The Epson 830 uses both black and colored ink to print make black
printouts even if I click on the "black ink only" option. Are all
color printers nowadays do this or is it just this one?
It may depend on the paper type and print mode selected. For example, most
recent DeskJet printers will use colored ink to make black on glossy photo
paper, and some may under black text when printing in "Best" mode on plain
paper. Most of the recent DeskJet's will operate in "reserve" mode, with only
the black cartridge installed.
Most (all?) printers will use some color ink in servicing the unused cartridge
(black or color) when the others are being used; otherwise the unused cartridge
waving around would dry out. Generally printers with fixed printheads have
more servicing overhead.
Regards,
Bob Headrick, not speaking for my employer HP