Can I use cheap non-HP ink cartridges?

It is risky. HP printers use 'Dynamic Security' which might block non-original cartridges. It is better to use an Ink Tank printer to save money safely.

Is HP LaserJet better than DeskJet?

Yes, for black and white documents. LaserJet is faster and the toner does not dry out like DeskJet ink.

HP Printer Review: The Best Choice or a Money Trap?

Q: Which HP printer has the cheapest ink?

The HP Smart Tank (Ink Tank) series has the cheapest ink. You refill it with bottles instead of expensive cartridges.

Q: Why is my HP printer not connecting to WiFi?

Check if your printer supports 5GHz WiFi. Most older printers only work on 2.4GHz networks. Restarting the router often fixes this.

HP Printer Review: The Best Choice or a Money Trap?

We all hate it when we need to print an important document, and the printer says "No."

If you are looking to buy a new printer, HP is probably the first name you think of. They are cheap, they look nice, and they are sold in every computer shop.

But here is the big question: Is an HP printer actually good? Or will you spend all your money buying expensive ink cartridges later?

I have repaired hundreds of printers in my shop. I know which ones last for years and which ones end up in the trash. In this guide, I will tell you the honest truth about HP printers.

1. The 3 Types of HP Printers (Read This First)

Before you spend a single Taka or Dollar, you must understand that not all HP printers are the same. There are three main families:

HP DeskJet: These are very cheap (sometimes just $40 or 5,000 BDT). They are small and colorful. But be careful. They use tiny ink cartridges that run out very fast.
HP LaserJet: These use "Toner" (powder), not liquid ink. They only print in Black and White (usually). They are fast and last a long time.
HP Smart Tank (Ink Tank): These are the new style. They do not use cartridges. Instead, they have big tanks on the side that you fill with ink bottles.

2. The "Cheap Printer" Trap: Why Ink is So Expensive

This is the number one complaint I hear from customers: "Harun bhai, I bought this DeskJet printer for cheap, but the ink costs more than the printer!"

This is true. HP sells DeskJet printers at a loss. They lose money on the printer because they know you will have to buy their expensive cartridges forever.

A cartridge might cost $15 and only print 100 pages.
If you print a lot, do not buy a DeskJet. It is a money trap.

Who is DeskJet for? It is only for people who print 1 or 2 pages a month. If you print school projects every week, avoid it.

3. HP Smart Tank: The Technician’s Favorite

If you want to save money, look at the HP Smart Tank or Ink Tank series. Yes, the printer costs more upfront (maybe $150).

But the ink is almost free.

One bottle of ink costs very little (maybe $10).
One bottle can print thousands of pages.

I have customers who bought an Ink Tank printer 2 years ago and haven't needed to buy ink yet. If you are a student or have a home office, this is the best value.

4. HP LaserJet: The King of Office Work

If you don't need color (like printing photos), buy an HP LaserJet. Laser printers are workhorses.

Speed: They print super fast.
Reliability: The ink (toner) is dry powder, so it never "dries out." You can leave a LaserJet unused for 6 months, and it will still work perfectly.
Durability: I still see HP LaserJets from 2010 working today in offices. They are built like tanks.

5. Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Even good printers have bad days. Here are the most common issues with HP printers and simple fixes:

"Printer Offline" Error: This happens with WiFi printers. The fix is usually to restart your WiFi router and the printer. If that fails, download the HP Smart App on your phone to reconnect it.
Paper Jams: This usually happens if you put too much paper in the tray. Never pull the paper backwards. Always pull it in the direction it usually moves, or you will break the plastic gears.
Streaky Lines on Paper: On a DeskJet, this means the cartridge head is dry. Wipe it with a warm, damp tissue. On a Laser printer, it usually means the "Drum" is dirty and needs replacing.

6. My Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

So, which HP printer fits your life?

Buy HP DeskJet IF: You are broke right now and only print one page a month.
Buy HP Smart Tank IF: You are a student or have kids. You need color, and you want cheap ink. (My Top Recommendation)
Buy HP LaserJet IF: You run a shop or office and only print documents/invoices. You hate dealing with dried ink.

7. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Why is my HP printer not connecting to WiFi?

HP printers can be picky with WiFi. Make sure your phone and printer are on the same 2.4GHz network. The 5GHz network sometimes causes issues for older printers.

2. Can I use cheap "fake" ink cartridges in my HP printer?

You can, but HP tries to stop you. They have a system called "Dynamic Security" that blocks non-HP cartridges. It is safer to buy original ink to avoid error messages.