What To Know
- Both the Epson XP-15000 and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 offer a range of connectivity options, ensuring you can easily print from various devices.
- The Epson XP-15000 features a rear paper tray that can hold up to 100 sheets of plain paper and a front paper tray that can accommodate up to 100 sheets of photo paper.
- The Canon PIXMA iP8720 boasts a rear paper tray that can hold up to 150 sheets of plain paper and a front paper tray that can accommodate up to 100 sheets of photo paper.
Choosing the perfect photo printer can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the high-end photo printer market are the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 and the **Canon PIXMA iP8720**. Both printers offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both models, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Print Quality: A Tale of Two Technologies
Both the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 are known for their exceptional print quality, but they achieve it through different technologies.
The Epson XP-15000 utilizes Epson’s renowned Claria Photo HD ink system, boasting six individual ink cartridges, including a dedicated photo black ink. This technology enables it to produce vibrant and detailed prints with a wide color gamut, particularly in black and white photos.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720, on the other hand, employs Canon’s FINE print head technology and ChromaLife100+ ink system. This system uses five individual ink cartridges, including a pigment black ink for sharper text and a photo black ink for high-quality images. The result is a combination of vivid colors and crisp text, making it suitable for both photo and document printing.
Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on your specific requirements. If you prioritize exceptional color reproduction, particularly in black and white photos, the Epson XP-15000 might be the better choice. However, if you need a printer that excels in both photo and document printing, the Canon PIXMA iP8720 could be the more versatile option.
Speed and Efficiency: A Race Against Time
While print quality is paramount, speed and efficiency are equally important, especially for high-volume printing. The Epson XP-15000 boasts a faster printing speed than the Canon PIXMA iP8720, particularly for 4×6 photos.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 takes slightly longer to produce prints, but it compensates with its impressive borderless printing capabilities, allowing you to print stunning photos without any white margins.
Connectivity: Bridging the Digital Divide
In today’s digital age, seamless connectivity is a must-have feature for any printer. Both the Epson XP-15000 and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 offer a range of connectivity options, ensuring you can easily print from various devices.
The Epson XP-15000 provides a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB. It also supports wireless printing from mobile devices through Epson’s iPrint app.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 also boasts Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. It also supports wireless printing from mobile devices via the Canon PRINT app, allowing you to print, scan, and copy directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Paper Handling: The Power of Versatility
Paper handling is a crucial aspect of any printer, especially for photo printing. Both the Epson XP-15000 and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 offer impressive paper handling capabilities, catering to various printing needs.
The Epson XP-15000 features a rear paper tray that can hold up to 100 sheets of plain paper and a front paper tray that can accommodate up to 100 sheets of photo paper. It also includes a manual feed slot for printing on specialty media.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 boasts a rear paper tray that can hold up to 150 sheets of plain paper and a front paper tray that can accommodate up to 100 sheets of photo paper. It also includes a manual feed slot for printing on envelopes, labels, and other specialty media.
Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics
Both printers offer a wide range of features and functionalities that go beyond basic printing.
The Epson XP-15000 includes features like automatic duplex printing, a built-in scanner, and a copy function. It also supports a variety of paper types, including photo paper, glossy paper, matte paper, and even cardstock.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 also offers automatic duplex printing, a built-in scanner, and a copy function. It also supports a wide range of paper types, including photo paper, glossy paper, matte paper, and cardstock.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Printer for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Epson XP-15000 if:
- You prioritize exceptional color reproduction, particularly in black and white photos.
- You need a printer with faster printing speeds, especially for 4×6 photos.
- You require a printer with a comprehensive suite of connectivity options.
Choose the Canon PIXMA iP8720 if:
- You need a printer that excels in both photo and document printing.
- You prefer a printer with borderless printing capabilities.
- You require a printer with a larger paper capacity.
Finding Your Perfect Match: A Guide to Choosing the Right Photo Printer
Before making your final decision, consider the following factors:
- Print Quality: What level of detail and color accuracy do you need?
- Speed and Efficiency: How often will you be printing, and how important is speed to you?
- Connectivity: How will you be printing from your devices?
- Paper Handling: What types of paper will you be using?
- Features and Functionality: What additional features are important to you?
- Price: What is your budget for a photo printer?
The Final Word: A Symphony of Colors and Efficiency
Both the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 are excellent photo printers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. By carefully considering your printing needs and budget, you can choose the printer that best suits your requirements and unleashes the full potential of your photographic endeavors.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which printer is best for professional photographers?
A: Both printers are capable of producing high-quality prints suitable for professional use. However, the Epson XP-15000 might be a better choice for photographers who prioritize exceptional color reproduction, particularly in black and white photos.
Q: Which printer is more affordable?
A: The Canon PIXMA iP8720 is generally more affordable than the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000.
Q: Which printer is better for printing documents?
A: The Canon PIXMA iP8720 is a better choice for printing documents due to its pigment black ink, which produces sharper text.
Q: Which printer is more energy-efficient?
A: Both printers are relatively energy-efficient. However, the Epson XP-15000 has a lower energy consumption rating.
Q: Which printer is better for everyday use?
A: Both printers are suitable for everyday use. However, the Canon PIXMA iP8720 might be a better choice for users who need a printer that excels in both photo and document printing.
