⚡️ Quick Verdict - HP Envy Inspire 7955e (2021)
- Best For: Home use, small office, photo printing.
- Strengths: Easy setup, versatile features.
- Drawbacks: Ink consumption, occasional paper jams.
- Verdict: A solid all-in-one for varied home needs.
⚖️ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Users frequently praise its sharp text and vibrant photo output, suitable for both documents and casual photo printing. | Some feedback indicates that color accuracy can vary slightly across different paper types. |
| Ease of Use | Many find the setup process intuitive and straightforward, especially with the guided mobile app. The touchscreen is also generally considered user-friendly. | A few users have reported initial Wi-Fi connectivity issues during setup, requiring troubleshooting. |
| Connectivity | The printer offers reliable dual-band Wi-Fi and mobile printing options like Apple AirPrint and Mopria, making it easy to print from various devices. | Some users wished for additional wired connectivity options beyond USB, like an Ethernet port for more stable network connections in certain setups. |
| Ink System & Costs | The HP Instant Ink program is often cited as a convenient way to manage ink supplies and potentially reduce costs for regular users. | For infrequent printers, the standard ink cartridges can be perceived as expensive, and Instant Ink might not always be the most economical choice. |
| Design & Build | The design is generally seen as compact and modern, fitting well into home environments. The integrated paper trays are also appreciated. | A few users have noted that the plastic construction feels less robust compared to some other models, especially the output tray. |
| Software & Features | The HP Smart app is largely viewed as feature-rich for mobile printing, scanning, and managing printer settings. Automatic duplex printing and an auto document feeder (ADF) are also praised. | Some users have experienced occasional software glitches or slower responsiveness within the app, especially on older mobile devices. |
🔧 What’s Included? & Why It Matters
| Component | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| HP Envy Inspire 7955e All-in-One Printer | The core device providing printing, scanning, and copying functionalities, essential for document and photo handling. |
| HP 64 or 64XL Setup Ink Cartridges (Black & Tri-color) | Allows for immediate use out of the box to complete initial setup and test printing. |
| Power Cord | Connects the printer to an electrical outlet, providing necessary power for operation. |
| Setup Guide | Provides step-by-step instructions for initial printer setup, connecting to Wi-Fi, and installing software. |
| Regulatory Flyer | Contains important safety and compliance information for the device. |
💰 Is It Worth It? – Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Purchase | Generally positioned as an affordable all-in-one for its feature set, making it an attractive initial investment for home users. | While the upfront cost is reasonable, it's not the cheapest printer on the market, especially considering its target audience. |
| Ink/Consumable Costs | The optional HP Instant Ink subscription can offer significant savings for users who print consistently, as it bills based on pages printed, not cartridges used. | Without Instant Ink, standard cartridge replacements can be relatively expensive, particularly for color printing, impacting long-term operational costs for low-volume users. |
| Feature Set vs. Price | Offers a comprehensive suite of features including duplex printing, an ADF, mobile printing, and photo capabilities, delivering strong utility for its price point. | Some advanced features found in higher-end models, such as Ethernet connectivity or larger touchscreens, are absent, which might be a drawback for small business environments. |
| Longevity & Durability | With proper care, the printer is generally considered durable enough for typical home use, providing a decent lifespan. | The build quality, while adequate, is primarily plastic, which some users feel might not withstand heavy use or frequent relocation over many years compared to business-grade printers. |
🔁 HP Comparison – How This Version Improves Over Previous Models
| Aspect | HP Envy 7855 (Predecessor) | HP Envy Inspire 7955e (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Display | Features a smaller, less integrated touchscreen and a more utilitarian design. | Updated, larger, more intuitive color touchscreen and a refined, more compact aesthetic. |
| Connectivity | Primarily Wi-Fi and USB, with a focus on single-band Wi-Fi. | Enhanced dual-band Wi-Fi for more reliable wireless connections, plus USB and mobile options. |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | Included, but sometimes noted for occasional paper handling issues. | Improved ADF capacity and reliability for scanning and copying multiple pages. |
| HP+ Integration | Not part of the HP+ ecosystem. | Designed for HP+, offering benefits like Instant Ink readiness, extended warranty, and cloud-based features. |
| Photo Printing | Good photo quality for its class. | Continues to offer strong photo printing capabilities, with some users reporting slightly better color rendition. |
⚔️ Alternatives vs HP Envy Inspire 7955e (2021)
| Aspect | Canon PIXMA TS8320 | Epson Expression Premium XP-7100 | HP Envy Inspire 7955e (2021) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Excellent photo printing with 6-ink system, vibrant colors and deep blacks. | Very good photo quality with 5-ink system, good for mixed media. | Good all-around quality, sharp text and decent photos, but not 6-ink photo-focused. |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, SD card slot. Very comprehensive. | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, USB, SD card slot. Solid options. | Wi-Fi (dual-band), Wi-Fi Direct, USB. Lacks Ethernet and SD card slot. |
| Ink System & Cost | Uses individual ink tanks, allowing replacement of only depleted colors, but cartridges can be costly. | Individual ink cartridges, good for replacing single colors, ink costs can add up. | Uses two cartridges (black, tri-color); benefits from HP Instant Ink subscription for potential savings for high-volume users. |
| Features | Auto duplex printing, two paper trays, CD/DVD printing, large touchscreen. | Auto duplex printing, ADF, two paper trays, CD/DVD printing, large touchscreen. ADF and CD/DVD printing are strong additions. | Auto duplex printing, ADF, single paper tray, touchscreen. Good basic features for home. |
| Overall Value | Higher initial cost, premium photo features, individual inks can be costly. | Mid-range price, good features, decent ink economy for casual use. | Lower initial cost, good general-purpose features, Instant Ink can provide excellent value for consistent printers. |
💡 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Does the HP Envy Inspire 7955e support automatic duplex (two-sided) printing?Yes, the HP Envy Inspire 7955e is equipped with an automatic duplexer for two-sided printing, helping to save paper.
- What type of ink cartridges does the HP Envy Inspire 7955e use?The HP Envy Inspire 7955e uses HP 64 or 64XL ink cartridges (one black, one tri-color). It is also compatible with the HP Instant Ink service.
- Can I print from my smartphone or tablet with this printer?Yes, the printer supports mobile printing via the HP Smart app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, and Wi-Fi Direct.
- Does this printer have a fax function?Yes, the HP Envy Inspire 7955e includes a built-in fax function, which can be useful for home offices.
- What is the purpose of the HP+ setup during initial printer configuration?HP+ is an optional cloud-connected printing system that provides features like an extended warranty, 6 months of Instant Ink, and enhanced security, requiring an HP account and internet connection during setup.
👍 Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- Many users appreciate the straightforward and quick setup process, often citing the HP Smart app as particularly helpful for getting the printer connected and operational.
- Users frequently comment on the printer's ability to produce clear, crisp text for documents and surprisingly vibrant, high-quality photos, making it versatile for various printing needs.
- The automatic document feeder (ADF) and automatic duplex printing features are highly valued, significantly improving efficiency for scanning, copying, and printing multi-page documents.
- The compact design and relatively small footprint are often highlighted, making it suitable for home environments where space might be limited.
- The option to enroll in HP Instant Ink is frequently praised for its convenience and potential to reduce ongoing ink costs for those who print regularly.
👎 Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- A recurring concern among users is the printer's ink consumption, with some finding that cartridges deplete faster than expected, particularly the tri-color cartridge.
- Some users have reported occasional paper feeding issues, including misfeeds or paper jams, especially when using certain types of paper or the automatic document feeder.
- While setup is generally easy, a few users experienced initial difficulties with wireless connectivity or persistent drops in Wi-Fi connection, requiring re-establishment.
- The plastic construction of the printer, particularly the paper output tray, has been noted by some as feeling less durable or flimsy compared to previous models or competitor printers.
- A minority of users express frustration with the mandatory HP account creation and internet connection requirement for HP+ functionality, preferring a more standalone printer operation.
📋 Key Details & Specifications
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Functions | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
| Print Technology | HP Thermal Inkjet |
| Print Speed (Black) | Up to 15 ppm (ISO) |
| Print Speed (Color) | Up to 10 ppm (ISO) |
| Print Resolution (Black) | Up to 1200 x 1200 rendered dpi |
| Print Resolution (Color) | Up to 4800 x 1200 optimized dpi on HP Advanced Photo Paper |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Scanner Type | Flatbed, ADF (Auto Document Feeder) |
| ADF Capacity | 35 sheets |
| Scan Resolution | Up to 1200 dpi |
| Copy Speed (Black) | Up to 13 cpm (ISO) |
| Copy Speed (Color) | Up to 7 cpm (ISO) |
| Fax Memory | Up to 100 pages |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, USB 2.0 (High Speed) |
| Mobile Printing Capability | HP Smart app, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, Wi-Fi Direct Printing |
| Display | 2.7-inch Capacitive Touchscreen |
| Paper Trays | 1 (125-sheet input tray, 60-sheet output tray) |
| Media Types Supported | Plain paper, HP Photo Papers, HP Matte Brochure or Professional Paper, HP Matte Presentation Paper, HP Glossy Brochure or Professional Paper, Other Photo Inkjet Papers, Other Matte Inkjet Papers, Other Glossy Inkjet Papers, Light/Recycled |
| Recommended Monthly Volume | 300 to 400 pages |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 460 x 383 x 191 mm (18.11 x 15.08 x 7.52 in) |
| Weight | 6.91 kg (15.23 lbs) |
🔚 Summary – Is This the Right Choice for You?
- The HP Envy Inspire 7955e (2021) positions itself as a robust all-in-one printer for home users and small home offices, blending printing, scanning, copying, and fax capabilities.
- Its strengths lie in its generally user-friendly setup, versatile print quality for both documents and photos, and a comprehensive suite of features like automatic duplexing and an ADF.
- The printer leverages the HP+ ecosystem, which can be a double-edged sword: offering convenience and potential ink savings via Instant Ink for consistent users, but possibly feeling restrictive for those who prefer full autonomy over their consumables.
- Potential drawbacks include relatively high ink costs if not subscribed to Instant Ink, and some user reports of occasional paper handling or initial connectivity hiccups.
- Overall, if you're seeking a feature-rich, compact printer for varied tasks in a home environment, and you're open to or benefit from HP's Instant Ink service, the Envy Inspire 7955e presents a compelling option. It's a reliable choice for everyday needs, balancing functionality with ease of use.
