[Solmu]

So ridiculous as it might seem. It was actually cheaper to buy a new machine than to buy ink.

The ink cartridges that come with new printers are commonly only one third full, so often it's not as economical when that is factored in. Some manufacturers have been known to sell inkjets at a loss though (standard retail, not clearance sales) with a plan to make it up in the aftermarket for ink cartridges.

 

[Solmu]

Someone here said that the ink in the cartridges that come with the printers are one third full.

I said that a lot of printers come with cartridges that are one third full. I said nothing specifically about Epson, because I don't know which brands/models do and don't.

It's common knowledge amongst computer nerds that this is a common industry practice, and I have had it confirmed by a friend who manages at a computer store (he specialises in digital cameras and printers).

Perhaps Epson are above such penny pinching dross, but it is a common practice all the same.

 

[Solmu]

it's an urban myth born out of trying to sell additional ink.

Personally I trust my friend not to spread urban myths (no reason you should though obviously ). It also happened with the Canon printer that my girlfriend bought.

We'll just have to disagree on this one.