Review: Canon Pixma MP600R multi-function device

Canon has introduced a raft of new Pixma multi-function devices (MFD). Towards the higher end of the price spectrum is the Pixma MP600R, which can print, scan and copy and comes with both wireless and wired network connections and a built in 'Duplexer' for doubled-sided printing.

The Canon MP600R is a five-ink model that uses Canon’s latest ChromaLife100 technology to produce longer lasting prints.

It has a maximum print resolution of 9600 x 2400dpi while the scanner has a maximum optical resolution of 2400 x 4800dpi.

The MP600R is a stylish-looking MFD finished in silver and high gloss black, with a drop down panel at the front forming the paper output tray. There are two paper input feeds; the fold out rear sheet feeder holds around 150 sheets as does the paper cartridge in the base of the printer. Also in the box is a DVD/CD tray enabling printing on optical media.

Sitting behind a panel on the front is a memory card reader that supports all the usual formats. Underneath this is a PictBridge socket, allowing direct printing from a compatible camera or camcorder.

Flipping up a panel on the top of the printer reveals the control functions, including the new Canon Easy-Scroll wheel which, together with the 6.3cm screen, allows you to print, scan and copy without a computer.

To access the print head and cartridges, the whole top unit (including the scanner) has to be raised and held in place by perhaps the sturdiest strut you'll find in a printer; no fear of the printer lid snapping shut.

Red lights signify that new print cartridges are properly in place and will blink when they need replacing.

As usual, Canon bundle a decent amount of software, including MP Navigator, Easy-WebPrint (Windows only), Easy-PhotoPrint, CD LabelPrint, ScanSoft OmniPage SE (OCR software), ArcSoft PhotoStudio.

We recorded text pages as printing at almost ten per minute and a top-quality A4 photo at just under 60 seconds. Switch it to fast mode, though, and you'll get three A4 colour prints per minute. Print quality is impressive for a MFD too.

The MP600R is a great all-rounder that's expensive but proves it worth in terms of speed, print quality and usability.

Also consider
Brother MFC-440CN
A mid-range entry from Brother’s new all-in-one range

Canon Pixma MP160
A good general-purpose multi-function device for under £40

Lexmark X3480
Another take on the budget all-in-one printer from Lexmark, but is it a big improvement?

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