Canon Pixma MX300
Manufacturer: Canon USA Part number: 2182B002
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- If you work in a one-person office and are on a tight budget, the Pixma MX300 is a good fit; you won't find better quality output from comparably priced all-in-one inkjets. You'll need to keep shopping, however, if you need built-in networking or fast prints.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Once you know, you Newegg! |  | In stock Your destination to Windows 7 | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 12/08/2009 |
 | | In stock | as of 12/08/2009 |
CNET editors' review
Canon Pixma MX300 price range: $74.99 - $116.37
- Reviewed by: Felisa Yang
- Edited by: Matthew Elliott
- Reviewed on: 09/17/2007
- Released on: 08/21/2007
The good: Excellent print and scan quality; fast photo prints; inexpensive; lots of capacity options when it comes time to replace the ink; memory can store incoming faxes for later.
The bad: Slower than the competition at most tasks; not network-ready; no ADF; no memory card slots; LCD is not backlit.
The bottom line: If you work in a one-person office and are on a tight budget, the Pixma MX300 is a good fit; you won't find better quality output from comparably priced all-in-one inkjets. You'll need to keep shopping, however, if you need built-in networking or fast prints.
The Pixma MX300 is Canon's entry-level, office-oriented all-in-one inkjet offering. At $100, we didn't expect too much in terms of performance, but we were pleasantly surprised: while it wasn't the fastest $100 all-in-one we've tested, it made up for it with high-quality prints and scans. It's not network-ready, so if you're in a multiperson office, it's not your best bet, and it lacks an automatic document feeder (ADF), which means batch scans, copies, and faxes will be laborious. If you need an ADF, take a look at the Lexmark X5470, and if you must have a network-ready all-in-one, the Lexmark X4550 fits the bill. Both Lexmark units will also get you faster print speeds (except with photos), but the Canon MX300 beats the pants off both when it comes to print quality.
Design
The Canon Pixma MX300 is rather large for an inexpensive all-in-one. It sits 18.4 inches wide, 17.3 inches deep, and 6.9 inches tall, but weighs a light 15.5 pounds. The light-gray-and-black unit lacks an automatic document feeder, which is uncommon for office-oriented multifunctions, but not surprising given its low price. It's the only one of Canon's office all-in-ones that doesn't offer an ADF. The scanner lid conceals an A4 size scanner, and without an ADF, A4 is the largest size original you can scan. This printer lacks memory card slots, but does offer a PictBridge-enabled USB port for PictBridge-compliant cameras, camcorders, and camera phones.
The paper handling is simple and straightforward. A paper input support unfolds from the top-rear edge of the printer and holds up to 100 sheets of plain paper. A flap folds out from the printer's front panel to serve as the output tray.
The control panel is clean and straightforward. A two-line text LCD is the center point of the control panel, but it's not backlit, which means it's hard to read in low light. Three task buttons let you switch between copy, fax, and scan tasks. A menu button and menu navigation buttons let you peruse your options. Two buttons are dedicated to changing copy settings and fax quality. An alphanumeric keypad and start and stop/reset buttons round out the panel.
The Pixma MX300 uses a two-tank ink system: one black and one tricolor cartridge. Canon offers three size options for each tank. The printer ships with the middle capacity black and color tanks, which cost $20 and $25 to replace, respectively. If you anticipate printing more often, you can upgrade to the high-capacity tanks, which cost $30 and $35, respectively. If, on the other hand, you're just an occasional printer, the low-capacity versions are cheaper: $16 and $20, respectively. Canon's estimates for per-page costs are 3 cents for black-only and 10 cents for full-color--very reasonable for a low-cost all-in-one printer.
Features
The Canon Pixma MX300 offers only a USB connection, so it's ideal for single-user offices. It is compatible with both Macs and Windows PCs, however. The task options on this multifunction printer are standard for a model at this price point. When copying, you can reduce/enlarge between 25 percent and 400 percent. Special copy options include sticker copy, image repeat, 2-on-1 and 4-on-1, borderless, and frame erase copy. Frame erase applies in situations where the item being copied is smaller than the intended paper (a book, for example). Instead of printing the extra area as black, the printer ignores it, thus preventing the waste of black ink.
The walk-up scan abilities on this printer are nonexistent. Although the control panel offers a scan task button, once you press Start, the printer causes the MP Navigator EX software to launch on your PC. You'll have to click the Scan button in the software to actually start the scan. However, the MP Navigator EX is an easy-to-use program that lets you change scan resolution, specify the type of document you're scanning (photo, document, magazine, and so on), and then make edits to the resulting scan. Save As options include JPEG, TIFF, BMP, and PDF, and you can choose where to save the file. The program also lets you attach the scanned file to an e-mail. The one scan feature the MX300 lacks is the ability to scan directly into a software program such as Paint or Word. You'll have to scan, save, and then manually open the file in the program you want to use.
Although the MX300 lacks one-touch speed dials, you can register up to 20 commonly dialed fax numbers with two-digit coded speed dials. If you can't keep track of all 20 numbers in your head, the MX300 will let you print a list of the registered numbers. You can't send fax blasts or schedule delayed faxes on this unit--not surprising for an entry-level multifunction. You can, however, receive faxes into memory (i.e., store instead of print) if you disable the auto print options, or if the printer is out of ink, the paper tray is empty or has the wrong paper in it, or if the output tray is closed. The control panel will indicate that you have stored faxes in memory, and you can either print them or print a list of the stored faxes.
The front-mounted USB port lets you print pictures directly from PictBridge cameras, but as this is an office-oriented machine, we'd like to see support for storage devices such as USB thumbdrives.
Performance
In CNET Labs' tests, the Canon Pixma MX300 was a middle-of-the-pack performer among comparably priced office all-in-ones, with the exception of photo printing. It scored 6.32 pages per minute with text printing, behind two Lexmark models: the X5470 and the X4550. When printing color graphics, it scored 1.45 pages per minute, right between both Lexmarks. It blew away the competition, though, when printing 4x6 photos, with a score of 1.06 pages per minute, doubling the performance of the next fastest. With scans, it was again in the middle: 4.50 pages per minute for grayscale and 4.42 pages per minute for color.
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
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Color scan | |
Grayscale scan | |
4x6 Photo | |
Graphics | |
Text |
The Pixma MX300's print quality was pleasing overall. The black text was nicely dark, sharp, and the characters were cleanly formed--very impressive for a $100 all-in-one. The color graphics print showed great color reproduction, satisfying saturation, smooth color gradients, and sharp, detailed photo elements. The 4x6 photo print showed sharp details, though the colors ran a bit cool and some graininess marred faces.
The grayscale scan showed good, sharp reproduction of details and patterns. The color scan showed great color reproduction and sharp details, though it had a bit of trouble with barcode-style patterns. Overall, the Canon Pixma MX300's task quality is very impressive, particularly when you consider its low price.
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
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Color scan | |
Grayscale scan | |
Photo | |
Graphics | |
Text |
Service and support
The service and support section for this particular printer on Canon's site isn't up yet. We do know that it's backed by a one-year warranty, standard for consumer-level printers. Toll-free phone support is available weekdays from 8 a.m. to midnight and on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. Also, e-mail support is available via a Web-based form. We expect this model will have the same online support options as Canon's other printers, including downloadable drivers and software, manuals, and FAQs.
User reviews
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Canon Good Stuff!
by pfloyd63 on November 15, 2008
Pros: I am very pleased with this printer. I have always liked canon. Nice prints. Fairly speedy, inexpensive inks with a number of options for purchase.
For $45 at Walmart you can't go wrong.Cons: Pictures do not print as well as a higher end model might. Does not come with a USB cable.
Summary: If you need a printer for everyday use. This just might be the one!
Summary: If you need a printer for everyday use. This just might be the one!
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Buying # of cartridges costs more than your gas bill.
by Ca11MeLatr on November 9, 2008
Pros: Color prints are beautiful, and black print is crisp.
Cons: I am not exaggerating about the small ink cartridges. I wrote a research paper and printed out supporting documentation. Not once but TWICE, the black ink cartridge lasted TWO DAYS. I got this free (rebate) and it is STILL not paying for itself.
Summary: For a relatively large printer, the ink cartridges are sized for a portable. I intend to buy another printer, and am glad I received a 100% rebate for this one. ...
Summary: For a relatively large printer, the ink cartridges are sized for a portable. I intend to buy another printer, and am glad I received a 100% rebate for this one. The size of the ink tanks is its only (HUGE!) drawback.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Junk. Junk. Junk!
by wolfproctor on April 16, 2008
Pros: It worked for three weeks.
Cons: It worked for three weeks.
Summary: A shoddy product I received as a well-intentioned gift for college. Ink was cheap enough, and while it worked it did indeed print beautiful copies. I wasn't pleased with ...
Summary: A shoddy product I received as a well-intentioned gift for college. Ink was cheap enough, and while it worked it did indeed print beautiful copies. I wasn't pleased with how the paper loaded, and scans were sometimes incomplete. After about three weeks of use, after printing maybe twenty copies, it tanked. The paper feed failed, the USB became glitchy and unstable, and I started getting streaks and smears right before it refused to work anymore. I took it back with the gift receipt and used the store credit for an HP, which has worked flawlessly. I was not impressed with this product, and I am wondering why Canon has sunk to such low quality in their printers.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Has worked perfectly for a year.
by rappingranny on November 8, 2009
Pros: the flatbed scnner. Scanning quality is great.
Cons: Ink is expensive, but I just found out I can order it online cheaper than buying it in the store.
Summary: It was inexpensive and it is attractive.
Summary: It was inexpensive and it is attractive.
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Good printer for the price,but no Linux support
by teixidoj on May 5, 2009
Pros: Most of all is the price.
Cons: Not network ready. No drivers/software for Linux
Summary: Good printer for the price if you are only using a windows operating system, if you decide to use Linux or both, you will not be able to use all ...
Summary: Good printer for the price if you are only using a windows operating system, if you decide to use Linux or both, you will not be able to use all the functions with Linux.
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stopped working in 1 month
by mab357 on April 27, 2009
Pros: can't tell you i like the product
Cons: It's useless. 1 month after purchase it's stopped turning on. Can't find a troubleshooting guide. It won't turn on to check the inbuilt manual. It may be an inexpensive product and that has definatly shown itself by its early demise
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SOLID performer
by ddog6469 on December 4, 2008
Pros: $45!!!!!!
does everything you can imagine
great photo prints
prints quickCons: no backlit LCD
Summary: For $45 at wal-mart NO other brand can match that for what it does. Great printer all around
Summary: For $45 at wal-mart NO other brand can match that for what it does. Great printer all around
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Scan quality is AWFUL, buy an Epson!
by brockly19 on October 6, 2008
Pros: Print quality appears to be quite good
Cons: Scan quality is really terrible, with poor resolution and colour saturation
Summary: Bought this as a cheap quick solution for a bit of colour printing and scanning (my scanner has fits every now and then). No problems with print quality so far ...
Summary: Bought this as a cheap quick solution for a bit of colour printing and scanning (my scanner has fits every now and then). No problems with print quality so far but the scan quality is an absolute joke. My five year old Epson scanner has a scan quality 100 times better than the Canon Pixma MX300, even limping along on it's last legs! The Pixma has a higher listed resolution, but it really cannot scan at 600dpi. Images are terribly pixelated and not true colour ... after playing with all of the settings I can't get a better result. I have used a sub $100 Epson all-in-one which had far superior scan quality and speed. Don't buy this product if you need to use the scanner, Canon just cannot make a decent cheap scanner.
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This is a great inexpensive all arounder.
by rblyth on May 10, 2008
Pros: Inexpensive and easy to use.
Cons: Maybe too cheap to be that good.
Summary: Looking for something that will do everything - then look no futher. This little printer will do just that. Works fine and does everything I need. Although I do have ...
Summary: Looking for something that will do everything - then look no futher. This little printer will do just that. Works fine and does everything I need. Although I do have an 8 tank professionl printer for the BIG important jobs, but I use this one for everyday use. I love it.
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best all in one i have found in awhile
by tomahgrl on March 6, 2008
Pros: multi-function, affordable,high quality prints
Cons: Uses ink really fast,Bulky
Summary: I have went thru alot of printers in the last five years. thay all happened to be lexmark.Never again! i had a hp all in one and loved it. ...
Summary: I have went thru alot of printers in the last five years. thay all happened to be lexmark.Never again! i had a hp all in one and loved it. But i thought i would try this one.Iam very happy with it. Doest make the most crisp photos. but i have a photo printer for that. very reasonable priced. i highly recommend.Great for home.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Canon USA
- Part number: 2182B002
- Description: For work and play, here's the perfect 5-in-1. You'll produce life-like photos with resolution up to 4800 x 1200 color dpi - and quickly, too. You can also print photos directly from a camera DV camcorder or camera phone, without a computer. Your documents will feature bold, laser-quality text, and copies will be remarkably true to your originals. This all-in-one produces 600-dpi scans with vibrant 48-bit color depth. Plus, it achieves Super G3 fax speed in color and B&W, and its memory can store 20 speed dial codes and receive 50 incoming pages.
General
- Copier Type Digital
- Fax Type Plain paper
- Printing Technology Ink-jet - Color - Photo printer
- Width 18.4 in
- Depth 17.3 in
- Height 6.9 in
- Weight 15.4 lbs
- Bundled with Power cable|Telephone line cable
Copying
- Max Copying Speed up to 22 pages/min (mono) / up to 17 pages/min (color)
- Max Document Enlargement 400 %
- Max Document Reduction 25 %
- Maximum Copies 99
- Copying Features 2 on 1, 4 on 1, BorderFree
Printing
- Nozzle Configuration 320 nozzles (black), 3 x 384 nozzles (cyan, magenta, yellow)
- Max Printing Resolution up to 600 x 600 dpi (mono) / up to 4800 x 1200 dpi (color)
- Max Printing Speed up to 22 pages/min (mono) / up to 17 pages/min (color)
- Minimum Ink Droplet Size 2 pl
Scanning
- Scan Element CIS
- Optical Resolution 600 x 2100 dpi
- Interpolated Resolution 19200 x 19200 dpi
- Color Depth 24 bit
- Color Depth (Internal) 48 bit
Fax Machine
- Compatibility Super G3
- Max Transmission Speed 33.6 Kbps
Fax Machine Features
- Features Speed dialing, Transmission reception memory
Document & Media Handling
- Max Original Size 8.5 in x 11.7 in
- Original Type Sheets
- Max Copy Size Legal (8.5 in x 14 in)
- Supported Media Type Cards, Labels, Envelopes, Plain paper
PC Connectivity
- PC Connection Availability Yes
- PC Connection Hi-Speed USB
- Operating System Support MS Windows XP, MS Windows 2000, MS Windows Vista, Apple Mac OS X 10.2.8 - 10.4.x
- Software Included Drivers & utilities
Miscellaneous
- Direct Printing Specifications PictBridge
- Included Accessories Cross sell sheet, Black fine cartridge, Color fine cartridge, Power cable, Telephone line cable
- Microsoft Certifications Certified for Windows Vista
Environmental Standards
- EPA Energy Star Compliant Yes
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year, Technical support - Phone consulting
CNET Labs' Benchmarks
- CNET Labs Color Scanning Speed Test (pages per minute) 4.42
- CNET Labs Gray Scale Scanning Speed Test (pages per minute) 4.5
- CNET Labs Photo Speed Test (pages per minute) 1.06
- CNET Labs Presentation Speed Test (pages per minute) 1.87
- CNET Labs Printer Graphics Speed Test (pages per minute) 1.45
- CNET Labs Text Speed Test (pages per minute) 6.32
Accessories
- Silex Pricom C-6700WG - print server (33722386)99.56 - 204.47
- Canon Photo Paper Plus II - glossy photo paper - 100 sheet(s) (33003970)14.50 - 21.60
- Canon PG 40 Black Twin Pack - ink tank (32335113)29.99 - 42.99
- Canon Photo Paper Plus II PP-201 - glossy photo paper - 20 sheet(s) (33660126)15.96 - 36.99
- Canon CL 41 - ink tank (32143326)16.99 - 36.96
Manufacturer info
- Canon USA
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Canon USA products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://estore.usa.canon.com/
- Address:
One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042 - Phone: 516-328-5000
- Email: mediacontact@cusa.canon.com
