I have used (and reviewed) a small number of HP printers, but this is the first such printer that falls into the "ink jet" category. I already swear by the laser printers in the HP family, but now I can tell you why, if you must have an ink jet printer, you must buy the HP DeskJet 830C.

I have had little problem with anything relating to this printer other than some small difficulty installing the drivers. (I just had someone do it for me, and the problem was solved)

The HP DeskJet 830C is best used for Windows 98, but is compatible with Windows 95, Windows ME and NT, and Windows 2000.

Ease of use...

Again, I always prefer laser printers, but in my use with ink jet printers at school and work, I would rate this printer highest of them all. It is very durable and not at all difficult to use. There are few buttons or instructions to confuse the average home owner, and I strongly recommend this printer to home computer users.

For the office, this is of course not the best printer to use because it may be easy to use, but it is not meant to handle a massive amount of work.

The average time, estimated by me, for one page of black text takes about 15 seconds to print. Obviously, color pages will take longer. The cartridges, which are ludicrously expensive for ALL printers, are fairly trouble-free.

Paper handling

I have had better luck with the newer HP printers, but the 830C has yet to really jam on me, other than a few minor problems. HP printers, in my opinion are the only ones you should consider buying because they are more than worth the money.

Recommendations

I think a number of the negative ratings on this product relate to the fact that there are better products on the market. I will not argue that fact, but I see it no reason to rate this printer low. As I have said, this printer is not for business or similar needs, but I do give it a strong recommendation for the average home user who doesn't need to do much printing.

And, if for any reason, you absolutely need an ink jet printer, by all means, seek out the HP 830C and you will not regret your purchase.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 175
Operating System: Windows