HP DeskJet 2855e review: a compact budget all-in-one with a not-so-sweet ink policy

• Verdict
  • Pros: budget-friendly entry price; compact footprint; straightforward setup via the HP Smart app and wireless; adequate basics for home use
  • Cons: tied to HP’s ink subscription and proprietary cartridges; slow startup and modest print speeds; mainly suited for light tasks; scanning and multi-page handling are limited

TechRadar’s take on the HP DeskJet 2855e centers on its approachable price and small size, which make it a sensible pick for casual, light-duty printing at home. The printer covers the essentials—printing, scanning, and copying—without fuss, and its wireless setup tends to be praised when used with the HP Smart app. However, the model’s ink ecosystem is a major sticking point: HP’s program pushes branded cartridges and a subscription plan that can inflate running costs outside of the promo. Add a slower startup and limited performance beyond basic tasks, and you’re looking at a device that excels in convenience more than speed or versatility.

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HP DeskJet 2855e: Specs The DeskJet 2855e is pitched as an all-in-one for homes, students, and small offices, combining color printing with scanning and copying. It delivers up to around 7.5 pages per minute in black and 5.5 ppm in color, and it’s designed for light to moderate monthly workloads (roughly 50–100 pages). Its print quality is solid for text and adequate for color documents, though not aimed at high-end photo work.

Key capabilities:

• Print resolution: 1200 x 1200 dpi (black); 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi (color)
• Media handling: 60-sheet input tray; 25-sheet output tray; supports sizes from 3 x 5 inches to 8.5 x 14 inches
• Connectivity: built-in Wi‑Fi (802.11b/g/n) plus Hi-Speed USB 2.0
• Mobile and cloud printing: HP Smart app, Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Mopria
• Scanning: 1200 dpi optical; copy: up to 9 copies at 300 x 300 dpi
• Size and weight: 16.7" W × 11.97" D × 6.06" H; about 7.55 lb
• Sustainability: at least 60% post-consumer recycled plastics
• HP+ and internet requirements: some features rely on online connectivity and an HP account

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Feedback snapshot Reviewers generally point out that the 2855e is a solid starter device for families and students who don’t push printing volumes. The positives include easy wireless setup, reliable basic document printing, and practical connectivity options. On the downside, critics flag the lack of an auto document feeder, limited photo quality, and higher long-term running costs if you don’t subscribe to HP Instant Ink. The absence of a true duplex (automatic two-sided) printing option and generally modest print speeds further frame it as a budget, entry-level choice rather than a feature-packed workhorse.

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What users have to say Real-world opinions are mixed but tilt toward practical, everyday use. On major retailer platforms, the DeskJet 2855e garners a mix of 4-star and 5-star reviews, with many buyers praising ease of setup and simple operation. However, a notable portion of reviewers expresses frustration over ink costs, cartridge yield, and the long-term expense of maintaining the printer without subscribing to HP’s ink service. The overall sentiment reflects a trade-off: affordable initial cost and convenience in exchange for ongoing subscription considerations and some feature gaps.

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HP DeskJet 2855e: Pros

• Easy to set up and use, especially with the HP Smart app
• Compact footprint that fits small desks and spaces
• Sufficient print quality for routine documents and schoolwork
• Solid wireless printing capabilities from multiple devices
• Lightweight and affordable entry point for basic home printing

HP DeskJet 2855e: Cons

• HP’s ink cartridge policy and optional Instant Ink subscription can be costly over time
• Not designed for high-volume or premium photo printing
• Slow startup and relatively modest print speeds
• Lacks automatic document feeder and duplex printing
• Some users experience reliability concerns and setup friction for advanced configurations

Conclusion If your needs are basic home printing—text documents, simple color copies, and light scanning—the HP DeskJet 2855e offers an affordable, compact option with straightforward wireless setup. The primary caveat is the ink policy, which can significantly affect running costs and long-term value if you don’t opt into HP’s subscription program. For casual users who prioritize ease of use and space-saving design over advanced features and high-volume efficiency, it’s a sensible choice.

Note: This article is a rewrite of the TechRadar review to provide a fresh summary of the HP DeskJet 2855e’s strengths and drawbacks.