HP LaserJet P1005 vs. P1006: The Ultimate Comparison for Budget-Friendly Printing

The HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 are two popular budget-friendly laser printers that have been praised for their reliability and affordability. However, there are some key differences between these two models that you should consider before making a purchase. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the specifications, features, and performance of the HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Dimensions

The HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 share a similar compact and lightweight design. They both measure approximately 14.5 inches wide, 11 inches deep, and 7.5 inches high. This makes them ideal for small offices or home use where space is limited. Both printers feature a simple control panel with a few buttons and an LED display.

Print Quality and Speed

When it comes to print quality, the HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 produce sharp and professional-looking documents. They both use HP’s LaserJet technology to deliver clear text and detailed graphics. However, the P1006 has a slightly higher print resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi compared to the P1005’s 600 x 600 dpi. This means that the P1006 can produce slightly finer details and smoother images.

In terms of print speed, the HP LaserJet P1005 prints at a rate of 15 pages per minute (ppm), while the P1006 prints at a slightly faster rate of 17 ppm. This difference is not significant and both printers are suitable for low-volume printing tasks.

Connectivity and Paper Handling

The HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 offer basic connectivity options. They both have a USB 2.0 port for connecting to a computer. The P1006 additionally includes an Ethernet port for network connectivity, allowing multiple users to share the printer.

Both printers have a standard paper tray that can hold up to 150 sheets of plain paper. They also support manual feed for printing envelopes, labels, and other non-standard paper sizes.

Toner and Running Costs

The HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 use different toner cartridges. The P1005 uses the HP 12A toner cartridge, while the P1006 uses the HP 85A toner cartridge. The yield of the toner cartridges varies depending on the print coverage. However, in general, the P1006 has a slightly lower cost per page compared to the P1005.

Features and Software

The HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 come with basic software features. Both printers include HP’s PCL 5e and PCL 6 print drivers, which provide compatibility with a wide range of operating systems and software applications.

Additionally, the P1006 offers some additional features such as HP Smart Install, which simplifies the installation process, and HP Print and Scan Doctor, which helps troubleshoot printing and scanning issues.

Verdict: Which Printer is Right for You?

The HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 are both excellent budget-friendly laser printers. However, the P1006 offers slightly better print quality, faster print speed, and additional features compared to the P1005. If you need a basic printer for low-volume printing tasks, the P1005 is a great option. However, if you require higher print quality, faster speeds, or network connectivity, the P1006 is the better choice.

What You Need to Know

Q: What is the difference between the HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006?

A: The HP LaserJet P1006 offers slightly better print quality, faster print speed, and additional features such as network connectivity and HP Smart Install.

Q: Which printer has a lower cost per page?

A: The HP LaserJet P1006 generally has a lower cost per page compared to the P1005.

Q: Can I print envelopes with the HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006?

A: Yes, both printers support manual feed for printing envelopes and other non-standard paper sizes.

Q: What is the maximum paper capacity of the HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006?

A: The standard paper tray can hold up to 150 sheets of plain paper.

Q: Do the HP LaserJet P1005 and P1006 support wireless printing?

A: No, neither printer supports wireless printing.