HP DeskJet 4255e: Why This Compact All-in-One Printer Balances Value and Functionality

By Bill Adams

Updated 8/31/2025
HP DeskJet 4255e

Wondering why the HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet Printer stands out? Our review breaks down its compact design, print performance, and value for home users at just 8.5 ppm.

Printers don’t usually spark excitement, but they’re still essential for school, home, and light office use. 

The HP DeskJet 4255e is designed for exactly that kind of everyday reliability. Compact, eco-friendly, and surprisingly capable for its price, it offers more than you’d expect from a budget printer—especially with its 35-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF).

So why should you consider this model over others in the same price range? Let’s explore where it delivers and where it falls short.

Key Features at a Glance

  • Functions: Print, copy, scan
  • Print speeds: 8.5 ppm black, 5.5 ppm color
  • Resolution: 1200 × 1200 dpi (black), 4800 × 1200 dpi optimized (color)
  • Paper handling: 60-sheet input, 25-sheet output, 35-sheet ADF
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB 2.0, AirPrint, Mopria, Chrome OS, HP Smart app
  • Materials: ~60% recycled plastic, ENERGY STAR certified
  • Ink: HP 67 and 67XL cartridges

These specs show a printer designed for light but versatile use. Let’s see how that plays out in practice.

Print Performance

At 8.5 ppm in black and 5.5 ppm in color, the DeskJet 4255e isn’t built for speed. It’s more about consistency:

  • Text clarity is sharp thanks to its 1200 × 1200 dpi rendering, suitable for homework and office docs.
  • Color printing is acceptable for casual projects. Photos look decent but lean slightly cool in tone.
  • Paper handling supports multiple media types, including photo paper and envelopes.

For everyday tasks, the results are dependable. For frequent, high-volume printing, though, it will feel slow.

Scanning and Copying

One standout feature is the 35-sheet automatic document feeder, rare in this price range. It makes scanning and copying multipage documents far easier, saving time compared to feeding pages manually.

  • Flatbed scanning works for thick items like IDs.
  • The ADF is best for forms, contracts, or homework packets.
  • Integration with the HP Smart app lets you send scans directly to cloud storage or email.

For families or students who digitize paperwork regularly, this feature alone adds significant value.

Connectivity and Ease of Use

Setting up the DeskJet 4255e is straightforward, and it’s built to stay connected.

  • Wireless: Single-band Wi-Fi with self-healing technology that auto-fixes dropped connections.
  • Mobile support: Apple AirPrint, Mopria, and Chrome OS cover most modern devices.
  • HP Smart app: A central hub for printing, scanning, ink management, and cloud integration.
  • USB fallback: A reliable wired option if Wi-Fi is unstable.

This flexibility makes it practical for households where multiple people need to connect quickly.

Design and Build Quality

Compactness is a clear advantage here. At under 17 inches wide and just over 10 pounds, it’s small enough for desks, shelves, or dorm rooms.

Other design details worth noting:

  • Made with ~60% recycled plastic, with ENERGY STAR certification.
  • Foldable trays reduce footprint when idle.
  • Lightweight build makes it easy to move when needed.

It’s practical and space-conscious, though not built for heavy-duty use.

Running Costs

Like many budget inkjets, costs per page are higher than tank-based printers.

  • Standard cartridges: HP 67 black and tri-color—fine for light users.
  • High-capacity option: 67XL cartridges lower cost per page for moderate use.
  • HP Instant Ink: Includes three free months with HP+ enrollment, auto-delivering ink before you run out.

For occasional printing, costs are reasonable. If you’re printing hundreds of pages each month, a higher-capacity system is more economical.

Who It’s Best For

The DeskJet 4255e isn’t for everyone, but it fits some users perfectly.

Ideal for:

  • Students needing a compact, affordable printer
  • Families printing assignments, forms, and occasional photos
  • Home offices with light document needs
  • Anyone who values the convenience of an ADF at a low price

Less suited for:

Value and Warranty

This model offers strong value given its feature set, especially with the ADF included. It comes with:

Available on Amazon, it’s easy to compare side-by-side with other budget printers. For its balance of price and function, it holds its ground well.

Why the HP DeskJet 4255e Works for Everyday Needs

The HP DeskJet 4255e isn’t the fastest or cheapest to run, but that’s not its purpose. It’s designed to be compact, reliable, and versatile for light home or student use.

The automatic document feeder, mobile app integration, and eco-friendly design make it more capable than most budget printers.

If you only print occasionally and value convenience over speed, this printer makes sense. For heavier workloads, a tank-based or business model will serve you better. But for everyday documents and quick scanning, the DeskJet 4255e delivers exactly what most households need.