Is it really worth still using the Epson R2400 vs Ink costs

Dusted off my Epson R2400 having got back into the swing of shooting more pictures.

I now want to start to print some, but have come to the conclusion that it's really not worth printing myself because of the cost of ink.

For the 4 catridges that I'm looking to buy, it's over £50. I have explored for example the cost of Lyson 3rd Party inks and although long term it might be cost effective, the price is plain stupid at something like £200 to get started.

Any of the other 3rd party inks I am bit dubious as regards colours, archive properties.... Anyone care to comment? This might be the only option ????

Not sure how others feel or whether they have a similar opinion, but the cost of ink seems to be more than if I was buying gold !!