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Ease of Use (8.00)
The MP600’s very simple design makes it an easy multifunction unit to operate. Paper fits neatly in the hidden cassette, which opens and closes smoothly. On-unit buttons and controls are kept basic and thoughtfully placed.
The ink cartridges install and replace with no fuss, and the LEDs on the cartridges are helpful to determine which cartridges are low on ink. The printer driver and the Remaining Ink button on the main menu of the unit allow quick reference for checking the status of ink levels. More detailed and accurate graphics for ink levels would be a great improvement. The on-unit menu is easy to navigate and the necessary functions are included.
While the MP600 does lag behind some competitors in document speed, it prints 4x6 photos at a respectable time, especially considering the printer’s resolution. This Canon can print at 9600 x 2400 dpi while the Photosmart 5180, for example, has a maximum output resolution half of that, at 4800 x 1200 dpi.
One of the MP600’s best features is also its least noticeable aspect. The unit operates very quietly, especially compared with comparable models like the noisy HP Photosmart 5180. The Quiet Mode reduces the noise level even further, but it hardly seems necessary.
One of the highlights of the MP600 is the simple, on-unit controls which are easy to operate. The functions can’t be conducted simultaneously, but that's to be expected with an all-in-one printer in this class. For example, an image can’t be scanned while printing. Printing is done first, then you have to press the scan button again.
Value (7.5)
For a multiple function printer, the Canon Pixma MP600 is a good buy at $179. It’s at the top of its category—mid-range photo all-in-one printers—for Canon units. The next unit up, the MP800, features a CCD sensor for the scanner, which is the main difference. So if you just need to occasionally scan or copy documents, then the MP600 may be the unit you’re looking for.
Comparisons
The Pixma MP600 stacks up strongly against other all-in-one photo printers in its price class. Having all the functionality of the HP Photosmart C5180 and Kodak Easyshare 5300, the Canon still sells for $20 less than these two models. In addition, the MP600 produces better qaulity prints, both documents and photos. It does lag behind in some print speed areas, but this is a small price to pay for increased quality. The interface--controls, display, and menus--is much better, more intuitive and easier to use than the other two models. The software programs are also much more user-friendly; there is a wider range of control, basic to semi-advanced. It’s relatively low power usage is a plus for the energy conscious consumer.
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