Epson WorkForce Pro WF-M5299 Review

Good: PCL and PostScript printing languages, Epson's Replacement Ink System technology, compact footprint.
Bad: Only available via the BusinessFirst reseller network.
Bottom Line: Robust features in a printer that's ideal for small offices that don't need color printing.
Vendor:
Product:
Price:
Intended Users:
Epson
WF Pro WF-M5299
$209.99
Small, Medium
Speed Black:
Speed Color:
Processor:
Memory:
Up to 24 ppm (ISO)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Not applicable

Product Overview

Epson has introduced a new line of monochrome printers and MFPs in the form of the WorkForce Pro WF-M5299 and its multifunction sibling, the WF-M5799. These new devices include more robust features, and are aimed at busy small-to-medium workgroups.

The WF-M5299 ($209.99) has an ISO speed of up to 24 ppm. The maximum draft speed is up to 34 ppm and the duplex speed is 15 ipm.

This is in thanks to Epson’s inkjet technology, PrecisionCore. PrecsionCore uses a high-density print chip that can generate up to 40 million precise dots per second. This technology was originally found in Epson’s large-format printers and is now used in all of its printers and MFPs.

The WF-M5299 includes the Epson printer driver, as well as PCL and PostScript support. There’s a 4.3″ color touchscreen.

In addition to Ethernet connectivity, USB and Wi-Fi is also included. Mobile printing is also supported via the Epson Connect solution. Within the Epson Connect are the following features: Email Print, iPrint Mobile App, and Remote Print. Users can also print via the Apple AirPrint, Kindle Fire and Google Cloud Print.

The WF-M5299 integrates with other web-based applications, such as nddPrint and Nuance Equitrac Office/Express, via the Epson Open Platform.

The MFP is sold via the BusinessFirst reseller channel. More details are in our Features section below.

Epson continues to upgrade its printers and MFPs with faster engine speeds and more robust features to help SMBs improve productivity and reduce operating costs. The WF-M5299 is ideal for companies that want a single-function printer and don’t require color printing.

Features

Standard paper handing starts with a 250-sheet tray and an 80-sheet rear tray. Users can optionally add a second paper tray that has a capacity of 500 sheets. Maximum paper capacity is 830 sheets. The devices accept paper sizes of up to 8.5″ x 47.2″.

The monthly duty cycle is 45,000 pages, but Epson recommends a monthly cycle of 2,500 pages. Automatic duplexing is supported.

The WF-M5299 also includes Epson’s innovative Replaceable Ink System technology that consists of individual ink packs. Epson offers a standard-capacity ink cartridge that yields up to 10,000 pages, and a high-capacity ink cartridge that yields up to 40,000 pages.

We don’t have the prices of the replacement ink cartridge, however, companies can experience low operating costs, thanks to the high ink yields. Companies can also save expenses by using the duplexing feature.

The device includes a wide range of security features, such as PIN number certification in order to release jobs, user control access, printer and network settings via Web Configuration, SSL/TLS and IPsec.

Companies’ IT staff can also collect data on the printers remotely via third-party MPS solutions, such as PrintFleet, ECI FMAudit and Print Audit.

  • Automatic Document Feeder?
  • Duplexing?
  • Ethernet Connectivity?
  • Wireless Connectivity?
  • Mobile Printing/Scanning?
  • Finishers?

Shortcomings

Unlike most Epson devices we’ve covered, the WorkForce WF-M5299 is only available through its reseller program rather than on its site or in office supply stores such as Staples.

About

Epson America is a division of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, a manufacturer and supplier of imaging products, semiconductors, liquid crystal displays, and watches. The company has been an innovative designer of ink jet printers and sells an extensive product line. Most of these are geared to home and school use, but Epson continues to extend its line further into the office environment.

Epson has been making a more aggressive play for the document scanner market, although the company’s been in the multipurpose office scanner business for years. The models and other additions to its model line seem to be part of an effort to further extend its current scanner technology. As part of this effort, Epson makes these scanners available in consumer electronics stores such as Best Buy, along with Epson dealers and on its website.

Send feedback or corrections to feedback@betterbuys.com.

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