Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet vs Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer,

Overview of the Canon MegaTank G3270 and Canon PIXMA TR160

The Canon MegaTank G3270 and Canon PIXMA TR160 are both excellent printers from Canon, catering to different printing needs. The MegaTank G3270 retails for $229.99, while the PIXMA TR160 is slightly cheaper at $219.99, making it about 4% less expensive. These models serve distinct purposes, with the G3270 designed for home use with additional capabilities like scanning and copying, while the TR160 emphasizes portability and convenience for on-the-go printing.

Print Quality and Performance

When it comes to print quality, the Canon MegaTank G3270 offers impressive results, enabling users to print up to 6,000 black and white pages and 7,700 color pages using a single set of inks, which suggests a high yield that can save users considerable money on ink—up to $1,000 over time. In contrast, the PIXMA TR160 excels in creating sharp and vibrant prints, making it ideal for documents and photos up to 8.5” x 11”. Both printers utilize Canon's advanced ink systems, but the G3270's MegaTank feature provides greater efficiency for regular printing tasks.

Features and Functionality

The Canon MegaTank G3270 comes equipped with a full suite of features, including wireless print, copy, and scan capabilities, along with a 1.35” square LCD display for easy navigation. This model is particularly beneficial for home offices that require multifunctionality. On the other hand, the PIXMA TR160 is designed for portability, featuring a lightweight build that easily fits into a bag or backpack. Its 1.44” OLED display allows users to quickly check ink levels and printer status, catering to those who need to print from various locations without hassle.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity options vary significantly between the two models. The Canon MegaTank G3270 supports wireless printing through various methods, making it convenient for home use. In comparison, the PIXMA TR160 offers advanced connectivity with the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service, allowing users to print directly from their mobile devices or the cloud. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who prioritize ease of access and flexibility in their printing needs.

Ink Efficiency and Cost

One of the standout features of the Canon MegaTank G3270 is its ink efficiency, which can save users an estimated $1,000 on ink. With up to two years of ink included, this printer is particularly cost-effective for high-volume users. In contrast, while the PIXMA TR160's ink system supports high-quality prints, it does not offer the same extensive ink savings as the G3270. Users who print frequently and in large volumes might find the MegaTank model to be the more economical choice in the long run.

Size and Portability

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is specifically designed for portability, being lightweight and compact enough to fit into bags easily. This makes it an ideal choice for professionals who need to print on the go. Conversely, the Canon MegaTank G3270 is larger and more suited for stationary use in home environments. While it offers multifunctionality, those who require a travel-friendly printer might find the TR160 more suitable for their needs.

Sales Rank and Market Position

In terms of market performance, the Canon MegaTank G3270 has a sales rank of 1196, indicating a solid position in the printer market. The PIXMA TR160 follows closely with a sales rank of 1977. Both printers are well-regarded, but the MegaTank G3270's higher sales rank may suggest a stronger preference among consumers, likely due to its multifunctional capabilities and cost savings on ink.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon MegaTank G3270 and the Canon PIXMA TR160 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you require a versatile all-in-one printer for home use with exceptional ink efficiency, the MegaTank G3270 is an excellent choice at $229.99. However, if you need a lightweight, portable printer that is slightly cheaper at $219.99, the PIXMA TR160 is ideal for on-the-go printing. Consider your volume of printing, the need for multifunctionality, and whether portability or ink efficiency is more important for your situation.