The Kodak EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500 uses dye sublimation, a dry transfer process. Dye sub isn't new, but it's only recently that per page costs have dropped sufficiently to make the process competitive with inkjet.

This compact go-anywhere printer can connect to a computer via the included USB cable. It can print directly from a digital camera's memory card, from a PictBridge-enabled digital camera, or wirelessly via the built-in Bluetooth module. An optional Wi-Fi network module makes it easy to integrate the printer into a home wireless network.

Based on the assumption that most individuals are interested in printing 4x6 snapshots, Kodak designed the EASYSHARE for this size and smaller, including 3x4 (with borders), 2x3 wallet size, and 1.3x2 minis. The inclusion of the 3x4 print size is a nice touch-- Most camera image sensors use a 4:3 aspect ratio, and when an image is printed on 4x6 paper, the top and bottom must be cropped in order to fit. The 3x4 print size overcomes this problem, allowing you to print full-frame images in most cases.

As we mentioned earlier, dye sub is a dry transfer method, one that uses heat to fuse color to paper. The EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500 uses three colors (cyan, yellow, magenta), plus a protective coating that seals the paper, making it waterproof and smudge resistant. Colors are laid down individually, to build up an image. The results easily rival conventional photo lab prints.

Image editing is limited to cropping, reducing redeye, and enhancing color. In most cases, the only option is to turn the edit function on or off. For the best image quality, you will need to use desktop image editing software.

The Kodak EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500 will reward you with stunning photos. Despite the lack of battery support, its compact size and easy-to-use photo tools make it a good choice for many portable uses.

Pro: Dye sublimation produces accurate and detailed images, easy-to-use editing tools. wireless Bluetooth connectivity.
Con: Editing tools are rudimentary, dye sub printing supplies harder to find than inkjet, no battery option.

Warranty
1 year