HP Laserjet 3380 Poor Print Quality

[Edward Westin]

I have seen several reports (CNet is the main one) stating that the
print quality on the Laserjet 3380 is "disappointing." Previous
evaluations of the earlier 3300 were even more negative. A subsequent
review by PCMagazine seems to contradict this. Is the print quality
that bad, and has something been done to improve this situation.
Thank you!

 

[Joe Hayes]

The 3380 is just a 1300 with a built-in scanner. I have a 1300 and the
quality varies depending on the paper, typeface, type size, and resolution.
Smooth paper is an absolute must, particularly at 1200 dpi. The 1300 can
produce sharp output, but sometimes it will smudge thin horizontal lines or
parts of text, especially when using super smooth paper. So it's a
catch-22.

 

[Jon O'Brien]

I have seen several reports (CNet is the main one) stating that the
print quality on the Laserjet 3380 is "disappointing." Previous
evaluations of the earlier 3300 were even more negative. A subsequent
review by PCMagazine seems to contradict this.

Take a look at subsequent editions of the magazines that said it wasn't
very good and see how much HP advertising they're carrying. Now take a
look at subsequent editions of PC Magazine and do the same.

I haven't done this myself, so I could be entirely wrong, but my
experience, and stories told to me by IT journalists, advertising execs
and editors, suggests that such an exercise may prove enlightening.

Jon.

 

[Edward Westin]

Joe,
Are you satisfied with the 1300? Is there any particular type of
paper (papers) you have found that work well with it? Thanks!

 

[Joe Hayes]

I would say it's adequate for the price I paid, which was about $250 after
several discounts and rebate. There's no way I would have kept it at full
price. If you're printing at 600 dpi, regular copier paper is fine, but you
need something very smooth for 1200 dpi because lines are finer and thinner,
otherwise the toner will flake or rub off. I use Hammermill Laser Print.