The Contenders
We ended up with 8 models: three from Canon, two Epsons, two from HP, and the Z816 from Lexmark. Here's a summary of the main characteristics of each model.
Canon Pixma IP2000
Despite a limited number of functions and only a single color ink tank, the Pixma iP2000 has quite a lot going for it. First is its speed, which is one of the best of the models costing under $99. Its quality is also good, which comes from Canon's experience and its bubble-jet technology, which lets it use color ink droplets as small as two picoliters.
Canon Pixma IP4000
We had originally decided to test the Pixma iP4000R version, which offers both Wi-Fi and Ethernet interfaces. However, these interfaces have a significant effect on cost, which then surpasses the $200 mark. We decided on the Pixma iP4000 instead, which is another product that's fairly stripped down in terms of functions, but with remarkable performance and excellent output quality.
Canon Pixma IP5000
We might have stopped with the two printers mentioned above, but it would have been a shame to pass over the iP5000. While keeping its price reasonable, Canon made the iP5000 the first printer capable of using onepicoliter droplets. It's an opportunity to see if the new technology makes a real difference in terms of quality or economy of use.
Epson Stylus C66 Photo Edition
As we mentioned previously, the Stylus C66 Photo Edition is not officially a "photo" printer, using only four inks and having no memory slots. Yet there are valid arguments for putting it in this class: it's the only one to use solid inks (Durabrite technology), which gives its output greater resistance to humidity and fading over time. It also operates with separate color cartridges.
