If you’re planning to buy a printer and you’re torn between the Epson EcoTank L3256 and the Epson EcoTank L3556, you’re in the right place.
Both printers are from Epson’s EcoTank lineup, known for their low-cost, high-efficiency ink tank systems.
But they serve slightly different needs. This article will help you understand how they compare and which one suits your requirements best.
Epson L3256
Epson L3556
Epson L3256 vs L3556 Specs Comparison
| Feature | Epson EcoTank L3256 | Epson EcoTank L3556 |
|---|---|---|
| Printer Type | All-in-One Ink Tank | All-in-One Ink Tank |
| Print Technology | Micro Piezo Printhead | Micro Piezo Printhead |
| Functions | Print, Scan, Copy | Print, Scan, Copy |
| Print Resolution | Up to 5760 x 1440 dpi | Up to 5760 x 1440 dpi |
| Print Speed (B/W) | Approx. 10 ipm | Approx. 15 ipm |
| Print Speed (Color) | Approx. 5 ipm | Approx. 8 ipm |
| Borderless Printing | Yes (up to 4R) | Yes (up to A4) |
| Connectivity | USB, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct | USB, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Epson Smart Panel App |
| Display | No | 1.44-inch Color LCD |
| Mobile Printing | Yes | Yes + Enhanced Smart Panel Support |
| Input Tray Capacity | 100 Sheets | 100 Sheets |
| Ink Bottles | 003 Series | 003 Series |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | Up to 3,000 pages | Up to 5,000 pages |
| Dimensions (mm) | 375 x 347 x 179 | 375 x 347 x 187 |
| Weight | Approx. 3.9 kg | Approx. 4.0 kg |
| Ideal For | Home / Basic Office Use | Home Office / Moderate Office Use |
Detailed Epson L3256 vs L3556 Printer Comparison
Performance & Print Quality
If you’re printing basic documents, both printers deliver sharp and vibrant prints thanks to Epson’s Micro Piezo technology.
However, the L3556 offers faster output, which is ideal if you need to print large volumes quickly.
You’ll also notice that color print speed is better on the L3556. So if you often print colored documents or photos, you’ll appreciate the time savings.
Connectivity Options
Both models come with Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct, allowing you to print wirelessly from your laptop or smartphone.
However, the L3556 adds better Smart Panel app integration and an LCD display, making it easier to monitor print jobs, check ink levels, and perform maintenance tasks.
If you prefer mobile printing and smarter controls, the L3556 gives you more flexibility.
Ease of Use
The L3256 is more basic, which can be good if you’re looking for a simple, no-frills printer.
The L3556 is more user-friendly thanks to its color LCD screen, which helps you navigate settings without needing a PC.
Cost Efficiency
Both printers use Epson’s 003 ink bottles, which are cost-effective and provide thousands of pages per refill.
You’ll save a lot compared to traditional cartridge-based printers.
While the initial price of the L3556 is slightly higher, it offers more value in the long run with faster performance and better durability.
Which Printer Is Better for You?
Choose Epson L3256 if you need a budget-friendly printer. You print occasionally or in low volumes. And you don’t need an LCD screen or advanced app control.
Choose Epson L3556 if you print regularly or in higher volumes. You want a faster printing speed. And you need better app control and an LCD screen.
Moreover, you can go for Epson L3556 if you’re looking for a future-ready printer for long-term use.
Prabir Mandal is the editor-in-chief of Printer Guru. He is in love with productivity devices, especially printers. His love for printers has made him open this blog where he can share all his knowledge about printers and the experiences he has gathered while using them.
