Canon PIXMA TR7020a All vs TS3720

Stepping into the world of home and small office printing can often feel like navigating a maze of features, specifications, and acronyms. Two prominent contenders from Canon’s popular PIXMA lineup often catch the eye of consumers looking for a reliable all-in-one solution: the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All-in-One Wireless Color Inkjet Printer and the Canon PIXMA TS3720 – Wireless All-in-One Home Office Printer. Both promise convenient wireless connectivity, efficient printing, and versatile functionality, making the choice between them a bit of a head-scratcher for many.

This comprehensive comparison article is designed to cut through the confusion and provide a clear, engaging, and in-depth look at what each printer brings to your desk. We’ll delve into their core features, performance capabilities, user experience, and overall value proposition, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a student, a work-from-home professional, or simply looking for a capable family printer, understanding the nuances between these two Canon PIXMAs is essential.

By the end of this article, you’ll not only have a solid understanding of where each printer excels but also a confident recommendation tailored to different user needs. We’ll cover everything from their display types and document handling features to their print speeds and overall design, helping you identify which Canon PIXMA truly aligns with your specific printing habits and budget. Let’s dive in and demystify the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All versus TS3720 debate!

In-Depth Look: Canon PIXMA TR7020a All

The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All arrives on the scene as a robust all-in-one solution for households and home offices that demand more than just basic print capabilities. Its core strength lies in its comprehensive feature set, making it a truly versatile device.

Key Features Analysis:
The standout features of the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All begin with its 1.44” OLED DISPLAY & LED STATUS BAR. This isn’t just a fancy screen; it provides clear, intuitive navigation through printer settings, job statuses, and troubleshooting steps. The crisp OLED display is a significant upgrade over traditional segmented LCDs, offering better readability from various angles and in different lighting conditions. The LED status bar further enhances user experience by giving a quick visual cue about the printer’s operational state, whether it’s processing a job, out of paper, or encountering an error. This kind of user interface detail makes a big difference in daily convenience.

Next, Canon emphasizes its COMPACT & STYLISH DESIGN. In an era where home aesthetics matter, a printer that blends rather than clashes is a bonus. The TR7020a All’s white finish and streamlined form factor are designed to fit unobtrusively into your workspace, whether it’s a dedicated home office or a corner of the living room. It manages to pack a lot of functionality into a relatively small footprint, which is crucial for those with limited desk space.

For document handling, the TR7020a All shines with Duplex Printing and an Auto Document Feeder (ADF). Automatic duplex printing means the printer can print on both sides of a page without you manually flipping the paper. This not only saves paper but also contributes to more professional-looking documents and is incredibly convenient for lengthy reports or assignments. The ADF is a game-changer for scanning or copying multi-page documents. Instead of placing each page individually on the flatbed scanner, you can load a stack into the ADF, and the printer will feed them through automatically. This feature drastically cuts down on the time and effort required for digitizing or duplicating documents, making it ideal for anyone dealing with stacks of paperwork for school, work, or personal organization.

The printer also boasts Mobile Printing capabilities and an EASY SETUP for smartphones and computers. This means connecting the printer to your home Wi-Fi and then to your devices is a straightforward process, often guided by an app. Once connected, you can print directly from your smartphone or tablet, a common necessity in today’s mobile-first world. This ease of setup reduces frustration and gets you printing faster.

Finally, the 2 CARTRIDGE FINE HYBRID INK SYSTEM delivers great document and photo print quality. This system typically uses a pigment-based black ink for sharp, crisp text that resists smudging, and dye-based color inks for vibrant, high-quality photos. While a two-cartridge system (one black, one tri-color) can sometimes be less efficient for ink usage compared to individual color cartridges, it simplifies replacement and is often found in printers targeting general home use where photographic printing is important but not necessarily professional-grade.

Pros:

• Enhanced Document Handling: Automatic Duplex Printing and an Auto Document Feeder (ADF) significantly boost productivity for multi-page tasks.
• Superior User Interface: The 1.44” OLED display and LED status bar offer intuitive navigation and clear feedback.
• Versatile Functionality: Includes print, copy, scan, and fax capabilities, making it a true all-in-one device for various home office needs.
• Stylish and Compact: Aesthetically pleasing white design that fits well in modern home environments without occupying too much space.
• Good Print Quality: Hybrid ink system delivers sharp text and vibrant color photos suitable for everyday use.
• Easy Connectivity: Simple setup for both computers and mobile devices, enabling hassle-free wireless printing.

Cons:

• Two-Cartridge System: While convenient, a black and tri-color cartridge system can sometimes lead to wasted ink if one color runs out before the others.
• Cost of Ink: Like many inkjet printers, long-term operational costs can accumulate due to ink cartridge replacements.
• Build Quality Concerns (ADF): One customer mentioned the ADF hardware being “cheaply made,” suggesting potential durability issues over time for this specific component.

Customer Reviews:
Customers generally praise the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All for its user-friendliness and quality. One reviewer noted, “Easy to set up and connect with wifi and high quality printing and copying. I printed out different sizes of color photos that were sharp and clear. You can also print legal size pages.” This highlights the printer’s core strengths: ease of use and good output quality, even for photos. Another satisfied user shared, “This print is great for the price 😄 I haven’t had any paper jams or had to change the ink yet and used it a lot for school. It’s easy to connect to your phone as well as computer. It’s the perfect size for any desk.” This speaks to its reliability and convenience for student use. However, a less positive review pointed out a potential weakness: “Bought to replace a still working cannon printer that would not work with a Mac. Wanted the multiple page scan function but the hardware for this is cheaply made. Setup is easy with the only potential issue is downloading the wrong app on the App Store as many out their that are trying to scam you.” While acknowledging easy setup, this review raises a concern about the build quality of the ADF, which is an important consideration for heavy users of that feature.

Best for:
The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All is an excellent choice for home office users, small businesses, and busy students who frequently deal with multi-page documents. Its ADF and duplex printing capabilities are invaluable for scanning, copying, and printing reports, assignments, or invoices efficiently. If you appreciate a more modern display, require fax functionality, and prioritize both aesthetics and productivity features in a compact package, the TR7020a All is tailored for your needs. It strikes a balance between advanced features and ease of use, making it a versatile workhorse for dynamic environments.

In-Depth Look: Canon PIXMA TS3720

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 positions itself as the quintessential home office printer, emphasizing simplicity, affordability, and a compact design. It’s built for users who need essential print, copy, and scan functions without the bells and whistles of more advanced models.

Key Features Analysis:
At its heart, the PIXMA TS3720 is a true Print, Copy, Scan all-in-one. This core functionality covers the vast majority of tasks a typical home user would require. It’s compact, versatile, and designed to be easy-to-use. A practical touch for home environments is its 60 sheet rear tray. While not a massive capacity, a rear tray often offers more versatility for different paper types (e.g., photo paper, thicker stock) and reduces the need for frequent refills during typical home usage.

Setting up the TS3720 is described as an Easy Setup Office Supplies process, getting the wireless printer for home use up and running in just a few minutes. This streamlined out-of-the-box experience is critical for users who aren’t tech-savvy and simply want to print without wrestling with complex instructions. Connectivity options include high-speed USB or wireless connections from computers or mobile devices, ensuring flexible printing from various sources.

The printer also boasts Fast Print Speeds for its class, printing approximately 7.7 images per minute (ipm) for black and 4 ipm for color. While these aren’t lightning speeds, they are perfectly adequate for casual home printing, school assignments, or occasional document needs. Features like Energy Star certification indicate its energy efficiency, and Borderless Printing allows you to print photos right to the edge of the paper, creating professional-looking prints without white margins – a great perk for family photos or creative projects.

User interaction is managed through a 1.5″ segmented LCD Screen and simple buttons. This is a functional display that allows you to adjust settings, initiate scans, and make copies without needing to access a computer. While not as advanced as an OLED screen, it’s straightforward and gets the job done. The printer’s small footprint is another key design aspect, making it suitable for tight spaces like a student’s dorm room or a crowded kitchen counter.

Like its sibling, the TS3720 utilizes 2 no-mess, easy-to-replace ink cartridges on a hybrid ink system. This system ensures sharp black text using pigment black ink and vivid photos with dye-based colors, supporting prints up to 8.5″ x 11″. The ease of replacing cartridges is a significant benefit for home users who want to avoid messy or complicated ink changes.

Pros:

• Affordable and Compact: An entry-level price point combined with a small footprint makes it excellent for budget-conscious users and limited spaces.
• Simple and User-Friendly: Very easy out-of-the-box setup and intuitive operation with a straightforward LCD screen and buttons.
• Reliable Basic Functionality: Efficiently handles print, copy, and scan tasks for everyday home use.
• Borderless Printing: A nice feature for printing photos without white margins, enhancing their visual appeal.
• Energy Efficient: Energy Star certified, which can help save on electricity consumption.
• Mobile Friendly: Supports wireless printing from various devices, including smartphones and tablets.

Cons:

• No Automatic Duplex Printing: Requires manual flipping for two-sided printing, which can be inconvenient for multi-page documents.
• No Auto Document Feeder (ADF): Scanning or copying multiple pages requires placing each sheet individually on the flatbed, significantly slowing down the process.
• Basic LCD Screen: The segmented LCD is less advanced than an OLED display, offering less visual clarity and navigation ease.
• Slower Print Speeds: While adequate for home use, 7.7/4.0 ipm is slower than many mid-range printers.
• Potential Blank Page Issue: Multiple customer reviews mention an unexplained blank sheet cycling out, which could be a software or minor hardware quirk.

Customer Reviews:
The customer reviews for the Canon PIXMA TS3720 reveal a consistent theme: ease of setup balanced with a peculiar printing quirk. One user’s experience captures the sentiment perfectly: “for an inexpensive printer, it was simple to set-up, but i cannot figure out why it always has a blank sheet when printing anything, from 1 page to multiple. it always cycles out a single page at the end. it was a quick buy to replace the printer and get it up and running fast. had a little troub.” The repeated nature of this review suggests that while the printer is celebrated for its affordability and quick setup, this blank page issue is a notable recurring concern. Despite this, the overall impression for those needing a quick, simple replacement printer remains positive due to its straightforward installation and basic functionality.

Best for:
The Canon PIXMA TS3720 is perfectly suited for casual home users, students on a budget, or anyone with very limited space who needs a straightforward, affordable, and easy-to-use all-in-one printer for occasional printing, scanning, and copying tasks. If your printing volume is low, you don’t frequently handle multi-page documents, and advanced features like ADF or duplex printing aren’t a priority, then the TS3720 offers excellent value for its core capabilities and convenient wireless operation.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Now that we’ve taken a deep dive into each printer individually, let’s put the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All and the Canon PIXMA TS3720 side-by-side to highlight their key differences across various critical aspects. This head-to-head comparison will help you visualize which model pulls ahead in specific scenarios and aligns better with your particular printing demands.

Display and User Interface

The first thing you’ll notice when interacting with these printers is their display. The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All boasts a vibrant 1.44” OLED DISPLAY & LED STATUS BAR. This is a significant advantage. OLED technology offers brighter colors, deeper blacks, and wider viewing angles compared to traditional LCDs, making menu navigation clearer and more pleasant. The added LED status bar is a thoughtful touch, providing immediate visual feedback on the printer’s state. It’s like having a quick glance indicator that tells you if everything is running smoothly or if attention is needed.

In contrast, the Canon PIXMA TS3720 features a 1.5″ segmented LCD screen. While functional and perfectly adequate for basic operations like selecting copy settings or checking Wi-Fi status, it’s a simpler display. Segmented LCDs typically show numbers and pre-defined icons, lacking the graphical richness and clarity of an OLED screen. This means menu navigation might be slightly less intuitive, relying more on buttons to cycle through options. For users who value a modern, clear interface and easy troubleshooting, the TR7020a All clearly wins in this category. For those who just need to push a button and print, the TS3720’s display is perfectly serviceable.

Document Handling and Productivity Features

This is perhaps the most significant differentiator between the two models. The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All is designed with productivity in mind, offering both an Auto Document Feeder (ADF) and Automatic Duplex Printing. The ADF is a game-changer for anyone who regularly needs to scan or copy multi-page documents. Instead of manually lifting the lid and placing each page on the scanner glass, you can load a stack of originals (e.g., a 20-page contract) into the ADF, and the printer will process them all in sequence. This saves a tremendous amount of time and effort. Similarly, automatic duplex printing allows the printer to print on both sides of a sheet of paper without manual intervention, which is not only environmentally friendly by saving paper but also crucial for creating professional-looking double-sided documents effortlessly.

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 lacks both of these advanced document handling features. If you need to copy or scan multiple pages, you will have to place each page individually on the flatbed scanner. For two-sided printing, you’ll need to print one side, then manually flip and re-feed the pages to print the other side, which can be cumbersome and prone to errors. This makes the TS3720 less suitable for tasks involving high volumes of multi-page documents, such as school reports, tax documents, or small business invoices. For casual users who only occasionally scan or print single pages, this might not be an issue, but for anyone with even moderate document management needs, the TR7020a All offers a vastly superior experience. The TR7020a All also adds fax functionality, making it a more complete “home office” solution.

Print Speed and Paper Capacity

While specific print speeds for the TR7020a All aren’t explicitly detailed in the provided features, it’s generally understood that models equipped with ADF and duplex printing are positioned for higher efficiency. The Canon PIXMA TS3720 provides specific metrics: 7.7 ipm (black) and 4.0 ipm (color). These speeds are typical for an entry-level home printer and are perfectly acceptable for occasional use. However, if you frequently print larger documents or multiple copies, the TR7020a All is likely to offer faster overall throughput, especially when utilizing its duplex capabilities.

In terms of paper capacity, the TS3720 has a 60-sheet rear tray. The TR7020a All also uses a rear tray, though its specific capacity isn’t mentioned in the product description. Typically, printers in the TR7020a All’s class would have a slightly larger capacity, perhaps 100 sheets, to complement its higher productivity features. A rear tray is often preferred for its versatility in handling different paper types and sizes, including photo paper and thicker stock, but a higher capacity means fewer interruptions for refills.

Ink System and Print Quality

Both printers utilize a 2-cartridge FINE Hybrid Ink System, which is a common setup for Canon’s home inkjet printers. This system typically involves one cartridge for pigment black ink (for sharp text) and another tri-color cartridge for dye-based colors (for vibrant photos). This ensures good quality for both documents and images. The pigment black produces crisp, smudge-resistant text, making legal documents and reports look professional. The dye-based colors, on the other hand, are excellent for photographs, offering rich and vivid hues.

The primary difference here is not necessarily in the quality of the ink system itself, but rather in the overall feature set that complements it. While both can produce good prints, the TR7020a All’s overall capabilities, particularly for document handling, suggest it’s geared towards more consistent and potentially higher-volume output of quality documents. The TS3720 also offers Borderless Printing, which is a nice feature for photos, allowing prints without white margins. The TR7020a All also supports borderless printing. For sheer print quality of text and standard photos, both will deliver satisfying results for general home use.

Design, Footprint, and Aesthetics

Canon has clearly designed both printers with home environments in mind, focusing on relatively compact form factors. The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All is described as having a COMPACT & STYLISH DESIGN and comes in a white finish. This lighter color scheme and sleeker lines are intended to blend harmoniously with modern home decor, often perceived as less intrusive than darker office equipment. Despite its advanced features like ADF, it manages to maintain a relatively small footprint.

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 also emphasizes a small footprint, which is a major selling point for those with truly cramped spaces. It comes in a classic black finish, a more traditional printer color. While both are compact, the TS3720, by virtue of having fewer bulky components (no ADF, no duplex mechanism), is likely to be marginally smaller and lighter. If every inch of desk space counts, and a minimalistic, no-frills design is preferred, the TS3720 might have a slight edge. However, the TR7020a All manages to pack more punch into a similar, if slightly larger, stylish package.

Connectivity and Setup Experience

Both printers excel in EASY SETUP and offer robust wireless connectivity. This is a common strength across modern Canon PIXMA printers. You can connect them via high-speed USB or wirelessly from computers and mobile devices. Both support printing from smartphones and tablets, which is essential for today’s users. The initial setup process for both is designed to be streamlined and hassle-free, often guided by companion apps that walk you through connecting to your Wi-Fi network.

The TR7020a All’s 1.44” OLED display might make navigating the wireless setup menus slightly more pleasant than the TS3720’s 1.5″ segmented LCD, but both offer clear instructions. Customer reviews for both printers confirm that setting them up and getting them connected to Wi-Fi and mobile devices is generally straightforward. This ensures that regardless of which printer you choose, getting it operational won’t be a frustrating experience.

Value for Money and Target Audience

The Canon PIXMA TS3720 is positioned as a more budget-friendly, entry-level option. Its lower price point reflects its simpler feature set, making it an attractive choice for students, very light home users, or as a secondary printer. Its value lies in providing essential all-in-one functionality at an accessible price, without the added cost of features you might not need.

The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All, while still affordable, will likely sit at a slightly higher price point due to its advanced features. Its value comes from the significant productivity enhancements: ADF, automatic duplex printing, and a superior display. For anyone in a home office, a small business, or a student with heavier document management needs, the added investment in the TR7020a All will quickly pay off in terms of time saved and increased efficiency. It offers a more complete and sophisticated experience for a slightly higher, but justified, cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What’s the main difference in functionality between the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All and TS3720?

A: The primary difference lies in document handling and office-centric features. The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All includes an Auto Document Feeder (ADF) for scanning/copying multiple pages automatically, and Automatic Duplex Printing for two-sided printing without manual intervention. It also has fax capabilities. The Canon PIXMA TS3720 lacks these features, meaning multi-page scans/copies and two-sided printing require manual effort. The TR7020a All also features a more advanced OLED display compared to the TS3720’s segmented LCD.

Q: Which printer is better for a home office with frequent document scanning?

A: Without a doubt, the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All is superior for frequent document scanning due to its Auto Document Feeder (ADF). This feature allows you to load a stack of papers and have them scanned automatically, saving immense time and effort compared to placing each page individually on the flatbed scanner, which is what you’d have to do with the TS3720.

Q: I’m a student on a budget and mostly print essays. Which Canon PIXMA should I choose?

A: For a budget-conscious student primarily printing essays and occasional documents, the Canon PIXMA TS3720 is likely the more cost-effective choice. It provides reliable basic printing, scanning, and copying, and its compact size is ideal for small dorm rooms or study areas. While it lacks automatic duplex printing, manually flipping pages for essays isn’t too cumbersome if printing volume isn’t extremely high. However, if you regularly print long, double-sided research papers, the TR7020a All’s duplex feature might be worth the extra investment.

Q: How do their displays differ, and does it matter?

A: Yes, the displays differ significantly and can impact user experience. The Canon PIXMA TR7020a All has a 1.44” OLED DISPLAY & LED STATUS BAR, offering a crisp, clear, and vibrant interface for easier navigation and status checks. The Canon PIXMA TS3720 uses a 1.5″ segmented LCD screen, which is more basic, displaying text and icons rather than full graphics. While both are functional, the OLED display on the TR7020a All provides a more modern and user-friendly interaction.

Q: Are the ink costs comparable for both printers?

A: Both the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All and the Canon PIXMA TS3720 utilize a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system (one black, one tri-color). This means their ink costs per page are generally comparable, as they use similar cartridge types and technology. As with most inkjet printers, the cost of replacement ink cartridges can add up over time, so it’s always wise to factor this into your long-term budget. You can usually find the same ink cartridge models compatible with both, ensuring similar pricing.

Q: Which printer is more compact for a very small desk?

A: Both printers are designed with compactness in mind. The Canon PIXMA TS3720 explicitly highlights its “small footprint” and generally, printers without an ADF tend to be slightly smaller and lighter. While the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All is also compact, its integrated ADF will add a bit to its overall dimensions. If absolute minimal size is your top priority for an extremely tiny space, the TS3720 might have a marginal edge.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Deciding between the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All and the Canon PIXMA TS3720 ultimately boils down to your specific needs, printing volume, and budget. Both are excellent all-in-one wireless inkjet printers from a reputable brand, but they cater to slightly different user profiles.

If you are a home office warrior, a small business owner, or a busy student who frequently deals with multi-page documents, scanning stacks of papers, or needs to print double-sided reports automatically, the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All is the clear winner. Its Auto Document Feeder (ADF), automatic duplex printing, and superior OLED display are significant productivity boosters that will save you time and frustration. The added fax capability and stylish white design make it a more comprehensive and aesthetically pleasing office companion. The slight premium in price is a worthwhile investment for its enhanced capabilities and smoother workflow. It’s built to handle more demanding tasks with greater efficiency and a touch of modern convenience.

On the other hand, if you are a casual home user, a budget-conscious student with light printing needs, or someone with extremely limited desk space, the Canon PIXMA TS3720 offers fantastic value. It provides essential print, copy, and scan functions in a very compact, easy-to-set-up package. While it lacks the advanced document handling features of its counterpart, its straightforward operation, reliable wireless connectivity, and affordable price make it an excellent choice for occasional printing, simple school projects, or family photos. Just be mindful of the reported blank page issue in some customer reviews, though this may be a minor software quirk. Its small footprint and energy efficiency are definite pluses for minimalist setups.

In summary, the Canon PIXMA TR7020a All is for those who need a more robust, feature-rich, and efficient printer for higher productivity and versatile document management. The Canon PIXMA TS3720 is for users who prioritize affordability, simplicity, and a minimal footprint for basic, occasional printing needs.

Consider your daily printing habits carefully. Do you value convenience and advanced features like automatic multi-page scanning and double-sided printing, or are you looking for the most straightforward and budget-friendly option for infrequent use? Your answer will guide you to the perfect Canon PIXMA for your home.