Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer, vs HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw Wireless

Overview of the Canon PIXMA TR160

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is a lightweight and portable printer, ideal for individuals who need to print on the go. Priced at $219.99, it is about 50% cheaper than the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw, making it a more budget-friendly option for casual users. This printer features a 50-sheet paper tray and a 1.44” OLED display, allowing users to check ink levels, printer status, and other settings easily.

Designed for high-quality printing, the PIXMA TR160 utilizes a 5-Color Hybrid Ink System that produces sharp black text and vibrant color images, supporting prints up to 8.5” x 11”. Its compact design ensures it can fit easily into a bag or backpack, making it a practical choice for those who travel frequently.

Overview of the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw

The HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw serves as an all-in-one solution that combines printing, scanning, and copying in one device. At $439.99, it is about 100% more expensive than the Canon PIXMA TR160, which may deter budget-conscious consumers. This model is designed for office environments and is equipped with a 250-sheet input tray and an auto document feeder, enhancing its productivity.

With print speeds of up to 26 pages per minute for both black and color documents, this printer is built for efficiency and reliability. It uses next-generation TerraJet toner for vibrant color quality and is compatible with both wireless and Ethernet connections, providing versatility in how it can be integrated into an office setting.

Portability and Design

When it comes to portability, the Canon PIXMA TR160 excels due to its lightweight and compact design. It is easy to carry, making it suitable for users who travel frequently or need to print documents on the go. The printer can even accommodate an optional battery for wireless printing anywhere, a feature that is particularly valuable for mobile professionals.

In contrast, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw is designed primarily for office use. While it offers excellent features for productivity, its larger size and weight make it less portable. This printer is intended to be a stationary device, serving the needs of a team rather than individual users who require mobility.

Print Quality and Performance

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is known for its high-quality printing capabilities, thanks to its 5-Color Hybrid Ink System. This system ensures that documents and photos come out sharp and vibrant, catering well to those who prioritize visual quality. Users can print borderless photos and professional-quality documents, making it a versatile choice for diverse printing needs.

On the other hand, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw focuses on delivering professional productivity with its fast print speeds and high-quality color output. The printer's TerraJet toner provides vivid colors, making it suitable for producing detailed reports and marketing materials. The performance of this printer, including its ability to print, scan, and copy quickly, makes it ideal for busy office environments.

Connectivity Options

The Canon PIXMA TR160 offers simple and easy connectivity options, allowing users to print wirelessly from compatible devices via the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, or Mopria Print Service. Additionally, its Wireless Direct mode allows for direct printing without a wireless router, ensuring that users can connect and print with minimal hassle.

Conversely, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw provides more extensive connectivity options suited for office environments. It includes built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet capabilities, allowing for easy integration into a network. The printer can also be managed remotely through the HP app, giving users the flexibility to print from anywhere within the office or even remotely.

Cost Efficiency

In terms of cost efficiency, the Canon PIXMA TR160 is generally more affordable, with a current price of $219.99 compared to the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw, which retails for $439.99. This price difference of about $220 makes the PIXMA TR160 a more appealing option for those with limited budgets or who do not require extensive office capabilities.

However, while the initial cost of the HP printer is higher, its multifunctionality (printing, scanning, and copying) and faster print speeds may justify the investment for businesses that require high-volume printing. Users must weigh these factors based on their specific needs and usage patterns.

Maintenance and Reliability

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is designed with user convenience in mind, featuring an intuitive interface that simplifies the printing process. Its lightweight design and ability to print wirelessly from various devices enhance its reliability for casual users. However, as a portable printer, it may require more frequent ink replacements, depending on printing frequency.

In contrast, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw boasts award-winning reliability, designed to handle the high demands of an office setting. With the use of Original HP toner cartridges, this printer promises consistent quality and performance. It is built to withstand heavy usage, making it a dependable choice for businesses that require a reliable printing solution.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon PIXMA TR160 and the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you require a lightweight, portable printer for occasional use, the PIXMA TR160 is an excellent choice, especially given its more budget-friendly price of $219.99. However, if you are looking for an all-in-one solution that offers high-speed printing and is designed for office use, the HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 3301sdw may be worth the investment at $439.99. Consider your priorities—portability versus productivity—when making your decision.