Epson EcoTank ET-4856: Setup, Drivers, Ink and Common Problems

Is the Epson EcoTank ET-4856 right for you?

The ET-4856 is a retailer-channel version of the ET-4850, typically sold through specific chains or warehouse clubs with an extra black bottle in the box. The hardware and firmware are the same: 250-sheet cassette, fax, ADF, Ethernet and auto duplex. Owners should treat it as an ET-4850 for drivers and troubleshooting, and keep the pigment black flowing with regular use.

Best for: Shoppers who found the ET-4850 feature set bundled with extra ink

Setting up the Epson EcoTank ET-4856

If your regional support site lacks an ET-4856 entry, the ET-4850 package is the correct download. Use Smart Panel over 2.4 GHz or Ethernet, then enable two-sided printing in the driver. Store the bonus ink bottle sealed until the first tank runs low.

1. Unbox and prepare. Remove every piece of shipping tape and packing material, install the ink bottles (fill each tank to the upper line), and load paper in the tray.
2. Join your Wi-Fi. Keep the printer close to the router for setup. Most printers only connect to the 2.4GHz band, so if your router broadcasts one merged network name you may need to split the bands temporarily. See our Wi-Fi guide if it will not join.
3. Install the setup app. Use Epson's official app rather than a driver you found on a search result — third-party driver sites are the most common source of printer malware.
4. Add the printer. On Windows 11: Settings › Bluetooth & devices › Printers & scanners › Add device. On macOS: System Settings › Printers & Scanners › Add Printer.
5. Print a test page and run a scan if this is an all-in-one, so you find any problem now rather than when you are in a hurry.

Ink, toner and supplies

The Epson EcoTank ET-4856 uses the following consumables. Match the number exactly when you buy: the same printer family often uses several different cartridge numbers by region.

• Epson 102 Black (UK/EU)
• Epson 542 Black (US)
• Epson 102/542 Cyan/Magenta/Yellow ink bottles

High-yield (XL) versions almost always cost less per page if you print regularly. On third-party ink and toner, read our honest assessment first, and note that some manufacturers push firmware that rejects non-original chips.

Full specifications