Quick Answer
For most home users who print regularly and want a single device for scanning and copying, the Canon PIXMA E560 is the better all-round choice. If you rarely need color documents and want the smallest, cheapest option, the TR160 is worth a look—but be ready for its limitations.
What Sets the E560 and TR160 Apart?
The Canon PIXMA E560 is a traditional inkjet all-in-one that prints, scans, and copies. It's built for people who need more than just printing—like students and home offices that occasionally scan a document or make a copy. With an A4 print speed of up to 9.9ipm in mono and 5.7ipm in color, it handles everyday documents without keeping you waiting.
The TR160, on the other hand, is a compact printer that focuses on printing only. It has no scanner or copier, which makes it lighter and easier to tuck into a small space. If you already have a separate scanner or rarely need copies, the TR160 can save you money upfront—but you'll need to plan for those tasks another way.
Cost and Ink Considerations
Both printers are budget-friendly, but the E560 typically costs more upfront. That price difference buys you scan and copy functions, plus faster mono printing. The TR160 may have a lower sticker price, but its ink cartridges can be smaller, which might mean more frequent replacements if you print a lot.
Before you decide, think about your monthly page volume. If you print only a few pages a week, the TR160's compact size and lower initial cost could be enough. If you print more often or need to scan and copy, the E560's versatility often makes the extra cost worthwhile.
How to Decide: E560 or TR160?
- Choose the E560 if you need to scan or copy: The E560 includes a scanner and copier, so you can handle those tasks without a separate device. The TR160 cannot scan or copy at all. If you've borrowed a friend's scanner more than twice in the past year, the E560 is the safer bet.
- Choose the TR160 if you only print and value compact size: If your workspace is tight and you never scan or copy, the TR160's smaller footprint and lower price make sense. It's a pure printer. Remember to budget for a separate scanner or use a smartphone scanning app if you go this route.
- Choose the E560 for faster mono printing: With A4 mono speeds up to 9.9ipm, the E560 prints text documents quicker than the TR160. If you print multi-page reports or essays, this saves time. For high-volume text printing, the E560's speed advantage adds up over a year.
Key Specs at a Glance
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PIXMA E560: The PIXMA E560 prints, scans, and copies, with A4 ISO standard speeds up to 9.9ipm in mono and 5.7ipm in color. You get a true all-in-one for home tasks, and the mono speed is fast enough for everyday text documents without slowing you down.
PIXMA E560
Who Should Buy Which?
Best for
- Students or home users who need print, scan, and copy in one device
- Home offices that print text documents regularly and value speed
Not for
- Those who only print occasionally and want the smallest, cheapest printer
- Users who need borderless photo printing or advanced connectivity features
