks are housed inside the printer, giving it a clean, compact look.
• Epson EcoTank 2800: Tanks are externally visible and easier to monitor visually.

Verdict: Purely aesthetic, but Epson’s visible ink tanks can be more user-friendly.

3. Sublimation Ink Compatibility

• Epson EcoTank 2800: Can be easily converted to use sublimation ink, making it a top choice for hobbyists and small businesses in sublimation printing.
• HP Smart Tank 5000: No widely documented sublimation conversions exist, and removable printheads might not be designed to handle sublimation ink long-term.

Verdict: Epson is the clear winner for anyone interested in sublimation.

4. Printhead Maintenance

• HP Smart Tank 5000: Comes with removable printheads, making long-term maintenance easier and more cost-effective.
• Epson EcoTank 2800: Printheads are built-in and harder to replace, which could mean more downtime or difficulty during cleaning.

Verdict: HP has an advantage in printhead serviceability.

5. Third-Party Ink Compatibility

Both models allow third-party ink usage, and that’s where you can save over 50% on running costs.

• Epson Compatible Ink – Shop & Save
• HP Compatible Ink – Buy Here

These inks are the same quality as OEM brands but at a fraction of the price.

6. Popularity and User Feedback

• Epson EcoTank 2800: One of the most popular EcoTank models available today with over 12,000 reviews on Amazon and an estimated 5,000 units sold monthly.
• HP Smart Tank 5000: Less than 2,000 reviews and lower monthly sales volume.

Verdict: Epson is more widely trusted by consumers.

Which Printer Should You Choose?

Choose the Epson EcoTank 2800 if:

• You want the ability to convert it for sublimation
• You prefer a printer with a built-in screen for easier use
• You want the most popular and well-supported model
• You don’t mind slightly more complex maintenance

👉 Get the Epson EcoTank 2800 Here

Choose the HP Smart Tank 5000 if:

• You already use HP printers and want to stick with what you know
• You prefer removable printheads for easier maintenance
• You’re on a tight budget and want to save upfront

👉 Buy the HP Smart Tank 5000

Final Thoughts from The Printer Guy

Both of these printers have their strengths, and your choice really comes down to your specific needs. If you’re venturing into sublimation printing, go with the Epson EcoTank 2800. If you’re focused on ease of maintenance and sticking with the HP ecosystem, the Smart Tank 5000 could be a better fit.

Make sure to also grab affordable, high-quality third-party ink to maximize your savings long-term:

• Epson Ink Replacement – SAVE BIG
• HP Smart Tank Ink – Affordable Option

Watch the Full Comparison on YouTube

See both printers side by side in action in my full video review:
▶ Watch Now