HP Photosmart Digital Cameras

Essentially, these cameras are on the lower end of the digital camera market, and their prices are fairly low too, ranging from $130 to $450. They don't offer the high resolution (max 6MP) that most new digital cameras feature and their LCD preview screen tend to be on the small side, usually less than 2". Some of the more basic models don't even come with optical zoom, which tends to be a major drawback with most inexpensive cameras. Plus they tend to have limited features, despite often crowded exteriors. If you are looking for something small and inexpensive to use as a snapshot camera that is easy to use from the moment you take the shot to the moment when you print it, then this is a good choice for you. Otherwise, for enthusiasts and those looking for manual features and more, it's advisable to spend a bit more for something with better features. For an explanation of what to look for when buying a digital camera, please see the buying guide. Note that the prices listed are estimates and are not always the lowest street price available.

E Series
  • The E317  and E327  are HP's most basic digital camera. Good for a child's first camera, or as a family camera for quick snapshots:
    • Featuring great quality 5 megapixel (MP) resolution.
    • A 3.8 cm LCD screen allows photographers to preview and edit all of their photos.
    • 4x zoom (1x optical /4x digital) allows users to simply point, click and shoot great images.
    • 16 MB internal memory allows users to store photos in the camera Technical Specifications
    • Camera is PictBridge enabled, which means users can transfer their digital images to any printer via a plug and play USB connection.

R Series

R707  and R607  are great introductory cameras for $250 to $400.

  • R607 : compact with small LCD, 4MP, not great for review mode.
  • Too many buttons make it feel a little cluttered, but at least you can access its features without entering the menu on the preview screen.
  • The BMW model  is very slick looking.

R725 

  • 6.2-megapixels for incredible resolution for beautiful prints and enlargements up to poster size.
  • Internal HP Precision 24x total zoom, 3x optical, 8x digital.
  • 2-inch LCD for framing and viewing photos and menus –- indoors or out.
  • On-camera button to easily order and share photos on Snapfish using HP Photosmart Express.

R727  and R927 

  • 6.2-megapixels for incredible resolution for beautiful prints and enlargements up to poster size.
  • Internal HP Precision 24x total zoom, 3x optical, 8x digital.
  • 2.5-inch LCD for framing and viewing photos and menus –- indoors or out.
  • On-camera button to easily order and share photos on Snapfish using HP Photosmart Express.
  • Features an elegant, thin all-metal design to fit easily in a pocket or purse.
  • Automatic In-camera red-eye removal to remove red-eye while images are still in the camera.
  • HP Design Gallery adds artistic effects and borders right in the camera –- no PC or software required.
  • High-quality VGA video with audio shoots at 24 frames per second and offers the ability to save still shots for printing.
  • Add Wireless capabilities by purchasing the HP Photosmart 6222 Wireless Dock Base.

M Series

M22  and M23 

  • Budget, snapshot cameras with basic features.
  • Limited 4MP resolution.
  • No optical zoom, but it has an onboard help section, making it perfect for beginners.
  • Limited number of buttons and exterior controls makes for easy use even for technophobes.

M407 

  • This is a pocket-sized compact with a 4MP resolution, a 3x optical zoom, a 1.8" LCD screen, and an onboard help guide.
  • Not too many extras, no slide show during on-mode, plus no movie mode.
  • Dockable for easy printing.
  • M417 : Upgraded version with a 5MP resolution, 3x optical zoom, , 1.8" screen, ergonomical design. Basic models. Unfortunately, requires AA batteries. Optical viewfinder is too small. Dockable.
  • Additional models: M507  and M517. 

M425 

  • 5-megapixels of impressive resolution for prints and enlargements.
  • HP Precision 3x optical lens and 6x digital zoom for 18x total zoom.
  • 1.7-inch image display, intuitive button layout and overall compact stylish design allows for easy one-handed shots.
  • 16 MB internal memory allows users to store photos in the camera.
  • Fast-shot mode allows users to capture quick, fleeting shots with minimal shutter lag.
  • Extra storage capacity available with optional SD card.

M525 

  • 6-megapixels of resolution.
  • HP Precision 3x optical lens and 7x digital zoom for 21x total zoom.
  • 1.7-inch image display, intuitive button layout and overall compact stylish design allow for easy one-handed shots.
  • 16 MB internal memory allows users to store photos in the camera.

R717
  • 6MP and 5MP respectively. Plus they have onboard red eye removal, multizone settings for the best focusing.
  • The 717 has a 1.8" LCD display, 3x optical zooms, and it takes different types of batteries (rechargeable or the convenient CP1).
  • The 818 has a 2" LCD screen, 5x optical zoom, plus some manual controls.

945
  • 6MP and an 8x optical zoom.
  • Pop-up flash, but no hot shoe.
  • Video recording capability.
  • Advanced dSLR-style camera with some manual override features for ISO control, white balance.

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