Canon CNTR8620A Review: Alexa-Integrated All-in-One for Smart Homes
The Canon CNTR8620A is a versatile wireless all-in-one printer designed for home offices, offering seamless Alexa integration for ink management alongside print, copy, scan, and fax functionality.
By Elvis Dicki
Updated October 21, 2026
The Canon CNTR8620A, marketed as the PIXMA TR8620a, is a wireless all-in-one inkjet printer positioned for the modern home office. It combines the core functions of printing, copying, scanning, and faxing with contemporary smart home integration, specifically through Amazon Alexa. This model is aimed at households and small offices that need a reliable, multi-functional device capable of handling documents and photos without constant manual oversight. For users embedded in a smart home ecosystem, its standout feature is the ability to manage ink supplies via voice commands and automated reordering. In short, the Canon CNTR8620A offers a connected, feature-rich printing solution that prioritizes convenience and basic productivity for everyday tasks.
Beyond its smart capabilities, this printer is built for general duty with a 200-sheet paper capacity, an auto document feeder (ADF), and auto two-sided printing. It seeks to eliminate common pain points like frequent paper reloading and manual duplexing while providing a straightforward user experience via a touchscreen interface. The inclusion of a microSD slot for direct photo printing adds a layer of versatility for personal use. This review will analyze its specifications, design, and real-world feedback to determine if it lives up to its promise as a central hub for home-based printing needs. For those exploring other compact tech solutions for their workspace, you might find insights in our roundup of efficient mini PCs that complement a streamlined office setup.
Canon PIXMA TR8620a Wireless All-in-One Printer
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Canon CNTR8620A at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Canon PIXMA TR8620a (CNTR8620A) |
| Functions | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
| Connectivity | Wireless, USB 2.0 |
| Print Speed (Black/Color) | 15 / 10 images per minute (ipm) |
| Paper Capacity | 200 sheets (100 cassette, 100 rear feed) |
| Auto Document Feeder (ADF) | 20-sheet capacity |
| Display | Touchscreen LCD |
| Key Feature | Alexa integration for ink notifications & reorders |
| Ink System | Five individual ink tanks |
| Duty Cycle | 1,000 pages per month |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | 13.8″ x 17.3″ x 7.5″ |
| Weight | 17.4 pounds |
Design and Build
The Canon CNTR8620A presents a standard all-in-one form factor with a footprint of 13.8 inches deep by 17.3 inches wide. Its design is functional, housing a flatbed scanner on top, an integrated 20-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF), and a front-facing control panel with a touchscreen display. The unit offers two paper input sources: a 100-sheet front cassette and a 100-sheet rear feed, providing flexibility for different paper types and reducing the frequency of reloads. The build materials, as noted in user feedback, utilize plastic that some describe as feeling budget-oriented, suggesting the device requires careful handling rather than rough daily use. While not designed for portability due to its 17.4-pound weight, its structure is intended for a stationary position on a desk or dedicated printer stand.
The control layout is centered around the touchscreen, which facilitates navigation through printing, copying, scanning, and setup menus. Physical buttons for power and other essential functions are present but minimal, pushing most interactions to the digital interface. The rear of the unit houses the connectivity ports: a USB 2.0 port for direct computer connection and an RJ-11 port for connecting a telephone line to enable the fax function. The overall aesthetic is businesslike and black, meant to blend into a home office environment without standing out. Its design prioritizes accessible paper paths and user-friendly maintenance, such as easy access to the individual ink tanks located at the front.
Performance and Features
Print and Copy Performance
According to manufacturer specifications, the Canon CNTR8620A prints at speeds up to 15 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white documents and 10 ppm for color documents. The maximum copy speed for black and white is also listed as 15 ppm. These speeds are typical for the home inkjet category and are suitable for light to moderate printing volumes. The printer supports a maximum monthly duty cycle of 1,000 pages, indicating its intended capacity for a busy household or very small office. Print resolution is specified at 4800 x 1200 dots per inch (dpi), which should deliver sharp text and decent photo quality for casual use. A key performance feature is the built-in auto duplex printing, which allows for automatic two-sided printing, saving paper and manual effort.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Wireless connectivity is a core offering, supporting printing from PCs, smartphones, and tablets via Wi-Fi. It is compatible with Apple AirPrint and Android printing protocols. The most distinctive feature is its integration with Amazon Alexa. Users can connect the printer to an Alexa-enabled device to receive notifications when ink is running low. If enrolled in Smart Reorders, Alexa can automatically place an order for replacement ink from Amazon on the user’s behalf. This hands-off approach to supply management is a significant selling point. Furthermore, basic print commands can be initiated by voice. For direct media access, a microSD card slot is included, enabling the printing of photos without needing a computer, which pairs well with its borderless printing capability up to 8.5 x 11 inches.
Scanning and Copying
The device functions as a flatbed scanner and copier. The 20-sheet auto document feeder (ADF) is crucial for productivity, allowing multi-page documents to be scanned or copied without manually placing each page on the flatbed glass. The maximum copy resolution is listed as 4800 x 1200 dpi for color and 4800 dpi for black and white. This combination of flatbed and ADF makes it versatile for digitizing documents, photos, and even scanning to email or cloud services when used with the companion software. The fax function requires a physical connection to a telephone line via the provided RJ-11 cord, a feature becoming less common but still relevant for specific home office needs.
Setup, Support and Ownership
Setup is described in user reviews as generally straightforward, involving installing the ink tanks, loading paper, connecting to power, and following the on-screen prompts or using the Canon software for network configuration. The printer includes a set of standard ink tanks, documentation, power cord, and telephone cord in the box. Ongoing ownership revolves around the five individual ink tank system, which allows users to replace only the color that runs out. While the Alexa Smart Reorder system aims to simplify ink replenishment, the cartridges are a separate purchase and represent the primary recurring cost of operation. The manufacturer provides a one-year limited warranty for the device. Specifics on long-term driver support or firmware update policies are not detailed in the provided data. As with many connected devices, ensuring a stable home network is key for reliable wireless performance, much like optimizing your setup for other connected gear such as a reliable Wi-Fi router.
What Owners Say
Owner feedback, reflected in an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, presents a mixed but generally positive picture. A significant majority of reviewers award 5-star ratings, praising the printer for being easy to set up and use, offering reliable wireless connectivity, and delivering good print quality for both documents and photos. Many highlight the convenience of the auto document feeder and two-sided printing. Positive reviews frequently mention satisfaction compared to previous printer brands, particularly noting seamless operation with modern operating systems like Windows 11.
However, critical reviews point to specific pain points. Some users report significant difficulties connecting mobile devices via the Canon app, leading to frustration. Others note that while functional, the build quality feels lightweight or cheap. A common thread in mid-range reviews acknowledges the printer’s competence for light household duty but cautions against expecting robust, heavy-office use. The distribution shows most users are satisfied, but a notable portion of 1-star reviews indicates that when problems occur—often related to software or connectivity—they can be severe from the user’s perspective. This feedback is invaluable for understanding real-world reliability beyond the specifications.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Seamless Alexa integration for ink management and voice printing
- Comprehensive wireless all-in-one functionality (print, copy, scan, fax)
- Useful 20-sheet auto document feeder for multi-page tasks
- Auto two-sided printing saves paper and manual effort
- Generous 200-sheet total paper capacity minimizes reloading
- Individual ink tanks reduce waste by replacing only the color needed
- Direct photo printing via microSD card slot
- Energy-efficient design with ENERGY STAR and EPEAT Silver ratings
Cons
- Ink cartridges are a separate, ongoing cost
- Mobile app connectivity can be problematic for some users
- Build quality feels lightweight and plasticky to some owners
- Requires dedicated desk space due to its larger footprint
- Fax function depends on a physical phone line connection
- Not designed for high-volume printing exceeding its 1,000-page duty cycle
Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip It)
The Canon CNTR8620A is an ideal fit for a tech-savvy household or a small home office that values convenience and smart home integration. It is particularly well-suited for users who already use Amazon Alexa and want to automate the tedious task of monitoring and ordering printer ink. Families or individuals with mixed needs—printing school documents, scanning receipts, occasional photos, and maybe even sending a fax—will find its all-in-one capabilities well-matched. Its paper capacity and ADF make it efficient for handling small batches of multi-page documents. If your priority is a straightforward, connected printer that handles everyday tasks with minimal fuss, this model warrants strong consideration. For users with similar space-conscious needs but for computing, exploring fanless mini PCs could be a logical parallel.
This printer is not the best choice for users with very limited desk space, as its footprint is substantial. Those who require heavy, daily printing volumes (consistently near or above 1,000 pages per month) should look for a device with a higher duty cycle and more robust construction. Individuals who primarily print from mobile devices and are not comfortable troubleshooting app-based connectivity may want to be cautious based on some owner feedback. Finally, if you have no need for a fax function or Alexa integration, you might find a simpler, and potentially less expensive, all-in-one model that better suits your needs.
Final Verdict
The Canon CNTR8620A successfully packages a wide array of home office features into a single device, with its Alexa integration being the defining modern twist. It competently performs the core functions of printing, copying, and scanning, backed by practical additions like an auto document feeder and duplex printing. The smart ink reordering system addresses a universal pain point, offering genuine convenience for the right user. While its performance specifications are adequate for its target market, not exceptional, the overall value lies in the combination of versatility and connected convenience.
Potential buyers should weigh the overwhelmingly positive feedback on ease of use and reliability against the noted concerns about mobile app connectivity and perceived build quality. For a household or micro-office that operates within its duty cycle and appreciates smart home automation, the Canon CNTR8620A presents a compelling and feature-complete solution. It is a pragmatic choice for those seeking an all-in-one workhorse that actively tries to simplify one of the most annoying aspects of printer ownership: running out of ink.
FAQs
Does the Canon CNTR8620A come with ink?
Yes, the printer includes a set of standard ink tanks in the box. The manufacturer specifies these are not just starter samples but the standard amount. However, replacements are purchased separately and are not included with the printer beyond this initial set.
How does the Alexa ink reordering work?
After connecting the printer to your Alexa-enabled device, you can enroll in Smart Reorders through Alexa. The printer will then send ink level notifications to Alexa. If you choose, Alexa can automatically place an order for the correct replacement ink from Amazon on your behalf when levels are low, requiring no manual intervention.
Can you print photos directly from a camera or phone?
Yes, you can print photos wirelessly from a smartphone or tablet using AirPrint (for Apple devices) or compatible Android printing. Additionally, the printer has a microSD card slot, allowing you to insert a memory card directly from a camera and print photos without using a computer at all.
Is a phone line required to use all functions?
No, a phone line is only required if you intend to use the fax function. The printer’s core functions—printing, copying, and scanning—work over a wireless connection or USB. The fax machine requires a physical connection to an active telephone line using the provided RJ-11 cord.
About the author
Elvis Dicki writes reviews and buying guides for CyberSecLabs.