Epson PM 260 Printer Review
The Epson PictureMate Dash PM 260 is a portable inkjet photo printer that received good reviews from experts due to its impressive package of features and innovative design. When experts tested the PM 260's output speeds, it gave a moderately quick performance and printed 4x6-inch photos in approximately 1 minute. With the exception of its below-par print quality, this device benefits from flexible connectivity, affordable PictureMate Dash PM 260 printer ink and ample control features that make it a solid value.
At a size of just 13x9x8 inches and incorporating a pivoting handle, this printer has the compact frame and mobility to print on a desktop or on the go. Beneath the unit's front lid is its basic control panel, which includes a large 3.6-inch LCD for previewing photos, a thumbnail display key, and buttons to navigate through menu options. Once the front lid is opened it functions as the PM 260's input tray and can store up to 20 pages of media like glossy photo paper and matte photo paper.
The build also includes two memory reader slots that support major formats like CompactFlash and SD cards for direct photo printing. Users can also connect their PictBridge devices and print through its front USB port. An optional Bluetooth adapter will provide mobile wireless printing for those that need it as well.
The unit's main flaw is its output quality, which experts found to be grainy, with fuzzy-looking photos that don't come near the quality seen in the top models of its class. However, photos are still nice enough for personal use and print with a resolution of 5760x1440 dpi using Epson PM 260 printer ink.
The unit operates with a single Epson PM 260 ink cartridge that contains cyan, magenta, yellow, black ink. While users can opt for inexpensive remanufactured replacements, yields of only 100 pages for each Epson PM 260 ink cartridge make it best suited for only occasional printing.
In terms of features, compactness and speeds, the PM 260 has one of the best designs compared to other portable photo printers. However, buyers looking for a device that balances a good design with a satisfactory output may not benefit from this inkjet printer, and the PictureMate Dash PM 260 ink supplies can be pricey to replace.