🖨️ Review: HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One – The Essential Home Office Companion
In the increasingly digital world, the need for a physical document—a contract, a school assignment, or a scanned receipt—still persists. For the casual home user, striking the right balance between affordability, features, and size is crucial. The HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier (588S5A) steps into this space, positioning itself as a compact, budget-friendly, and AI-enabled solution designed specifically for light-to-moderate home use.
 |
| Review: HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One – The Essential Home Office Companion |
This comprehensive review will dive into its design, functionality, print quality, the value of the included 3-month Instant Ink trial, and whether this all-in-one device deserves a spot in your home office.
Design and Setup: A Minimalist Footprint
The DeskJet 2855e adheres to the modern trend of compact office equipment. Its small, lightweight design (approx. 16.7" x 12" x 6.1") ensures it fits comfortably on a desk, shelf, or in a tight study corner without dominating the space. HP has also incorporated sustainability, constructing the printer with at least 60% recycled plastics, a commendable feature for eco-conscious buyers.
Initial Impressions & Connectivity
Setting up the 2855e is designed to be a streamlined, mobile-first experience. HP strongly pushes users toward the HP Smart App for initial configuration. Most users find the wireless setup (supporting 2.4GHz single-band Wi-Fi) quick and straightforward when using the app, allowing for immediate printing from smartphones, tablets, and computers. For those who prefer a traditional connection, a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port is also available.
The control panel is minimalist, featuring an Icon LCD display and a few buttons, reflecting its primary reliance on the HP Smart App for deeper functions.
Core Functionality: Print, Scan, and Copy
As an all-in-one (AIO) device, the 2855e handles the trifecta of essential home functions: printing, scanning, and copying.
Printing Performance
The printer utilizes HP Thermal Inkjet technology and a two-cartridge system (one black, one tri-color). It is firmly aimed at low-volume printing, which is reflected in its speeds:
Black (ISO): Up to 7.5 pages per minute (ppm)
Color (ISO): Up to 5.5 ppm
While these speeds are slower than mid-range models, they are perfectly adequate for the occasional document, homework assignment, or recipe printout.
Print Quality:
For plain text documents, the 2855e delivers crisp, clean black text at resolutions up to $1200 \times 1200$ rendered dpi. Color prints for casual use—like basic charts, graphs, or vibrant flyers—are generally acceptable. However, for high-resolution, professional-grade photo printing, this model is not the ideal choice, as some reviewers note quality limitations in graphics and large images.
Scanning and Copying
The AIO features a flatbed scanner capable of resolutions up to 1200 dpi. This is suitable for digitizing standard-size documents (up to A4/Letter) and basic photo scanning. Copying is simple and functional, with maximum copy resolutions of $300 \times 300$ dpi and a limit of 9 copies per run.
Key Feature Caveat: The 2855e lacks two features found on more advanced models: an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) for multi-page scanning/copying, and Automatic Duplex Printing (two-sided printing must be done manually via driver prompts). These omissions are standard for a budget-focused home printer and confirm its best-for-home, low-volume designation.
The HP+ Ecosystem and Instant Ink Trial
The 'e' in 2855e signifies that this is an HP+ enabled printer. This is perhaps the most significant feature and a point of both convenience and controversy for users.
HP Instant Ink and AI-Enabled Features
The printer includes a compelling offer: a 3-month trial of HP Instant Ink. This subscription service monitors your ink levels and automatically ships new cartridges before you run out, saving trips to the store. The AI-enabled component further enhances the experience by optimizing ink usage and assisting with troubleshooting through the HP Smart App.
The HP+ Commitment:
Opting for the HP+ service during setup requires a commitment to exclusively use Original HP Ink Cartridges (HP 67) for the life of the printer. While this guarantees the best print quality, it restricts the use of third-party or refilled cartridges. For many, the savings and convenience of the Instant Ink program outweigh this limitation, especially for low-volume users.
Mobile Printing Excellence
One of the printer's strongest suits is its seamless integration with mobile devices through the HP Smart App. Users can print, scan, check ink levels, and even order supplies directly from their phone, supporting features like Apple AirPrint and Mopria-certified printing. This level of remote access makes it a truly modern, wireless companion for the connected household.
Verdict: Who Should Buy the HP DeskJet 2855e?
The HP DeskJet 2855e is a highly functional and affordable entry-level AIO printer, perfectly tailored for a specific demographic.
✅ Pros
Excellent Value: Offers print, scan, and copy functions at a budget-friendly price point.
Easy Setup: Quick and simple installation, especially via the HP Smart App and Wi-Fi.
Compact Design: Small footprint ideal for apartments, dorms, or small home offices.
HP Instant Ink Trial: Three months of ink included is a significant value add.
Good Quality for Documents: Delivers sharp, clear text for everyday needs.
Sustainability: Made with 60% recycled plastic.
❌ Cons
Slower Speeds: Not suitable for high-volume or rush printing jobs.
No Automatic Duplex/ADF: Manual two-sided printing and no multi-page scanning feeder.
HP+ Commitment: Requires exclusive use of Original HP Ink for the life of the printer.
Basic Photo Quality: Color prints are adequate, but not stellar for serious photography.
Conclusion
The HP DeskJet 2855e is arguably one of the best budget all-in-one printers for the casual home user. It’s the perfect machine for a student, a family with occasional printing needs, or anyone who primarily prints documents (50 to 100 pages per month is the recommended volume).
If your primary need is a reliable, compact device for printing the occasional document and you appreciate the automated convenience and cost savings of the Instant Ink program, the 2855e is an excellent, hassle-free choice that won't break the bank. If, however, you require high-speed, high-volume, or professional-grade photo output, you should consider stepping up to a more feature-rich model.