Brother MFC-J1010DW Wireless Color Inkjet vs Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer,

Price Comparison

The Brother MFC-J1010DW is priced at $145.00, making it about 17% cheaper than the Canon PIXMA TR160, which is priced at $219.99. This price difference of $74.99 may make the Brother printer a more attractive option for budget-conscious consumers looking for functionality without the higher cost. Additionally, while the Brother model offers an average price over the last 30 days of $79.98, the Canon’s average price sits significantly higher at $206.40. This suggests that the Brother printer not only provides immediate savings but may also be a better long-term investment in terms of overall costs.

Print Quality

Both printers offer high-quality output, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Canon PIXMA TR160 is known for its 5-Color Hybrid Ink System, which enhances the printing of documents and photos, ensuring vibrant details and sharp text. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize photo printing alongside document printing. Conversely, while the Brother MFC-J1010DW does not specify a hybrid ink system, it delivers business-level features and is designed for economical printing, focusing on efficiency and speed rather than high-resolution photo output. Thus, users needing high-quality images may lean towards the Canon.

Functionality

The Brother MFC-J1010DW excels in multifunctionality, combining printing, copying, scanning, and faxing in one compact device. This versatility makes it ideal for home offices or small workspaces that require a wide range of capabilities. In contrast, the Canon PIXMA TR160 is a portable printer focused on printing, which means it lacks the multi-functional aspects of the Brother model. Users who require various printing tasks may find the Brother printer's comprehensive features worth the price difference.

Portability

Portability is a significant advantage of the Canon PIXMA TR160, being lightweight and designed for on-the-go printing. This printer can easily fit into a bag or backpack, making it suitable for business travelers or those who need to print documents from various locations. Meanwhile, the Brother MFC-J1010DW, while compact, does not emphasize portability as much as the Canon. Therefore, users looking for a printer that can easily travel with them will likely prefer the Canon model.

Connectivity Options

The Brother MFC-J1010DW offers extensive connectivity features, including wireless, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB, making it versatile for various devices. It also supports mobile and cloud printing through the Brother Mobile Connect App, enhancing user convenience. On the other hand, the Canon PIXMA TR160 also provides simple connectivity through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service, along with a Wireless Direct mode for connecting without a router. Both printers provide robust connectivity options, but the Brother model edges out slightly with more advanced mobile integration.

User Interface

The Brother MFC-J1010DW features a 1.8-inch color display, allowing users to navigate functions and manage print jobs easily. This user-friendly interface contributes to a more streamlined printing experience. The Canon PIXMA TR160, however, is equipped with a 1.44-inch monochrome OLED display, which, while functional, may not offer the same level of ease in navigation as the Brother's color display. Thus, for ease of use, the Brother printer may have an advantage.

Speed and Efficiency

The Brother MFC-J1010DW boasts impressive print speeds of up to 17 pages per minute (ppm) for black and 9.5 ppm for color, making it a fast option for those needing quick prints. The automatic duplex printing feature further enhances its efficiency by saving both time and paper. The Canon PIXMA TR160 does not specify print speeds, focusing instead on print quality and portability; thus, it may not match the speed of the Brother model. For users prioritizing fast printing, the Brother is the clear winner.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the choice between the Brother MFC-J1010DW and the Canon PIXMA TR160 depends on individual needs. If you are looking for a multifunctional printer that offers speed, efficiency, and a lower price point, the Brother MFC-J1010DW is the better option. However, if portability and high-quality photo printing are your main priorities, the Canon PIXMA TR160 might be the right choice for you. Consider your specific requirements to determine which printer aligns best with your printing needs.