Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless vs Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet

Design and build quality

Both devices are manufactured by Canon and serve as all-in-one units capable of printing, scanning, and copying. The Canon MegaTank G3270 is designed with a tank system architecture, which typically implies a larger physical footprint to accommodate ink reservoirs. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 is described as a budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for home users and hybrid workers. While specific dimensions are not provided in the data, the TS6520 emphasizes affordability and versatility in its design philosophy. The G3270 includes a 1.35-inch Square LCD display, providing a physical interface for user interaction, whereas display specifications for the TS6520 are not explicitly detailed in the provided information.

Ink system and efficiency

The most significant difference between these two models lies in their ink delivery systems. The Canon MegaTank G3270 utilizes a bulk ink tank system that claims to include up to 2 years of ink in the box. This system supports printing up to 6,000 black and white pages and 7,700 color pages using a single set of inks. In contrast, the Canon PIXMA TS6520 employs a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system. While the TS6520 is noted for delivering sharp text and vivid colors, the data does not specify page yield numbers for its cartridges. The G3270 explicitly markets potential savings of up to $1,000 on ink, highlighting its efficiency for high-volume printing tasks compared to traditional cartridge systems.

Print performance and quality

Print quality descriptions vary slightly between the two models based on the provided feature sets. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 promises crisp, vibrant prints for both documents and photos, attributing this quality to its hybrid ink system. It supports printing a wide range of documents and photos up to 8.5 inches by 11 inches, with or without borders. The Canon MegaTank G3270 focuses its performance metrics on volume rather than specific quality descriptors in the provided data. Both units handle standard letter-sized media. Users prioritizing photo quality may lean towards the TS6520 based on its specific marketing regarding vivid colors, while high-volume document users may prefer the G3270 for its consistency over thousands of pages.

Connectivity options

Wireless connectivity is standard on both printers, allowing for operation without direct cable connections. The Canon MegaTank G3270 lists Wireless Print/Copy/Scan capabilities, ensuring basic network functionality. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 offers more detailed connectivity specifications, featuring reliable wireless connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi support. This includes compatibility with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, ensuring stable and consistent connections from anywhere in the home or office. The TS6520 also emphasizes effortless setup for smartphones and computers. While the G3270 supports wireless functions, the TS6520 provides more granular detail regarding network bands, which may benefit users in congested Wi-Fi environments.

Display and interface

User interface capabilities differ notably between the two units. The Canon MegaTank G3270 is equipped with a 1.35-inch Square LCD display. This hardware feature allows users to navigate menus and monitor printer status directly on the device without relying solely on a computer or mobile app. The provided data for the Canon PIXMA TS6520 does not specify the presence or size of an LCD screen, focusing instead on easy setup for smartphones and computers. For users who prefer physical controls and on-device status checks, the G3270 offers a tangible advantage. However, the TS6520 emphasizes mobile integration, suggesting a workflow designed around remote management rather than panel interaction.

Printing features and media

Functional features regarding paper handling present a clear distinction. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 supports automatic 2-sided printing, which helps save time and paper while optimizing the workflow. This feature reduces paper consumption and speeds up document preparation. The Canon MegaTank G3270 is specified for single-sided printing only. Both devices handle media up to 8.5 inches by 11 inches. The TS6520 explicitly mentions borderless printing capabilities for photos, adding versatility for creative projects. The G3270 focuses on volume capacity rather than media versatility. Users requiring frequent double-sided documents will find the TS6520 more efficient, while those printing single-sided bulk documents may not miss the duplex feature.

Price and long-term value

The upfront cost favors the Canon PIXMA TS6520, priced at $140.00 compared to the Canon MegaTank G3270 at $229.99. This $89.99 difference makes the TS6520 more accessible for budget-conscious buyers. However, long-term value calculations shift significantly when considering ink costs. The G3270 claims savings of up to $1,000 on ink and includes up to 2 years of ink in the package. The high page yield of 6,000 black and 7,700 color pages per set reduces the frequency of consumable purchases. The TS6520, while cheaper initially, uses a cartridge system that typically requires more frequent replacement. Over several years of operation, the G3270 may offer a lower total cost of ownership despite the higher initial price tag.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between these printers depends on your printing volume and budget priorities. The Canon MegaTank G3270 is the recommended choice for users who print frequently and want to minimize long-term ink expenses. Its high page yield and included ink supply justify the higher upfront cost for high-volume environments. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 is better suited for occasional users or those with strict initial budget constraints. Its automatic duplex printing and dual-band Wi-Fi offer modern conveniences at a lower entry price. If you prioritize feature set and upfront savings, choose the TS6520. If you prioritize ink efficiency and total cost of ownership over time, the G3270 is the superior option.