HP Smart Tank Plus 651 review exploring unbeatable features for home printing

Description

Introduction to the HP Smart Tank Plus 651

Testing the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank Printer has been an enlightening experience. This multifunctional printer caught my attention with its promise of high-volume printing at a low cost. Equipped with features like mobile printing, a 35-page auto document feeder, and up to two years of HP ink, it seemed like the perfect solution for my home office needs. As I navigated through its capabilities, I found both strengths and weaknesses that are worth discussing for anyone considering this printer.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is both sleek and functional. Measuring 14.7 x 17.7 x 7.8 inches, it fits comfortably on my desk without taking up too much space. The colorful ink tanks are a standout feature, making it easy to see when refills are necessary. Notably, the printer weighs around 10.27 pounds, which makes it manageable if you need to move it. The overall aesthetic is modern, fitting seamlessly into any home office. I appreciated the dual-sided printing option, which adds convenience for larger documents and helps reduce paper waste.

Performance and Print Quality

Performance-wise, this printer excels in delivering impressive print quality. It produces sharp text and vibrant colors with a maximum color print resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi. The initial page print time is commendable, at just 14 seconds for black and 21 seconds for color. I found the copy and scan functions to be reliable, with a maximum copy resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, allowing for excellent reproduction of images and documents. The maximum input sheet capacity of 100 pages is generous, making it suitable for busy families or home offices. However, it’s worth mentioning that the max copy speed could use some improvement, as it stands at 10 copies per minute for black and white.

User-Friendly Interface and Connectivity

Setting up the printer was a breeze. The HP Smart app simplifies everything from installation to mobile printing. I could easily connect my smartphone and tablet to the printer using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The ability to print directly from my devices has been a game-changer, especially when I need to print documents on the go. The printer is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, which adds a layer of convenience for tech-savvy users. However, the reliance on the app for some functions could be a hurdle for those less comfortable with technology.

Key Features and Functionality

The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 comes packed with features that cater to various printing needs. It includes copy, scan, and fax capabilities, alongside the auto document feeder for efficient multitasking. The promise of up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black pages straight out of the box is impressive. I found the borderless printing feature particularly appealing for printing photos and creative projects. However, the manual duplex printing could deter users looking for a fully automatic solution.

Advantages of the HP Smart Tank Plus 651

Several key benefits make this printer stand out. Here are a few:

• Cost-Effective Printing: The inclusion of two years of ink significantly reduces printing costs and makes it ideal for high-volume users.
• Versatile Functionality: With the ability to print, copy, scan, and fax, this printer serves multiple purposes in one device.
• Quality Prints: The impressive print resolution ensures that both text and images come out looking professional.
• User-Friendly App: The HP Smart app streamlines the printing process, making it accessible for users of all tech levels.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its strengths, this printer does have some drawbacks worth noting:

• Limited Speed: The copy speed can be somewhat slow, especially for users who need to print large documents quickly.
• Manual Duplexing: The lack of automatic duplex printing could be a hassle for those looking to save time and paper.
• Occasional Connectivity Issues: Some users have reported intermittent connectivity problems, particularly when using Wi-Fi.

Comparing with Competitors

In the realm of ink tank printers, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 faces competition from brands like Epson and Canon. Epson’s EcoTank series also provides high-volume printing at a low cost, often featuring faster print speeds and automatic duplexing. Canon’s PIXMA G series printers offer robust photo printing capabilities, which might appeal to creative users. While the HP printer excels in cost efficiency and print quality, it may lag behind in speed and advanced features compared to its rivals.

Value for Money

Considering the features offered, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 delivers strong value for money. Although the initial investment may appear higher than traditional printers, the potential savings from two years of ink make it a smart choice for anyone who prints frequently. With its combination of functionality, quality, and cost-effectiveness, this printer certainly provides worth every penny for users looking to cut down on printing expenses without sacrificing quality.

Final Remarks

Testing the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 has been a rewarding journey. Its blend of functionality, cost efficiency, and ease of use makes it a formidable option for families and home office users alike. While there are areas for improvement, the overall printing experience has been positive. For those in search of a reliable ink tank printer, this model deserves serious consideration.

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