Canon PIXMA iP8720 Printer: Quality & Versatility
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1. Introduction
When it comes to photography, whether it's a hobby or a profession, having the right printer to bring your digital images to life is crucial. Canon has long been a trusted name in the world of photography, and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 is no exception.
This article will explore the features and benefits of the Canon PIXMA iP8720, a great entry-level printer for photographers to have at home.
2. Overview
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 is a notable addition to the Canon printer family, and it stands out for several compelling reasons. Designed with the needs of both amateur and professional photographers in mind, this printer delivers outstanding performance and versatility, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to bring their digital images to life.
Exceptional Printing Quality and Resolution
At the heart of the PIXMA iP8720's capabilities is its remarkable printing quality and resolution. With a maximum color resolution of 9600 x 2400 dpi, it consistently produces images with extraordinary detail and sharpness. Whether you're printing intricate landscapes, capturing the fine nuances of portraits, or showcasing the textures in macro shots, this printer excels at delivering stunning results every time.
User-Friendly Interface
Canon has put great thought into making the PIXMA iP8720 user-friendly. Its intuitive interface ensures that even beginners can operate it with confidence. Features like automatic duplex printing simplify the printing process and help save on paper costs.
Compact and Stylish Design
The PIXMA iP8720's design is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Its compact and stylish appearance makes it an attractive addition to any home office or studio setup. It doesn't occupy excessive space and complements your workspace without compromising on performance.
Speed and Performance
In a fast-paced world, the PIXMA iP8720 doesn't compromise on speed. It can print a borderless 4" x 6" photo in just approximately 36 seconds. When it comes to larger prints, it maintains efficiency without sacrificing print quality, ensuring you can get your work done promptly without compromising the quality of your prints.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 is an exceptional entry-level printer that caters to the unique needs of photographers. Its superior print quality, versatility in media handling, user-friendly interface, compact design, and efficient performance make it a valuable tool for photographers of all levels.
Whether you're printing images for personal enjoyment or professional projects, the PIXMA iP8720 consistently delivers outstanding results, earning its reputation as a top choice in the world of photography printing.
Vibrant and Accurate Color Reproduction
In addition to its impressive resolution, the PIXMA iP8720 uses a sophisticated six-color ink system. This system includes the standard cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks, but it doesn't stop there. It also includes a dedicated gray ink tank, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of black and white prints.
The inclusion of gray ink ensures that your monochrome prints are not only sharp but also exhibit a full range of grays, resulting in richer and more nuanced black and white photographs. This attention to detail extends to color printing as well, where the six-color system contributes to vibrant and accurate color reproduction. Your images will pop with lifelike colors, making them visually appealing and true to your artistic vision.
Microscopic Ink Droplets
Another factor that contributes to the impressive print quality of the PIXMA iP8720 is the printer's ability to produce microscopic ink droplets. The printer's fine print head technology allows for droplets as small as one picoliter. These minuscule droplets are precisely placed on the paper, ensuring that even the tiniest details in your photographs are accurately reproduced. This results in images with a level of precision and subtlety that's truly remarkable.
Versatility in Print Media
The PIXMA iP8720 is not only capable of delivering exceptional quality on standard photo paper but also offers versatility in handling different types of media. It can accommodate various paper sizes, including 4" x 6", 5" x 7", 8" x 10", letter, and legal. Additionally, it supports different paper types, such as plain paper, glossy photo paper, and even printable CDs and DVDs.
Whether you're printing on glossy photo paper, plain paper, or even directly onto printable CDs and DVDs, the printer maintains its commitment to outstanding print quality.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720's print quality and resolution are at the forefront of what sets this printer apart. With its impressive 9600 x 2400 dpi resolution, dedicated gray ink tank for black and white photos, microscopic ink droplets, and the ability to handle a variety of print media, it consistently produces images that are not just accurate but visually stunning.
Photographers, whether amateur or professional, can trust this printer to bring their digital creations to life with unparalleled precision and clarity.
Hot off the press! A 13”x19” fireworks photography print from my Canon Pixma iP8720 printer.
3. Connectivity Options
In today's digital age, connectivity is a key consideration when choosing a printer, and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 offers an array of versatile connectivity options to meet the diverse needs of photographers and users.
Wireless Connectivity
The PIXMA iP8720 comes equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity. This means you can print wirelessly from your computer, smartphone, or tablet, eliminating the need for physical connections and allowing for a more flexible and clutter-free printing experience. With Wi-Fi, you can effortlessly send your photos and documents to the printer from anywhere within your network range.
USB Connection
For those who prefer a more traditional approach or need a direct connection, the PIXMA iP8720 also includes a USB port. This allows you to connect your computer or device directly to the printer via USB cable. This wired option is ideal for users who want a stable and direct connection.
Mobile Printing:
In an era where mobile devices play a significant role in photography and document management, the PIXMA iP8720 is ahead of the curve. It supports mobile printing, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Whether you're capturing photos on your phone or editing documents on your tablet, you can seamlessly transfer them to the printer for immediate printing. This feature is particularly convenient for photographers on the go, as it ensures you can print your work from virtually anywhere.
AirPrint Compatibility
Apple device users will be pleased to know that the PIXMA iP8720 is compatible with AirPrint. This feature enables you to print directly from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac without the need for additional drivers or software. It streamlines the printing process and ensures that Apple users can easily integrate this printer into their workflow.
Google Cloud Print
For users who prefer cloud-based solutions, the PIXMA iP8720 is also compatible with Google Cloud Print. This allows you to print documents and images from any device that's connected to the internet, further enhancing the printer's accessibility and usability.
PictBridge Compatibility
PictBridge is another valuable feature of the PIXMA iP8720. If you own a PictBridge-compatible digital camera, you can connect it directly to the printer using a USB cable. This means you can print your photos directly from your camera without the need for a computer, providing quick and efficient printing for photographers.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 offers a diverse range of connectivity options to cater to the evolving needs of users in the digital age.
Whether you prefer wireless connections, traditional USB, mobile printing, or integration with Apple and Google ecosystems, this printer ensures that you can effortlessly and conveniently print your photos and documents from a variety of devices.
Its versatility in connectivity makes it a valuable tool for modern photographers and users alike.
4. Cost-Effective Printing
Photography and printing can be costly, especially when you're producing a substantial volume of photos or documents. The Canon PIXMA iP8720 is designed with cost-effective printing in mind, offering several features that help you save on expenses without compromising the quality of your prints.
Individual Ink Tanks
One of the primary cost-saving features of the PIXMA iP8720 is its use of individual ink tanks. This means that the printer uses separate ink cartridges for each color, including cyan, magenta, yellow, black, and gray.
Unlike printers that use a single color cartridge, this design is more cost-effective because you only need to replace the specific color that runs out. This minimizes ink wastage and reduces the overall cost of consumables.
High-Yield Cartridges
In addition to individual ink tanks, Canon offers high-yield ink cartridges for the PIXMA iP8720. These cartridges contain more ink than standard cartridges, extending the time between replacements.
By using high-yield cartridges, you reduce the frequency of purchasing and replacing ink, ultimately saving on printing costs.
Automatic Duplex Printing
The PIXMA iP8720 features automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper without manual intervention. This not only saves paper but also contributes to cost savings in the long run. It's an eco-friendly feature that minimizes the need for additional sheets and reduces paper expenses.
Energy Efficiency
The printer is designed with energy efficiency in mind. It consumes minimal power during operation and even less in standby mode. This ensures that you're not incurring unnecessary electricity costs when the printer is not in use.
Print Cost Calculators
To provide more transparency on the cost of printing, Canon offers print cost calculators for its printers. These calculators help you estimate the cost per page for different types of documents, allowing you to make informed decisions about your printing expenses. They consider factors such as paper type, ink usage, and printer settings to provide accurate cost estimates.
Professional Results at a Fraction of the Cost
The PIXMA iP8720 is specifically designed to offer professional-level print quality, which is often associated with higher-end and more expensive printers. With this printer, you can achieve outstanding results on a wide range of media, from standard photo paper to printable CDs and DVDs, all while keeping your printing costs in check.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720's cost-effective printing features make it an attractive choice for photographers and users who want to manage their printing expenses without sacrificing quality.
The combination of individual ink tanks, high-yield cartridges, automatic duplex printing, energy efficiency, and print cost calculators ensures that you can produce professional-quality prints at a fraction of the cost.
Whether you're a photography enthusiast or a professional, this printer helps you achieve your printing goals without breaking the bank.
5. User-Friendly Features
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 is designed with a focus on user convenience, ensuring that both beginners and experienced users can operate the printer effortlessly. Its user-friendly features make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a seamless and intuitive printing experience.
Automatic Duplex Printing
One of the standout user-friendly features of the PIXMA iP8720 is automatic duplex printing. This means the printer can print on both sides of the paper without any manual intervention.
Whether you're producing double-sided documents or simply looking to save on paper, this feature simplifies the printing process and enhances efficiency.
Intuitive Control Panel
The printer features an easy-to-navigate control panel that allows users to access various settings and functions. The menu options are straightforward and well-organized, making it simple to select print settings, check ink levels, and perform maintenance tasks. This ensures that even those who are not tech-savvy can operate the printer with ease.
Compatibility with Mobile Devices
In an era where mobile devices play a significant role in our daily lives, the PIXMA iP8720 ensures seamless integration with smartphones and tablets. It supports mobile printing, allowing users to print directly from their mobile devices.
This means you can easily print photos and documents from your smartphone or tablet, enhancing the printer's accessibility and usability.
Setup and Installation
Canon has streamlined the setup and installation process for the PIXMA iP8720. The included instructions are clear and concise, making it simple to get the printer up and running. The software installation is user-friendly, and you can quickly connect the printer to your Wi-Fi network, further enhancing the ease of use.
User-Friendly Software
The PIXMA iP8720 comes with user-friendly software that simplifies tasks like photo editing and organizing. It often includes features like My Image Garden, which allows you to create fun photo collages and calendars. The software is designed to be intuitive, ensuring that you can enhance and manage your images without a steep learning curve.
Printing from Social Media
For those who frequently share their photos on social media, the PIXMA iP8720 offers the ability to print directly from popular social platforms like Facebook and Instagram. This feature makes it easy to turn your digital memories into tangible prints without hassle.
On-Screen Guides
The printer often provides on-screen guides and prompts that help users troubleshoot issues and perform routine maintenance. This feature ensures that you can keep your printer in top working condition without needing expert knowledge.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720's user-friendly features are designed to simplify the printing process and enhance the overall experience. From automatic duplex printing to an intuitive control panel, mobile device compatibility, easy setup, and user-friendly software, this printer ensures that you can easily achieve your printing goals, whether you're an experienced user or a beginner.
It's a valuable tool for anyone looking for an accessible and hassle-free printing experience.
6. Compact Design
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 stands out not only for its exceptional print quality but also for its thoughtfully designed compact form. This printer's compact design is more than just a visual feature; it's a space-saving solution that seamlessly fits into various environments, making it an ideal choice for home offices, studios, or any location with limited space.
Space Efficiency
Measuring with compact dimensions, the PIXMA iP8720 is a space-efficient printing solution. It's designed to occupy a minimal footprint, ensuring that it doesn't monopolize your workspace. This is particularly important for users who have limited room to spare, and the printer's compact design allows it to coexist with other essential equipment and accessories.
Aesthetic Appeal
The printer's design isn't just about saving space; it's also aesthetically pleasing. Its sleek and stylish appearance adds a touch of elegance to your workspace. The PIXMA iP8720 doesn't just blend in; it can enhance the overall ambiance of your home office or studio.
Minimal Intrusion
The compact design ensures that the printer doesn't intrude on your workspace. It won't be an obstacle or distraction when you're working on other tasks, and it doesn't disrupt the flow of your creative or professional activities.
Portability
The PIXMA iP8720's compactness also makes it more portable. If you need to move it to a different location or take it with you on a trip, it's easier to transport compared to bulkier printers. This portability is an advantage for photographers and professionals who often work in various settings.
Versatile Placement
Thanks to its compact design, the PIXMA iP8720 can be placed on a variety of surfaces, including desks, shelves, or even in specially designed printer cabinets. This versatility in placement ensures that you can integrate the printer into your workspace without having to make significant adjustments.
Functional and Unobtrusive
The printer's compactness doesn't mean it compromises on functionality. It retains all the essential features that photographers and users require for high-quality printing while maintaining a non-obtrusive presence.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720's compact design is a valuable attribute for users who appreciate both efficient use of space and aesthetic appeal. Its small footprint ensures that it can be seamlessly integrated into various environments without monopolizing your workspace.
Whether you're working in a home office or a creative studio, the PIXMA iP8720's compact design is a practical and visually pleasing addition that complements your space while delivering exceptional printing performance.
Several photography prints produced by my Canon Pixma iP8720 printer.
7. Speed and Performance
Photographers and users often demand quick and efficient printing, and the Canon PIXMA iP8720 delivers on this front. It combines speed and performance to ensure that your prints are not just high-quality but also produced in a timely manner.
Rapid 4" x 6" Photo Printing
One of the notable aspects of the PIXMA iP8720's performance is its speed in printing 4" x 6" photos. It can produce a borderless photo of this size in approximately 36 seconds. This swift printing speed is advantageous for photographers who need to create multiple prints without extended waiting times.
Efficient Handling of Larger Prints
While excelling in printing small photos rapidly, the PIXMA iP8720 maintains its efficiency when handling larger prints. This means that whether you're printing standard letter-size documents or large 13" x 19" photos, the printer ensures that your work is produced without significant delays.
Consistency in Print Quality
The impressive speed of the PIXMA iP8720 doesn't come at the cost of print quality. It consistently produces high-quality images, ensuring that your photographs, documents, and other materials meet the professional standards you expect.
No Sacrifice on Detail
Photographers often require prints that maintain every detail and nuance of their original images. The PIXMA iP8720's microscopic ink droplets ensure that fine details in your photographs are accurately reproduced. You won't need to compromise on the intricacies of your work for the sake of speed.
Versatile Paper Handling
The printer's efficient performance is complemented by its versatile paper handling capabilities. It can accommodate a variety of paper sizes, from small photos to larger documents. Additionally, it supports different paper types, making it suitable for a wide range of printing projects.
Quick Turnaround for Projects
The PIXMA iP8720's speed and performance are valuable for photographers working on projects with deadlines. Whether you're printing portfolios, presentations, or exhibition materials, the printer ensures that you can meet your timelines without sacrificing the quality of your prints.
The Canon PIXMA iP8720 excels in speed and performance, ensuring that your prints are not just produced quickly but also with exceptional quality. Its ability to handle various paper sizes and types, efficient printing of both small and large photos, and consistent detail reproduction make it an excellent choice for photographers and users who demand both swiftness and precision in their printing projects.
This printer proves that you don't need to compromise on quality when seeking efficient and timely results.
8. Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Proper troubleshooting and regular maintenance are essential to ensure that your Canon PIXMA iP8720 operates smoothly and consistently produces high-quality prints. Here are some key aspects to consider:
Routine Maintenance
Routine maintenance plays a vital role in extending the lifespan and performance of your PIXMA iP8720. This includes tasks like cleaning the printhead and platen to prevent the buildup of dried ink, dust, or debris. Canon often provides specific guidelines in the user manual for these tasks.
Ink Cartridge Replacement
One of the most common maintenance tasks is replacing ink cartridges when they run out. The PIXMA iP8720 uses individual ink tanks, so you only need to replace the specific color that's empty. Canon often includes instructions on how to replace cartridges in the user manual. Ensuring that you have spare ink cartridges on hand is also a good practice.
Paper Jam Resolution
If a paper jam occurs, the printer should provide on-screen guidance to help resolve the issue. Common causes of paper jams include using the wrong paper type, inserting paper incorrectly, or overloading the input tray. Clear instructions for paper jam resolution are typically provided in the user manual.
Software Updates
Regularly updating the printer's software and drivers is essential to maintain compatibility with your operating system and ensure optimal performance. Canon periodically releases updates, and it's advisable to check for these updates on the Canon website or through the included software.
Troubleshooting Errors
In the event of an error message or malfunction, the PIXMA iP8720 provides error codes and messages that help identify the issue. The user manual often includes a troubleshooting section with solutions for common problems. Following these steps can help you quickly diagnose and resolve issues.
Nozzle Check and Head Alignment
To maintain print quality, the printer often provides functions for nozzle checks and head alignment. These ensure that the printhead nozzles are clear and properly aligned. Regularly performing these checks helps prevent issues like streaks or color inaccuracies in your prints.
Warranty and Support
In case of more severe technical problems, the PIXMA iP8720 typically comes with a manufacturer's warranty. If you encounter issues that you cannot resolve through troubleshooting, contact Canon's customer support for assistance or service. Understanding the warranty terms and support options can be invaluable in case of unforeseen printer problems.
User Community and Online Resources
Canon often maintains an online user community and provides resources like FAQs, user manuals, and troubleshooting guides on their website. These resources can be valuable for resolving common issues and learning about your printer's features.
Proper troubleshooting and maintenance are essential to ensure that your Canon PIXMA iP8720 remains in excellent working condition and continues to deliver high-quality prints.
Regular maintenance, ink cartridge replacement, addressing error messages, software updates, and utilizing online resources are key practices for keeping your printer in top shape and maximizing its lifespan. These steps will help you address issues quickly and ensure that your PIXMA iP8720 consistently performs at its best.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, the Canon PIXMA iP8720 is a fantastic entry-level printer for photographers. Its exceptional printing quality, versatility, user-friendly features, and cost-effective printing make it a top choice in its category. Whether you're an amateur or a professional, this printer will undoubtedly meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
It is a highly recommended printer for photographers of all levels. Its exceptional print quality, versatility, and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition to any photography setup. Whether you're printing family photos or professional portfolios, this printer delivers outstanding results. Don't miss the opportunity to enhance your printing experience with the Canon PIXMA iP8720.
10. Shop Pixma ip8720
11. FAQs
Is the Canon PIXMA iP8720 suitable for professional photographers?
Absolutely, the PIXMA iP8720 offers professional-grade print quality, making it a great choice for professionals.
Can I print wirelessly from my smartphone using this printer?
Yes, the PIXMA iP8720 supports mobile printing, allowing you to print from your smartphone or tablet.
Does this printer come with ink cartridges, or do I need to purchase them separately?
The printer comes with starter ink cartridges. You may need to purchase replacement cartridges based on your printing needs.
What is the largest paper size the Canon Pixma iP8720 can handle?
The PIXMA iP8720 can handle paper sizes up to 13" x 19", making it suitable for larger prints.
Is the Canon PIXMA iP8720 compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems?
Yes, it is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, ensuring versatility in usage.
