HP PSC 1603 Ink Cartridges

HP PSC 1603 Printer Review

The HP PSC 1603 is an all-in-one inkjet printer geared toward affordability, so it lacks some of the extras included in more expensive models. It can handle basic scanning and copying, while printing at up to 18 pages per minute in black and 14 ppm in color. Its compact design is well-suited for home use, and HP PSC 1603 ink is fairly affordable.

The simple design of the PSC 1603 is certainly quite compact, with dimensions of 6.7x17.2x11.1 inches and a weight of 12.2 pounds. The control panel has quick access buttons for features like scanning and copying, but it lacks a full-color display. This makes some operations a bit awkward. For example, memory card slots and a PictBridge port are included, but without a color display for previewing, users must know the filename in order to do direct printing, which is less than ideal.

When connected to a computer via USB, the software offers most of the features and functions users will want to accomplish, and is usually a better alternative to trying to work solely on the control panel. An image editor is included for enhancing images for printing, and OCR software is included for turning scanned pages into editable text quickly and easily.

HP PSC 1603 ink cartridges are not too expensive, and a high-capacity version for the tricolor supply offers a better cost per page. Third-party retailers offer remanufactured HP PSC 1603 printer ink for around half the price of OEM versions, which is great for users who want to save a little more. An optional photo HP PSC 1603 ink cartridge can be used for better photo quality as well.

Buyers who want a basic color inkjet with scanning and copying should find the HP PSC 1603 appealing. Those who want stronger office features like an automatic document feeder or faxing, however, may wish to spend a bit more on a more fully-featured machine.