Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, vs HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank

Overview

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 and HP Smart Tank 5000 are both versatile all-in-one printers designed for home use, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Canon printer is priced at $69.00, while the HP model comes in at $179.99, making the Canon about 62% cheaper. This price difference reflects the varying features and ink technologies offered by each printer.

Printing Technology

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 utilizes traditional ink cartridges, providing a straightforward printing solution for users who may not require high-volume printing. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank 5000 features a refillable ink tank system that is designed for cartridge-free printing. This system allows for a significant reduction in printing costs over time, as it includes up to two years of ink, enabling users to print up to 6,000 pages right out of the box. The choice between these technologies will depend on whether you prefer the simplicity of cartridges or the long-term savings of a tank system.

Print Quality

When it comes to print quality, both printers deliver impressive results, but they excel in different areas. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is adept at producing quality documents and borderless prints up to 8.5" x 11", making it a solid choice for photos and high-quality documents. On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank 5000 claims to provide sharper text and richer colors while minimizing wasted pages through its AI-enabled printing features. For users focused primarily on photo printing, the Canon may have an edge, while those prioritizing text quality and efficiency might lean towards HP.

Speed and Efficiency

Speed is a crucial factor for many users, and in this regard, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers a print speed of 8.8 images per minute (ipm) for black and white documents and 4.4 ipm for color. While these speeds are generally sufficient for home use, the HP Smart Tank 5000 is designed for high-volume printing and aims to keep printing efficiently without the need for complex maintenance. The HP's long-term reliability may appeal to users who print frequently and want to avoid interruptions.

Features and Usability

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 includes an auto document feeder, wireless connectivity, and mobile printing capabilities, making it easy to operate from various devices. It also features auto 2-sided printing, which can save paper and enhance efficiency. In comparison, the HP Smart Tank 5000 emphasizes a mess-free refill system for its ink tank, allowing users to replenish ink without spills. Additionally, it includes AI capabilities for better formatting and layout management. Depending on your preference for features, both printers offer user-friendly experiences, but the HP provides more advanced functionality.

Maintenance and Support

With regards to maintenance, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is designed for easy ink cartridge installation and replacement. However, it does not offer the same long-term ink solution as the HP. The HP Smart Tank 5000, with its two years of included ink, minimizes the need for ongoing purchases, making it a more convenient choice for those who print regularly. Furthermore, HP provides premium support, ensuring that users have access to technical help when needed, which can be a significant advantage for less tech-savvy individuals.

Price Comparison

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is currently priced at $69.00, making it a budget-friendly option for home users who require basic printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank 5000 is priced at $179.99, which is approximately 62% higher than the Canon. This price reflects the additional features and long-term ink savings associated with the HP model. The choice boils down to how much you’re willing to invest upfront versus the potential savings in ink costs over time.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the Canon PIXMA TR4720 and the HP Smart Tank 5000 depends on your specific printing needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution for occasional printing and prioritize photo quality, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is an excellent choice. However, if you require high-volume printing with a focus on long-term savings and advanced features, the HP Smart Tank 5000 is worth the higher investment. Consider what features matter most to you to make the best choice for your home printing needs.