Speed is one of the printer's best features. In addition, most popular versions of Linux and Unix are available for downloading from HP's Web site.
I tested the printer on a system running Windows Vista, but according to HP it also comes with drivers for Vista 圆4, Windows 2000, and both 32- and 64-bit versions of Windows 7, XP, and Windows Server 20, as well as Mac OS X versions 10.3 through 10.6. Set the printer in place, remove the packing materials, load paper, plug in the power cord and network cable, and run the automated installation routine from the supplied disc. Setting up the P2055dn on a network is absolutely typical for a desktop monochrome laser. It's also a particularly welcome touch if you print on more than one type of paper, since it lets you keep a second paper type loaded as well as easily switch between paper types. The second tray boosts the default input capacity to 300 sheets. One extra compared with the other two printers is a 50-sheet multipurpose tray. It also offers similar paper-handling features, with a 250-sheet tray and a built-in duplexer standard (to print on both sides of a page), plus the option to add an additional 500-sheet tray ($125 street). Like those two, the P2055dn is small enough-at 10.6 by 14.4 by 14.5 inches (HWD)-to fit comfortably on a desk to serve as a personal printer, and light enough (23.6 pounds) for one person to move easily. The P2055dn is similar in many ways to the much less expensive Editors' Choice Samsung ML-2851ND ($300.00, ) and the Lexmark E260dn ($249.00 direct, ). That doesn't rule out the possibility that the P2055dn may be your best choice, but it does mean you have to make careful comparisons to decide if it's worth the price. The catch is that you can get largely comparable printers for roughly one half to two thirds as much. It's fast, it prints high-quality text, and it's reasonably strong on paper handling.
Judged in a vacuum-by which I mean without looking at the price-the Hewlett-Packard HP P2055dn ($399 direct) is a terrific monochrome laser for heavy-duty personal printing or for shared printing in a home office, micro office, or small workgroup.