Best Reliable All-in-One Printer to Replace HP Photosmart 5520 (Scanner/Copy + Mostly Black Printing) That Works With Refill Ink

Question: I've used BCH inks in my HP Photosmart 5520 for about seven years, but the printer has been a constant headache-especially when the scanner/copier stops working and I end up tearing it down and rebuilding it. I'm finally done with it. Can you recommend a new or used color inkjet all-in-one (print/scan/copy) that's actually built well, reliable, and not glitchy? I mostly print black and white, with occasional color. I don't need fancy features-just high functionality, good quality control, and versatile print quality. Most importantly, I want a model that can use BCH ink.

Answer: 

With your use case (lots of scanning/copying, mostly black printing, light color, and a strong preference for reliability), my recommendation is straightforward:

Epson EcoTank.

Below is why-and how to choose the right EcoTank so it's the least likely to become another frustrating project.

1) Why Epson EcoTank is the best fit for reliability + refill ink

EcoTank printers were designed around refillable ink tanks from the factory, which makes them a better match for long-term use with refill ink than most cartridge-based systems.

Compared to many HP cartridge models (including the Photosmart generation), EcoTanks tend to reduce the three biggest pain points people complain about:

• Cartridge recognition problems (chips, "incompatible cartridge," forced replacements)

• Frequent ink system interruptions (dryouts caused by small cartridges and frequent swaps)

• High running costs / constant interruptions for routine printing

And since you print mostly black-and-white, an EcoTank setup is typically very economical per page, while still giving you color when you need it.

2) What to look for in an EcoTank (so you don't end up with another "almost good" printer)

If scanning and copying reliability is important, focus on these features when selecting a model:

A) ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) - strongly recommended if you scan/copy often

Even if you don't scan huge stacks, an ADF reduces wear-and-tear frustration and makes the device feel more "office reliable."

• If you copy/scan multi-page documents regularly: choose an EcoTank with an ADF.

• If you rarely scan multi-page documents: flatbed-only can be okay, but ADF still improves day-to-day usability.

B) "Business-oriented" EcoTank lines tend to be sturdier

Epson makes EcoTanks aimed at home/light use and others aimed at home-office. In general:

• Home-office models usually have better paper handling and more durable daily workflow behavior.

• They may cost more, but they often save you time and frustration long-term.

C) Avoid "too cheap to be true" used units unless you can verify condition

A used EcoTank can be a great deal, but there are two common risks:

• The previous owner let ink dry in the head (especially if it sat unused)

• The printer was run with poor-quality ink and clogged

If you buy used, look for:

• A unit that was used recently

• No missing-nozzle patterns or banding issues (if the seller can show a nozzle check)

• A clean scan/copy function test

3) Will it take BCH ink?

In practical terms, EcoTank is the correct platform for refill ink use. The main rule is to match the ink type to the printer family correctly (Epson uses different ink formulations across lines). If you choose an EcoTank model and stick to ink intended for that style of Epson tank printer, it's the most compatible direction versus continuing with an HP cartridge platform.

A quick note on expectations: even with the best platform, no consumer printer is "perfect forever." But EcoTank is one of the most sensible choices when your priorities are:

• refill-friendly design

• consistent everyday printing

• scanning/copying practicality

• long-term cost control

4) How to choose between a few EcoTank "tiers" (simple decision guide)

Since you print mostly black and only occasionally color, here's the simplest way to decide:

• If you want the most reliable day-to-day scanning/copying experience: pick an EcoTank with an ADF and home-office orientation.

• If you rarely scan/copy multi-page documents and want to keep it simple: a basic EcoTank all-in-one can still work well.

• If you want sharper business-style text output: lean toward EcoTank models marketed for home-office use and consistent document printing.

Even without extra "features," the right EcoTank model will typically feel like a major step up in sanity compared with fighting an older HP all-in-one.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility, Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer in for a drop-off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage, BCH Technologies on YouTube (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thank you again for your patience and for supporting BCH ink over the years. I completely understand why you're done investing time into the Photosmart 5520, and I truly believe an Epson EcoTank all-in-one is the most practical, reliable next step for your kind of everyday printing, scanning, and copying needs.