HP Deskjet 5650 Printer

HP Deskjet 5650 Printer Review

The HP Deskjet 5650 is a versatile inkjet printer that is aimed primarily at home and small office users who need reliable and good-quality print capabilities. Since its release, the Deskjet 5650 has been recognized for its balance between affordability, ease of use, and decent performance across various printing tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The HP Deskjet 5650 features a straightforward and utilitarian design typical of early 2000s printers, with a compact body measuring approximately 17.83 inches in width, 14.41 inches in depth, and 5.72 inches in height. The build quality is robust enough for occasional bumping and handling, yet lightweight enough to be moved around without much effort. Its paper tray can handle up to 100 sheets, which is sufficient for light to moderate printing needs, fitting neatly within the frame to save space when not in use.

Print Quality and Performance

One of the standout features of the Deskjet 5650 is its print quality. The printer supports resolutions up to 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi when printing from a computer, provided the required input and media conditions are met. This resolution is particularly effective for color printing, offering vibrant colors and sharp details on a variety of media. Additionally, the print speed is commendable for its class, with text documents printing at approximately 21 pages per minute in black and 15 pages per minute in color, under optimal conditions.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Connectivity options for the Deskjet 5650 are somewhat limited by modern standards but were adequate at the time of its release. The printer connects to a computer primarily through USB 1.1, but also includes a parallel port for compatibility with older systems, offering flexibility for users with older computers. It’s compatible with major operating systems of its time, including Windows 98, ME, 2000, and XP, along with Mac OS 9.1 and later, though modern users may encounter challenges connecting on newer systems without specific drivers or adaptations.

User Features and Maintenance

The Deskjet 5650 comes equipped with features that were advanced for its era, such as the capability to print borderless photos, which is a useful feature for personal and small business needs. The printer supports a variety of paper types and sizes, from standard letter and legal sizes to envelopes and photo paper, providing versatility. Maintenance is straightforward, with the front panel designed for easy access to ink cartridges and paper jams which helps to minimize downtime and frustration.

Cost Efficiency

When considering cost efficiency, the HP Deskjet 5650 provides a solid balance between performance and budget. Its ink cartridges, while not the cheapest, offer a reasonably good yield concerning cost. Users can opt for standard or high-capacity cartridges depending on their usage frequency, providing an economical choice for those who print regularly. As it is an older model, its initial cost is likely depreciated in the second-hand market, presenting a potential bargain for those who can source quality, pre-owned units.