Canon SmartBase MP700 Ink Cartridges

Canon MP700 Printer Review

Although it has versatile multifunction capabilities, the Canon Multipass MP700 is better suited for home offices rather than small offices because it lacks fax functionality and provides a small bundle of features. The device is not really quick enough to handle the volumes of multiple users, printing at a maximum of around 22 pages per minute for monochrome documents and 14 pages per minute for color. While the unit's low-yielding Multipass MP700 printer ink and media capacity also keep it from handling busy users, it is able to benefit light-duty needs with its high-quality output and easy-to-use design.

This inkjet device can print, scan and copy documents, and despite this 3-in-1 design it still manages to have a small desktop size of only 17x19x10 inches. Most of the unit's bulk is attributed to its media handling, which includes one input tray that can store up to 150 pages of plain paper with a maximum size of 8.5x14 inches. The MP700 would have been even larger if it included an automatic document feeder for continuous scanning, but it lacks this common multifunction feature.

The MP700's connectivity is flexible enough to support direct photo printing without the need of a computer, providing a card slot on its front panel to support popular memory devices like CompactFlash, SmartMedia and Memory Stick. The front panel also provides enough control tools to enable standalone copying, including a monochrome LCD for updates on jobs and a menu navigation pad. Those that would prefer to control jobs such as printing photos from their computer, can do so by connecting it to the device via its rear USB port and installing included software like Easy-PhotoPrint.

The unit can handle standard monochrome documents like school papers, printing text with sharp readable detail and a resolution of 600x600 dpi using Canon MP700 printer ink. The machine's photo output is also satisfactory and provides a good alternative to going to the drugstore, printing with a precise maximum resolution of 4800x1200 dpi using color Multipass MP700 ink.

Due to low capacities of only 420 pages for the cyan, magenta and yellow supplies and 750 pages for the black Canon MP700 ink cartridge, this machine can support only low volumes. Thankfully users have the option to select remanufactured replacements over OEM Canon MP700 ink cartridges, which helps decrease running costs.

Whether users need to print graphics for a school presentation, copy a photo or scan an important document to their computer, the MP700 can handle many day-to-day tasks with its user-friendly multifunction design. While this inkjet printer's low price reflects a more basic design, it should be a good solution for light-duty home offices.