HP Deskjet 656 Ink Cartridges

HP 656 Printer Review

The HP Deskjet 656, 656C and 656CVR are a group of inkjet printers equipped to handle monochrome and color home printing needs for a low price. Even among its affordable class of printers, the 656's output speeds of 6 pages per minute for monochrome documents and 3 pages per minute for color are on the slower end. This unit's entry-level design and basic features will limit it to low volumes, but users still stand to benefit from its affordable Deskjet 656 printer ink and decent monochrome print quality.

The 656 can handle a maximum monthly duty cycle of 1,000 pages, although it's recommended for users printing between 200 and 400 pages. Light-duty use can easily be handled with its memory of 512 KB and small paper capacity of 100 pages. Supported media includes a maximum size of 8.5x14 inches and a minimum of 4x6 inches.

The 656 can function well as a desktop printer thanks to its compact size of 18x10x8 inches, which will enable it to sit side by side with a user's computer. Provided drivers and software can be installed on Mac or Windows operating systems. Since the device has little to offer in terms of a control panel and has a single USB port for connectivity, users will need to be connected to their computer in order to edit, print and monitor jobs.

The device can print text and graphics with a maximum resolution of 600 dpi using black HP 656 printer ink. Color projects like photos don't have the sharp detail that those of high-end personal units do, printing with a lackluster resolution of 600x300 dpi using Deskjet 656 ink.

The device uses one black supply and packages cyan, magenta and yellow colors into a single HP 656 ink cartridge. Tricolor replacements can last up to 350 pages and the black HP 656 ink cartridge has a total yield of 500 pages. Running costs can be lowered if users select remanufactured replacements over more expensive OEM supplies.

Output speeds are the 656's main issue, but it also is one of the most simplistic options among it class of single-function printers due to limited connectivity, onboard control features and paper handling. While its cost-efficient supplies and price tag may be enough to draw some buyers, this inkjet printer is overall not the best option in its class of home units.