Print quality

As 6x4s go, the Epson PictureMate impresses

Below are side by side comparisons with Kodak Professional reference prints and versions printed on the PM 290. First off, a 2400ppi scan, reproduced at 100% (1 image pixel to 1 screen pixel):

The Epson Claria ink drops are sharply defined and although this magnified view appears coarse, the eveness of the dot distribution, without banding, results in smooth tonality and good detail when viewing the actual print.

Here is the silver halide lab print for reference.

The Eval Target shows a coolness to the grey tones which is characteristic of some Epson ink jet printers. Density is lighter than the reference print and colours are more saturated. Skin tone is less vibrant and there is more contrast.

The reference print. You can judge for yourself the border area that has been lost through borderless printing.

This image shows a lot of natural colour. Reds and blues are very faithfully reproduced, while the yellows and orange tones have an enhanced red element.

The reference print.

Finally, the coloured fabrics test image, which often finds printers wanting in the red towel when detail can be lost. The PM 290 passes this test well. The blue towels have some added yellow in them and there is an overall lightness compared to the reference print, but overall this is a comparatively good result.

The reference print.

Overall, although some hues are not particularly accurate and there is a certain lightness compared to the reference prints, in general we were very impressed with the punchy, sharp and grain-free results.