What To Know
- For discerning photographers and home users seeking exceptional print quality, the choice between the Canon PIXMA IP8720 and PRO-200 printers can be a daunting one.
- The IP8720 offers a more user-friendly interface and a wider range of creative features, including My Image Garden software for photo editing and organization.
- Whether you are a casual home user or a discerning photographer, the Canon PIXMA IP8720 and PRO-200 offer unique capabilities to meet your printing needs.
For discerning photographers and home users seeking exceptional print quality, the choice between the Canon PIXMA IP8720 and PRO-200 printers can be a daunting one. Both devices offer a range of features and capabilities, but understanding their unique strengths and limitations is crucial for making an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each printer, providing valuable insights to guide your purchase.
Print Quality
The PRO-200 stands out with its superior print quality, delivering stunning images with exceptional color accuracy and detail. Its 8-ink system, including three shades of black, produces vibrant and lifelike prints, making it ideal for professional photographers and fine art enthusiasts.
In contrast, the IP8720 offers a versatile 6-ink system, providing solid print quality for everyday use and occasional photo printing. Its prints exhibit good color accuracy and detail, but may not match the professional-grade output of the PRO-200.
Connectivity and Convenience
Both printers offer wireless connectivity for seamless printing from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The PRO-200 features a built-in Ethernet port for wired networking, ensuring stable and reliable connections.
The IP8720 boasts an intuitive touchscreen interface, making it easy to navigate and select print settings. It also supports Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print for convenient mobile printing.
Paper Handling
The IP8720 has the advantage in terms of paper handling, accommodating a wider range of paper sizes and types. It can handle up to 13×19-inch borderless prints, ideal for large-scale photo printing.
The PRO-200’s paper handling capabilities are more limited, with a maximum paper size of 13×19 inches with borders. However, it excels in fine art printing, offering support for specialty papers like watercolor paper and canvas.
Ink Capacity and Cost
The PRO-200’s 8-ink system requires more ink cartridges than the IP8720’s 6-ink system. However, the PRO-200’s individual ink cartridges are typically more economical, resulting in a lower cost per print.
The IP8720’s ink cartridges may be more affordable upfront, but the higher ink consumption can lead to increased printing costs in the long run.
Software and Features
Both printers come with comprehensive software suites that provide a range of editing, printing, and scanning features. The PRO-200 includes Canon’s Professional Print & Layout software, designed specifically for photographers and graphic designers.
The IP8720 offers a more user-friendly interface and a wider range of creative features, including My Image Garden software for photo editing and organization.
Which Printer is Right for You?
The choice between the Canon PIXMA IP8720 and PRO-200 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Consider the IP8720 if:
- You need a versatile printer for everyday printing and occasional photo printing
- You prioritize convenience and ease of use
- You have a limited budget
Consider the PRO-200 if:
- You demand exceptional print quality for professional photography or fine art
- You need support for specialty papers and large-format printing
- You are willing to invest in a higher-priced printer with lower per-print costs
Summary: Choosing the Ideal Canon Printer
Whether you are a casual home user or a discerning photographer, the Canon PIXMA IP8720 and PRO-200 offer unique capabilities to meet your printing needs. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this comparison, you can make an informed decision and select the printer that will deliver the exceptional results you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which printer has a higher resolution?
A: Both printers have the same maximum print resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi.
Q: Can I print directly from a memory card?
A: Yes, both printers have built-in memory card slots for direct printing from compatible cards.
Q: Which printer is more energy-efficient?
A: The IP8720 is slightly more energy-efficient, consuming less power in both active and standby modes.
Q: Does the PRO-200 support duplex printing?
A: No, the PRO-200 does not have automatic duplex printing capabilities.
Q: Which printer has a larger display screen?
A: The IP8720 has a larger 2.5-inch touchscreen display compared to the PRO-200’s 1.2-inch LCD display.
