Two tools that do the same job
WIC Reset Utility is a long-established program for resetting the waste ink pad counter on Epson printers. VNIT Reset Tool does the same job. Both read the counter for free, both let you try a reset for free, and both sell keys for a full reset. The differences are in the trial, the price, how you buy, and which computers they run on.
This page compares them fairly, using each side’s own published information. We make VNIT Reset Tool, so read it with that in mind, and check the sources at the bottom, since prices change.
Side by side
| WIC Reset Utility | VNIT Reset Tool | |
|---|---|---|
| Read the counter | Free | Free |
| Free trial reset | Main counter to 80% with a free trial key | Counters at 90% or more to 80%, once per printer |
| Full reset | One key = one reset | One key = one reset, to 0% |
| Price for one reset | Listed at US$9.99 (2manuals) and US$9.75 (resetkey.net) on 29/09/2026 | US$6 |
| Packs | Down to US$3.99 each at 25 keys (2manuals, 29/09/2026) | US$5 each for 5, US$4.50 for 10, US$2.50 for 25 |
| Where you buy | The developer’s site and many resellers, with different prices and terms | One place: vnitreset.com, paid through Gumroad |
| Key delivery | By email, usually within a minute (reseller) | By email, usually within a minute |
| Windows | Yes (the official site lists Windows XP and 7 downloads) | Windows 7 to 11, 32-bit and 64-bit |
| Mac | The official site lists Mac OS 10.5 Intel and higher | macOS 11 or newer, native on Intel and Apple silicon |
| Refunds | Depends on the reseller | Written refund policy |
Looking for a WIC reset key?
- What a WIC key is: a code you buy for WIC Reset Utility. One key resets the counter once, and it only works in WIC Reset Utility, not in other tools.
- Where it is sold: on the developer’s site and through many resellers, at different prices (US$9.75–9.99 for one key at the two stores we checked on 29/09/2026).
- The free key: WIC’s own free trial key takes the main counter to 80%. It comes from the official site.
- “Free full key” downloads: pages offering free full keys or cracked versions are a common way to spread malware. How to spot an unsafe resetter download.
If what you need is to get printing again before you decide, VNIT Reset Tool’s free trial (to 80%, once per printer) does that without a key.
When WIC may suit you better
- Your model is not in our list. WIC supports a long list of printers. Check ours first in the supported printers list. If your printer is missing, WIC or a repair shop may be the better route.
- You already have WIC keys. Keys only work in the program they were bought for.
When VNIT Reset Tool may suit you better
- You want to see the result before paying. The free trial takes the counter to 80%, so the error clears and you can print while you decide.
- You pay per printer. A full reset is US$6 instead of around US$10 for a single WIC key from the stores above.
- You use a Mac with an Apple chip. The app runs natively on M1 and newer. Mac guide.
- You want one seller. One website, one price list and one refund policy, with no resellers in between.
How to switch
- Download VNIT Reset Tool. You do not need to uninstall WIC.
- Connect the printer with a USB cable and press Read counter. Checking is free.
- Try the free reset. If you want 0%, buy a key and enter it in the tool.
Whichever tool you use, a reset only clears the count. The pads still hold the ink they have soaked up. How to handle the pads after a reset.