I have been using Pro-Jet inks in my Epson R220 for over 5 years. They cost about one-tenth of the price of original Epson cartridges. They last as long, produce almost identical prints and have caused no damage to my printer.
I also buy HP third-party cartridges for a friend with the same results.
A few months ago it was cheaper to buy a brand new Epson printer than it was to buy replacement inks for the same printer (RRP).
If you would like the name of the online retailer I use PM me.