Buying Guide for the Best Hp Airprint Printers
When choosing an HP printer that supports AirPrint, it's essential to think about how you'll be using the printer and what features matter most to you. AirPrint is a technology that allows you to print wirelessly from your Apple devices without needing extra drivers or software. However, there are still several important features and specifications to consider to make sure you get a printer that fits your specific needs, whether it's for occasional home use, frequent office tasks, or high-quality photo printing.Printing TechnologyPrinting technology refers to how the printer creates images and text on paper—it's usually either inkjet or laser. Inkjet printers use liquid ink and are versatile, good for both text and color images, including photos. Laser printers use toner powder and are faster and better for high-volume or primarily text documents. If you need vibrant color prints or sometimes print photos, inkjet is likely best for you. If your focus is on speed and printing lots of documents, especially black-and-white, consider a laser printer.
Print SpeedPrint speed is usually measured in pages per minute (ppm) and tells you how fast the printer can produce pages. Printers with lower speeds (under 10 ppm) are usually basic home models, suitable for light and occasional printing. Mid-range speeds (10-20 ppm) are better for home offices or shared spaces with regular use, offering a balance between speed and print quality. High speeds (over 20 ppm) are ideal for busy offices or if you regularly print large documents. If you don't print much or only do casual printing, speed may not be as important, but if you print a lot or want to avoid waiting, aim for a higher ppm.
Print ResolutionPrint resolution, measured in dots per inch (dpi), determines how sharp and detailed your printed pages will be. Standard resolution (around 600 x 600 dpi) is fine for everyday documents or simple graphics. Higher resolution (1200 x 1200 dpi or above) is better for documents with images or high-quality photo prints. If you mostly print text documents, you don't need the highest resolution. If you want to print photos or graphics with rich details, look for higher dpi.
Paper HandlingPaper handling refers to the types and sizes of paper the printer can use, as well as how much paper it can hold at once. Basic printers may only support standard letter and legal sizes with smaller paper trays, while advanced models can handle different paper types (like envelopes or cardstock) and have larger or multiple input trays. Consider what kinds of documents you print (just letters, or also cards, labels, and photos) and how often you want to refill the paper tray. Choose a printer that can accommodate your most common tasks without frequent refilling or switching.
Connectivity OptionsBesides AirPrint, which lets you print wirelessly from Apple devices, printers come with various connectivity features, including Wi-Fi, USB, and sometimes Ethernet or Bluetooth. Wi-Fi enables wireless printing from computers and mobile devices; USB is for direct connection to a computer; Ethernet is useful for a wired network connection in an office. If you have multiple devices or want to print from your phone, look for Wi-Fi or wireless-enabled models, ensuring they mention AirPrint compatibility.
All-in-One Features (Multifunction)Some printers are single-function (just printing), while others are all-in-one and add scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing. If you only ever print, a simple model is enough. But if you need to copy documents, scan to your computer, or occasionally send a fax, an all-in-one is the better choice. Think about your current and potential future needs—many people find the extra functions surprisingly useful over time.
Operating Cost (Ink/Toner Yield)Operating costs relate to how often you'll need to replace ink cartridges or toner, and how much those replacements will cost. Some printers have high-yield cartridges or tanks that last longer and can save money and hassle if you print often. If you print very infrequently, standard cartridges might be fine, but if you plan to print a lot, look for models with higher page yields so you spend less time and money on replacements.
Size and DesignPrinters come in a variety of sizes, from compact units ideal for cramped spaces or occasional use, to large models built for heavier workloads. Think about where you'll place your printer—on a desk, shelf, or in a dedicated office space. Make sure to pick a size that fits well and is easy to access when refilling paper or replacing cartridges.