Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, vs HP Smart Tank 5101 Wireless All-in-One Refillable

Overview of the Canon PIXMA TR4720

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is priced at $69.00, making it an appealing choice for home users seeking a versatile all-in-one printer. This model boasts a sales rank of 283, highlighting its popularity among consumers. The Canon PIXMA offers a 4-in-1 functionality, allowing users to print, copy, scan, and fax seamlessly. With features like an auto document feeder and wireless connectivity, it caters well to the demands of modern home offices.

The PIXMA TR4720 is designed for ease of use, particularly with its simple ink cartridge installation. It also supports mobile printing and has the capability for auto two-sided printing. Users can expect quality prints, including borderless photos up to 8.5" x 11". Additionally, the printer has a power-efficient design, consuming only 7W during operation and 0.3W when off, making it an environmentally friendly option.

Overview of the HP Smart Tank 5101

The HP Smart Tank 5101, priced at $189.89, offers a different printing experience with its refillable ink tank system, which includes up to two years of ink right out of the box. This feature significantly reduces the hassle of frequent ink replacements and is ideal for high-volume printing. With a sales rank of 531, it is a reliable choice for families and businesses alike.

This model emphasizes a mess-free refill system, allowing users to replenish ink easily without spills. The HP Smart Tank 5101 also highlights advanced features such as AI-driven printing that ensures web pages and emails are formatted correctly, minimizing wasted paper. Overall, this printer is a robust option for those looking for a long-term, low-maintenance printer.

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is significantly more affordable at $69.00 compared to the HP Smart Tank 5101, which is priced at $189.89. This represents a difference of about $120, making the Canon model approximately 63% cheaper. For budget-conscious consumers or those who do not require extensive printing capabilities, the PIXMA TR4720 presents a compelling option without sacrificing essential features.

However, the HP Smart Tank 5101's higher price tag comes with the benefit of long-term savings due to its included two years of ink. Users who frequently print documents might find that the initial investment in the HP printer pays off in the long run, especially given the potential for thousands of pages without the need for cartridge replacements.

Print Quality

In terms of print quality, both printers offer commendable performance, but they cater to different needs. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 excels in producing vibrant borderless prints up to 8.5" x 11", making it suitable for photo enthusiasts and home users who value high-quality images. The printer also boasts a print speed of 8.8 images per minute (ipm) for black and 4.4 ipm for color, providing decent efficiency for everyday tasks.

On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank 5101 emphasizes reliability with its cartridge-free printing technology, which ensures consistent quality without the interruptions often associated with traditional ink cartridges. Users can expect sharper text and richer colors, enhancing the overall printing experience. The HP model targets those who require high-volume printing without compromising on quality, making it a strong contender in this aspect.

Ease of Use

The ease of use is a significant factor for many consumers, especially in a home office setting. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 shines with its straightforward setup and user-friendly interface. Its design allows for easy installation and replacement of ink cartridges, along with features like mobile printing that cater to tech-savvy users.

Conversely, the HP Smart Tank 5101 offers a different kind of user experience with its innovative refillable ink tank system. This eliminates the need for replacing cartridges, making it easier for users who do not want to deal with ink management regularly. Moreover, the HP model's AI capabilities simplify the printing process, ensuring that documents are well-formatted and reducing waste, further enhancing user convenience.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity options are crucial for modern printers, and both models offer robust wireless capabilities. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 supports mobile printing, allowing users to print directly from smartphones and tablets, which is essential for those who prioritize convenience.

Similarly, the HP Smart Tank 5101 also features wireless connectivity, making it easy to connect multiple devices within a home or office. Both printers can be accessed remotely, ensuring that users can print from anywhere without being tethered to a computer. This flexibility enhances their functionality, especially in a busy household or work environment.

Warranty and Support

In terms of warranty and support, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 comes with a one-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for consumers regarding potential defects or issues. This duration is typical for printers in its category, offering adequate coverage for initial use.

On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank 5101 offers premium support, ensuring that users have access to strong technical expertise to resolve any issues quickly. This level of support can be crucial for businesses or individuals relying heavily on their printers, as it minimizes downtime and enhances the overall user experience.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon PIXMA TR4720 and the HP Smart Tank 5101 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs and budget. If you seek a budget-friendly option with essential all-in-one functionalities, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 at $69.00 is an excellent choice. However, if you're looking for a long-term investment with the convenience of low-cost, high-volume printing, the HP Smart Tank 5101, despite its higher price of $189.89, offers significant advantages in terms of ink management and overall performance.