HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e review Wide-Format Wireless Printer Ideal for Office Use

Description

A Versatile Office Solution with a Few Quirks

Testing the HP OfficeJet Pro 9730e Wide-Format Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer felt like diving into a printer that’s designed for serious multitasking. This device boasts an impressive range of features that cater to both small business operations and larger office demands. While I was quite satisfied with its overall performance, some aspects could use a bit of refinement.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was the solid and professional design of this printer. It’s not just a piece of office equipment; it’s a statement. With dimensions of 18.39″ D x 22.87″ W x 15.2″ H, the printer is substantial, but it still manages not to feel overly bulky. The 4.3-inch touchscreen is a standout feature, offering an intuitive and responsive interface that made navigation a breeze. It felt like using a smartphone, and I didn’t experience any lag while flipping through the options.

This machine is built for efficiency, thanks to its dual 250-sheet input trays. I was able to load different types of paper in each tray, which was incredibly convenient for switching between tasks like printing professional presentations and more casual, large-format documents. However, at 43 pounds, it’s not exactly portable, so you’ll want to find a dedicated spot for it in your office.

Performance and Print Quality

The print speeds on this device are impressive. It churns out 18 pages per minute in color and 22 pages per minute in black and white, which left me pleasantly surprised during bulk printing tasks. I tested it with various sizes of paper, from 3 x 5 cards to 11 x 17 documents, and the results were consistent and crisp. The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution ensured that even detailed graphics and photos came out looking sharp and vibrant.

One of the most noticeable positives is the P3 Color Gamut technology, which makes colors pop in a way that standard printers struggle to achieve. I used it to print mood boards for a design project, and the colors were remarkably accurate compared to what I saw on my screen. If you’re someone who relies on screen-accurate prints, this is a feature that will win you over.

• Fast and reliable print speeds for high-volume tasks.
• P3 Color Gamut delivers exceptional color accuracy.
• Handles a wide range of paper sizes, perfect for diverse office demands.
• Dual trays eliminate the hassle of constantly swapping paper types.

Smart Features and Connectivity

The wireless printing capabilities worked seamlessly. I connected my smartphone using the HP app, and the ability to print, scan, and fax directly from my device was incredibly convenient. Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a reliable connection, which proved true even when multiple devices were connected simultaneously. I tested this by having my coworker print from their laptop while I sent a scan from my phone, and neither of us experienced any issues.

That said, the remote control options are a game-changer. I could queue up print jobs while sitting on the couch, and the printer’s response time was practically instant. The Ethernet port also allowed for a more stable connection in our office setup, which is always a plus for larger teams.

Sustainability and Security

Another highlight is the sustainable design, which incorporates more than 30% recycled plastic. It’s a small step toward reducing environmental impact, but it’s appreciated nonetheless. The HP Wolf Pro Security suite provides robust protection against cyber threats, which is particularly reassuring if you’re using this printer in a business environment where data security is paramount.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are a few critiques worth noting. The printer’s reliance on HP-exclusive ink cartridges can be a double-edged sword. While the ink quality is undeniably excellent, it means you’re locked into using HP cartridges, and the device will block any non-HP alternatives. This could be a dealbreaker for those looking to cut costs with third-party options.

The auto-document feeder (ADF), although functional, felt a bit noisy during operation. It’s not disruptive enough to be a major issue, but it’s something I noticed when scanning multiple pages.

• Requires HP-branded ink cartridges, limiting flexibility.
• The ADF can be a bit loud during extended use.
• At 43 pounds, it’s not the easiest to move.

Competing Products

When compared to Canon PIXMA TS9520 or Epson EcoTank ET-8550, this printer holds its ground with features like P3 Color Gamut and higher print speeds. The Canon excels in photo printing but lacks the robust paper capacity of the HP model. On the other hand, the Epson EcoTank offers a lower cost per page due to its refillable ink tanks, but it can’t match the wide-format capabilities and overall speed of the OfficeJet Pro 9730e.

If you’re looking for a versatile all-in-one printer, this one outshines others in its class when it comes to color accuracy and security features. However, for those prioritizing long-term affordability, the Epson might be worth a closer look due to its ink-saving technology.

Price Performance

When evaluating the price to quality ratio, this printer offers excellent value for its feature set. The 3-month Instant Ink trial adds an extra layer of convenience, ensuring you won’t run out of ink during critical tasks. While the cost of proprietary ink may deter some buyers, the performance and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for offices that demand high-quality prints and enhanced security.

If your office requires large-format printing, vibrant color reproduction, and the ability to handle high workloads, this printer fits the bill. Though it isn’t without its flaws, the advantages far outweigh the minor inconveniences for most professional settings. It’s a device that earns its place in the modern office space.

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