Brother MFC-J1010DW Wireless Color vs Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless

Design and build quality

The Brother MFC-J1010DW is designed with business-level features housed in a compact size. It emphasizes full functionality including printing, copying, scanning, and faxing within a budget-friendly design. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is also a wireless 4-in-1 device designed for easy ink cartridge installation and replacement. Both units are built to produce quality documents and photos. The Brother model includes a 1.8-inch color display for navigation, while the Canon model focuses on energy efficiency with an ENERGY STAR rating. Physical dimensions beyond these interface elements are not specified in the provided data for either unit.

Print Speed and Throughput

Performance metrics indicate a clear difference in throughput between the two models. The Brother MFC-J1010DW supports print speeds of up to 17 ppm for black documents and 9.5 ppm for color documents. In comparison, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 lists speeds of 8.8 ipm for black and 4.4 ipm for color. While the measurement units differ slightly between ppm and ipm, the numerical values suggest the Brother unit offers higher speed capabilities for both monochrome and color jobs. This makes the Brother model potentially more suitable for environments where time spent waiting for prints is a critical factor.

Paper Handling and Capacity

Paper handling capabilities differ significantly between the two printers. The Brother MFC-J1010DW features a 150-sheet adjustable paper tray, which allows for less frequent refilling during operation. It also includes a 20-page automatic document feeder for scanning or copying multi-page documents. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers a 100-sheet capacity tray and includes an auto document feeder, though the specific page capacity for the feeder is not specified in the provided data. The larger tray and defined ADF capacity on the Brother model provide an advantage for users handling larger batches of paper.

Connectivity and Smart Features

Both printers offer wireless connectivity and integration with smart home ecosystems. The Brother MFC-J1010DW is mobile and cloud ready, allowing users to manage printing and scanning via the Brother Mobile Connect App or connect directly to cloud services. It is also Alexa-enabled for smart ink management, providing ink level alerts and optional automatic reordering. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 similarly connects to Alexa to receive notifications when ink is low. Canon notes that Alexa can place a smart reorder from Amazon on behalf of the user if enrolled in smart reorders, with no subscription needed. Both devices support wireless 4-in-1 functionality.

Display and Interface

Navigation and control interfaces vary between the two units. The Brother MFC-J1010DW is equipped with a 1.8-inch color display. This screen is intended for easy navigation, allowing users to control functions, check status, and manage print jobs directly on the device. The provided data for the Canon PIXMA TR4720 does not specify a screen size or display type, focusing instead on the ease of ink cartridge installation. For users who prefer managing settings directly on the printer rather than through a mobile app, the Brother model offers a specified hardware interface.

Power Efficiency and Warranty

Energy consumption data is more detailed for the Canon model. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 lists power consumption at 7W during operation, 0.8W in standby, and 0.3W when off. It carries an ENERGY STAR rating. The Brother MFC-J1010DW does not have specific power consumption figures listed in the provided data. Regarding support, the Canon model includes a 1-year limited warranty. The Brother model does not have a warranty term specified in the provided text. Users prioritizing documented energy efficiency and warranty terms may find the Canon specifications more transparent in these specific areas.

Price and Value

The pricing structure places these printers in different market segments. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is listed at $69.00, which is significantly lower than the Brother MFC-J1010DW at $145.00. This price difference reflects the variance in specifications such as print speed, paper capacity, and interface features. The Canon model offers a lower entry cost for basic 4-in-1 functionality. The Brother model commands a higher price but delivers higher throughput specs and larger paper handling capacity. Value depends on whether the user prioritizes initial cost savings or long-term throughput efficiency.

Which one should you buy?

Selection depends on volume requirements and budget constraints. The Brother MFC-J1010DW is the recommended choice for users who need faster print speeds of 17 ppm black and 9.5 ppm color, along with a larger 150-sheet tray and 20-page ADF. It is better suited for small office tasks requiring higher capacity. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is the appropriate choice for budget-conscious buyers who need basic wireless 4-in-1 functionality at $69.00. It is ideal for users who value documented low power consumption of 0.8W standby and a specified 1-year limited warranty over high-speed performance.