HP 230 Ink
Photosmart 230 Ink Cartridges

The HP Photosmart 230 inkjet printer is a dedicated unit that delivers crisp 4x6 inch photos. It is small, portable, sturdy and meant for digital photography enthusiasts who can share photo copies on the move, for example in parties and social gatherings. A carrying case costing $35 can be purchased separately to conveniently carry this device which measures 8.9x8.0x4.9 in and weighs 2.9 lbs.

The foldable input tray on the HP 230 inkjet device can hold up to 20 sheets. It is possible to print one 4x 6inch or two 2.5x3.25 inch photos on one sheet. The printer accepts photo paper, plain paper and index cards. The photo quality is crisp and HP 230 ink cartridge colors are rich. The Canon HP ink has maximum print resolution of 4800 dpi x 1200 dpi; however, the overall image quality may vary with the camera used. Also the high print resolution can tend to drain the single HP 230 ink cartridge tank. Printer ink is relatively affordable.

The Photosmart 230 can be considered to be an upscale mobile printer and has the feature set to prove the point. The user can print directly from cameras and a number of external media cards such as SmartMedia Card - Type I/II, Memory Stick, SD Memory Card, and CompactFlash Card. The device yields better quality prints when using a PC-connection. The 230v and 230xi are pricier models with an even more diverse feature set.

The HP Photosmart 230 inkjet unit works with both PC and Mac; it connects via USB. Given that this is a mobile printing device, the absence of battery power option is disappointing. The 1.8-inch LCD screen is too small with no preview option, and it offers limited image editing options. More image editing options can be availed by accessing the image editor software via a PC. Overall, excellent printer ink quality and sturdy design are this product's major assets.