Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer, vs Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One

Overview of the Canon PIXMA TR160 and Epson EcoTank ET-2800

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is priced at $219.99, while the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 costs $239.99, making the Canon about 8% cheaper. Both printers cater to different user needs, with the Canon focusing on portability and the Epson emphasizing cost-effective printing through its cartridge-free system. Understanding their unique features can help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Design and Portability

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is designed for users who need a lightweight and portable printer. Weighing significantly less than most all-in-ones, it can easily fit into a bag or backpack, making it ideal for on-the-go printing. In contrast, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800, while slightly bulkier, is built for home use, featuring a high-resolution flatbed scanner and an integrated color display. This makes the Canon better suited for travel, whereas the Epson is more stationary and designed for home offices.

Printing Technology

Canon’s PIXMA TR160 utilizes a 5-Color Hybrid Ink System, which delivers high-quality prints with sharp black text and vibrant colors. The printer can produce documents and borderless photos up to 8.5” x 11”. On the other hand, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 employs Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology, allowing for quick printing at speeds of up to 10 pages per minute. This difference in technology can influence users depending on whether they prioritize print quality or speed.

Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, the Canon PIXMA TR160 excels with its straightforward app support. Users can print wirelessly via the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, or Mopria Print Service, making it hassle-free to connect to various devices. Additionally, it features a Wireless Direct Mode for printing without a router. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 also offers wireless capabilities, but its strength lies in its cartridge-free design and the convenience of cloud printing, which may appeal to families needing a versatile home solution.

Cost of Ownership

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 stands out in terms of long-term savings. It eliminates the need for traditional ink cartridges, with each ink bottle set equating to about 80 cartridges, allowing users to save up to 90% on replacement ink. This means that the EcoTank can print up to 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 pages in color before needing a refill, making it an economical choice for high-volume printing. In comparison, the Canon PIXMA TR160 uses traditional ink cartridges, which could lead to higher ongoing costs depending on usage.

User Experience

Both printers are designed with user-friendliness in mind, but they cater to different environments. The Canon PIXMA TR160 features a 1.44” OLED display that makes checking ink levels and printer status straightforward, ideal for users who need quick access while on the go. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 includes a convenient color display and is aimed at families or small home offices where multiple users might need to print, scan, or copy documents. This difference in user experience can significantly affect how each printer fits into daily workflows.

Versatility and Functionality

The Canon PIXMA TR160 primarily focuses on wireless printing with limited additional functions, making it an excellent choice for users who only require printing capabilities. However, it does allow for borderless printing and has options for custom templates directly from the printer. Conversely, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a multifunctional printer that offers scanning and copying features, making it more versatile for home and office use. This added functionality may be a critical factor for users requiring all-in-one capabilities.

Performance and Reliability

In terms of sales ranks, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is significantly more popular, sitting at a bestseller rank of 115 compared to the Canon PIXMA TR160 at 1977. This suggests that users often find the EcoTank to be a reliable choice for their printing needs. Moreover, the EcoTank’s innovative design aims to reduce the frequency of ink replacement, offering a more reliable experience for users who print regularly. The Canon’s performance is strong for portable needs but may not match the reliability of the EcoTank for larger print jobs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon PIXMA TR160 and the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize portability and straightforward printing, the Canon at $219.99 is a great choice. However, if you require a versatile home printer that offers scanning and copying along with significant long-term savings on ink, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 at $239.99 is the better investment. Consider your printing habits and environment before making a decision, as both printers excel in their respective categories.