What to know
- The G650’s dye-based inks, on the other hand, excel in reproducing vibrant colors and smooth gradients, making them more suitable for photo printing and graphic design.
- The G550 boasts a print speed of up to 13 ipm (images per minute) for black-and-white documents and 6.
- The G650, on the other hand, prints at a slightly slower pace of 10 ipm for black-and-white documents and 6 ipm for color documents.
The Canon Pixma G550 and G650 are renowned inkjet printers that have garnered widespread popularity for their exceptional printing capabilities and cost-effectiveness. However, with their similarities and differences, choosing the right printer for your specific needs can be a daunting task. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the key features, specifications, and performance aspects of the Canon Pixma G550 vs G650, empowering you to make an informed decision.
Printing Technology: Giclée vs Dye-Based Inks
The Canon Pixma G550 utilizes Giclée technology, employing pigment-based inks that deliver vibrant and long-lasting prints. These inks resist fading and water damage, making them ideal for archival-quality prints, fine art reproductions, and professional-grade documents.
In contrast, the Canon Pixma G650 incorporates dye-based inks, which are known for their vibrant colors and smooth transitions. However, these inks are more susceptible to fading and water damage over time.
Print Quality: Crispness and Color Accuracy
Both the Canon Pixma G550 and G650 offer impressive print quality, but with subtle differences. The G550’s pigment-based inks produce sharper and more defined lines, resulting in crisp text and detailed images. The G650’s dye-based inks, on the other hand, excel in reproducing vibrant colors and smooth gradients, making them more suitable for photo printing and graphic design.
Print Speed: Efficiency for High-Volume Tasks
When it comes to print speed, the Canon Pixma G550 slightly outperforms the G650. The G550 boasts a print speed of up to 13 ipm (images per minute) for black-and-white documents and 6.8 ipm for color documents. The G650, on the other hand, prints at a slightly slower pace of 10 ipm for black-and-white documents and 6 ipm for color documents.
Paper Handling: Capacity and Flexibility
The Canon Pixma G550 and G650 offer comparable paper handling capabilities. Both printers have a rear paper tray with a capacity of 100 sheets of plain paper or 20 sheets of photo paper. Additionally, they both feature a front cassette that can hold up to 20 sheets of specialty paper, such as envelopes or cardstock.
Connectivity: Wireless and Wired Options
The Canon Pixma G550 and G650 offer comprehensive connectivity options, allowing for seamless printing from various devices. Both printers support Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, enabling wireless printing from laptops, smartphones, and tablets. They also have a USB port for direct printing from computers.
Cost per Print: Exceptional Value for Money
One of the key advantages of the Canon Pixma G550 and G650 is their remarkable cost per print. Both printers use high-capacity ink tanks that can be refilled with affordable ink bottles. This significantly reduces the cost of ownership compared to traditional cartridge-based printers.
Which Printer is Right for You?
The choice between the Canon Pixma G550 and G650 ultimately depends on your specific printing requirements.
- For archival-quality prints and professional-grade documents: The G550’s pigment-based inks and sharp print quality make it the ideal choice.
- For vibrant photo printing and graphic design: The G650’s dye-based inks and smooth color transitions are better suited for these applications.
- For high-volume printing: The G550’s slightly faster print speed is advantageous for users who frequently print large volumes of documents.
- For cost-conscious users: Both printers offer exceptional cost per print, but the G650 may be slightly more economical in the long run due to its larger ink tank capacity.
Beyond Comparison: Unique Features of Each Printer
Canon Pixma G550:
- Auto Duplex Printing: Allows for automatic double-sided printing, saving paper and time.
- LCD Display: Provides easy access to printer settings and status information.
Canon Pixma G650:
- Larger Ink Tank Capacity: Holds more ink than the G550, reducing the frequency of refills.
- Borderless Printing: Enables printing of photos and documents without white borders, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
Popular Questions
Q: Which printer has better print quality for photos?
A: The Canon Pixma G650’s dye-based inks produce more vibrant and smooth-looking photos compared to the G550.
Q: Can I print on thick paper with these printers?
A: Yes, both printers can handle specialty paper up to 20 sheets, including envelopes and cardstock.
Q: How long do the ink tanks last?
A: The ink tank capacity varies depending on the print volume and usage patterns. However, both printers offer high-capacity ink tanks that can print hundreds of pages before requiring refills.