HP LaserJet Pro P1102w

Hardware

The LaserJet Pro P1102W is an entry-level black & white multifunction wi-fi printer for the home. It promises speeds of 18 pages per minute.

The size of the printer reminds us of the ML-1660 which we liked for its rapid "print screen" button.


Speeds

This model promises rapidity and keeps its promise: 18 ppm is good.



Quality

HP isn't very consistent on the Pro P1102w's tech spec. Talking resolution, it says: "up to 600 x 6000 dpi (effectively 12000 dpi with HP FastRes 1200)". So then, 600 or 1200 dpi? We haven't yet been able to get a clear answer.

We can however give you a definite answer on the quality of prints. Shaded areas are well reproduced if tones do tend to be a little dark. The definition of characters is however excellent.


Energy consumption & Noise levels

This printer consumes 1.6 watts on standby and 109 watts when printing. For a laser, this is very good. Among lasers the HP LaserJet 1102W is among the most economical in terms of energy consumption.

Is it quiet? Pretty quiet, yes. It gets up to a maximum of 53 dB, which puts it at around average.

Cost per page

The printer, like all its competitors is delivered with start-up toner. This gives a lifespan of 700 pages rather than the 1600 announced for a standard cartridge.

With a full cartridge, the cost per page is 2.7 pence. This is amongst the most expensive for lasers.

Cartridge of toner	Price	Lifespan	Cost per page
CE285A (black)	£42	1 600	2.7 pence

Note that for a few pounds more, you can get an all-in-one printer with a scanner and copier like the Samsung SCX-4600.