HP 337 Ink
Photosmart 337 Ink Cartridges

HP 337 Printer Review

Having a compact photo inkjet printer to take with you could have its advantages, which makes the HP Photosmart 337 a good value for the right buyer. It isn't particularly fast, at about 60 seconds per page maximum, but options like a battery for portable use and simple editing and effects are impressive. Even the cost of HP 337 printer ink isn't as high as might be expected.

The 337 has a svelte design and measures just 4.9x8.8x4.3 inches, and its weight of only 2.97 pounds includes the Photosmart 337 printer ink supplies, though the optional battery will add more to its weight. When needed, it can be connected to a computer or laptop via the USB port at the rear of the machine.

Most users, however, will probably utilize the 337's portability and its PC-less printing features. It supports Bluetooth wireless printing, includes five different memory card slots for printing images from a digital camera, and a front-mounted USB port can handle a PictBridge connection from a digital camera, or even USB flash memory devices.

When operating without a computer, users still get a lot of functionality. Features like Auto-enhance and image rotation can be applied right from the control panel before printing. It is light enough to print from just about anywhere users can find a power outlet, though adding the optional battery can be a little expensive.

Since the unit uses only a tricolor HP 337 ink cartridge, you may not get the deep blacks of other models. Expert reviews mentioned that skin tones were a bit off, likely due to the limitations of only three colors of HP 337 ink to work with. The Photosmart 337 ink cartridges are quite affordable to replace, though.

Buyers who are aware of the limitations of the Photosmart 337 and who are mainly looking for a portable photo inkjet printer will find a lot to like. It is easy to operate with or without a PC, and it provides output quality that is just good enough for the average user.