The Best Printer I've Ever Owned!
Pros:
Print quality, cartridge price, cartridge installation, functions, reliability, easy use
Cons:
Heavy, 19in. deep x 17.5in. wide x 14in. tall with paper in top feeder
The Bottom Line:
It's reliable and the print quality is exactly what you see on screen. Colors are vibrant. Frees up space on your desk by reducing gadgets needed.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
I have never owned a printer that lived up to expectations, until the Canon PIXMA MP500. This printer is the easiest to setup and reliable.
I can see how someone who isn't careful could break pieces, but, honestly, it's a printer not a football. Computer equipment should be treated with care. It sounds as if some of the other reviewers may have had trouble with shipping damage or perhaps just inexperience with computers. I can't say for sure, but I also can't see how anyone with any experience could have the problems they've had. If the software (do you mean the driver?) doesn't download correctly, check your connection speed and stability and use a download manager if necessary.
It IS a very heavy printer, so don't get it if you plan to take it on a tour around the country doing seminars or something. With a built in scanner, printer, and copier (that's the heavy part) it's going to be much heavier than your average HP 720C. However, it will print 1000% better, too.
Now, I'm not saying that these are professional advertising quality prints; but as far as I can tell it prints exactly as it appears on screen, so I can use it for my photography portfolio or my kids' pictures for grandparents. I haven't tried multiple types of paper yet, so that could be the next test.
It is a little slow on warm up before it prints, but only by a few seconds longer than most of the printers it will be replacing. Most higher quality printing takes a few seconds to prepare. Copying and scanning are instantaneous. And it's extremely easy to change between the various functions.
I can't recall if mine came with a photo editing software, though. I use it with Photoshop and it does a great job.
I haven't had to change the ink cartridges yet, but the price seems great. Plus, since the cartridges are a little smaller than the HP kind, you lose less ink to disuse and drying. If you aren't going to use it regularly, I suggest you print something using all of the cartridges at least every 2-3 weeks to keep the heads from clogging; this is a general rule for all inkjets.
On a side note, Canon has the best customer service and support department I've ever used. I own one of their cameras and have had it serviced, I expect the same excellent service with my printer.
I hope I've been of some help. I haven't regretted buying this printer at all. I think it's excellent and I couldn't have gotten a better price (around $120.00 in September, 2006) for the superb quality. I absolutely recommend it, unless you plan to hook your laptop to it and lug it to the airport! ;)
