Epson optimizes their inkjet cartridges and paper in order to get its maximum printing potential. At the same time Epson media can be used with other printer manufacturers as well. The thing is, Epson will suggest to you themselves that it's necessary and better to use genuine Epson paper which coincides with genuine Epson ink.
This will give you the highest output necessary based on the chemicals used both within the ink and on the surface of the paper. If you're the rightful owner of an Epson printer you'll know that Epson offers a money back guarantee stating their 8.5x11 media paper will work with all Epson inkjet printers.
Here is a list of some media types in which Epson is referring to;
oEpson glossy photo paper
oEpson premium bright white
oEpson double sided matte paper
oEpson photo quality inkjet paper
oEpson matte paper heavyweight
oEpson all purpose glossy paper
What kind of results will I get when using third party paper types?
The majority of third party media papers are designed to fit the specifications of Hewlett Packard inkjet printers. The reason being is because HP has such a broad printer line that most third party media manufacturers go after conquered printer markets.
Not to mention, Epson uses a completely different print technology which would result in what you would call sub-par conclusions from an Epson printer using third party Epson papers.
Third party inkjet cartridge papers are made to pair up with inkjet printers yet they are not optimized for targeted printing manufacturers such as Epson.
Don't get me wrong, you will find good quality results with these paper types. If you want great print results, then you will have to take a step up and use Epson media paper to connect with Epson inkjet printers.
Hence, there are third party media companies who stick close to the outskirts of Epson and other parenting facilities like Ilford and Red River.
These two companies ultimately optimize their papers to meet Epson printing standards when conducting high resolution prints. You will find very good is not excellent end results. This is by chance an option for those who continue to save money of Epson paper media types.
Remember, Epson printers plus Epson ink plus Epson paper is the scientific Epson equation in order to provide you with the best Epson print quality.
It is important to know what paper will be used depending on the type of project you will most likely be printing. This is determined based on the chemicals contained inside the Epson ink cartridge.
For photos it's highly suggested using high resolution photo quality paper to best results. If you plan on printing plain text and non-photo images then you need to consider saving the few extra cents and stick to multi-purpose paper. It will help you save on ink and paper.