HP PSC 1618 Ink Cartridges

HP PSC 1618 Printer Review

Having scanning, copying, and high-quality photo inkjet printing combined into one affordable device is exactly what many home users are looking for, and the HP PSC 1618 provides it. Its maximum print speeds are up to 23 pages per minute in monochrome and 18 pages per minute, meaning less waiting, and reviewers praised its graphics and photo print quality, though they disliked its expensive HP PSC 1618 printer ink supplies.

While not as slim as a compact inkjet model, the PSC 1618 is certainly small enough for most home environments. It measures 6.8x17.3x11.2 inches, and is just a bit over 12 pounds, even with HP PSC 1618 printer ink installed. Both Windows and Mac operating systems are supported, and it connects via USB port only.

A standard input paper tray holds up to 100 sheets, with the output tray holding only 50 sheets. A variety of media can be used, including banners, iron-on transfers, photo paper, envelopes, and more, up to a maximum size of 8.5x11 inches.

Although the PSC 1618 is pretty basic in its design, there are a few extra touches that make it a bit easier to use. Several memory card slots on the front of the machine make loading photos a simple process, and a PictBridge port can connect directly to a digital camera.

Reviewers noted print quality to be strong, with some weaknesses in text. The HP PSC 1618 ink cartridges have capacities of up to 560 pages for the tricolor supply and 480 pages for the black supply. The high cost of HP PSC 1618 ink cartridges was a point of contention for some reviewers, however, and likely will be for buyers as well.

The PSC 1618 can hold its own as a photo inkjet printer, but adding its scan and copy functions to the mix makes it an even better value. Pricey supplies are a letdown, but remanufactured versions could help temper the cost.