As technology progresses, some may argue that there is no need for a printer. Everything is digital. Actually, you might be right. However, if you own the HP Envy 4500, the e-All-in-One printer, you might have second thoughts.

One of the reasons is that it is not only for printing, it has other features. On first glance, it might look plain. In fact, it is plain. When you explore the compartments, you will notice that HP has packed in everything into this small package (The only interaction is the LCD panel and a few buttons around it).

On its back, it has only two ports. One for power and the other is for the communication between the computer and itself.

So, what is the main features of this device? It is a laser comparable Printer, Copier, Scanning and a Photo printer with built in wireless feature. You can use your computer, tablets, smartphone (Android, iOS) app to interact with it. Some basic specs of the Envy 4500.

ISO speed: Up to 8.8 ppm black, Up to 5.2 ppm color
Scan resolution: Up to 1200 x 2400 ppi hardware; Scan type: Flatbed
Copy speed: Up to 6 cpm black, Up to 4 cpm color
Standard connectivity: 1 Hi-Speed USB 2.0; 1 WiFi 802.11n
Duty cycle: Up to 1,000 pages
Display: 2.0 inch (5 cm) Hi-Res Mono LCD
Borderless printing: Yes (up to 8.5 x 11 in, 216 x 297 mm)

Physical look

Here is a picture of Envy 4500 with the top cover open (which shows the glass surface for scanning/copying purpose)

The ink cartridge is under the glass. It is easily accessible

A close up of the ink cartridges.

To print, you will need to open the front cover to access the feeder tray. It has adjustable width to accommodate different sizes of paper.

You can even extend the tray.

Usage

As mentioned earlier, it has wireless feature. I find that the wireless is the most important feature in this device. When I connect it to my home network, I can basically print anywhere within the same network. Of course, the paper must be prepared on the printer in order to print).

You can also access the LCD panel and buttons to perform tasks like Scanning and Copying.

The functions are quite straight forward. What is interesting is the HP ePrint app. With this app, I can basically print any photographs, files on my smartphone or devices.

Here are some screenshots of the app (on Android).

The app is quite straight forward. If you have set up an account with HP, you can print your file or documents via the cloud.

Summary

The HP Envy 4500 has a minimalist design. It also has a small footprint (if you consider that it has so many main features). Do not expect the printing speed to be as fast as commercial machines. With its price of approximately S$139, it is super value for money.

Printing quality on photo is average (based on HP paper). My only gross is that it has a non-separable color cartridge. That means you will need to replace all if one ink runs out. Luckily, it has a separate black cartridge as the ink will be the most common.

Overall, I think this device is useful for home use or small businesses.

Click Here to Check Out the HP Envy 4500 official page

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