Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, vs HP Smart Tank Plus 570 Wireless All-in-One Ink

Overview of the Canon PIXMA TR4720 and HP Smart Tank Plus 570

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is priced at $69.00, making it about 69% cheaper than the HP Smart Tank Plus 570, which retails for $219.99. This significant price difference may make the Canon printer more appealing for users on a budget, while the HP model offers features that justify its higher cost.

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is a versatile all-in-one printer designed for home use, featuring wireless connectivity, an auto document feeder, and mobile printing capabilities. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 570 touts its ink tank system, which includes up to two years of ink, positioning it as a solution for those who prioritize long-term savings and high-volume printing.

Printing Capabilities

Both printers excel in their printing capabilities, but they cater to different user needs. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 can produce quality documents and borderless prints up to 8.5" x 11", with a print speed of 8.8 images per minute (ipm) for black and 4.4 ipm for color. This speed is suitable for casual home use, ensuring that users can quickly print documents and photos.

On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank Plus 570 focuses on cartridge-free printing, providing up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black pages right out of the box. This capability makes it an excellent choice for users who value high-volume output and lower per-page printing costs. The difference in approach reflects the intended audience: casual users may prefer the Canon, while those with higher printing demands may lean towards the HP.

Design and Usability

In terms of design and usability, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 is crafted for easy ink cartridge installation and replacement. Its compact design is suitable for home office setups, and it features a 100-sheet capacity, which is adequate for everyday printing tasks. Additionally, the printer is ENERGY STAR certified, emphasizing energy efficiency.

Conversely, the HP Smart Tank Plus 570 is designed with a mess-free refill system, allowing for easy ink replenishment. Users can simply plug the ink bottles into the cartridge-free ink tank without worrying about spills. This innovative design enhances the user experience, particularly for those who frequently print large volumes. The emphasis on ease of use in both models reflects a common goal of minimizing hassle for the user.

Connectivity Options

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers robust connectivity options with its wireless capabilities, including mobile printing. It can connect to Alexa, allowing users to receive notifications about ink levels and even reorder supplies automatically if enrolled in smart reorders. This feature is particularly appealing for users who want to streamline their printing experience.

The HP Smart Tank Plus 570 also supports wireless and mobile printing, reinforcing its modern design and user-friendly features. Its focus on seamless, reliable printing with minimal maintenance adds to its appeal. Both printers cater to the need for connectivity, but the Canon's integration with Alexa may provide added convenience for smart home users.

Cost of Ownership

When considering the cost of ownership, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 has a lower initial purchase price of $69.00, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, it does not provide the same long-term savings that the HP Smart Tank Plus 570 does, which includes enough ink for up to two years of printing. This could lead to significantly lower operating costs over time for users who print frequently.

The HP Smart Tank Plus 570, priced at $219.99, may seem expensive initially, but the cartridge-free ink system and its ability to print thousands of pages reduce the overall cost of ownership for high-volume users. For those who print regularly, the HP model could be the more economical choice in the long run, despite the higher upfront cost.

Warranty and Support

Both printers come with a limited warranty, but the specifics differ. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 offers a one-year limited warranty, which is standard for consumer electronics and provides peace of mind for users in case of defects or issues.

The warranty details for the HP Smart Tank Plus 570 are not explicitly stated in the provided data, but HP typically offers reliable customer support and service options. This aspect of support may influence buyer decisions, especially for those who value strong customer service and warranty provisions.

Target Audience

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 primarily targets casual home users who need an affordable, multifunctional printer for everyday tasks. Its features cater to individuals who require basic printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities without breaking the bank.

In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 570 is aimed at users with higher printing demands, such as small businesses or families that print frequently. Its long-lasting ink solution and high-volume capabilities make it a strong contender for those prioritizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness in their printing needs.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Canon PIXMA TR4720 and the HP Smart Tank Plus 570 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs and budget. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that provides essential features for home use, the Canon PIXMA TR4720 at $69.00 is an excellent choice. However, if you require a printer capable of handling high-volume printing with lower long-term costs, the HP Smart Tank Plus 570, priced at $219.99, may be the better investment. Consider your printing habits, the importance of long-term savings, and the type of documents you print most frequently when making your decision.