The Canon PIXMA G3570 (known as the MegaTank G3270 in the U.S.) is a budget-friendly all-in-one inkjet printer designed for home use. This article provides an in-depth analysis of its features, specifications, setup process, and performance, helping you determine if this printer is the right choice for your needs.
Key Features and Specifications
Printer Type and Output
The Canon PIXMA G3570 is a color inkjet printer utilizing Canon’s FINE print head technology. Designed to handle basic home printing needs, it offers reliable color and monochrome output with a notable focus on cost-efficiency.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Print Resolution | Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Color: ~32 seconds/page; Mono: ~11 seconds/page |
| Ink Type | Refillable GI-51 ink tanks |
| Connectivity | USB, 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi, Wireless Direct |
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Connectivity and Compatibility
The PIXMA G3570 supports both USB and Wi-Fi connections, providing flexibility for mobile and cloud printing. Compatible with both Apple AirPrint and Android’s Mopria Print Service, it offers seamless integration across devices and platforms.
Duplex Printing
This model supports manual duplex printing, which requires users to manually reinsert pages to print on both sides. While this is not as convenient as automatic duplex printing, it’s a suitable option for occasional double-sided printing.
Paper Handling and Capacity
The rear-loading paper tray accommodates up to 100 sheets of plain paper. However, the absence of a front paper tray could make the printer vulnerable to dust accumulation.
Unboxing and Setup
The Canon PIXMA G3570 setup is straightforward, with the printer and essential accessories neatly packed. Included in the box are:
- PIXMA G3570 Printer
- 4 ink bottles (135ml black, and 70ml cyan, magenta, yellow)
- 2 print heads
- Power cord
- Manuals and setup documentation
The setup process is intuitive, especially when following Canon’s online instructions via a QR code. Users need to attach the print heads, fill the ink tanks, and configure the Wi-Fi connection. The initial ink setup takes approximately 7 minutes, after which the printer is ready for use.
Design and Build Quality
The PIXMA G3570 features a compact, lightweight design that makes it easy to move or reposition. Weighing approximately 6 kg (13.2 lbs), it’s relatively portable. The exterior is simple, though the matte plastic surface is prone to fingerprint smudges. The 1.35-inch monochrome LCD display provides basic control options, complemented by physical buttons for adjusting settings and initiating scans.
Advantages of the Design
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to move and handle.
- Simple Control Panel: Accessible for everyday use, though limited for advanced configurations.
- Good Connectivity Options: Wi-Fi connectivity on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands allows efficient printing from mobile devices and cloud services.
Printing Performance
Print Quality
The Canon PIXMA G3570 delivers satisfactory print quality for both color and monochrome documents. Colors appear vibrant without significant bleeding, while gradients are well-represented. Monochrome prints retain clarity, even in small fonts.
Print Speed
Although not designed for high-speed printing, the PIXMA G3570 performs reasonably well for light-duty tasks. The average times recorded are as follows:
- Color prints: Approximately 32 seconds per page.
- Monochrome prints: Around 11 seconds per page.
The noise level during operation may be noticeable, especially in quieter environments, which could be a drawback for users sensitive to noise.
Ink Efficiency and Running Costs
Canon’s MegaTank technology ensures low operating costs, as the refillable ink tanks offer a high page yield:
- Black ink yield: Up to 6,000 pages
- Color ink yield: Up to 7,700 pages
The cost per page is exceptionally low, with black-and-white pages costing around $0.003 and color pages around $0.005. These costs make the PIXMA G3570 an economical choice for users who print frequently.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Low Running Costs: Cost-effective MegaTank technology for refilling ink.
- Good Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi for mobile printing and voice assistant compatibility.
- Simple Setup: User-friendly instructions and app-based control.
Cons
- Limited Print Speed: Slow for high-volume printing.
- Small Display and Control Panel: Basic LCD display and fixed-position buttons.
- No Automatic Duplex: Manual duplex printing required.
Final Verdict: Is the Canon PIXMA G3570 Worth It?
The Canon PIXMA G3570/G3270 is an affordable solution for users with basic home printing needs. While it lacks high-end features such as automatic duplexing and a front paper tray, its low running costs, ease of use, and versatile connectivity make it a valuable addition to any home office. For users prioritizing budget and economy, this model stands out as a top contender among entry-level inkjet printers.