Comparative Analysis of Canon i960 Printers and their Competitors in the Current Market

Introduction

Canon's i960 printer has garnered significant attention in the consumer electronics domain for its remarkable attributes, despite being last year's model. This paper aims to explore the merits and market positioning of the Canon i960 printer vis-à-vis other prominent printer models.

Key Attributes of Canon i960

1. Affordable Pricing:
   • Canon's i960 model has been spotted in clearance sales at competitive prices. The reduced pricing could be attributed to it being a discontinued model.
2. Performance and Quality:
   • The i960 stands out, even among contemporary models, particularly for tasks related to photo printing and general work. This suggests its technical capabilities might surpass the expectations set by its price tag.
3. Dye-Based Ink Superiority:
   • The printer is noted for its exceptional performance with dye-based inks, distinguishing it from offerings by other major manufacturers.
4. Positioning within Canon’s i-series Lineup:
   • The i960 holds a significant position as the flagship model in Canon's i-series range. Only the larger format models, i.e., the i9900 and i9000, surpass its status.

Market Response and Consumer Testimonies

1. Comparative Pricing in the Market:
   • There are variations in the market prices with certain outlets like BestBuy and CompUSA offering the product at below $100, demonstrating its growing popularity and demand.
2. Comparison with Previous Models:
   • One consumer testimony brought forth the comparison of the i960 with the S800 model, which was priced substantially higher a few years back. While the S800 was appreciated for its quality, there was a curiosity if the i960 would offer an improvement over it.
3. Brand Loyalty and Collection:
   • The mention of another user having an i860 in good condition and possessing three new i560s highlights the brand loyalty Canon enjoys and the user satisfaction derived from the i-series.

Conclusion

The Canon i960 printer, despite its discontinuation, has captured the market's interest with its exceptional capabilities, especially at a clearance price. Its competency in photo printing, combined with its unparalleled performance with dye-based inks, underscores its significance in the Canon i-series lineup. The market response indicates a strong consumer inclination towards this model, with many considering it superior even to newer models. The model’s quality and affordability render it a noteworthy choice for both professional and personal use. Future printer models and manufacturers could take cues from the i960’s success story to tailor their products in alignment with consumer needs and market trends.