If you’re shopping for a 64-inch outdoor production printer, two models deserve a close look: the Epson SureColor S8170 and HP Latex 730. Both sit in the production sweet spot, offering more capability than entry-level machines without moving all the way into flagship pricing.
But these printers take very different approaches. The Epson S8170 is built around high-volume production and fast banner output, while the HP Latex 730 focuses on workflow, versatility, and the advantages of water-based Latex technology.
So, which one is right for your print shop?
Epson S8170 vs HP Latex 730: An Overview
The Epson SureColor S8170 launched in fall 2025 as the replacement for the S60600. It features a six-color ink set with Light Cyan and Light Magenta, along with a 2.6-inch user-replaceable print head with dual channels for each color.
Epson positions the S8170 as the production specialist in its new S Series, and its biggest advantage is throughput. The S8170 can reach 358 square feet per hour in four-pass banner mode and has been pushed beyond 725 square feet per hour in two-pass mode while maintaining sellable outdoor quality.
The HP Latex 730, meanwhile, sits between HP’s entry-level 630 and flagship 830. It uses fourth-generation water-based Latex inks and adds additional print heads, fans, and a longer curing system to support higher production.
HP also brings automatic double-sided printing back to this class of printer and allows fabric printing with its optional ink collector kit.
Print Speed: Epson Takes the Lead
On paper, the two printers are surprisingly close.
For banner printing, the Epson S8170 is rated at 358 sq. ft. per hour, compared with 334 sq. ft. per hour for the HP Latex 730.
For adhesive vinyl, the S8170 reaches 243 sq. ft. per hour, while the Latex 730 is rated at 226 sq. ft. per hour in six-pass mode.
In real-world production, however, the Epson has a bigger advantage. The S8170 can be operated in two-pass banner mode at more than 700 sq. ft. per hour in testing, making it particularly attractive for shops where production volume is the priority.
If banners and high-volume outdoor graphics are your daily workload, the S8170 has the edge.
HP Latex 730: The Advantage Is in the Ink
The biggest reason to choose the HP Latex 730 isn’t simply print speed. It’s the Latex ink technology.
HP’s water-based Latex inks produce zero harmful VOCs and zero chemical odor, making the printer appealing for shops where the working environment matters. Prints are cured as they leave the printer, meaning they’re ready for finishing and lamination immediately rather than requiring a four- to six-hour outgassing period.
The cured ink film is also scratch-resistant and flexible, making Latex well suited to applications such as vehicle wraps and curved graphics.
Another major advantage is media compatibility. The Latex 730 can handle uncoated and specialty media that may not be suitable for solvent printing, including porous fabrics when equipped with the optional ink collector kit.
For shops that value workflow flexibility and media versatility, Latex has a compelling advantage.
Ink Costs: A Closer Look
The Epson S8170 uses 1.5-liter ink bags priced at approximately $286 each, or about $0.19 per milliliter. It also supports 800ml bags at approximately $155 each.
The HP Latex 730 uses 1-liter cartridges costing about $164, or $0.164 per milliliter.
At first glance, HP appears to win on ink price. However, there are additional costs to consider. The Latex 730 uses replaceable print heads that need to be replaced approximately every 6,000ml, adding an estimated 3.5 cents per milliliter in print-head costs.
Latex also uses water as a carrier, which must be evaporated during curing. As a result, Latex printers typically use about 30% more ink per square foot than solvent printers.
Epson has a slight advantage in real-world cost per square foot, although the difference is small enough that it probably shouldn’t be the deciding factor for most shops.
Price: They’re Nearly Even
One thing to note: printer pricing changes as manufacturers introduce monthly promotions.
The Epson S8170 has a street price of approximately $18,995 after promotion, while the HP Latex 730 is approximately $20,345 after promotions.
The HP Latex 730W, which adds white ink, costs approximately $25,095 after promotions. This is an important distinction because the Epson S8170 does not offer white ink.
Another consideration is what’s included with the Epson. The S8170 ships with a full set of 800ml inks, representing more than $2,600 in ink value.
Because promotions change frequently, purchase price shouldn’t be the deciding factor between these two printers.
What About White Ink?
This is one area where the decision is very simple.
The Epson S8170 does not offer white ink.
If white ink is part of your current or future production plans, you’ll need to look at the HP Latex 730W instead.
HP’s white ink system is also highlighted as a major advantage, with zero-waste capping and faster white-ink modes compared with the entry-level 630W.
Epson S8170 vs HP Latex 730: Which Should You Buy?
The answer depends on your shop.
Choose the Epson SureColor S8170 if production speed is your top priority. If banners and vinyl make up a large portion of your business and you need maximum throughput, the S8170 offers impressive production performance at a mid-tier price.
Choose the HP Latex 730 if workflow and versatility matter more. Its immediate curing, low-odor water-based ink, broad media compatibility, automatic double-sided printing, and optional fabric capabilities make it an excellent choice for shops with diverse applications.
And if white ink is important, the HP Latex 730W is the clear choice.
Ultimately, there isn’t one printer that’s best for every shop. The right choice comes down to what you print, how much you print, what media you use, and how your production workflow operates.
If you’re still deciding between the Epson S8170 and HP Latex 730, seeing both machines produce actual samples can be one of the best ways to make the decision. If you’re interested in comparing samples, feel free to reach out to us here. Interested in watching the video comparison? Watch it here.
IT Supplies is your one-stop shop for everything you need to achieve the perfect print. We partner with top manufacturers to bring you the best in printing technology, including Eco-Solvent, Latex, UV, and Aqueous printers from EPSON, HP, and Canon. Our lineup also features a wide selection of Dye-Sublimation, DTF, and DTG printers from EPSON and HP. Explore our full range at www.itsupplies.com or by giving us a call at 1-800-771-9665!
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