Can I get some opinions on what is the best ink system for the Epson Stylus C86 ink jet printer or even if there are any choices for that printer??

Joyce

My husband wanted me to ask this question so I am being the go between from him....

It would be bulk ink, we use the paper that came with the system (part of the package) and we don't use it very often maybe 4x a year mostly when we have a photo. We mainly use laser sublimation.

Joyce,

Regardless of your intended use, either a bulk ink system or refillable cartridges will give you the most bang for your buck.

Pros and cons to both. Bulk ink systems rely on a siphon to feed the printer's internal cartridges. The siphon can sometimes be lost, causing an interrupted ink flow.

In my opinion, refillable cartridges will be a better choice for reliability of ink flow, but require hand-filling, which some people think is a hassle.

I refill cartridges for my Epson 900/980 printers and it's not that much trouble. Refillable C86 (spongeless) cartridges should be much easier to refill than 900/980 carts w/sponge.

If you plan to use OEM ink, MIS Associates www.inksupply.com carries reasonably-priced aftermarket ink, which compares very favorably to Epson ink.

Edit: After reading your response to Mark, I'd suggest buying MIS aftermarket pre-filled OEM cartridges.