HP OfficeJet vs Smart Tank Printers: Which is Best for You?

HP OfficeJet and Smart Tank printers have gained immense popularity among users seeking reliable and efficient printing solutions. HP OfficeJet printers are renowned for their versatility, offering a wide range of models catering to various printing needs. These printers are designed to deliver high-quality output while balancing cost-effectiveness and ease of use. On the other hand, HP's Smart Tank printers have revolutionised the printing industry with their innovative ink delivery system, promising low-cost printing, and reduced environmental impact.

In this comprehensive printer comparison, we'll dive deep into the intricate details of both printer series, exploring their printing technologies, performance capabilities and cost-effectiveness.

We’ll explore individual factors such as ink delivery systems, wireless connectivity and user-friendly interfaces to navigate the vast array of options and identify the printer that seamlessly integrates into your workflow.

Summary Comparison

Printing Technology and Quality

HP OfficeJet and Smart Tank printers offer distinct advantages tailored to different user needs. The OfficeJet series primarily utilises thermal inkjet technology, which relies on tiny heated resistors to eject ink droplets onto the paper. This technology delivers sharp text and vibrant colours, making OfficeJet printers an excellent choice for producing high-quality documents, photos and graphics. However, the print quality can vary depending on the specific model and ink cartridges used.

In contrast, HP's Smart Tank printers employ a revolutionary ink delivery system that combines the benefits of traditional inkjet technology with the cost-effectiveness of ink tanks. These printers use a separate ink reservoir, allowing for a higher ink capacity and potentially lower printing costs per page. Smart Tank printers offer impressive output suitable for most home and office use cases.

When evaluating print quality, it's crucial to consider factors such as resolution, colour accuracy, and media compatibility. Both OfficeJet and Smart Tank printers offer a range of resolutions, with some models capable of producing borderless prints and handling various paper types and sizes.

Printing Speed and Volume

Printing speed and volume are critical factors to consider, especially for users with demanding print workloads or tight deadlines. Both the OfficeJet and Smart Tank series offer a range of print speed capabilities across their different models. 

Higher-end OfficeJet printers like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9130 All-in-One Printer tend to have impressive pages per minute (ppm) ratings (up to 25 ppm in this case), making them well-suited for large print jobs or high-volume scenarios. However, some Smart Tank models may also deliver reasonably fast print speeds, depending on the specific model and its intended use case. The HP Smart Tank 790 WiFi All-in-One Printer Duplexer with ADF and Magic Touch Panel, for example, has an impressive printing speed going up to 23 ppm

The actual print speed can vary significantly not only between the two printer lines but also within each series based on factors like model, print settings, and the type of document being printed. It's crucial to review the manufacturer's specifications and independent performance tests for the specific models you're considering

Assessing your typical printing workload and speed requirements will help determine whether prioritising the potential higher print speeds of OfficeJet printers or the potential cost savings and sustainability of Smart Tank printers better aligns with your needs.

Ink Delivery System

The ink delivery system is a crucial aspect that sets HP's Smart Tank printers apart, significantly impacting printing costs and user convenience. An HP OfficeJet printer will traditionally employ a cartridge-based ink system, where the user replaces individual cartridges for each colour when they run out. While convenient, this approach can lead to higher long-term printing costs, especially for those with heavy printing needs

On the other hand, Smart Tank printers feature an innovative ink tank system that allows for a higher ink capacity and lower cost per page. Instead of cartridges, these printers utilise refillable ink tanks that can be topped up with affordable bottled ink without the need for squeezing and the risk of spilling ink. This design translates into substantial cost savings over time, making Smart Tank printers an appealing choice for users seeking economical printing solutions

Furthermore, this also means that Smart Tank printers lead to lower plastic waste (in the form of cartridges for OfficeJet printers) in the long run, making them a more sustainable choice

Since the ink tanks in Smart Tank models hold significantly more ink volume than OfficeJet cartridges, you’ll find that you can print for months without having to refill the tanks for moderate printing needs. The HP Smart Tank 790 WiFi All-in-One Printer Duplexer can print up to 8,000 colour or 12,000 black pages with the provided ink bottles. The HP Smart Tank 530 All-in-One Printer is a more affordable option for small offices, printing up to 8,000 colour or 6,000 black pages.

Cost-effectiveness and Total Cost of Ownership

These are critical considerations when choosing between HP's OfficeJet and Smart Tank printer lines, as they can significantly impact your long-term printing expenses. While upfront costs differ according to model,, the ongoing ink expenses can add up quickly, especially for users with high print volumes. The traditional cartridge-based system requires frequent replacements, which can become a recurring financial burden over time

In contrast, Smart Tank printers excel in cost-effectiveness due to their refillable ink tank design. The ability to purchase affordable bottled ink and refill the tanks as needed results in substantial savings on ink costs over the printer's lifespan. This cost-saving advantage becomes increasingly pronounced for users with heavy printing needs, as the ink tanks can hold a significantly larger ink capacity compared to cartridges

Some Smart Tank models, such as the HP Smart Tank 530 All-in-One Printer are a highly budget-friendly initial purchase. This makes the Smart Tank 530 an excellent all-round option

Ultimately, carefully evaluating your printing requirements, budget and desired balance between upfront and ongoing costs will help you determine whether an OfficeJet or Smart Tank printer aligns better with your cost-effectiveness goals.

Wireless Printing and Connectivity

In today's increasingly mobile and connected world, wireless printing and connectivity features have become essential for seamless and convenient printing experiences. Both HP's OfficeJet and Smart Tank printer series offer various wireless printing options, allowing users to print from multiple devices without the hassle of physical connections. Many models in both lineups support Wi-Fi, enabling direct wireless printing from smartphones, tablets or laptops

Additionally, many HP printers like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9130 All-in-One Printer and HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide Format All-in-One Printer are compatible with popular mobile printing apps and cloud printing services, such as HP Smart App and Apple AirPrint. These features allow users to print directly from their mobile devices or cloud storage platforms, eliminating the need to transfer files to a computer first. The HP Smart Tank 790 WiFi All-in-One Printer Duplexer has a magic touch panel for ease of use, and the HP Smart Tank 530 All-in-One Printer offers faster print speeds in comparison to earlier models. All four models support USB printing, in addition to wireless printing

For users who frequently print from multiple devices or locations, considering the wireless printing and connectivity options can significantly enhance productivity and convenience. Those who primarily work from a single desktop or laptop may find wired connectivity sufficient for their needs.

Paper Handling and Additional Features

Both HP's OfficeJet and Smart Tank printer series offer a range of paper-handling capabilities to enhance your printing experience and productivity. Many models come equipped with automatic document feeders (ADFs), enabling effortless scanning, copying, or faxing of multi-page documents. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9130 All-in-One Printer, HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide Format All-in-One Printer, HP Smart Tank 790 WiFi All-in-One Printer Duplexer and HP Smart Tank 530 All-in-One Printer models are all equipped with 35-page ADFs for seamless document handling

This feature can be particularly useful for office environments or users who frequently need to digitise physical documents. Additionally, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9130 All-in-One Printer, HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide Format All-in-One Printer and HP Smart Tank 790 WiFi All-in-One Printer Duplexer printers support automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper, reducing paper waste, and costs

The HP Smart Tank 530 All-in-One Printer is a power-packed, pocket-friendly printer with incredible features like borderless printing, which can be advantageous for printing high-quality photos or graphics without undesirable margins.

User-friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface can greatly enhance the overall printing experience, making it easier to navigate through various settings, monitor ink levels, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise

Both HP's OfficeJet and Smart Tank printer series prioritise intuitive and accessible interfaces. Many OfficeJet printers like the HP OfficeJet Pro 9130 All-in-One Printer and the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide Format All-in-One Printer feature colour touch screens, allowing users to easily access and adjust printer settings, preview document previews and even perform basic editing tasks directly from the printer

On the other hand, Smart Tank printers often opt for more simplistic interfaces, with some models featuring mono graphics screens. While these interfaces may not offer the same level of functionality as higher-end OfficeJet models, they are designed to be straightforward to navigate, catering to users who prioritise hassle-free printing over advanced interface features

Regardless of the interface type, both printer series aim to provide clear and concise on-screen prompts, guiding users through common tasks such as ink cartridge or tank replacements, paper loading, and wireless connectivity setup

Additionally, most HP printers are compatible with mobile printing apps, like the HP Smart App, which allows users to monitor printer status, check ink levels and even order replacement ink directly from their smartphones or tablets, adding an extra layer of convenience and accessibility.

Eco-friendly Printing Practices

As environmental consciousness continues to grow, both HP's OfficeJet and Smart Tank printer series have implemented various eco-friendly practices to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining high-quality printing capabilities

One of the most notable eco-friendly features of Smart Tank printers is their ink delivery system itself. Utilising refillable ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges, these printers significantly reduce plastic waste and the need for frequent cartridge replacements. Additionally, the higher ink capacity of the tanks translates to fewer ink refills, further minimising waste and carbon footprint associated with shipping and transportation

However, an HP OfficeJet printer is not always lagging in this regard. Many models are designed with energy-efficient components and automatic power-saving modes, which can help reduce energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions

At HP, eco-friendly choices begin at the design stage itself. The HP OfficeJet Pro 9130 All-in-One Printer uses 40% recycled plastic in its design while the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730 Wide Format All-in-One Printer uses 30% recycled plastic in its components. On a similar token, the HP Smart Tank 790 WiFi All-in-One Printer Duplexer is engineered from 25% recycled plastic

Both printer lines also receive software and firmware updates that can optimise print settings and reduce unnecessary ink or toner consumption, contributing to more sustainable printing practices. 

Summary

When it comes to choosing between an HP OfficeJet printer and a Smart Tank printer model, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each printer line offers distinct advantages that cater to different user needs and preferences

For users who prioritise exceptional print quality, faster printing speeds, and colour touchscreen interfaces, the OfficeJet series may be the more suitable choice. On the other hand, if cost-effectiveness, low printing costs and environmental sustainability are the primary concerns, Smart Tank printers shine with their innovative ink tank system

We hope this printer comparison helps you identify key aspects to consider when investing in a printer that will serve as a reliable printing companion for years to 

About the Author: Vidhu Jain is a contributing writer for HP Tech Takes. A Fortune 500 experienced brand storyteller, she’s a voracious reader who loves travelling and exploring the world.