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Ease of Use (8.00)
We like the mini320 for its simple design and operation. The Easy-Scroll Wheel provides the simplest interface of any competing models. The combination of a single, easily replaced cartridge with good print quality makes for easy, carefree operation. Canon’s new fast on and off feature reduces waiting time and, therefore, speeds up printing.
Value (7.50)
If the mini320 only printed a maximum of 4-inch wide prints, we would give it a much lower value score. However, since few printers in this price range provide this option, it’s reflected in our score. The HiTi 731PS dye sublimation printer allows printing up to 6x8 inches, but the unit costs $400. The only other compact printer to offer the 5x7-inch option is the HP Photosmart A626, which sells for the same $179 price. The addition of IrDA support on the mini320, a feature few, if any, compact printers share, definitely bolsters its value.
Comparisons
 Selling for the same price as the mini320, the HP Photosmart A626 can also print 4x6-inch and 5x7-inch photos. It features the same digital camera and media slot connectivity options and optional Bluetooth compatibility, but the mini320 features IrDa device (cell phone and PDA cameras) support. The A626’s big draw is the comparatively immense 4.8-inch LCD touchscreen (actual image-viewing area is 3.5 inches). Users can navigate menus and choose images for printing via the screen, not control panel buttons. A stylus is also provided which allows users to write on the images on-screen to create customized messages on their prints. The A626 also uses a single ink cartridge. Like the mini320, the A626 can be powered by an optional rechargeable battery.
 Epson sells two compact inkjet photo printers that should be considered alongside the mini320. The Epson PictureMate Dash (PM240) sells for only $99 ($80 less than the mini320) and, if the print quality of its predecessor, the Snap, is any measure, produces excellent quality prints. The Dash also features a 3.6-inch LCD screen (an improvement over the previous models’ 2.5-inch display), compared to the mini320’s 2.5-inch screen. Both models feature optional, rechargeable battery power and media card compatibility, but the only wireless connections the Dash is capable of are via an optional Bluetooth adapter. Canon also wins in the media size category, since the Dash can only print up to 4x6-inch size.
 The Epson PictureMate Zoom (PM290) , at $199, is twenty dollars more than the mini320, but it adds a CD writer/reader to the Dash’s features, useful for archiving images from media cards or cameras without the need for a computer. This is a great option for the non-pro who wants to be able to empty their camera’s memory card and keep on shooting while also having the ability to print on the go. The write feature allows saving of images to CD to share with family and friends.
 A couple of dye sublimation printers are in the same price range as the mini320 and offer good quality prints. (Dye sublimation achieves continuous tone prints, as opposed to inkjet prints, which are composed of millions of tiny dots.) The Sony PictureStation DPP-FP90 ($199) has an LCD screen comparable in size (3.6 inches) to the Epson printers, but it doesn’t have any features that are above and beyond the other models on this list. Media card slots and PictBridge support are standard, while Bluetooth connectivity is optional. The FP90 has no option for a battery, making it limited to the reach of its plug. Price per print costs more than most inkjet printers. Print quality definitely outstripped all other dye sub printers we’ve tested, so consumers wedded to the dye sub look should consider this one.
 The HiTi S400 Dazzle is another dye sub printer that produces good quality prints, but for an additional $70 above the price of the mini320. What consumers get for the price is one of the sturdiest compact printers on the market, with probably the most well designed paper tray. Print resolution, at 403 dpi, is higher than any other dye sub on the market. Media cards are supported, and users print and browse menus with a corded remote control device. Print quality is very good, but there are no wireless printing capabilities. Another downside is the lack of a handle or optional carrying case. Cost per print exceeded most other printers, even the Sony FP90.
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