If you've been thinking about getting a printer for your home but aren't sure what type you need, you're not alone. Most people don't print much anymore, but when you do need it, you want something that works reliably and doesn't take up half your desk. The HP DeskJet 2855e is a wireless all-in-one color inkjet printer that combines printing, scanning, and copying into one compact machine. Before you decide whether this kind of device is right for you, it helps to understand what multifunction printers actually do, and which homes get the most value from them.

What Does a Multifunction Printer Actually Do?

A multifunction printer is essentially three devices in one: a color printer, a scanner, and a copier. The HP DeskJet 2855e handles all three tasks. You can print documents and photos from your computer or smartphone, scan physical papers and photos into digital files, and make copies without needing a computer at all. The machine includes a 60-sheet paper input tray, so it can handle moderate printing without constant refilling. It also has a flatbed scanner, which means you can scan flat documents or photos easily.

For most homes, this combination covers nearly everything people actually need to do with paper and documents. You can print financial statements, letters, or recipes. You can scan important receipts or medical records to keep digital copies. You can make a quick copy of a permission slip or document without leaving home.

Wireless Connectivity and Mobile Printing

One of the practical advantages of the HP DeskJet 2855e is that it connects to your home Wi-Fi network, so you don't need to run a cable to your computer. The printer works with 2.4 GHz wireless connections, which is the standard frequency most home networks use. It automatically detects and resolves connection issues, which sounds minor until you've wrestled with a printer that won't stay connected.

The HP app lets you print, scan, copy, or fax directly from your smartphone. This is genuinely useful if you're in another room and need to print something quickly, or if you want to scan a document without going to your computer. The wireless setup means you can place the printer anywhere in your home that has a power outlet and reasonable Wi-Fi signal, not just next to your desk.

Understanding Ink Costs and the Instant Ink Service

Ink is where printer costs add up over time. The HP DeskJet 2855e comes with three months of Instant Ink included when you activate HP+. Instant Ink is HP's subscription service that delivers replacement cartridges to your door before you run out. After the three-month trial, there is a monthly fee if you continue the service, though you can cancel anytime. The benefit is that HP estimates you can save up to 50 percent on ink costs compared to buying cartridges individually at a store.

One thing to know: this printer is designed to work only with cartridges that have genuine HP chips. It will block cartridges using non-HP chips. This means you can't use cheaper third-party cartridges, which some people see as a downside. However, it also means HP controls the quality and reliability of what goes into your machine.

Is This the Right Printer for Your Home?

The HP DeskJet 2855e is sized and priced for people who print occasionally but want a reliable, all-in-one solution. If you print a few pages per week, need to scan documents occasionally, and want color capability, this fits well. Print speeds are 5.5 pages per minute for color and 7.5 pages per minute for black, which is fine for home use but not fast if you need to print high volumes.

The compact design means it won't dominate your space. It's made with at least 60 percent recycled plastic, which matters if sustainability is important to you. The machine works with Windows 10 and 11, various versions of macOS, and Chrome OS, so compatibility is broad.

If you almost never print and mainly scan documents, you might be over-buying. If you print hundreds of pages monthly and need high speed, you'd want something different. But for the typical home that needs occasional printing of documents and photos, plus the ability to scan and copy, the HP DeskJet 2855e is a straightforward, no-nonsense choice.

The product in this guide: HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer, Scanner, Copier, Best-for-home, 3 months of Instant Ink included (588S5A)