HP Envy 6555e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet vs HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless All-in-One

Overview of the HP Envy 6555e and HP Smart Tank Plus 651

The HP Envy 6555e is priced at $179.89, while the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 comes in significantly higher at $329.89. This price difference of approximately 83% reflects the distinct features and capabilities each printer offers. The Envy 6555e targets everyday printing needs for home users, while the Smart Tank Plus 651 caters to those who prioritize high-volume, cartridge-free printing.

Printing Capabilities

The HP Envy 6555e offers print speeds of up to 7 pages per minute (ppm) in color and 10 ppm in black, making it suitable for moderate printing tasks. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is designed for high-volume printing, boasting the ability to deliver up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black pages with its included ink. This suggests that the Smart Tank Plus 651 is better suited for users who print frequently and in larger quantities.

Ink System and Cost Efficiency

The HP Envy 6555e includes a 3-month Instant Ink trial, which allows users to experience an ink subscription service for their printing needs. After the trial period, a monthly fee applies unless cancelled. On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 comes equipped with two years of ink right out of the box, providing a clear advantage in terms of long-term cost efficiency. This means that users of the Smart Tank Plus 651 can enjoy thousands of pages of printing without immediate additional ink costs.

Design and Usability

In terms of design, the HP Envy 6555e features a user-friendly 2.4-inch touchscreen for easy navigation, enhancing the overall user experience. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651, while also user-friendly, emphasizes a mess-free ink refill system that allows users to replenish ink without spills or complications. This design makes it simpler for those who may not be as tech-savvy or are looking for a hassle-free solution for their printing needs.

Connectivity Options

Both printers offer wireless printing capabilities, but the HP Envy 6555e includes dual-band Wi-Fi, which automatically detects and resolves connection issues, ensuring a more stable connection. The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 also provides mobile printing options, which are essential for modern home users. However, the advanced connectivity features of the Envy 6555e may provide slightly better performance for those who frequently print from various devices.

Sustainability Features

The HP Envy 6555e is made with at least 60% recycled plastic, aligning with environmentally-conscious practices. Additionally, HP’s commitment to protecting and managing forests for every printed page further enhances its sustainability profile. While the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 does not specifically mention similar eco-friendly initiatives, its cartridge-free printing system inherently reduces waste associated with traditional ink cartridges, making it a sustainable option as well.

Sales Performance

The HP Envy 6555e has a bestseller rank of 1857, indicating a solid market presence but not as high as the HP Smart Tank Plus 651, which ranks at 1210. This suggests that while the Envy model is popular, the Smart Tank Plus may appeal more to consumers looking for durable and long-lasting printing solutions. The higher sales rank of the Smart Tank Plus 651 could also suggest a higher consumer confidence in its long-term value.

Which should you buy?

When deciding between the HP Envy 6555e and the HP Smart Tank Plus 651, it ultimately comes down to your specific printing needs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option for everyday printing, the HP Envy 6555e at $179.89 offers great functionality with its AI-enabled features and easy touchscreen controls. However, if your priority is high-volume printing with minimal maintenance, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651, while more expensive at $329.89, provides long-term savings and convenience with two years of included ink.