How do I resolve blurry prints?

Applies To:

  • Operating Systems: Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS
  • Hardware: Epson EcoTank and Expression Series Printers (e.g., ET-4950, L6390, XP-2200 and similar models)
  • Software: Epson Printer Driver

Description

This article provides guidance on how to deal with blurry or poor prints

  • Prints appear blurry
  • Prints smudge easily
  • Lines or Streaks appear on the printout
  • Poor photo quality

The below images offer a reference point for a normal vs blurry print

Good sample print

Good sample print

Blurry, mis-aligned print

Blurry, mis-aligned print

Blurry, smeared print

Blurry, smeared print

The following steps can help remedy this issue

1. Use paper within specification & recommended by Epson

  • Ensure the paper is within specification, this means the correct weight and in the case of specialist media is on the list of officially supported paper, Full specifications can be found on the dedicated product support page or user manuals.
  • Old, curled paper can also create issues, load fresh, clean paper where necessary.

2. Use Genuine Epson inks

  • Ink formulation can affect drying time and therefore create smudging or blurred printed images, if it is not dry whilst moving through the feed path. Genuine ink is designed to work exactly as intended. If you are using third party ink, this could be contributing to your issue.
  • Ensure that your cartridges are not outside their best before date. Best results are achieved if the inks are used within 6 months of originally being inserted into the printer. Replace with new inks if necessary.

3. Use the correct paper settings

  • Check the paper settings in the Printer driver and/or on the Printer control panel are correct. Selecting the incorrect paper type in the driver vs what is loaded into the printer can result in print quality issues.
  • If your product has a paper thickness lever, ensure it is set to the correct position.

4. Check for blocked nozzles

  • Print off a nozzle check and if necessary, perform head cleans. Full instructions on how to do this can be found here or consulting your product user manual.

5. Perform a Head alignment

  • The head alignment utility can be accessed via your printer driver in either Windows or MacOS environment. For detailed instructions please search for the term how to perform head alignment or consult your product user manual.