According to the source review from TechRadar, the HP Smart Tank 210 offers a budget-friendly entry point to cartridge-free printing, delivering high-quality prints despite its pared-down feature set and modest speed.
- Basic feature set with no scanner or auto-duplex
- Compact design made from recycled materials
- Slow print speeds but vibrant, reliable color output
Product angle
The source review reports that the HP Smart Tank 210 focuses on delivering high-quality, cost-efficient printing by stripping away non-essential features such as auto-duplexing, scanning, and Ethernet ports. Despite these limitations, it shares the print engine with higher-end HP models, demonstrating dependable print results with bold colors and sharp text. The printer’s compact footprint and use of recycled plastic contribute to an environmentally conscious design.
Connectivity options include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth setup through HP's Smart app, AirPrint, and Chromebook compatibility, facilitating quick wireless printing in home or micro office environments. However, print speeds are moderate, running at about 5 pages per minute for color and 12 for black, which may be a trade-off for the low total cost of ownership.
Best for / avoid if
This printer is best suited for home users or small micro offices that primarily need vibrant color prints and are willing to forego conveniences like auto-duplex printing, scanning functions, and faster print speeds. Its small footprint and affordable ink tank system make it appealing where space and budget are limited, and cartridge replacement costs are a concern.
Buyers should avoid this model if they require rapid printing, duplex functionality, or multi-functional devices that can scan and copy. The lack of Ethernet and USB host ports limits wired connectivity options. Workflows dependent on high-volume, double-sided printing or scanning will find this model too basic and potentially workflow-slowing.
Pricing and alternatives to check
While the exact pricing details are not provided in the source review, the HP Smart Tank 210 is positioned as HP’s most affordable ink tank printer. Its value proposition lies in the low cost of consumables, supported by large-volume ink bottles and a cost-effective print engine. Buyers may want to consider the slightly more feature-rich HP Smart Tank 5100 if scanning or auto-duplex is essential.
Alternatives to consider would include other ink tank printers from competing brands that might offer auto-duplex or faster printing speeds at a slightly higher price point. Buyers focused on functionality or faster workflows should explore multi-function inkjets or laser printers that, while potentially costlier upfront, may provide better productivity features.