Digital Trends

HP Photosmart 145 April 13th, 2004 | by Rob Curtis

Usage and Testing

As with other HP printers, the setup and installation is quick and painless. Install the drivers from the CD-ROM, insert the print cartridge, calibrate the printer and you're done. Setting up in standalone mode is even easier, just insert the print cartridge, paper and calibrate. 

The actual process of printing photos is straightforward whether the unit is connected to a PC or Mac or is in standalone mode. We printed a test run of 12 4x6-inch photos in “Best” quality print mode and the average print time was 2 minutes 10 seconds. The print quality at first glance is acceptable but more careful inspection shows the limitation of using a single 3 ink cartridge. All prints had good color but the edges of subjects within the photo were fuzzy and somewhat jagged.  The print quality may be fine to some at a quick glance and you may be happy hanging them on the living room wall, however, those users that desire the best print quality may want to look at other options.

On the positive side, HP does provide some options that you may want to consider.  The HP Compact Printer Carrying Case makes it even easier to take this printer with you on your travels. They also offer a DC car adapter which allows you to print photos from your car.

Conclusion

The HP Photosmart 145 definitely has it's drawbacks including the monochrome LCD, lack of onboard photo editing tools, and a single 3-ink cartridge. But at an average price of $145 it has some appeal to users wanting an entry level compact and mobile photo printer. True to HP's advertising, this printer is ultra-portable and easy to travel with.

Those wanting a little more polish and function, may want to consider the HP Photosmart 245, which at just $50 more solves some of the issues discovered with the Photosmart 145.