Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless Printer, Home Use with Auto Document Feeder, Mobile Printing and Built-in Fax, Black vs Nelko Label Maker Machine with Tape, P21 Bluetooth Label Printer, Wireless Mini Label Makers with Multiple Templates for School Office Home, White

Print Functionality: All-in-One Versus Specialized Label Printing

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is a full-featured all-in-one printer designed for home use, handling print, copy, scan, and fax tasks with built-in auto document feeder support. In contrast, the Nelko P21 is a compact, wireless label maker focused exclusively on producing small, portable labels. The TR4720 supports borderless prints up to 8.5" x 11", ideal for documents and photos, while the P21 produces fixed-length labels in sizes like 14×40mm and 14×50mm. The TR4720’s 8.8 ipm print speed is significantly faster than the P21’s unspecified but likely slower output due to its thermal printing method. For users needing versatile document output, the TR4720 is far more capable; for those who only need quick, on-the-go labeling, the P21 suffices.

Connectivity and Smart Features: Wireless Versus Bluetooth Integration

Both devices offer wireless connectivity, but their integration levels differ sharply. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 supports mobile printing and integrates with Alexa for smart ink reordering, enabling automatic notifications when supplies are low—without requiring a subscription. This feature enhances convenience for ongoing home office or family use. The Nelko P21 connects via Bluetooth to iOS and Android phones through its dedicated app, which includes over 3600 icons, 750+ templates, and support for QR codes and barcodes. However, it does not work with computers and requires the latest app version (V4.8.0) for iOS users. While both leverage smartphone apps, the TR4720’s Alexa integration offers broader automation, whereas the P21’s app focuses on creative label design.

Portability and Design: Compact Label Maker vs. Desktop Printer

The Nelko P21 is explicitly described as half the size and weight of traditional label makers, making it ultra-portable and pocket-sized—ideal for carrying between home, office, or school. Its lightweight build supports on-the-go labeling. The Canon PIXMA TR4720, by contrast, is a standard desktop printer with a larger footprint, intended for stationary placement. It features an 8.8 / 4.4 ipm print speed and a 100-sheet auto document feeder, suggesting it’s built for consistent, high-volume tasks rather than mobility. The P21’s portability comes at the cost of functionality, while the TR4720 prioritizes performance over transportability.

Price and Value: Cost Efficiency Across Use Cases

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is priced at $69.00, while the Nelko P21 costs $23.26—about 66% cheaper. At this price point, the P21 offers exceptional value for users who only need occasional labeling. The TR4720’s higher cost reflects its multifunctional capabilities, including scanning, faxing, and large-format printing. Over time, the TR4720 may deliver better long-term value if used frequently across multiple tasks. However, for someone who needs only simple, quick labels, the P21 provides nearly 70% savings without sacrificing core functionality. The price difference underscores a fundamental trade-off: versatility versus specialization.

Power Consumption and Sustainability

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is ENERGY STAR certified, consuming 7 watts during operation and just 0.8 watts in standby mode, indicating energy efficiency suitable for continuous home use. The Nelko P21 features a built-in rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for constant power cords and supporting extended use away from outlets. While no specific wattage is listed for the P21, its battery-powered design suggests lower energy draw during active use compared to plug-in printers. Both devices prioritize efficiency—TR4720 through certification, P21 through portability—but their approaches differ based on form factor and usage context.

Ease of Use and Setup

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is designed for easy ink cartridge installation and replacement, with auto 2-sided printing and an auto document feeder that simplifies multi-page tasks. Its setup involves connecting to Wi-Fi and installing cartridges, with support for Alexa integration. The Nelko P21 requires downloading the “Nelko” app, inserting the label tape, pairing via Bluetooth, and selecting a template—all steps completed through the app. It does not work with computers and lacks physical controls beyond basic buttons. While both are user-friendly, the TR4720’s physical interface and automated functions suit users preferring minimal digital interaction, whereas the P21 relies entirely on smartphone app navigation.

Bestseller Rank and Market Position

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 holds a bestseller rank of 283 in the printers category, indicating strong consumer demand and proven reliability in a competitive market. The Nelko P21 ranks even higher at 55, reflecting its popularity among users seeking compact, creative labeling solutions. This top-tier ranking suggests the P21 has captured significant attention in niche markets such as school organization, home storage, and office labeling. The TR4720’s slightly lower rank still places it among the most popular home printers, underscoring its broad appeal. Both products are well-regarded, but the P21’s higher rank highlights its success in a specialized segment.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Canon PIXMA TR4720 if you need a versatile, all-in-one printer for regular home or small office use—especially if you require scanning, faxing, and large-format printing. Its $69.00 price is justified by its multifunctionality and ENERGY STAR certification. Opt for the Nelko P21 if your primary need is quick, portable labeling with creative templates and Bluetooth connectivity. At $23.26—about 66% cheaper—it delivers excellent value for users focused solely on creating small, customized labels. The TR4720 excels in capability and durability; the P21 wins in portability and affordability. Your choice depends on whether you need a full printer or a specialized label maker.