HP Printer Model Numbers Explained

When shopping for an HP printer, consumers are faced with a variety of models that can be confusing to identify. Each printer manufacturer has its own system for naming and numbering their products, and HP is no exception. In this guide, we’ll explain the HP printer model numbers and what they mean, to help you make an informed decision when purchasing an HP printer.

Index:

I. HP Printer Models Explained
A. Letter Codes
B. Numeric Codes
II. Factors to Consider When Choosing an HP Printer
III. Conclusion

I. HP Printer Models Explained

HP printer model numbers consist of a combination of letters and numbers that provide information about the printer’s series, features, model, and more. The letter codes usually indicate the printer series, printer characteristics, and printer features, while the numeric codes indicate the model and functions. Let’s use the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw as a reference model.

A. Letter Codes

Beginning of HP Printer Model–Printer Series

HP printer models normally start with a printer series. Here are some printer series, each with its own letter code. For example:

• DeskJet: Inkjet printers for home printing, e.g. as HP DeskJet 1510, HP DeskJet 3755, and HP DeskJet 4155e.
• ENVY: Home office-focused inkjet printers. e.g. HP ENVY 6055e, HP ENVY Inspire 7955e.
• OfficeJet: Office-focused inkjet printers, such as HP OfficeJet 6958, HP OfficeJet Pro 6975, and HP OfficeJet Pro 8710.
• LaserJet: Laser printers for both home and office use. Among them, series like LaserJet Enterprise, LaserJet Pro, and LaserJet Ultra are included. e.g. HP LaserJet M209dw, HP Color LaserJet Enterprise M553dn, HP LaserJet Pro 4001dw, and HP LaserJet Ultra MFP M230fdw.
• Color LaserJet: Laser printers offering color printing for a range of home and office printing needs. e.g. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281fdw, HP Color LaserJet Enterprise Flow MFP M577z.
• PageWide: High-speed inkjet printers for businesses, e.g. HP PageWide Pro 477dw.
• Neverstop Laser: A series of laser printers designed for high-volume printing with a unique toner refill system. e.g. HP Neverstop Laser MFP 1202w.
• Smart Tank: A series of inkjet printers with refillable ink tanks that are designed for cost-effective, high-volume printing. e.g. HP Smart Tank 790, HP Smart Tank Plus 655.
• DesignJet: A series of large-format printers designed for professional use, such as printing blueprints or posters. e.g. HP DesignJet T120, HP DesignJet T630.

These printer families offer a range of features and capabilities to meet a variety of printing and scanning needs.

The Next Part of HP Printer Model–Printer Characteristics

Following the printer series, the subsequent letter codes signify the printer characteristics for an HP printer. Common examples are:

• MFP – It stands for “multifunction printer”, which means that the printer can scan, copy, and fax documents in addition to printing. e.g. HP Color Laser MFP 179fnw, HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP 4301fdw.
• Flow MFP – This typically refers to a multifunction printer equipped with HP Flow technology. HP Flow technology has been developed to improve the productivity and efficiency of printing environments for businesses. Flow MFP printers offer advanced document management and workflow features, such as mobile printing, scan-to-email, secure printing, etc. e.g. HP Color LaserJet Enterprise Flow MFP M578c.

There may be other letter codes after the above. For example, the M of M428fdw in the reference model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw. You can find further letter codes below.

End of HP Printer Model–Printer Features

The letter code at the end of the HP printer model usually refers to the printer’s features. We’ve rounded up some letters you’ll often see on HP printers.

More Letter Codes at the End

1. What does e on HP printer mean?

The letter “e” at the end of an HP printer model number generally means “enhanced”. This suggests that the printer is an upgrade or improvement over the base model. Compared to the base one, the upgraded printer includes additional features, such as mobile printing, Wi-Fi connectivity, and HP Instant Ink compatibility. For instance, the HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e is an all-in-one printer that performs all of the aforementioned tasks.

In some cases, the “e” can also represent “ePrint”, signifying that the printer is compatible with HP’s ePrint service. It allows users to print documents from anywhere by sending them as email attachments to the printer’s unique email address.

Recently, HP has launched HP+ printers, commonly ending with “e”. They offer enhanced features such as Instant Ink subscription, improved security, smart app integration, cloud connectivity, and more. These HP+ printers are normally less expensive than printers of the same model. e.g. The HP LaserJet Pro 4001ne ($309) is $60 less than the HP LaserJet Pro 4001n ($369). However, they will limit the use of compatible cartridges. If you are planning for replacement cartridges, it is advisable to opt for a non-HP+ printer model.

2. What does f mean on HP printer?

If an HP printer model has the letter “f”, it denotes that the printer is equipped with fax capabilities. This implies that the printer can both send and receive faxes, as well as print, scan and copy. e.g. HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdn and HP LaserJet Pro MFP M426fdw.

3. What does sdw mean on HP printer?

In HP printers, “sdw” shows the particular features of that printer model. The “s” stands for “standard”, which refers to the basic set of features that this printer model provides. And the “d” stands for “duplex”, which means the printer is capable of automatic double-sided printing. The “w” stands for “wireless”, which means this printer can connect wirelessly to a network or devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. e.g.HP LaserJet MFP M234sdw.

Now let’s go back to the reference model HP LaserJet Pro MFP M428fdw. You can easily figure out that “fdw” means “fax, duplex, wireless”.

Note:

The meaning of the letter codes may vary depending on the specific printer model. It’s always a good idea to verify your printer’s product specifications.

Besides, this blog only shows HP printer models with letter codes. Other HP printers without these codes may also have some of the above features. Please check the HP official website carefully.

B. Numeric Codes

After discussing the letter codes, we can move on to the numeric codes. The numeric code in HP printer model numbers can represent various functions of the printer, depending on the model. Usually in the middle or at the end of the printer model. Below are explanations of some common numeric codes.

Print Speed: The numeric code may indicate the number of pages per minute (ppm) that the printer can print. e.g. HP LaserJet Pro M402n. This printer’s numeric code “402” denotes a print speed of up to 40 pages per minute.

Series: The numeric code may imply the specific series or family of the printer model. Taking HP LaserJet Pro 400 color MFP M475dn as an example, the numeric code “400” indicates that this printer is part of the LaserJet Pro 400 series. And the numeric code “475” represents the specific model within the LaserJet Pro 400 series.

Specific Model Number: The numeric code may stand for a specific printer model number within a printer series. It does not directly show any functions or capabilities of the printer. For instance, in HP OfficeJet Pro 6960, the numeric code “6960” identifies a specific model of the HP OfficeJet Pro series printer.

Sometimes, the numeric code may only signify the sequence of the printer model’s release in a particular product line or series.

It’s important to note that, like the letter codes, the numeric codes may vary by printer model.

II. Factors to Consider When Choosing an HP Printer

When selecting an HP printer model, you should consider several factors.

Budget

Determine your budget and look for printers that offer the features you need within your price range. 

Printing Needs

Think about your printing needs and prioritize the features that matter to you, such as color printing, duplex printing, and all-in-one functionality.

Size & Design

Examine the size, design, and physical features of the printer, including the placement of paper trays or controls. They may impact how the printer fits into your workspace. 

Market Popularity

Observe whether the printer you are considering is popular to make sure supplies such as ink/toner cartridges are readily available. This can be convenient for finding the most cost-effective products on the market.

Ink/Toner Costs

Research the ongoing costs of ink cartridges or toner cartridges, and other consumables necessary for the printer, like paper or maintenance kits.

User Reviews

Don’t forget to check out the reviews and ratings from other users to get an idea of the printer’s performance, reliability, and overall user experience.

III. Conclusion

After reading this blog, you already have a better understanding of HP printer model numbers, we hope this is helpful to you. In addition, as a reliable toner cartridge supplier, YB Toner has been focusing on printer consumables of major brands for more than ten years. If you have any questions about matching ink or toner cartridges with your printer, please go to our website to check the corresponding models or ask our professional customer service staff.

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