Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer, vs KODAK Dock Plus 4x6'' Photo Printer, 50 Sheets,

Overview

The Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer is priced at $219.99, while the KODAK Dock Plus 4x6'' Photo Printer costs $139.99, making the KODAK about 37% cheaper than the Canon. Both printers aim to provide high-quality printing but serve different primary functions, with the Canon focusing on versatile document and photo printing, and the KODAK specializing in high-quality photo prints from smartphones.

Design and Portability

The Canon PIXMA TR160 is designed for portability, weighing less than many standard printers, making it easy to fit into a bag or backpack. Its compact design is complemented by a 1.44” OLED display, allowing users to check ink levels and printer status easily. In contrast, the KODAK Dock Plus is designed primarily for home use, featuring an integrated docking station for smartphones. It lacks the same level of portability, as it is intended to stay on a desk and provide stable performance during printing.

Printing Quality

The Canon PIXMA TR160 uses a 5-Color Hybrid Ink System, which delivers sharp black text and vibrant color details, making it suitable for both documents and photos. It can print borderless photos up to 8.5” x 11”, offering versatility for various printing needs. Meanwhile, the KODAK Dock Plus employs a 4PASS dye sublimation method, ensuring that each photo is printed in three color layers, resulting in high-quality 4x6” prints that resist fading and fingerprints. This method provides a smooth finish, making it ideal for photo enthusiasts.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a strong suit for the Canon PIXMA TR160, which offers wireless printing through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. It also features a Wireless Direct Mode, allowing users to connect directly without a router. The KODAK Dock Plus, while it also connects via Bluetooth to compatible smartphones through the KODAK Photo Printer app, is more limited in connectivity options. It primarily targets smartphone users, focusing on ease of use with minimal setup, making it less versatile than the Canon in this aspect.

Ease of Use

The KODAK Dock Plus excels in user-friendliness, designed for quick setup and operation, perfect for first-time users. Users can simply power on the device, connect via Bluetooth, and start printing within seconds. In contrast, while the Canon PIXMA TR160 is user-friendly, its additional features might require a bit more familiarity with printing apps. However, the Canon allows saving up to five custom templates directly on the printer, enhancing convenience for frequent printing tasks.

Target Audience

The Canon PIXMA TR160 targets a broader audience, including professionals who need to print documents, flyers, and photos on the go. Its lightweight design and high-quality output make it suitable for business environments and travel. On the other hand, the KODAK Dock Plus is tailored specifically for casual users who primarily print photos and want a straightforward solution for home use. This makes it ideal for families or individuals looking to create physical keepsakes from their smartphone images.

Price Comparison

The price difference between the two printers is significant, with the Canon PIXMA TR160 priced at $219.99 and the KODAK Dock Plus at $139.99. This represents a difference of $80, with the KODAK being about 37% more affordable. For users primarily focused on photo printing, the KODAK offers excellent quality at a lower price point, while professionals needing versatile printing capabilities might find the Canon worth the investment.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon PIXMA TR160 and the KODAK Dock Plus ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you require a portable printer capable of handling documents and photos with high-quality results, the Canon PIXMA TR160 is the better choice despite its higher price. However, if your main focus is on printing high-quality photos directly from your smartphone at a more economical price, the KODAK Dock Plus is an excellent option. Each printer excels in its domain, making them suitable for different types of users.