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The HP PhotoSmart A530 is a color inkjet printer with a compact form factor and a bright and colorful design that breaks out of the mold a bit while giving users great features on-the-go. It is built to be a portable photo solution, but still produces lab-quality photos at high resolutions. Speeds are a bit slow, and printer ink costs can be high, though compatible HP A530 ink is more affordable.
The compact design of the A530 is actually one of its most impressive aspects. The entire front of the unit folds up to not only reduce its size, but also protect the slots during transport. The bright 2.4 inch display also folds down to reduce the height of the device. An included handle makes it easy to carry around, so it can print photos almost anywhere. Photos can be printed in sizes up to 5x7, and output quality is very sharp, with accurate colors.
Instead of multiple HP A530 ink cartridges, the device uses a single tricolor tank. The PhotoSmart A530 ink cartridges are easy to find in stores, but using compatible PhotoSmart A530 ink instead of OEM will save quite a bit in cost. This is a good idea given the small 55-page capacity of HP A530 ink, meaning users have to replace it fairly regularly.
User reviews of the A530 inkjet are mixed. Users praise the portability and clever design of the unit, as well as its sharp quality. A few users mention being disappointed in the print quality, as well as slow speeds, and the lack of a USB cable was a point of contention as well.
The HP A530 is fairly limited in what it can provide, but for those who want to print photos outside the home or office, it is a great solution. Its price is a bit high, and printer ink costs will add up over time, but it fills a niche for potential buyers.
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