The Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw All-in-One Laser Printer has been a reliable workhorse in my home office for over two years, and I’m here to share my extensive experience with this versatile machine.
For years, I wrestled with the limitations of inkjet printers. The constant ink cartridge replacements, the dried-out print heads after periods of inactivity, and the overall cost-per-page were driving me crazy. I knew a color laser printer like the Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw would offer a solution, but the initial investment felt daunting. The consequences of inaction were clear: continued frustration with inkjet limitations and the ever-increasing cost of ink. A laser printer was the only sensible long-term solution.
- Wireless 4-in-1 (print, scan, copy, fax)
- Print up to 22 pages per minute (bw / color, letter)
- Uses Toner 067 / 067 High Capacity Toner - high capacity toner options keep up with your printing needs and limit toner replacement interruptions
Factors to Ponder Before Purchasing a Color Laser Printer
Color laser printers address the shortcomings of inkjets by providing more cost-effective printing, particularly for high-volume users. They offer superior print quality, quicker printing speeds, and the ability to handle heavier paper stocks. The ideal customer is someone who regularly prints color documents, photos, or graphics, valuing longevity and lower overall print costs. This printer isn’t for occasional users who print only a few pages monthly; for them, an inkjet printer might be a more cost-effective option. Before purchasing, carefully consider your printing volume, budget, desired features (such as duplex printing, scanning, and faxing), and available space. Also, research the cost of replacement toner cartridges; this can significantly impact the long-term cost of ownership.
Introducing the Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw is a 4-in-1 laser printer offering print, copy, scan, and fax functionalities. It boasts a 5-inch color touchscreen, automatic duplex printing (double-sided), and mobile connectivity options. Compared to its predecessors and market leaders, this model stands out with its compact design, intuitive interface, and relatively affordable price point. It’s perfect for home offices or small businesses that require a versatile and reliable all-in-one device. However, it’s not ideal for high-volume professional printing environments demanding exceptional speed or professional-grade photo printing.
- Pros: Compact design, easy setup, excellent print quality, fast print speed, versatile features (duplex printing, scanning, faxing, mobile connectivity), affordable price point.
- Cons: Relatively noisy during operation, toner cartridges can be expensive, occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues (reported by some users).
Exploring the Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw’s Features and Benefits
Print Quality and Speed
The Canon MF656Cdw delivers exceptional print quality. Colors are vibrant and sharp, text is crisp and clear, even at high speeds. The 22 ppm (pages per minute) print speed for both color and monochrome is impressive for a laser printer in its price range. This speed is a significant upgrade from my previous inkjet printer, eliminating frustrating delays. The quick first-print time is another major advantage, ensuring minimal wait time before the first page emerges.
Duplex Printing and Scanning
The automatic duplex printing is a lifesaver. It saves paper, reduces storage space, and speeds up workflow considerably. The automatic document feeder (ADF) simplifies double-sided scanning, a feature I use extensively for digitizing documents and photos. The ability to scan directly to my computer is incredibly convenient and has streamlined many tasks. I love how the document feeder scans both sides simultaneously, making multi-page scanning far faster and more efficient.
Connectivity and Mobile Printing
Wireless printing functionality is essential for my workflow, and the Canon MF656Cdw supports Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Apple AirPrint. The ability to print from my smartphone, tablet, or laptop from anywhere in the house is invaluable. It flawlessly integrates with my home network and has proven very reliable. I have experienced minimal connectivity problems, and when they did occur, they were easily resolved through software updates. The Canon PRINT Business app offers even more control and functionality.
User-Friendly Interface
The 5-inch color touchscreen is intuitive and easy to navigate. Setting up the printer, configuring network settings, and managing print jobs is straightforward. The on-screen instructions are clear and concise, guiding even novice users effortlessly through the process. While the initial setup might seem slightly daunting compared to a simple inkjet, taking the time to follow the instructions pays off in a streamlined experience.
Toner Cartridge Management
While the cost of toner cartridges is a factor to consider, the Canon MF656Cdw offers high-yield options to minimize replacements. The high-capacity toner cartridges significantly extend the time between replacements, reducing overall costs in the long run. Additionally, the printer alerts you when the toner is low, giving you ample time to order replacements and avoid interruptions.
Real User Experiences: A Chorus of Positive Feedback
My own positive experience is echoed across the internet. Many users praise the printer’s ease of setup, print quality, speed, and mobile connectivity. Many users highlight its value for home office and small business use.
Verdict: A Solid Choice for Home Office Needs
The Canon Color imageCLASS MF656Cdw effectively solves the problems associated with inkjet printers – high running costs and frequent maintenance. It offers superior print quality, high speed, and a wide range of features. While the cost of toner and the noise level are minor drawbacks, the overall benefits far outweigh these. To experience the efficiency and convenience of this versatile printer, click here to check it out.