If a value-level All-in-One is in your sights, the Canon PIXMA MP495 printer/scanner/copier should fit the bill nicely. The PIXMA series of printers has a solid reputation for quality prints and decent lifespans.
The Canon PIXMA MP495 excels compared to other multifunctional printers in its price range, with only a few gripes that are typical of printers in this class. Ink cartridge longevity and ease of installation have some users vexed. If you have any experience with installing printers on modern operating systems, you should have little hassle getting the unit up and running. As an all-around photo printer, document scanner/printer and copier, the price it’s offered at these days can’t be beat.
Features of the PIXMA MP495 All-in-One
Full color, 4800 x 1200 DPI (max) prints give this PIXMA a nice reputation for image quality. No one but the most stringent of critics will find fault with most of these prints, and yes, you can get full coverage (full bleed) 4” x 6” prints. Print time for these photos takes up to 41 seconds for each print, but this is standard fare for most photo printers in this price range. The package includes samples of Canon’s premium glossy photo paper, so you’ll get a nice taste of the type of photos you can whip out with the MP495.
Scanning capabilities for the unit are quite acceptable. Scan quality for the unit is mundane, really, as there are few features to really make it stand out. It’s sufficient for most users who need only to scan documents, images and other similar jobs. For more extensive needs such as film rolls, negatives and the like, you’ll have to spend quadruple the price. Resolution for scans tops out at a respectable 1200 x 2400 DPI.
The biggest positive for an AIO at this cost is the wireless connectivity. You have no more need to position your printer uncomfortably close to your PC because of wire lengths. This little guy will work fine completely wireless. Some users may consider this an advanced installation job, but it should be a very easy task for most users.
Positives and Negatives
There are several aspects of the MP495 that warrant a “thumbs up.” Wireless connectivity, excellent print resolution and 4” x 6” photo-quality prints round out the positives. As for the drawbacks, most users had issues with installing and using the software. Keep in mind that units such as this will always have these problems for some users. That is not, however, meant to completely discredit their gripes. Always read instructions fully before beginning the installation process to make sure you’re prepared.
Another complaint among those who gave less-than-stellar reviews for this printer was ink cartridge longevity. The included ink cartridges (one black and one color) are of the typical variety included with most printers – short-lived. One user stated that the ink cartridge was depleted over one-fourth after 15-20 pages printed.
Overall, the Canon PIXMA line gets positive reviews from the online community. With wireless connectivity, this All-in-One printer seems to over-deliver for the price paid for multifunctionality.
