They obviously have not changed anything in their newer models. I have an Epson Stylus CX8400 and have been printing black test documents and the color ink levels have gone from over 75% to LOW. I even made sure to use the "black ink only" setting in microsoft word's print settings on ever single document I printed. Below is a copy of the message I sent Epson.





I've been using the "black ink only" setting under "print settings" in Microsoft Word X to print a fairly large number of documents that are black and white anyway. I use this setting simply to make sure that the printer does not use any of the over priced Epson brand DuraBrite Ultra color ink.



However, the print monitor application keeps showing that my color ink is depleting. I have not printed anything in color and everything I printed I did so using the "Black Ink Only" setting I mentioned prior. Knowing printer companies and the all well to known lies that they tell you in regards to ink levels (just to get you to buy more ink), I believe this is one of those lies.



The internet is full of forums on this subject. There are even special devices that will reset the printer's built in ink level monitor so that you can actually use all of the expensive ink you bought or buy off brand ink cartridges. I have not bought or used any of theses devices, but frankly it is quite tempting despite the risks to the printer.



Can you please explain my specific issue? Why are my black ink only prints supposedly using color ink? I don't see any color! There is no need for this! I spent something like $70 on color ink just a few months ago and have only printed two things in color. Now after printing a bunch of black and white documents I'm supposed to actually believe that I've used up all of that color ink. The levels went from over 75% to low without printing one thing in color.



Come on guys this is ridiculous and flat out wrong! Your company and so many other printer companies are ripping people off and worse yet wasting ink and cartridges. Not only is this a horrible way to thank your customers for buying your products, but it also is more harmful to the environment due to the waste it promotes in exchange for profit.



The next printer I buy WILL NOT be an Epson unless you can explain this or at least be honest and admit your ripping me off!