Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 vs Epson SureColour SC-P700
Detailed Technical Comparison & Buying Guide
Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 
Epson SureColour SC-P700 Epson Expression Photo XP-8700
Epson SureColour SC-P700
| Feature | Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 | Epson SureColour SC-P700 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | 6-colour Claria Photo HD Ink | UltraChrome Pro10 Ink |
| Colour Output | Colour (6 Individual Inks) | 10 Colours (incl. Violet) |
| Print Resolution | 5760 x 1440 dpi | 5760 x 1440 dpi |
| Black Print Speed (PPM) | 9.5 ppm | 2 min (A3+ Photo) |
| Colour Print Speed (PPM) | 9 ppm | 2 min (A3+ Photo) |
| First Page Out Time | 12 sec | N/A |
| Auto Double-Sided | Automatic (2-sided) | Manual |
| Input Paper Capacity | 100 Sheets (Standard), 20 (Photo) | 120 Sheets (Plain), 30 (Photo) |
| Output Tray Capacity | 30 Sheets (Motorized) | 50 Sheets |
| Supported Paper Sizes | A4, A5, A6, B5, 10x15, 13x18 | A3+, A3, A4, A5, Roll Paper |
| Paper Weight Support | 64 to 300 g/m² | Up to 1.5mm thickness |
| Scanner Type | CIS Flatbed | None |
| Scan Resolution | 1200 x 4800 dpi | N/A |
| Auto Document Feeder | None | None |
| Copy Speed | Approx 10 ipm | None |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Ethernet Support | No | 10/100/1000 Ethernet |
| USB Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB, SD Card | SuperSpeed USB 3.0 |
| Mobile Printing Support | Epson Smart Panel, Creative Print | Epson Smart Panel App |
| Display Panel | 10.9 cm Colour Touchscreen | 10.9 cm Colour Touchscreen |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | 3,000 pages | Professional Exhibition |
| Ink/Cartridge System | 378 Squirrel Inks | T46S Series (25ml) |
| Borderless Printing | Yes (up to A4) | Yes (up to A3+) |
| Width | 349 mm | 515 mm |
| Depth | 340 mm | 368 mm |
| Height | 142 mm | 185 mm |
| Machine Weight | 6.8 kg | 12.6 kg |
| Energy Efficiency | Energy Star | Low Power Mode |
| Noise Level (dB) | 48 dB(A) | 39 dB(A) |
| Processor Speed | Integrated Process | Professional Engine |
| Internal Memory | 256 MB | 1 GB |
| Cloud Print Support | Scan-to-Cloud, Email Print | Direct Cloud Access |
| Security Features | WPA2-PSK | Enterprise Security |
| Compatible OS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS |
| Included in Box | Initial Ink Set, CD Tray | Full Ink Set, Maintenance Box |
| Warranty Period | 1 Year | 1 Year On-site |
| Recommended Use | Serious Home Photographer | Gallery/Professional Photo |
⚖️ Expert Verdict
The Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 and the Surecolour SC-P700 represent the gap between high-end home photo printing and professional gallery production. The XP-8700 is a versatile A4 3-in-1 that uses a 6-ink dye system, designed for home users who want beautiful vacation photos and everyday utility. The Epson SC-P700 is a dedicated A3+ professional printer with a 10-ink pigment system, built for photographers who want to sell archival-quality prints with deep blacks. While the XP-8700 is much smaller, can scan and copy, and is significantly faster for daily tasks, it cannot match the SC-P700's professional output or large-format capability. The SC-P700 features a dedicated paper path for thick fine-art boards and canvases, which the XP-8700 cannot handle. However, the XP-8700 is significantly more affordable to run for non-photo tasks and fits better on a standard desk. If you are a professional photographer looking to create exhibition-grade work, the SC-P700 is the undisputed winner. If you want the best possible family photos and a practical home tool, the XP-8700 is our expert pick. Overall, the SC-P700 takes the win for its artistic excellence and large-format output.