What Ink Does the Epson Expression Premium XP-820 Use?

Quick answer

The Epson Expression Premium XP-820 uses Epson 273 or 273XL ink cartridges.

Last verified: 2026-08-16

Compatible cartridges for the Epson Expression Premium XP-820

CartridgePartShop
Standard Black Epson 273 Black
XL Black Epson 273XL Black
Standard Color Epson 273 Cyan/Magenta/Yellow
XL Color Epson 273XL Cyan/Magenta/Yellow

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Standard vs. XL — which should you buy?

Epson 273 or 273XL cartridges come in standard and XL (high-yield) sizes. Standard cartridges cost less upfront; XL cartridges cost more upfront but typically print two to three times as many pages, so they usually work out cheaper per page if you print regularly. If you print only occasionally, a standard cartridge may suit you better, since ink can degrade before you use up an XL cartridge's larger capacity.

Standard and XL Epson 273 or 273XL cartridges are physically and electronically interchangeable in Epson Expression Premium XP-820 - you can mix a standard black with an XL color cartridge, or switch sizes the next time you reorder, with no printer settings to change. For the full cost-per-page breakdown and when each size makes the most sense, see our guide on standard vs. XL cartridges.

How to check which cartridge is currently installed in the Epson Expression Premium XP-820

Most Epson home inkjets show installed-cartridge status on their own screen or through the Epson printer driver's status monitor on a computer: check the printer's Settings or Maintenance menu - it typically lists the installed cartridge part numbers alongside an estimated ink level.

If your Epson Expression Premium XP-820 doesn't have a screen, remove the cartridge from its carriage - the part number (for example, Epson 273 Black) is printed directly on its label. Compare that number to the compatibility table above to confirm whether you have the standard or XL version before buying a replacement. See our guide on finding your printer model number if you're not sure exactly which Epson Expression Premium XP-820 variant you own.

Epson Expression Premium XP-820 Ink FAQ

The Epson Expression Premium XP-820 uses Epson 273 or 273XL ink cartridges: Epson 273 Black (standard) or Epson 273XL Black (XL) for black, and Epson 273 Cyan/Magenta/Yellow (standard) or Epson 273XL Cyan/Magenta/Yellow (XL) for color.
Yes. Epson 273 Black and Epson 273XL Black are physically and electronically identical except for ink capacity - the XL version simply holds more ink and lasts roughly two to three times longer per cartridge. You can install either one in the Epson Expression Premium XP-820 without changing any printer settings.
Yes, in most cases. Like most Epson inkjets, the Epson Expression Premium XP-820 generally needs both the black and color cartridges installed to print at all, even for black-and-white jobs, because removing a cartridge leaves an empty carriage slot many printers are designed to refuse to run with. Check your printer's manual to confirm this for your exact model.

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