Canon Pixma MP480, MP190 expand budget-friendly printing options

Canon has added to its Pixma multifunction printer/scanner all-in-ones today with the official launch of the Pixma MP480 and Pixma MP190.

The MP480 combines high-res scanning and both photo and general printing capabilities in a single moderately priced device. Text printing is accomplished at up to 20 ppm in black and white, or 16 ppm in color. In addition to its versatile home office printing capabilities, the MP480 can produce borderless 4x6 photos in less than a minute per print.

Auto Scan Mode functionality expands the MP480's ease of use in scanning documents, automatically identifying the document being scanned from a list of several common options (including business card, magazine, and postcard), cropping the scan, and even choosing the most appropriate file type (either JPEG or PDF).

The Pixma MP480 will hit stores with an estimated retail price around $100. Add an additional $50 for optional Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

For those seeking an all-in-one for well under $100, Canon also announced plans to bring the Pixma MP190 to retail markets in the near term.

The MP190 combines a maximum print resolution of up to 4800x1200 dpi with an ultra-small two picoliter ink droplet size for impressive photo-res image quality. As with the MP480, text printing speeds of 19 ppm black and 15 ppm color make the MP190 suitable for general home or office use as well.

On the scanning side, the MP190's Advanced Z-Lid allows larger commonly scanned items including books to be easily held down for clear scanning.

Best of all, the Pixma MP190 is expected to sell for around $70. No word yet on when we'll see either of these new devices on store shelves, however.