Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet vs HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One

Overview and Design

The Canon PIXMA TS6520 and HP DeskJet 2855e represent two different approaches to home and office printing. The Canon model positions itself as a versatile all-in-one device suitable for hybrid workers and home users seeking broader functionality. It emphasizes a balance between affordability and feature sets. The HP DeskJet 2855e focuses on essential home printing tasks, targeting users who need reliable output for documents like to-do lists, letters, and recipes. Both devices are physical inkjet printers designed for standard home environments, with compact form factors intended to fit on desks or shelves.

Print Quality Capabilities

Print quality is a primary consideration for any inkjet purchaser. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 utilizes a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system designed to deliver sharp text and vivid colors. This system aims to provide crisp results for both documents and photos, ensuring that images retain color accuracy. The HP DeskJet 2855e relies on HP's established inkjet technology, which is trusted for general home use. While specific resolution metrics are not provided in the available data for either unit, Canon explicitly markets its ability to handle photos with borders or without, suggesting flexibility in output quality for creative projects.

Speed and Performance Metrics

When evaluating performance, print speed data is available for the HP DeskJet 2855e but not for the Canon PIXMA TS6520. The HP unit specifies print speeds of up to 7.5 pages per minute (ppm) for black documents and 5.5 ppm for color documents. These figures provide a concrete baseline for expected workflow efficiency. The Canon model does not list specific ppm rates in the provided features, focusing instead on the reliability of the output. For users prioritizing known throughput numbers, the HP model offers more transparent performance data.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity features differ notably between the two printers. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, compatible with both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. This allows for potentially more stable connections in environments with congested wireless traffic. The HP DeskJet 2855e offers wireless printing capabilities that automatically detect and resolve connection issues. While both support wireless operations from smartphones and computers, the Canon's dual-band support provides a technical advantage for maintaining consistent connectivity in larger homes or offices with varied network setups.

Paper Handling Features

Paper handling capabilities impact daily usability. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 includes automatic 2-sided printing, which reduces paper consumption and streamlines workflows for multi-page documents. This feature is significant for users looking to save time and resources. The HP DeskJet 2855e features a 60-sheet input tray, which is explicitly defined in its specifications. While the Canon supports media up to 8.5 x 11 inches, the HP's tray capacity offers a specific metric for how much paper can be loaded at once, reducing the frequency of refills during larger print jobs.

Ink System and Efficiency

Ink management is a critical long-term cost factor. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 uses a 2-cartridge hybrid system, which simplifies replacement while aiming for vivid color reproduction. The HP DeskJet 2855e includes 3 months of ink with the initial purchase, providing immediate value and reducing upfront operational costs. This inclusion helps users start printing immediately without additional purchases. Both systems aim to balance quality with efficiency, though the HP model's included supply offers a clear short-term economic benefit for new buyers.

Software and Ease of Use

Both printers emphasize ease of setup and mobile integration. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 offers easy setup for smartphones and computers, allowing users to print, scan, and copy without delay. The HP DeskJet 2855e utilizes the HP App, enabling users to print, scan, copy, or fax directly from their smartphones. HP markets this app as the easiest-to-use print app, focusing on user experience. Both devices support scanning and copying operations, ensuring they function as complete all-in-one solutions for basic office tasks without requiring complex configuration.

Price and Final Verdict

Price is the most distinct differentiator between these two models. The HP DeskJet 2855e is priced at $49.89, while the Canon PIXMA TS6520 is listed at $140.00. This significant price gap makes the HP model the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Canon justifies its higher cost with features like automatic duplex printing and dual-band Wi-Fi. For users who need specific workflow enhancements like 2-sided printing, the Canon provides value. For general home use where cost and included ink are priorities, the HP DeskJet 2855e offers the better overall value proposition.