If you’re looking for your next printer, you might be considering or at least have heard of an AirPrint printer. But what is it and will it work for what you need? Make sure to have a read of our guide below to find out everything you need to know about AirPrint printers.
What is an AirPrint printer?
AirPrint is a feature developed by the company Apple to allow users of iPhones, iPads and Macs to print documents and photographs on a printer without having to go through the cumbersome task of downloading drivers for the specific printer in question. This branded technology was designed to make the process of printing as quick and easy as possible.
Is an AirPrint the same as a wireless printer?
Yes and no. It is the same in the sense that the device from which you’re printing does not need to be ‘wired’ into the printer but it is not the same in that AirPrint uses MacOS and iOS as the operating system for the wireless printing. Other wireless printers do not necessarily use Apple-produced operating systems.
Does AirPrint use WiFi or Bluetooth?
Some wireless printers allow computers, tablets and phones to connect through Bluetooth and/or WiFi but AirPrint uses WiFi networks only. This doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t be able to connect a Bluetooth-enabled Apple device to a Bluetooth compatible printer, but AirPrint connects via WiFi.
How do I enable AirPrint on my printer?
If you have an AirPrint enabled printer and you want to get set up, follow these simple steps.
- Open the app you are printing the document or photograph from.
- Click on the print option.
- Tap the Share icon.
- Find and select the AirPrint enabled printer.
- Select your print preferences e.g. copies and colour etc.
- Click on the print icon.
Do all printers have AirPrint?
While most new and recent printer models are enabled for AirPrint compatibility, this shouldn’t be taken as a given if you’re buying a new printer. Not all printers, even those that are wireless and offer WiFi connectivity, are necessarily AirPrint compatible.
How do I know if my printer is AirPrint enabled?
Apple produces a list of different printers that support AirPrint functions. The best way to check if a printer you own or are considering buying is enabled for AirPrint is to check directly with Apple’s list. While many printers advertise that they offer AirPrint, and most of them probably do, sometimes they can be misleading.
Click here to find Apple’s list of printer models.
How do you fix AirPrint printer errors?
While AirPrint is designed to be user friendly and simple to use, it can present you with an error message or a “No AirPrint Printers Found” message, especially when changing devices or updated operating systems.
Simple tasks to try troubleshoot the problem include:
- Checking the printer’s wireless connection is on.
- Make sure your iPhone or iPad is not on airplane mode.
- Check that your devices are running on the latest software.
- Turn off all your devices for 10 seconds and turn them back on.
If none of those little tricks work, check out the Apple Toolbox website where there are in-depth step-by-step guides for fixing a variety of AirPrint problems.
What is the most economical AirPrint printer for ink costs?
As mentioned before, nowadays, there are lots of options for AirPrint enabled printers. If you’re looking for the most economical and affordable when it comes to both initial costs and ink costs, we recommend the following models and the compatible cartridges.
HP DeskJet 2620 All-in-One Printer
HP OfficeJet Pro Wireless Inkjet 8710
Brother HL-L2350DW
Find Your Next Printer at Inkpal
Ready to find your next AirPrint enabled printer? We stock a wide range of ink and toner cartridges that all offer seamless Apple product and AirPrint compatibility. Check out our range of printer cartridges or contact us if you need some advice today.
