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Choosing the right ink cartridge can be a challenge. Aside from the quality of your prints, there is also quite a dent made in your pocket. While you might be tempted to buy remanufactured cartridges, they can cause problems with your printer. For this reason, we are going to look at two of Epson’s original cartridges.
We will compare the Epson 126 vs 127. We will consider all of their specifics and include them in a side-by-side chart. Then, we will follow up with some pros and cons before the final verdict.
Let’s begin with what Epson 126 and Epson 127 have in common.
Epson 126 vs 127 – Similarities
Rigorous Testing
The Epson 126 and the Epson 127 have both been through strict testing in the Epson labs. Tests include color, purity, viscosity, surface tension and gas chromatography.
DURABrite Ink
With DURABrite ink, the Epson 126 and the Epson 127 have pigment-based ink technology. These inks are water and smudge resistant and also fade resistant regardless of whether you are printing on plain, matte, or glossy paper. The ink also dries instantly.
Epson 126 and Epson 127 Side by Side Comparison
Let’s review these features in the comparison chart below.
Epson 126 | Epson 127 | |
| Image |  |  |
| Manufacturer Number | T126520-S | T127120-S |
| Epson Quality Tested | Yes | Yes |
| Available Packs | Black, Black 2 pack, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, C/M/Y 3 pack, C/M/Y/B 4 pack | Black, Black 2 pack, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, C/M/Y 3 pack |
| Printer Compatibility | Workforce- 633, 845, 840, 520, 630, 545, 435, 60, 645, 635, WF-7510, WF-3520, WF-7520, WF-3540, WF-7010, Stylus NX330, Stylus NX430 | Workforce- 633, 845, 840 630, 545, 60, 645, 635, WF-3520, WF-7510, WF-3540, WF-7010, Stylus NX530, Stylus NX625 |
| DURABrite Ultra | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Valve Technology | Not stated | Yes |
| Resistance | Smudge, water, and fade | Smudge, water, and fade |
| Instant Dry | Yes | Yes |
| Capacity | High Capacity- 50% more than standard | Extra-High Capacity- black cartridge, 1000 sheets |
| Price |
Now we will move on to what makes the Epson 126 and the Epson 127 different.
Differences Between Epson 126 and Epson 127
Available Packs
Both are available in individual black, cyan, magenta, and blue. You can also buy a 2 pack for each in black.
Epson 126
You can buy a p pack with cyan, magenta and yellow. There is also an option for a 4 pack which includes the 3 colors and black.
Epson 127
In terms of packs, apart from the 2 pack of black, there is only a pack of the 3 colors.
The Winner Is- The Epson 126
Read next – Epson 124 vs 126: Which Cartridge Ink is Better?
Printer Compatibility
Your decision may come down to what printer you have. You can find a full list of compatible printers in the comparison chart.
Epson 126
There are 17 compatible printers from the Epson range, the majority are from the Workforce series but there are also 2 from the Stylus series.
Epson 127
You can use these cartridges with 14 different printers. Again, most are in the Workforce category with two in the Stylus group, though not the same as the Epson 126.
The Winner Is- The Epson 126
Read next – Epson 124 vs 125: Which Cartridge Ink is Better?
Smart Valve Technology
Smart Valve technology prevents excess ink from being delivered to the paper.
Epson 126
There is no information confirming Smart Valve technology.
Epson 127
The product information states that these cartridges come with Smart Valve technology.
The Winner Is- The Epson 127
Capacity
The capacity of the cartridges adds to the value for money.
Epson 126
At high capacity, there is 50% more ink than standard cartridges. It’s a shame there is no information about the number of sheets you can print.
Epson 127
These are extra high capacity. A black ink cartridge can print approximately 1000 sheets.
The Winner Is- The Epson 127
Pros and Cons
Before our final thoughts on which of the Epson ink cartridges are the best, here are a few pros and cons.
Epson 126
- They are super easy to install
- Excellent quality printing, including photos
- No clogged printer heads
Cons:
- Quality control is not very good and there seem to be a lot of fakes on the market
Epson 127
Pros:
- Very good value for money
- Noticeably more prints than the Epson 126
- Great for 2-sided printing
Cons:
- Again, there seem to be some issues with quality control
The Final Verdict
It’s true that like all printer companies, these cartridges are expensive. However, for many, they will be the only choice because a lot of printers now are not recognizing generic cartridges. The printing quality for both the Epson 126 and the Epson 127 was superb but we decided that the overall winner was the Epson 127 because you get so many more prints and although more expensive, it works out cheaper on cost per page.