The Best HP Printer

Even though so many tasks can be completed electronically, there are still many times when a printer is necessary. When shopping for a new printer, one brand has definitely stood the test of time.

Hewlett Packard had been in business for several decades by the time they released their first printer in 1984. Since then, HP has offered virtually every type of printer imaginable, becoming a tried-and-true brand for numerous consumers.

If you are looking for a new HP printer, taking multiple factors, desires and requirements into consideration will help you purchase the best printer for your unique needs.

Think about how you plan to use the printer. If you only need a printer for occasional home use, you might not need many features. Alternatively, if you are shopping for an office or small business printer, you might prefer something more feature-rich, such as the HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 All-in-One Wireless Printer. This model can print wirelessly, copy, scan, fax, print and scan two-sided documents and more. Similarly, a photographer will likely prefer a device that prints pictures, such as the HP Envy 4520 Wireless All-in-One Photo Printer with Mobile Printing.

There are essentially two types of printers for home and basic office use. Inkjet printers drop small dots of ink onto paper to create a printed copy of an image, while laser printers use laser beams to create a design with static electricity. The toner, which is a form of powdered ink, is attracted by the static and adheres to the paper. Comparing the advantages and drawbacks of each printer type could help you determine the right one for you.

For photos or color documents, such as charts and illustrations, inkjet printers work very well. Color laser printers are available, such as the HP LaserJet Pro M281fdw All in One Wireless Color Laser Printer. However, laser printers are more expensive, at least initially. Since laser printers use toner, which lasts much longer than ink, you do not have to replace it as frequently.

Another consideration to include when deciding on a new printer is whether you want a wireless printer or a wired printer that is connected to one computer, typically with an ethernet cable.

If you need a printer that several people can use for multiple purposes, a wireless printer such as the OfficeJet Pro 8720 All-in-One is a solid bet. Once you set it up, a wireless printer can be used across your Wi-Fi network. If you only plan to connect to the printer with a single computer and your network is already heavy with other wireless devices, you might wish to go with a wired printer. That being said, most wireless printers can also be connected directly to a computer with a cable, which gives you the option to use it wirelessly in the future, if you choose.

Of course, your printer budget also goes a long way toward your final decision. HP printers can range in price from less than $50 to several hundred dollars. Along with the initial cost of the printer, you will want to consider the price of the ink or toner it requires and how often you will need to replenish your supply. Establishing the features that are most important to you and determining which options are not as important will enable you to find the most suitable printer within your predetermined price range.

• Keep it clean. Most HP printers have built-in tools that help clean the printer cartridge heads, keeping them from clogging or smearing ink on paper. Look for this feature in the printer’s “toolbox” or the HP Solution Center, which should be added to your computer when you download the printer’s software.
• Know your equipment. Your HP printer should come with a user manual, which should also be available on the manufacturer’s website. Look it over before using your new printer. Not only will it help ensure proper use, but it might also clue you into features you may not otherwise have known about.
• Perform updates regularly. Keeping your printer’s drivers up to date could keep you from experiencing problems with the device down the road. Look for update options in the HP printer’s settings. Choosing automatic updates prevents the need to check for and download them manually.
• Replace responsibly. Although ink cartridge refills and off-brands might be cheaper than name brand replacements, using them could void a printer’s warranty. Be sure to read the fine print on your warranty information prior to buying and installing new printer cartridges.
• Use black ink. When printing drafts or items for personal use, you can save ink (and money) by using only black ink. Look for the grayscale or black and white option in the Color menu when preparing to print a document.
• Shut it down. Heat can cause printer ink to dry up more quickly. It can also shorten the lifespan of a device. Shutting down your printer at the end of the day or when you don’t plan to use it for some time can prevent it from heating up unnecessarily.