The Canon PIXMA PRO-200 and the Epson SureColor P700 are both desktop photo printers for enthusiasts who want large prints at home. The short answer is that the PRO-200 is usually associated with dye-based ink and vivid glossy output, while the P700 is usually associated with pigment-based ink and a wider range of fine art papers. Confirm exact specifications on each maker’s page before you buy.
What Each Printer Is For
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200 is aimed at photographers who mostly print on glossy and lustre photo paper and want punchy color for portfolios, gifts, and exhibitions on a small scale. Canon positions it as a compact, approachable step up from an everyday office inkjet.
The Epson SureColor P700 is aimed at photographers and artists who care about a broad paper range, including matte and textured fine art stock, and who often print black and white. It sits in Epson’s professional photo line, which suggests a heavier machine and a more involved setup.
Key Differences to Weigh
| Trait | Canon PIXMA PRO-200 | Epson SureColor P700 |
|---|---|---|
| Ink family | Dye-based | Pigment-based |
| Typical strength | Vivid glossy prints | Fine art and matte papers |
| Size class | Desktop, large format | Desktop, large format |
| Typical user | Enthusiast printing for display | Serious hobbyist or working artist |
Ink type is the biggest practical difference. Dye inks tend to give vivid color and a smooth glossy finish. Pigment inks tend to hold up differently on matte and textured papers and are often chosen for archival style work. Check each maker’s own longevity claims rather than relying on general statements.
How to Decide in Four Steps
- List the papers you actually plan to use. If most are glossy or lustre, the dye-based option is a natural fit. If you want matte, cotton, or textured stock, lean toward pigment.
- Think about how often you print. Printers that sit idle for long stretches can be troublesome with any ink, so a monthly habit matters more than the brand.
- Measure your desk or shelf. Large format desktop printers need room at the back and front for paper feed and exit.
- Set up color management. A properly adjusted monitor and the correct paper profile matter as much as the printer itself.
Running Costs and Workflow
Ink sets, cartridge sizes, and paper choices change the long term cost of any printer, so look at the maker’s current ink list and how many cartridges each model uses. Both printers work with their makers’ printing software and with common editing programs through standard print dialogs. Soft proofing in your editor lets you check how a paper will look before you spend sheets on it.
- Print a small test strip on the paper you plan to use before committing to a full sheet.
- Use the paper maker’s profile, not a generic one.
- Keep the printer in a room without large temperature swings.
FAQ
Is dye or pigment ink better for photos?
Neither is better in every case. Dye ink is often chosen for bright glossy prints, and pigment ink is often chosen for matte, fine art, and black and white work. Your paper choice should decide it.
Do I need a separate profile for each paper?
Yes, a profile made for your exact printer and paper combination gives the most predictable results. Most paper makers publish profiles you can download.
The Short Version
Choose the Canon PIXMA PRO-200 if you mainly print vivid glossy photos and want a more compact, approachable machine. Choose the Epson SureColor P700 if you want pigment ink and a wider range of fine art papers. We have not used either printer ourselves, so confirm details with the makers.
