Canon PIXMA TS3720 Wireless All-in-One Printer for vs HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet

Overview of the Canon PIXMA TS3720 and HP DeskJet 4255e

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 is a versatile all-in-one printer designed for home use, while the HP DeskJet 4255e is a color inkjet printer that also offers scanning and copying capabilities. The Canon is priced at $86.00, making it about 72% more expensive than the HP's price of $49.99. Both printers cater to basic home printing needs but offer different features and functionalities.

Print Quality and Speed

When it comes to print quality, the Canon PIXMA TS3720 is designed to produce sharp black text and vibrant color photos, thanks to its hybrid ink system. It boasts print speeds of approximately 7.7 images per minute for black and 4 images per minute for color. In contrast, the HP DeskJet 4255e focuses on color printing and features a 60-sheet paper capacity but does not specify exact print speeds. Therefore, while both printers are capable of delivering quality prints, the Canon offers faster printing, especially for black-and-white documents.

Design and Usability

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 features a compact design with an intuitive 1.5-inch LCD screen, making it easy to operate. Its streamlined setup process allows users to get started quickly without complicated instructions. On the other hand, the HP DeskJet 4255e emphasizes wireless connectivity and includes AI-enabled features for adapting to user workflows. The HP's design is also user-friendly, equipped with an auto document feeder, but it lacks the detailed display found in the Canon model.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a strong suit for both printers, but they cater to different needs. The Canon PIXMA TS3720 offers dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and enables mobile printing through the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. This makes it versatile for various devices. Conversely, the HP DeskJet 4255e focuses on reliable Wi-Fi connectivity that automatically resolves issues, but it is limited to 2.4GHz. While both printers support wireless printing, the Canon's dual-band feature may provide a more stable connection.

Media Handling Capabilities

In terms of media handling, the Canon PIXMA TS3720 excels with its ability to print on various media types and sizes, including envelopes, high-resolution paper, and borderless photos up to 5” x 7”. It also supports creative projects with access to PosterArtist Online for designing banners and signage. The HP DeskJet 4255e, while also capable of handling various paper sizes, has a more standard approach to media handling with a similar 60-sheet capacity. The Canon's versatility in media options may appeal more to creative users.

Ink System and Maintenance

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 utilizes a two-cartridge FINE Hybrid ink system, which simplifies the ink replacement process and minimizes mess. This system is designed to produce high-quality prints while maintaining ease of use. On the other hand, the HP DeskJet 4255e includes a 3-month Instant Ink trial with HP+ activation, which can lead to cost savings on ink over time. However, the details on ongoing ink costs for both printers are not provided, making it hard to assess long-term expenses.

Warranty and Support

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 comes with a 1-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind for users concerned about reliability and support. Canon's Service and Support network backs this warranty, providing assistance as needed. The HP DeskJet 4255e does not specify its warranty terms in the provided information. This lack of clarity could be a consideration for potential buyers looking for dependable customer service and support.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Canon PIXMA TS3720 and the HP DeskJet 4255e ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you're looking for faster print speeds, media versatility, and a display for easy navigation, the Canon PIXMA TS3720 may be the better option, albeit at a higher price point of $86.00. However, if you're seeking a more budget-friendly option with the added benefit of an Instant Ink trial, the HP DeskJet 4255e, priced at $49.99, could be more appealing. Both printers serve their purpose well, but your choice should align with your priorities, whether that be speed, versatility, or cost-effectiveness.