HP OfficeJet 200 Wireless Mobile Printer Review Compact Inkjet for Professionals

Description

Compact Design and Portability

The HP OfficeJet 200 Wireless Mobile Printer is a game-changer for anyone who needs portable printing capabilities. Its compact dimensions of 2.7 x 7.32 x 14.3 inches and weight of just 4.85 pounds make it incredibly easy to carry around. I found that it fits perfectly in my backpack without taking up much space, and the sleek black finish gives it a professional look. The built-in lithium-ion battery is one of its standout features, allowing me to print without being tied to a power outlet. Whether you’re in a coffee shop or working from your car, this device proves incredibly convenient.

The 2-inch hi-res mono graphic display on the control panel is small but functional, offering just enough visibility to navigate basic settings. While it’s not a touchscreen, the simplicity suits the device’s on-the-go nature. I appreciate that it doesn’t feel overwhelming, but I did notice that those with larger fingers might find the buttons a bit cramped.

Performance and Print Quality

The performance of this portable printer is surprisingly robust for its size. It prints at a speed of 20 pages per minute (black and white), which is decent for a compact device. The quality is sharp and clear, especially when printing documents with fine text. I tested it with borderless photo printing, and the results were impressive, especially on glossy photo paper. The colors were vibrant, and the details were crisp, which is not something I expected from a printer designed primarily for mobility.

What sets it apart is its manual duplex printing feature, which allows for double-sided printing. Although you have to flip the pages yourself, it’s a great way to save paper. The maximum media size supported is 8.5 x 14 inches, making it versatile enough to handle anything from legal documents to envelopes and photo prints. The 50-sheet input capacity is sufficient for light to moderate use, but you might find yourself refilling it frequently for larger tasks.

Key Benefits

• Portable and lightweight, making it ideal for mobile professionals.
• The built-in battery provides flexibility for printing anywhere.
• Sharp and vibrant print quality, especially for photos.
• Supports various paper sizes, including envelopes and glossy photo paper.
• Manual duplex printing helps conserve paper.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the printer’s biggest highlights is its HP Fast Charge feature, which charges the battery up to 90% within 90 minutes when the system is off. I tested charging it in my car, and it worked seamlessly with the AC power adapter. This feature is a lifesaver, especially during busy days when time is limited. The battery life itself is solid, allowing me to print several pages before needing a recharge. However, keep in mind that excessive photo printing can drain the battery faster than simple text documents.

Connectivity Features and HP Smart App

Connectivity is where this printer truly shines. It supports both Bluetooth and 802.11bgn wireless connections, which means I could easily pair it with my smartphone, laptop, and even my tablet without hassle. The HP Smart app is another standout feature. It allowed me to scan documents using my phone’s camera and print them directly. I also loved the convenience of printing from the cloud via Google Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud. The app’s user-friendly interface made setting up the printer feel almost effortless.

That said, I noticed that the HP Auto Wireless Connect feature sometimes took a bit longer to establish a connection than expected. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s worth mentioning for those who value quick setups.

Areas for Improvement

• Limited paper tray capacity (50 sheets), which might not suit high-volume users.
• The small control panel isn’t ideal for those with larger hands.
• Manual duplex printing could be a hassle for some users.
• Occasional delays in wireless connectivity setup.

Competitive Options

When comparing this device to other portable printers like the Canon PIXMA TR150 and the Epson WorkForce WF-110, I found some interesting contrasts. The Canon PIXMA TR150 offers a similar compact design but includes a larger color touchscreen, which makes navigation a bit smoother. However, its print speed is slightly slower than the HP OfficeJet 200. On the other hand, the Epson WorkForce WF-110 boasts excellent photo printing quality but lacks the fast charging feature that HP provides.

The HP OfficeJet 200 stands out for its balanced performance, combining portability, decent print speeds, and a reliable battery life. While its competitors might offer more advanced touchscreens or slightly better photo quality, they don’t quite match the all-around versatility this printer provides for on-the-go professionals.

Worth Every Penny

The cost of this device aligns well with its premium features and portability. Considering the inclusion of a built-in lithium-ion battery and HP Fast Charge, it offers a strong value proposition for the price. While it might seem like an investment compared to traditional desktop printers, the flexibility and convenience it provides are worth it. If you frequently work outside of a traditional office setting, this is a smart spending choice. For those who prioritize portability and ease of use, this printer is an excellent match.

Additional information