I've been using an Epson Stylus Pro7880 24" printer for 10 years (and it wasn't new when I started working here).
The print quality is great. K3 Ultrachrome inks and Pro Lustre paper make a good long-lasting print.
Who are you like to be printing for?
I think your target demographic would ultimately guide your choices.
A professional photographer has a much higher demand for accuracy and print finish than grandma wanting an 8x10 of grandkids birthdays.
Research costs of paper selection for each brand, and compare ink types. Dye ink isn't the same as pigment ink.
There is a huge range of paper types. You don't have to stick to the brand of paper that is produced by your printer brand.
Fine art and specialty papers abound.
What volume of printing do you expect?
If not printing frequently, go for one that can sit idle for a long time like the Canon.
Do you expect to print single sheet feed only, or would a 13" roll be more useful to you?
As far as my Epson goes:
If not printing frequently, just turning on the machine will run a cycle to keep heads clear.
Yes, occasional head clogs, but have never had to replace the head.
I expect newer models have addressed some of these issues.
I found an easy and inexpensive way to de-clog heads without removing, so not a big deal for low volume printing.
I don't need to crank out dozens of prints a day, more like a couple a week or less.
I don't use it for anything smaller than 8x10 and have done as large as 24x72.
How does it compare to a Canon? Not sure, it does what I want pretty well.
My customers have been happy with the results of the Espon so don't see a need to change things up now.
I mostly print for the average person wanting their vacation or family photos enlarged.
I have one or two professional photographers on occasion, but I don't cater specifically to that demographic.
Photo printing is an add-on service, not my specialty.
When this printer gives up, maybe then I would research whether to switch to a different brand.
Online research is necessary, however, don't get bogged down by comparing strictly numbers.
Ultimately a print is a physical thing people connect to in the real world.
Try to get samples of actual prints from various brand printers, using various paper types.
Choose what looks and feels like a good photo to you, then go for it.
You will be better able to please your customers with a product you are happy with yourself.