Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, vs HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet

Overview of the Canon PIXMA TR4720 and HP DeskJet 2855e

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is priced at $69.00, while the HP DeskJet 2855e comes in at a lower price of $49.89, making it about 28% cheaper. Both are all-in-one wireless printers designed for home use, yet they cater to different printing needs and preferences. The PIXMA TR4720, with its robust feature set, stands out for its fax capability and automatic document feeder, whereas the DeskJet 2855e promotes easy connectivity and includes a three-month Instant Ink trial.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, both printers are compact and intended for home use, but they embody different aesthetics. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 has a sleek black finish and is designed for easy ink cartridge installation and replacement. Its dimensions and build quality make it a solid choice for users who value durability and functionality in their home office setup. The HP DeskJet 2855e, also in a modern design, emphasizes user-friendliness, featuring a flatbed scanner and a 60-sheet input tray. This makes it suitable for casual users who may not need extensive printing features but still want a reliable device.

Printing Capabilities

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 excels in its printing capabilities, offering high-quality borderless prints up to 8.5" x 11". It achieves a print speed of 8.8 images per minute (ipm) for black and 4.4 ipm for color, catering to those who prioritize document quality and speed. In comparison, the HP DeskJet 2855e offers print speeds of up to 7.5 pages per minute (ppm) for black and 5.5 ppm for color. While both printers deliver satisfactory quality for everyday documents, the PIXMA's superior printing speed and capability for borderless photos make it a better option for users who require higher quality outputs.

Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, both printers support wireless printing, but they differ in the technology employed. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 allows for easy connection to Alexa, providing notifications for low ink levels and enabling smart reorders directly from Amazon. This feature is ideal for tech-savvy users who appreciate automation in their workflows. On the other hand, the HP DeskJet 2855e emphasizes reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, which automatically resolves connection issues, ensuring a seamless user experience. The HP app also allows for mobile printing, scanning, and copying, appealing to users who prefer managing tasks from their smartphones.

Ease of Use

Ease of use is a significant factor in choosing a home printer, and both models have their strengths. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 features an automatic document feeder, making it easier to handle multi-page documents efficiently. Its straightforward interface allows for quick operations, whether printing, scanning, or faxing. Conversely, the HP DeskJet 2855e is designed with user-friendliness in mind, boasting a simplified setup process and an intuitive app for managing printing tasks. This makes it particularly appealing for users who may not be as tech-savvy or those looking for a straightforward printing solution.

Cost of Ownership

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is priced at $69.00, and while it does not require a subscription for ink, it offers a smart reorder option through Alexa for convenience. The HP DeskJet 2855e, retailing at $49.89, includes a three-month trial of Instant Ink, which provides additional savings on ink costs for users who print frequently. While the DeskJet’s initial price is lower, potential ongoing costs should be considered, particularly for those who print large volumes. Users should evaluate their printing habits to determine which model offers the best long-term value based on their ink usage.

Target User Base

Both printers are targeted toward home users, but they cater to slightly different demographics. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is suited for users who need a multifunctional printer with fax capabilities and higher print quality, making it ideal for small business settings or home offices. Its higher price point reflects its more advanced features. In contrast, the HP DeskJet 2855e is designed for families or students who require a simple, reliable printer for everyday tasks such as printing documents, recipes, or to-do lists. Its lower price and included ink trial make it an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Canon PIXMA TR4720 and the HP DeskJet 2855e ultimately hinges on your specific needs. If you require high-quality printing, faxing capabilities, and advanced features, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is worth the additional cost at $69.00. However, if your printing needs are more basic and you prefer a budget-friendly option with integrated ink savings, the HP DeskJet 2855e at $49.89 presents a compelling choice. Each printer offers unique advantages, making the best option contingent on your printing frequency, quality requirements, and budget constraints.