Kodak extends line of midrange multifunction printers

This morning, Kodak introduced two new models to its collection of all-in-one printers. The ESP 3250 and ESP 5250 both take aim at consumers who need a printer in the home for light-duty snapshot and document printing, but don't necessarily need extra features (like an auto-document feeder or a duplexer) that typically push printers past the $200 threshold. As such, the new models are essentially stripped-down versions of the ESP 3 and ESP 5 printers we reviewed last year, but with a few updates:

Kodak ESP 3250

Kodak ESP 3250 - $130

• 1.5-inch LCD Display
• Manual duplexing for double-sided printing
• Low Power Standby Mode saves energy during downtime
• Built-in memory card reader

Kodak ESP 5250

Kodak ESP 5250 - $170

• 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi enabled (802.11n not supported)
• 2.4-inch LCD Display
• Intelligent paper tray (included with 3250 as well)

The Kodak ESP 3250 and ESP 5250 are available now on the Kodak Web site, but look out for full reviews from CNET coming soon.

[joshsc]

I'm sorry, I have to laugh. Kodak ESP 3250- " Manual Duplexing"? Um hello? ANYONE can flip a piece of paper over in ANY printer for MANUAL DUPLEXING. How is that a feature?

[JonKa]

Actually, "manual duplexing" is a more or less standard term in the desktop printing industry (try doing a search). It usually means that the driver program has an option that allows you to print consecutive pages in a multi-page document on two sides, but that you must turn either the pages or a stack of pages over manually (depending on how the software is set up). This eliminates selecting consecutive pages one-by-one. Though I haven't personally tried this printer, I suspect that Kodak's use of the term is no different from that of other printer companies.

[hylander59]

I just purchased this fine mid ranged AiO printer from Wal-mart Fri.Oct 9th,and with in 1 hour was up and printing.
I run winXP with SP3 and had NO problems with software or driver loads ,the software loaded fast and easily,giving plenty of direction.
The online tutorial was easy to understand and the graphics are self explanatory.I payed just $99.00 and received a full compliment of "ink","and a sample pack of fresh Kodak paper so I could start printing immediately.

On the down side I did need to buy separately the "Kodak 2.0 usb cable" for about $20.00 .
However I found out later that any 2.0 USB cable will work.

Printing is as fast as they say with little wait time for spooling,if online or direct .


Rich full color,with deep shadows,bright highlights and rich mid-tones do not seem to be a problem for the new AiO printer.

All in all a great little printer for the money.

[stephane_d]

Since you seem to be the owner of a 5250 printer, can you confirm that:
- The Kodak driver does allow to select manuel duplex printing

Also, does the Kodak driver allow to print 2 pages pages per sheet? Most HP drivers have that, I wonder if Kodak has that too.

Any other comments in the fews days you've owned the printer ?