Choosing between these two all-in-one printers scanners comes down to what you print most: crisp black-and-white documents or photos. The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw and the HP PhotoSmart 7520 are both all-in-one printer-scanner options, but they take very different approaches.
Quick Verdict
If your workday is mostly text, the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw is the clearer pick. It is a monochrome laser all-in-one priced at $90.20, designed for small and medium-size businesses that need steady document output. The HP PhotoSmart 7520 makes sense if photo printing is central and you are comfortable with a unit that turns on and works but may need some service. It is priced at $175.00. The real question is whether photos matter more than speed and simplicity.
Comparison Table
| Decision | Canon imageCLASS MF273dw | HP PhotoSmart 7520 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 90.20 | USD 175.00 |
| Condition | New | Used |
| Output | Monochrome laser | Color inkjet |
| Connectivity | Wireless | Cable |
| Features | Copier, scanner | Portable, scanner, copier |
Where Each Product Wins
The Canon imageCLASS MF273dw wins for new condition, fast mono laser output, and paper handling. It is built for text-heavy office work, especially if you scan multi-page documents regularly. The HP PhotoSmart 7520 wins for photo output, portability, and the accessories that come with it. Once it is set up, it can handle scans, copies, and photo prints.
Product Notes
Canon imageCLASS MF273dw Wireless Black-and-White All-In-One Laser Printer
This machine prints up to 30 pages per minute, so it keeps up with a busy desk. It prints on a variety of media types and sizes, including envelopes, and the 150-sheet paper tray plus 35-sheet automatic document feeder handle multi-page jobs. The 5-line adjustable screen makes navigation straightforward, and wireless connectivity lets you print from computers or mobile devices. Toner is Canon Genuine Toner 071 / 071 H, so supply replacement is predictable. The main limitation is output: this is a monochrome laser, so photos need a different machine. For an office that mostly prints text, this is a focused, sensible choice.
HP PhotoSmart 7520 e-ALL-IN-ONE Photo Printer and Scanner with Accessories
This is the pick when photo output is the priority. The HP PhotoSmart 7520 is an inkjet all-in-one with a scanner and copier, and the package includes a new, unopened black ink cartridge, a data cable, a power cord, a printed setup guide, and a CD for OSX Lion and Mountain Lion as well as Windows XP, Vista, 7, and 8. It has been very lightly used, turns on, and the scanner works. The catch is that the print head and cartridge likely need to be replaced, so factor that into the cost before relying on it for prints. It connects with a cable, so it suits a dedicated photo desk. If you are comfortable with maintenance, this used inkjet adds photo capability.
Final Choice by Use Case
Choose the Canon imageCLASS MF273dw for a small or medium-size office that prints mostly text and wants a 35-sheet automatic document feeder and easy setup. Choose the HP PhotoSmart 7520 for photo projects and craft prints if you are comfortable replacing the print head and cartridge.
