In the world of photography and professional printing, having the right printer can make a world of difference. The Canon PIXMA Pro-200 is a name that has been making waves in the market. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of the Canon PIXMA Pro-200 printer.
Overview
The Canon PIXMA Pro-200 is the successor to the highly regarded PIXMA Pro-100. It’s designed for photographers and artists who demand high-quality prints with accurate colors and fine details. Let’s start by looking at its key features.
Key Features
1. Print Resolution and Quality
The Pro-200 boasts an impressive maximum resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi. This high resolution allows for incredibly detailed prints with sharpness and clarity. Whether you’re printing photographs, artwork, or documents, the Pro-200 delivers exceptional quality.
2. 12-Color Lucia Pro Ink System
One of the standout features of this printer is its 12-color Lucia Pro ink system. This includes five monochrome inks, providing a wide color gamut and the ability to reproduce even the subtlest of shades. The inclusion of Chroma Optimizer helps to ensure uniform glossiness and reduce bronzing.
3. Large Color Range
With the Pro-200, you can expect to achieve accurate and vibrant colors. The expanded color range covers up to 100% of the RGB color space, ensuring your prints faithfully represent your digital images.
4. Borderless Printing
The Pro-200 offers borderless printing, allowing you to create edge-to-edge prints. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who want to showcase their work without any white borders.
5. Wireless Printing
With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, the Pro-200 is incredibly versatile when it comes to connectivity. You can print directly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, making it convenient for both personal and professional use.
Performance
1. Speed
While the Pro-200 prioritizes print quality, it’s not the fastest printer on the market. For those who need quick prints, it might not be the best choice. However, its relatively slower speed is a trade-off for the exceptional print quality it delivers.
2. Ease of Use
Setting up the Pro-200 is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly interface and clear instructions. The printer is compatible with various paper sizes and types, allowing for versatility in your printing projects.
3. Color Accuracy
One of the standout aspects of the Pro-200 is its remarkable color accuracy. The 12-color Lucia Pro ink system ensures that your prints match your digital files with precision, making it an excellent choice for photographers and artists who demand true-to-life colors.
Value
The Canon PIXMA Pro-200 is an investment in quality. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, its exceptional print quality and color accuracy justify the price tag for professionals and enthusiasts alike. The longevity of your prints, thanks to the Lucia Pro inks, is an added bonus.
Comparing the PIXMA Pro-200
To provide a comprehensive review of the Canon PIXMA Pro-200, it’s essential to compare it to some of its competitors in the market. Let’s take a closer look at how this printer stacks up against similar models.
Canon PIXMA Pro-200 vs. Epson SureColor P800
The Epson SureColor P800 is a strong competitor to the Canon PIXMA Pro-200 in the professional photo printer category. Let’s compare these two in key aspects:
Print Resolution
- The Epson SureColor P800 offers a slightly higher maximum resolution of 2880 x 1440 dpi compared to the Pro-200’s 4800 x 2400 dpi. However, in practical terms, both printers produce exceptional print quality.
Ink System
- While the Pro-200 boasts a 12-color Lucia Pro ink system, the Epson P800 features a 9-color UltraChrome HD ink system. The additional colors in the Pro-200 provide a broader color gamut, giving it an edge in color accuracy.
Connectivity
- Both printers come with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for wireless printing. However, the Epson P800 offers Ethernet connectivity as well, which might be advantageous in some professional setups.
Price
- The Canon PIXMA Pro-200 is generally priced more competitively than the Epson P800, making it an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality printer without breaking the bank.
Canon PIXMA Pro-200 vs. HP DesignJet Z9+
The HP DesignJet Z9+ is another contender in the professional printing arena. Let’s compare it to the Canon PIXMA Pro-200:
Print Width
- The DesignJet Z9+ is known for its wide-format printing capabilities, with a maximum print width of up to 44 inches. The Pro-200, on the other hand, is designed for standard photo and document sizes.
Ink System
- The DesignJet Z9+ uses HP Vivid Photo Ink, which includes chromatic red, chromatic green, and chromatic blue inks in addition to standard CMYK. This extensive color range allows it to excel in reproducing a wide range of colors.
Portability
- The PIXMA Pro-200 is compact and relatively easy to move, making it suitable for home or small office setups. The DesignJet Z9+ is a large-format printer meant for more significant printing needs and would be less portable.
Price
- The DesignJet Z9+ is considerably more expensive than the PIXMA Pro-200, primarily due to its large-format capabilities and advanced ink system.
Canon PIXMA Pro-200 Printer Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| Maximum Resolution | 4800 x 2400 dpi |
| Number of Ink Cartridges | 12 |
| Paper Sizes Supported | Letter, Legal, A3, A4, and more |
| Connectivity | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Print Speed (Color) | Approximately 1 minute per page |
Key Features of the Canon PIXMA Pro-200
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Prints | Produces stunning, true-to-life color prints |
| Wide Color Gamut | Enhanced color accuracy with 12-color inks |
| Borderless Printing | Create borderless photos up to 13×19 inches |
| Wireless Connectivity | Print wirelessly from your devices |
| Fine Art Printing | Ideal for fine art and professional photos |
Pros and Cons of the Canon PIXMA Pro-200
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent print quality | Large and heavy |
| Wide color gamut | High cost of ink |
| Wireless printing capabilities | Limited mobile app support |
| Borderless printing up to 13×19″ | Slower printing compared to some |
| Supports fine art and professional | other models |
Included Accessories with the Canon PIXMA Pro-200
| Accessories | Description |
|---|---|
| Power Cord | For connecting to the power source |
| Print Head | Integral for precise printing |
| 12 Ink Cartridges | A full set of color and gray inks |
| CD/DVD Printing Tray | For printing on optical media |
| User Manual and Software | Guides and installation software |
Print Media Compatibility
| Media Type | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Photo Paper Pro Platinum | Yes |
| Fine Art Paper | Yes |
| Matte Photo Paper | Yes |
| Glossy Photo Paper | Yes |
| CD/DVD/Blu-ray Discs | Yes (with included tray) |
| Envelopes | Yes |
| T-shirt Transfers | Yes |
| Magnetic Photo Paper | Yes |
| Canvas | Yes |
| Business Cards | Yes |
Conclusion
The Canon PIXMA Pro-200 is an excellent choice for photographers and artists who prioritize high-quality photo and art prints with remarkable color accuracy. While it may not have the print width of the HP DesignJet Z9+ or the sheer resolution of the Epson SureColor P800, it strikes a balance between quality, affordability, and versatility.
Ultimately, the choice between these printers depends on your specific needs. If you require wide-format printing and are willing to invest in a more extensive ink system, the HP DesignJet Z9+ might be the right choice. If you’re looking for an affordable yet highly capable printer for standard photo and art prints, the Canon PIXMA Pro-200 offers exceptional value for your money.
In conclusion, the Canon PIXMA Pro-200 impresses with its print quality, color accuracy, and competitive pricing, making it a strong contender in the professional photo printer market. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a professional artist, this printer is worth considering for your creative endeavors.
