Canon Pixma iP3000

The PIXMA iP3000 boasts a resolution of 4800 x 1200dpi (dots per inch) and uses technology that Canon refers to as FINE (full-photolithography inkjet nozzle engineering). In layperson's terms, this means that the PIXMA can produce tiny ink droplets--two picolitres--from each of the nozzles on its printhead to produce what should be incredibly sharp printouts.

Theory is one thing; putting it into practice is another. Canon has pulled it off, though, producing images that are near-photolab quality. Detail is sharp, while colours are bright and bold.

The PIXMA doesn't take too long to churn out documents either, whether it's picture or text-based printouts. Print speeds are some way off Canon's claims, though. We could only produce 10ppm (pages per minute) of text and 3ppm of colour, as opposed to the 22ppm and 15ppm respectively that Canon states.

PictBridge compatibility allows you to print directly from certain digital cameras, and the separate ink cartridges mean that you only have to replace the one that has run out rather than everything at once. Ink costs are quite high, however. If you plan on printing out a lot of photos then the iP3000 isn't ideal. If you're more of a now-and-then hobbyist, this Canon printer is a good buy.