Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer, vs Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 Wireless Wide-format

Overview of the Canon PIXMA TR160 and Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is priced at $219.99, while the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 retails for $602.00, making the Canon about 63% cheaper. Both printers cater to different user needs, with the Canon designed for portability and the Epson targeted toward high-quality photo printing. Understanding their features is crucial for potential buyers looking to invest in a printer that suits their specific requirements.

Print Quality Comparison

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 excels in print quality, delivering lab-quality photos and graphics thanks to its 6-color Claria ET Premium ink system. It’s capable of producing borderless photos up to 13” x 19”, which is a significant advantage for users focused on photo projects. In contrast, the Canon PIXMA TR160 offers high-quality printing for documents and photos up to 8.5” x 11”, utilizing a 5-color hybrid ink system. While the Canon provides sharp black text and vibrant colors, it doesn’t match the Epson in terms of size or professional-grade photo output.

Portability and Design

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is notably lightweight and portable, making it an ideal choice for users who need to print on the go. This printer can easily fit into a bag or backpack and features an optional battery for convenient wireless printing anywhere. On the other hand, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550, while more robust and feature-rich, is less portable due to its larger size and weight. Users needing a printer primarily for travel and mobility would find the Canon much more suitable.

Connectivity Options

Both printers offer excellent connectivity options, but they cater to different user preferences. The Canon PIXMA TR160 allows for wireless printing through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service, making it easy to print from various devices. Additionally, it features a wireless direct mode for printing without a router. Conversely, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 includes a 4.3-inch color touchscreen for an intuitive user experience and supports voice-activated printing, enhancing convenience for those who prefer hands-free operation. Both printers provide solid connectivity, but the Epson offers more advanced features for tech-savvy users.

Cost of Ownership

When it comes to cost of ownership, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 shines due to its cartridge-free printing system, which can save users up to 80% on replacement ink costs compared to traditional cartridges. The EcoTank allows users to print 4” x 6” photos for about 4 cents each, whereas the Canon PIXMA TR160's ink costs are not specified but traditionally incur more expense with standard cartridges. While the initial investment in the Epson is higher, its long-term savings on ink could make it a more economical choice for frequent printers.

Versatility in Printing

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is designed to handle a variety of media types, including cardstock and CDs/DVDs, and it supports auto duplex printing. This versatility makes it suitable for creative projects beyond standard documents and photos. The Canon PIXMA TR160, while versatile for its compact size, is primarily focused on document and photo printing, lacking the same breadth of media compatibility. Users who require a printer for diverse tasks would benefit more from the Epson’s capabilities.

User Experience

User experience with both printers varies significantly. The Canon PIXMA TR160 features a 1.44-inch OLED display that provides easy access to ink levels and printer status, promoting a straightforward operation. However, it lacks the advanced interfaces found in the Epson. The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 stands out with its large touchscreen and the Epson Smart Panel app, allowing users to monitor and operate the printer from mobile devices. The Epson offers a more modern user experience, appealing to those who value technology in their printing solutions.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon PIXMA TR160 and the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you prioritize portability and a lower initial cost, the Canon is an excellent choice. However, for users focused on high-quality photo printing, versatility, and long-term savings on ink, the Epson is the better investment despite its higher price. Analyzing your printing habits and preferences will guide you toward the printer that best fits your lifestyle.