HP Deskjet 959c Printer

Overview

The HP Deskjet 959c is a color inkjet printer that was popular for home and small office use during its time. Known for its reliability and quality output, this printer is a part of HP’s well-regarded Deskjet line, which aims to provide affordable printing solutions without sacrificing performance. As it was designed in an era before the extensive proliferation of multifunction and wireless-capable devices, it primarily focuses on delivering quality print jobs with a straightforward setup.

Design

The design of the HP Deskjet 959c is functional and conservative, typical for printers released in the early 2000s. Its compact form makes it suitable for home offices or small workspaces. The printer features a simple control panel with minimal buttons, streamlining the user experience for those seeking efficiency without the complexity of additional, and often extraneous, features. The input and output trays are designed to handle everyday paper sizes, and the fold-up nature of these trays helps save space when the printer is not in use.

Print Quality

Print quality is where the HP Deskjet 959c shines, notably when it comes to color accuracy and detail, which is commendable for photographic printing. It utilizes HP’s thermal inkjet technology, providing resolutions up to 2400 x 1200 dpi for color prints, allowing for vivid and clean images. Black and white documents are equally impressive, with sharp text rendering. While not suitable for high-speed printing needs, it strikes a balance by delivering acceptable speeds that can handle typical workloads for personal or small business tasks.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the HP Deskjet 959c is its user-friendly operation. Setting up the printer is straightforward, as it connects via USB, a modern convenience for the era it was made. The accompanying software is intuitive, guiding users through installation and helping with maintenance tasks such as ink cartridge replacement and printer cleaning. The printer supports various media types, including plain and photo paper, transparencies, and envelopes, making it versatile for different printing needs.

Performance and Compatibility

In terms of performance, the printer’s speed is moderate, with color and monochrome prints averaging an acceptable pace for non-demanding environments. This makes it a suitable choice for users who prioritize quality over quantity in print jobs. For efficiency, the printer uses individual ink cartridges, allowing for economical replacement. Compatibility is robust for its time, supporting Windows and Mac operating systems, ensuring that it integrates well with diverse computer setups.