Epson ET-8550 vs Canon PRO-200S vs Canon PRO-310 vs Epson SC-P706: Which A3+ Photo Printer Should You Buy?
Choosing an A3+ photo printer isn’t just about “best quality” — it’s about matching the ink system (tank vs cartridges), your print style (glossy colour vs fine-art matte), your workflow (multi-function vs print-only), and your ongoing running costs.
In this guide, we compare four popular models sold on OzToner.au: Epson EcoTank ET-8550, Canon PIXMA PRO-200S, Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310, and Epson SureColor SC-P706.
Quick Snapshot: What’s the Real Difference?
| Model | Ink type | Best for | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epson ET-8550 | 6-colour refillable tank | High-volume photo + home studio | Low running cost + MFP convenience | Not a dedicated “gallery-proof” pigment pro system |
| Canon PRO-200S | 8-colour dye cartridges | Glossy colour / vivid prints | Vibrant colour pop on gloss & semi-gloss | Higher consumable cost; print-only |
| Canon PRO-310 | 10-colour pigment cartridges | Fine-art, matte, longevity | Archival look + pro tonal control | Premium ink cost; print-only |
| Epson SC-P706 | 10-colour pigment cartridges | Fine-art + creative media flexibility | Pro pigment output + media versatility | Premium workflow; higher ink cost |
Note: Prices and promotions can change. For current pricing, use the product links above.
A3+ Photo Printer Price & Specs Comparison
| Model | Ink System | Max Print Size | Connectivity | Approx Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epson EcoTank ET-8550 | 6-Ink Refillable Tank (Claria ET) | A3 / A3+ (13″x19″) | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, AirPrint | See product page* |
| Canon PIXMA PRO-200S | 8-Colour Dye Cartridges | A3 / A3+ (13″x19″) | Wi-Fi, USB, AirPrint | ~$875** |
| Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-310 | 10-Colour Pigment Cartridges | A3 / A3+ (13″x19″) | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet | ~$1,075** |
| Epson SureColor SC-P706 | 10-Colour Pigment Cartridges | A3 / A3+ (13″x19″) | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, AirPrint | Check product page* |
*Prices vary based on stock and promotions. Always refer to the product page for current pricing. **Approx price based on current listing and seasonal offers.
Best Pick by Buyer Persona
1) The “Print a LOT of photos” creator (events, family, content studio)
Choose Epson ET-8550 if you want the best balance of A3+ photo output + low running cost and you’ll actually use it weekly. The refillable ink tank model is a major advantage when volume matters.
2) The “Vibrant glossy prints” photographer (portraits, weddings, colour pop)
Choose Canon PRO-200S if your priority is gloss & semi-gloss colour impact and you’re happy with a print-only device. Dye systems are often loved for “glossy wow”.
3) The fine-art seller (matte papers, exhibitions, archival goals)
Choose Canon PRO-310 or Epson SC-P706 if you want pigment prints with stronger longevity expectations and refined tonal work on fine-art papers. Pick Canon vs Epson based on your preferred colour rendering, paper ecosystem, and workflow.
4) The “One device for print + scan/copy” home studio
Only the Epson ET-8550 here is a photo-oriented multi-function option. If scanning artworks, documents, and proofs matters, ET-8550 can simplify your setup.
Deep Dive: How to Choose (What Pros Actually Compare)
A) Ink system: Tank vs Dye vs Pigment
- Tank (ET-8550): best when you print often and want lower cost per print.
- Dye (PRO-200S): often loved for glossy vibrancy and smooth colour transitions.
- Pigment (PRO-310 / SC-P706): preferred for fine-art matte work and longevity goals.
B) What are you printing most?
- Everyday photos + high volume: ET-8550 tends to win on running cost.
- Glossy client photos: PRO-200S is a strong “wow colour” pick.
- Gallery / fine-art matte: PRO-310 or SC-P706 is the natural direction.
C) Workflow & convenience
- Need scan/copy? ET-8550 is the only MFP in this comparison.
- Want a dedicated pro photo workflow with fine-art papers? PRO-310 / SC-P706.
Decision Checklist (Pick in 60 Seconds)
- Do you print weekly (or more)? If yes, seriously consider ET-8550 for running cost.
- Do you sell fine-art prints? If yes, go pigment: PRO-310 or SC-P706.
- Is glossy “pop” the priority? If yes, consider PRO-200S.
- Do you need scan/copy built-in? If yes, pick ET-8550.
Shop A3+ Photo Printers on OzToner.au
If you tell us what you print (glossy portraits, fine-art matte, high-volume family photos), your preferred paper type, and your weekly print volume, we can point you to the best-match model.
View Epson ET-8550 View Canon PRO-200S View Canon PRO-310 View Epson SC-P706*Always confirm media support and workflow requirements on the product page before ordering.
