Canon imagePROGRAF TM-350 vs. TM-305: Which Printer is Best?

Canon imagePROGRAF TM-350 vs. TM-305: Which Printer is the Best?

Choosing the right printer for your business can be challenging. With so many features and specifications to consider, knowing which printer best suits your needs is essential. In this article, we compare the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-350 and the TM-305 to help you make the best choice. We’ll look at performance, print quality, ease of use, and overall value, making it easy to pick the right printer.

Overview of Canon imagePROGRAF TM-350 and TM-305

Both the Canon image TM-350 and TM-305 are known for their high-quality printing and efficient performance. These models are often chosen for large-format printing, commonly used in architectural, engineering, and graphic design businesses.

Canon image TM-350 is designed with a smaller footprint, making it ideal for offices that need professional print quality in a compact form. The TM-305, on the other hand, provides similar quality but with additional features and a slightly larger build. Let’s dive into what sets these models apart.

Print Quality and Speed

Print quality is critical when deciding between printers. Both the TM-350 and TM-305 offer excellent results, but there are slight differences.

Canon PROGRAF TM-350: The TM-350 delivers sharp, high-resolution prints, ideal for detailed drawings, graphics, and posters. It uses Canon’s LUCIA TD pigment ink, which provides vibrant colors and crisp lines, ensuring durability and clarity in every print. This model’s speed is also commendable, handling large prints with ease while maintaining quality.

TM-305: The TM-305 offers similar print quality and uses the same LUCIA TD ink system. However, this model is optimized for even faster output, which can be valuable in high-demand situations where print volume is a priority. Its speed makes it ideal for large-scale projects, though the difference in quality between the two is minimal.

Bottom Line: If print speed is critical, the TM-305 might have the edge. For general use, both models deliver excellent quality.

Ink System and Cost Efficiency

The ink system is an essential factor, especially if you have high print volumes.

Canon PROGRAF TM-350: The TM-350 uses a 5-color LUCIA TD ink system that is water-resistant and suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. This ink system provides great longevity, ensuring your prints last even in challenging conditions. The TM-350 offers efficient ink usage, reducing operating costs over time.

TM-305: With the same 5-color LUCIA TD ink system, the TM-305 also promises durability and high-quality results. However, the TM-305 includes an onboard hard drive, which can enhance print processing time, making it faster for larger jobs. While the ink cost remains similar, the slightly quicker processing may save time in high-output settings.

Bottom Line: Both models are cost-effective, but the TM-305 offers slight advantages in high-volume, fast-paced work environments due to the onboard hard drive.

Ease of Use and Features

A user-friendly printer can save time and reduce the learning curve for employees.

Canon PROGRAF TM-350: The TM-350 is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring an intuitive touchscreen that makes it easy for anyone to use. The compact design also allows it to fit seamlessly into most workspaces, even those with limited room.

TM-305: The TM-305, while slightly larger, offers similar user-friendly features, including a responsive touchscreen. However, it also comes with added functionalities, such as the ability to store print jobs directly on its onboard hard drive. This can be a valuable feature in office environments where multiple users need quick access to stored files.

Bottom Line: The TM-350 is perfect for compact spaces, while the TM-305’s extra storage features may be useful for larger teams or high-volume print demands.

Noise Levels and Office Suitability

If you’re working in a quiet office, noise levels may be a deciding factor.

Canon image TM-350: The TM-350 operates quietly, making it an ideal option for small offices or workspaces where noise levels need to be kept low. Canon designed this model with quiet mode features to ensure minimal disruption during use.

TM-305: Like the TM-350, the TM-305 is built with noise reduction in mind. It operates quietly, even during high-speed printing. This model is equally suitable for quiet office environments, despite being slightly larger.

Bottom Line: Both printers are designed to operate quietly, making them suitable for any office environment where noise may be a concern.

Size and Space Requirements

The size of the printer matters if space is limited in your office.

Canon PROGRAF TM-350: The TM-350’s compact design allows it to fit into smaller spaces. This printer is ideal for offices where space is a premium, as it offers professional-grade prints without taking up too much room.

TM-305: The TM-305 is slightly larger than the TM-350, so it may require a bit more space. However, it’s still compact enough for most office environments and provides additional features that justify the extra space.

Bottom Line: Choose the TM-350 for tighter spaces. The TM-305 is manageable but requires a bit more room.

Price and Value

Both models offer excellent value, but your choice may depend on your budget and specific needs.

Canon image TM-350: The TM-350 is often more budget-friendly, making it a solid choice for smaller businesses or those looking to save on upfront costs. It provides professional-grade quality without breaking the bank.

TM-305: While the TM-305 may come at a slightly higher price, it provides added features such as the onboard hard drive, which can be beneficial for businesses with high-volume printing needs. The added functionality can justify the extra cost for businesses with specific needs.

Bottom Line: The TM-350 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers. The TM-305, although a bit more costly, offers extra features that can provide added value for certain business needs.

Conclusion

When choosing between the Canon imagePROGRAF TM-305 and the TM-350, it ultimately depends on your specific requirements. Both models offer top-tier print quality and efficiency, but each has unique features that may align better with your business needs.

If you need a compact and budget-friendly printer, the TM-350 is an excellent choice. Its high-quality output, easy-to-use interface, and quiet operation make it a great fit for smaller offices and general printing needs.

For high-volume work with additional storage capabilities, the TM-305 stands out. Its onboard hard drive, faster processing, and ability to handle large projects make it ideal for businesses with a heavy printing workload.

Both printers are excellent choices, and either one can serve as a reliable tool in your office setup. Assess your business's space, volume, and budget needs to determine the best fit. Whatever your choice, both models deliver outstanding quality, ensuring that your investment will pay off in the long run.