when you said unbranded cartriges you mean cartriges without an epson logo?
I suggest to use only epson products on your printer to prevent future problems, your printer nozzle might get clogged.
Yes, while non-genuine Epson cartridges may be cheaper, they don't always give you the same results. Try a real cartridge, hopefully you haven't damadged the printer beyond repair already...
yes, they could work ( if they are made for that type printer) however, i wouldnt reccomend them... the original Epson cardridges have good quality ink in it... you cant be certain about the non branded ones