Lexmark P250 Ink Cartridges

Lexmark P250 Printer Review

Though somewhat limited in its scope, the Lexmark P250 portable inkjet printer could be a good solution for users who want to print 4x6-inch photos on-the-go. It is not particularly fast, at around 75 seconds per print, and prices for Lexmark P250 printer ink are fairly high, but the easy PictBridge connectivity and compact, portable design make it worth a look.

Lexmark isn't kidding when they promise portability, as the P250 measures 5x9.2x5.8 inches, with a weight of only 4.1 pounds, though that doesn't include the Lexmark P250 ink supply. It also has a convenient handle that makes it very easy to carry from place to place. Unlike some portable inkjet models, it doesn't include a battery for printing without a power outlet, but this generally adds extra bulk and weight, as well as a higher price tag.

The front of the device features only a single USB PictBridge port, which means users will need to connect a PictBridge-enabled camera or a computer. Memory card slots would have been a convenient addition, but without a preview screen on the device, this was obviously a choice made to keep the price low. Print quality is solid, with the ability to make borderless 4x6-inch photos at 1200 dpi (4800 dpi optimized).

Printer ink and paper costs are something to seriously consider ahead of time, however. The OEM Lexmark P250 ink cartridge is quite expensive, with a fairly high cost per page. Shopping around for remanufactured Lexmark P250 ink cartridges is a very good idea, and can trim the cost in half, though users will still spend quite a bit on photo paper.

The low price of the Lexmark P250 and its excellent portability are both very appealing. With the lack of even a small LCD for previewing images, and no memory card slots, it doesn't compare well to some of the other portable models on the market, and some buyers might prefer a model with a battery for truly portable printing.