Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet vs Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer,

Overview of the Brother Work Smart 1360 and Canon PIXMA TR4720

When comparing the Brother Work Smart 1360 and Canon PIXMA TR4720, it's clear that both printers have unique strengths. The Brother Work Smart 1360 is priced at $109.98, while the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is more budget-friendly at $69.00, making it about 37% cheaper. This price difference reflects the varying capabilities and features each printer offers, appealing to different user needs.

Printing Features

The Brother Work Smart 1360 boasts impressive features such as automatic duplex (2-sided) printing and a fast print speed of up to 16 pages per minute for black and 9 pages per minute for color. In contrast, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers an 8.8 ipm print speed for black and 4.4 ipm for color, which is considerably slower. While both printers have auto document feeders, the Brother's 20-sheet feeder provides greater efficiency compared to the Canon's unspecified capacity. This makes the Brother Work Smart 1360 a better choice for users prioritizing speed and volume.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another critical factor where the Brother Work Smart 1360 shines. It supports various methods, including wireless networking, USB connections, AirPrint, and Cloud app connections through its 1.8” color display. Meanwhile, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 also offers wireless capabilities but emphasizes connectivity with Alexa for smart reordering of ink. While the Canon provides modern conveniences, the Brother's extensive Cloud options and mobile app functionality present a more versatile choice for tech-savvy users.

Usability and Setup

User-friendliness is a highlight of both printers, but they approach it differently. The Brother Work Smart 1360 includes the Brother Mobile Connect app, allowing easy navigation for printing, copying, and scanning directly from mobile devices. Its straightforward setup process is complemented by the Page Gauge feature, which tracks ink usage. The Canon PIXMA TR4720, on the other hand, simplifies ink management with its Alexa integration but lacks a dedicated mobile management app. For those who value mobile functionality, the Brother model is the clear winner.

Document Handling

When it comes to document handling, the Brother Work Smart 1360 again takes the lead with its 20-sheet automatic document feeder and a 150-sheet paper tray. This setup allows for more extensive printing tasks without constant refilling. In comparison, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 has a 100-sheet capacity, which may require more frequent attention during larger print jobs. If document handling is a priority, the Brother printer's larger capacity and feeder make it a more practical option.

Print Quality

Both printers aim to deliver high-quality outputs, but their performance varies. The Brother Work Smart 1360 is designed to produce vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it suitable for a range of documents from to-do lists to professional reports. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 also produces quality documents, photos, and borderless prints, but specific print quality metrics are not provided. While both offer satisfactory outputs, the Brother's emphasis on color vibrancy may appeal more to users focused on high-quality print results.

Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is recognized for its energy efficiency, with a power consumption of just 7W during operation, which is a significant consideration for eco-conscious consumers. The Brother Work Smart 1360 does not specify its power consumption, making it challenging to compare directly. However, the cost of ownership might favor the Canon, especially with its integration of smart reordering through Alexa, potentially minimizing ink shortages and wastage.

Price Comparison

The Brother Work Smart 1360 is priced at $109.98, while the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is available for $69.00. This price difference of $40.98 means that the Canon is about 37% less expensive than the Brother model. While the Brother offers more features, users need to weigh whether those additional capabilities justify the higher price. If budget constraints are a primary concern, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 presents a compelling option without sacrificing essential functionalities.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Brother Work Smart 1360 and the Canon PIXMA TR4720 hinges on your specific needs. If you require faster printing speeds, greater document handling capacity, and extensive connectivity options, the Brother Work Smart 1360 is the better choice despite its higher price. However, if you're looking for a cost-effective solution with essential features and solid performance for home use, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers excellent value. Consider what features matter most to you to make the best choice for your printing needs.