Epson WF-4720 Review: A Comprehensive Look at Its Strengths and Limitations

The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4720 is one of Epson’s mid-range all-in-one inkjet printers geared toward home offices and small businesses. With promises of fast print speeds, reliable scanning and fax functionality, as well as cost-saving features, it’s a popular pick among users seeking productivity without breaking the bank. However, as with any tech purchase, it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons why this model may occasionally cause frustration and how to resolve them effectively. This review takes a thorough look at the common issues users face, provides a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting and optimizing printer performance, and offers a balanced conclusion on its value for the intended audience.

1. Reasons for Common Problems with the Epson WF-4720

Like many all-in-one printers, the WF-4720 isn’t immune to problems. Common user complaints often center around print quality, connectivity issues, paper jams, and ink costs. Here are the primary reasons behind these issues:

• Ink Clogging and Print Quality: Over time, the printhead can become clogged, especially if the printer isn’t used regularly. This leads to streaky prints, faded text, or incomplete documents, which can be just as prevalent with third-party ink cartridges as with genuine Epson cartridges.
• Connectivity Issues: The WF-4720 offers both wireless and wired connectivity. However, users sometimes report difficulty maintaining a stable Wi-Fi connection, especially in crowded network environments or if the router is far from the printer. Firmware bugs can occasionally cause the printer to drop connections or not be found on the network.
• Paper Jams and Misfeeds: This printer is designed with high-speed printing in mind, but faster operation can sometimes cause paper to be pulled through unevenly, leading to jams or multiple sheets being grabbed at once. Incorrect or overfilled paper trays can exacerbate this problem.
• High Ink Cost and Cartridge Recognition: Like many inkjet printers, ink replacement can get costly, especially with high print volumes. Some users try third-party cartridges for savings, but these are sometimes not recognized by the printer, leading to frustrating error messages.
• Software and Firmware Glitches: Outdated software, incomplete installation, or failed firmware updates can prevent the WF-4720 from functioning correctly, ranging from scanning errors to a total loss of features until the issue is resolved.

2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Resolving Common Problems

If you encounter any of the issues outlined above, there are reliable methods for resolution that do not require advanced technical skills.

Improving Print Quality and Dealing with Clogs:

1. Access the printer’s maintenance menu via the control panel.
2. Run the built-in printhead cleaning utility. This usually resolves minor clogs. It may take a few cycles for significant clogs.
3. If print issues persist, print a nozzle check pattern to identify colors with issues.
4. For persistent problems, use the ‘Power Cleaning’ option (if available) or refer to Epson’s guidelines for manual cleaning with lint-free swabs and distilled water.
5. Ensure you use the right type of paper for your print job, as suboptimal paper can impact output quality.

Stabilizing Wireless and Network Connections:

1. Place the printer closer to the router for a stronger connection.
2. Update the printer firmware via Epson’s website to address any known Wi-Fi bugs.
3. Reboot both the printer and the router.
4. On your computer, remove the printer from your devices list and reinstall it using the latest Epson drivers.
5. Avoid using public or guest Wi-Fi networks, which may restrict printer access.

Resolving Paper Jam and Feed Issues:

1. Always fan paper before placing it in the tray and avoid overfilling. Make sure the paper guides are snug but not too tight.
2. If a jam occurs, follow on-screen prompts and consult the manual to open the printer and carefully remove the jammed sheet.
3. Inspect rollers for dust or debris and clean with a lightly damp cloth if needed.
4. Use only recommended media sizes and types for optimal feeding reliability.

Managing Ink Cost and Cartridge Issues:

1. Buy multipacks or XL cartridges to lower the cost per page.
2. If you’re using third-party cartridges, ensure they’re compatible with the WF-4720 and from a trusted supplier.
3. To resolve unrecognized cartridge issues, reseat the cartridge, power cycle the printer, and check for updates that may improve compatibility.
4. Track your typical ink use through the Epson printer software to better manage stock and budget.

Addressing Software and Firmware Problems:

1. Download and install the latest drivers, either through Epson’s official website or via the included CD/online setup wizard.
2. If a firmware update fails, disconnect the printer, reinstall the software, and retry the update process.
3. Check your operating system compatibility. If you’ve recently updated your OS, ensure your driver version matches.

General Maintenance for Longevity:

• Regularly clean the exterior and interior with recommended tools and avoid dust accumulation.
• Set the printer to sleep mode when not in use to conserve ink and power, and protect the printhead.
• Schedule periodic full maintenance (printhead cleaning, test prints, firmware checks) every few months.

3. Conclusion: Is the Epson WF-4720 Right for You?

The Epson WorkForce Pro WF-4720 is a well-rounded choice for users seeking an all-in-one solution with robust print speeds, reliable scanning and copying, and flexibility for a wide range of home office needs. Its compact footprint and versatile wireless options make it convenient for small spaces and flexible work setups. However, as outlined, like many inkjet models, it does require periodic maintenance, particularly when it comes to keeping the printhead clear and managing ink costs.

The biggest strengths of the WF-4720 lie in its fast printing, automatic duplexing, and a user-friendly interface that makes daily operations straightforward. Given its reasonable purchase price and features like an automatic document feeder (ADF) and mobile printing support through Epson Connect, Apple AirPrint, and Google Cloud Print, it stacks up well against competitors within the same price bracket.

However, users who need ultra-high monthly page volumes, rock-bottom running costs, or specialized print quality (such as for professional photo projects) might push the WF-4720 beyond its intended use case. Those sensitive to ink costs or planning to rely on third-party cartridges should note compatibility risks and the need for occasional troubleshooting.

In summary, the Epson WF-4720 is a solid investment for small business owners, home office users, or families needing dependable, quality printing and scanning. By following the outlined troubleshooting steps and performing simple routine maintenance, users can mitigate most common frustrations and enjoy reliable service from their investment. With the proper care, the Epson WF-4720 proves itself as a capable workhorse in the modern office.