Canon PIXMA TR4720 All-in-One Wireless vs HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless

Design and build quality

The Canon PIXMA TR4720 and HP Smart Tank Plus 651 represent different approaches to home printer design. The Canon model is designed for easy ink cartridge installation and replacement, suggesting a traditional form factor focused on accessibility. It features auto 2-sided printing and an auto document feeder, indicating a build optimized for document handling. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is marketed as built to last with a focus on reliability. It utilizes a mess-free refill system where users plug ink bottles into the tank. Both units support wireless connectivity, but the physical interface differs due to the ink delivery mechanisms. The Canon unit is ENERGY STAR certified, highlighting a design consideration for power management.

Printing capabilities and speed

Print performance is a critical differentiator between these two models. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 provides documented print speeds of 8.8 ipm for black and 4.4 ipm for color. It is capable of producing quality documents and photos, including borderless prints up to 8.5 inches by 11 inches. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 claims to keep printing well after competitors have quit, promising sharper text and richer colors. However, specific images per minute (ipm) speeds are not specified in the provided data for the HP model. The Canon unit's auto 2-sided printing feature adds convenience for document creation that is explicitly confirmed in its feature set.

Ink system and maintenance

The ink systems represent the most significant technological divergence. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 uses traditional ink cartridges designed for easy installation. It integrates with Alexa for smart reorders, ensuring users receive notifications when running low. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 utilizes a cartridge-free ink tank system. It includes up to 2 years of ink in the box, allowing for thousands of pages of printing without immediate replacement. HP describes its refill system as mess-free, requiring no squeezing or spilling. The Canon approach relies on a subscription-free smart reorder system, while HP emphasizes long-term inclusion of supplies to reduce maintenance interruptions.

Paper handling and capacity

Paper management specifications vary in availability between the two products. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 features a 100-sheet capacity tray, providing a confirmed buffer for print jobs without constant reloading. It supports borderless prints up to standard letter size. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 supports borderless prints and mobile printing, but specific paper tray capacity numbers are not provided in the available product data. The presence of an auto document feeder on the Canon model further enhances its paper handling capabilities for multi-page scanning or copying tasks, a feature not explicitly detailed for the HP unit.

Connectivity and smart features

Both printers offer wireless connectivity suitable for modern home offices. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 allows users to connect the printer to Alexa. This integration enables voice notifications for low ink levels and can place smart reorders from Amazon on behalf of the user if enrolled. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 supports mobile and wireless printing, ensuring compatibility with various devices. While both support wireless standards, the Canon model provides specific details regarding voice assistant integration for supply management. The HP model focuses on the reliability of the connection to support its long-term ink usage claims.

Energy efficiency and power

Power consumption data is explicitly available for the Canon PIXMA TR4720. It operates at 7W during use, with a standby consumption of 0.8W and an off mode consumption of 0.3W. This unit is ENERGY STAR certified, indicating compliance with energy efficiency guidelines. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 does not have specific wattage figures provided in the current data set. The low off-mode power draw of the Canon model suggests it is suitable for environments where the printer may remain plugged in but idle for extended periods without significant energy waste.

Price and value

The upfront cost difference is substantial between these two options. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is priced at $69.00, making it an accessible entry-level option. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is priced at $329.89, reflecting its inclusion of long-term ink supplies and tank technology. While the Canon unit offers lower initial expenditure, the HP unit claims value through included ink lasting up to 2 years. The Canon model includes a 1-year limited warranty, providing defined coverage. The value proposition depends on whether the buyer prioritizes immediate savings or long-term supply inclusion.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between these printers depends on volume and budget priorities. The Canon PIXMA TR4720 is the recommended choice for users seeking a low upfront cost of $69.00 and confirmed specifications like 100-sheet capacity and 8.8 ipm speed. It is also the only option here confirming fax capabilities. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is better suited for users willing to invest $329.89 initially to secure up to 2 years of ink and a cartridge-free experience. If documented energy efficiency and warranty terms are priorities, the Canon model provides clearer data. For high-volume printing where ink replacement frequency is a concern, the HP tank system offers a distinct operational advantage.