Canon Pixma TR8620 vs TR8620A: Which One Should You Buy? Unbiased Review Inside!

Choosing the perfect printer for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with seemingly identical models like the Canon PIXMA TR8620 and TR8620A. While these two printers share a lot in common, they also have a few key differences that might make one a better choice for you than the other.
This blog post will dive deep into the intricacies of the Canon PIXMA TR8620 and TR8620A, highlighting their similarities and differences, to help you determine which printer best suits your printing needs.

A Look at the Similarities:

Both the Canon PIXMA TR8620 and TR8620A are high-quality, all-in-one printers designed for home and small office use. They offer a wide range of features including:

• High-quality printing: Both models deliver exceptional print quality with a resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi. They are capable of producing sharp, vibrant prints, perfect for photos, documents, and even creative projects.
• Versatile connectivity: Both printers offer a variety of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. This allows you to print wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, making them convenient for any setup.
• Automatic document feeder: Both models include an automatic document feeder (ADF) that can hold up to 35 sheets. This feature is particularly useful for scanning and copying multi-page documents, saving you time and effort.
• Duplex printing: Both printers offer automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper automatically, saving paper and money.
• Mobile printing: Both models support mobile printing through the Canon PRINT app, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.

The Key Difference: Ink Cartridge Compatibility

The most significant difference between the Canon PIXMA TR8620 and TR8620A lies in their ink cartridge compatibility.

• Canon PIXMA TR8620: This model utilizes standard individual ink cartridges. This means you need to replace each color cartridge separately when it runs out.
• Canon PIXMA TR8620A: This model uses a new type of ink cartridge system called “XL FINE Cartridges.” These cartridges are larger and offer higher page yields than the standard cartridges used in the TR8620.

The Pros and Cons of Each Ink System

Standard Ink Cartridges (TR8620):

• Pros:
• Lower initial cost: Standard ink cartridges tend to be cheaper than XL FINE cartridges, making them a more affordable option upfront.
• More flexibility: If you only print occasionally, you can replace individual cartridges as needed, saving money on unused ink.
• Cons:
• Lower page yield: Standard cartridges typically have a lower page yield than XL FINE cartridges, meaning you’ll need to replace them more frequently.
• Potential for ink waste: If you only need to replace one color cartridge, the other cartridges might still have ink left, leading to potential waste.

XL FINE Cartridges (TR8620A):

• Pros:
• Higher page yield: XL FINE cartridges offer a significantly higher page yield, meaning you’ll need to replace them less often.
• Cost-effective in the long run: While XL FINE cartridges are more expensive upfront, their higher page yield can make them more cost-effective in the long run, especially for high-volume printing.
• Cons:
• Higher initial cost: XL FINE cartridges are more expensive than standard cartridges, making them a more expensive option upfront.
• Less flexibility: You need to replace all the cartridges at the same time, even if only one color is running low.

Which Printer Is Right for You?

The choice between the Canon PIXMA TR8620 and TR8620A ultimately depends on your individual printing needs and budget.
Choose the Canon PIXMA TR8620 if:

• You have a limited budget and prioritize affordability upfront.
• You print infrequently and prefer to replace cartridges individually.
• You are concerned about potential ink waste and want to avoid replacing unused cartridges.

Choose the Canon PIXMA TR8620A if:

• You print frequently and value cost-effectiveness in the long run.
• You prioritize convenience and prefer to replace all cartridges at once.
• You are willing to invest a bit more upfront for the benefit of higher page yields.

Beyond the Ink: Other Considerations

While the ink cartridge system is the most significant difference between the two models, there are a few other factors to consider:

• Print speed: Both models offer similar print speeds, with a maximum print speed of 15 images per minute (ipm) for black and white documents and 10 ipm for color documents.
• Paper handling: Both models have a 100-sheet rear tray and a 20-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF).
• Connectivity: Both models offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB.
• Dimensions: Both models have similar dimensions, making them suitable for most home and small office setups.

Making the Right Choice: A Recap

The Canon PIXMA TR8620 and TR8620A are both excellent all-in-one printers with a wide range of features. The key difference lies in their ink cartridge compatibility, with the TR8620 using standard cartridges and the TR8620A using XL FINE cartridges.
Ultimately, the best printer for you depends on your individual printing needs and budget. Consider your printing volume, frequency, and cost-effectiveness preferences to make an informed decision.

Choosing the Right Printer: A Final Word

Whether you opt for the Canon PIXMA TR8620 or TR8620A, you’ll be investing in a reliable and versatile printer that can meet your printing needs. By carefully considering your requirements and weighing the pros and cons of each model, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect printer for your home or small office.

What You Need to Know

Q1: What is the difference between the Canon PIXMA TR8620 and TR8620A?
A1: The main difference lies in their ink cartridge compatibility. The TR8620 uses standard individual ink cartridges, while the TR8620A uses XL FINE cartridges, which offer higher page yields.
Q2: Which printer is more cost-effective?
A2: While the TR8620A has a higher upfront cost due to the XL FINE cartridges, it can be more cost-effective in the long run due to the higher page yields.
Q3: Can I use standard cartridges in the TR8620A?
A3: No, the TR8620A is specifically designed to use XL FINE cartridges and cannot use standard cartridges.
Q4: What are the print speeds of both models?
A4: Both models offer comparable print speeds, with a maximum print speed of 15 ipm for black and white documents and 10 ipm for color documents.
Q5: Do both models support mobile printing?
A5: Yes, both models support mobile printing through the Canon PRINT app, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.