Rating of the best print servers for 2020

In an office where there are several computers and there is a need for frequent printing and copying of a test, scanning documents, receiving a fax - the use of print servers becomes just a salvation. After all, this device, in addition to its main task - the creation of network printing, also helps to significantly reduce the cost of purchasing additional printers and save the work space that the purchased printers would occupy for each workplace.

Also, the print server will create comfortable conditions for printing the test at home, if there are several PCs and users.

What is a print server?

A print server (print server) is an independent network device of a small size, which is intermediate between a local network and a printer, MFP. Its principle of operation is to create the ability to share the MFP and printer with a group of users, via a wired or wireless network.

MFP is a multifunctional device that combines a copier, printer, fax and scanner. A very useful device for the office that saves space and money.

The advantage of using a print server is that there is no need for an included additional computer (this connection method is described below), and the disadvantage is the need to purchase additional equipment.

Alternative connection

An alternative connection method is to connect the printer or MFP to one of the computers in use. Using a computer as a print server is quite simple: there is no need to purchase additional equipment, quick and easy setup for self-connection.

But the main disadvantage of this connection is the following: the computer that is used as a print server must always be turned on. It should also be noted that printing uses its computing resources.

Selection criteria: what should you pay attention to when buying?

What types of print server are there

Print servers are of three types: wired, wireless, and combined.

1. Wired. Wired print servers are connected to the local network through a wall outlet. This type of connection provides a high data transfer rate, stable and reliable connection, but at the same time limits the possibility of placing the device in a large room, since this requires a cable.
   But having enough Ethernet outlets will solve this problem. To transfer information, you can also create a wireless connection using a tandem router and print server.
   To ensure smooth operation on any local network, the print server must support 10 / 100BASE-TX.
2. Wireless. Wireless print servers transmit data over WiFi connection. Signal stability is subject to WiFi transmission power and interference.
   The absence of wires makes it possible to place the device anywhere. However, you should pay attention to the range of the selected router and the type of antenna. An internal antenna is suitable for a small room, but for a large space it is better to pay attention to the external type.
3. Combined. Combined print servers give the user the ability to connect to a local network using either an Ethernet cable or a WiFi connection.

Connectors

To connect office equipment to the print server, three connectors are used: a serial port - RS232, a parallel port - LPT and a universal serial bus - USB. Nowadays, the USB connector is mainly used, but old-style equipment will need old-style ports.

Number of ports

Before buying, you need to decide on the amount of connected equipment. If there are multiple MFPs or printers in the room, you should purchase a print server with two or more ports. And if there is an old type printer, then the old type connector is required.

Device compatibility

Both universal print servers that are compatible with most hardware and models with limited compatibility are available on the market. Therefore, it is important to study the device compatibility section before buying in order to avoid possible problems.

Rating of the best wired print servers

HP JetDirect 175X J6035G

The cost	RUB 12 890
Dimensions	10.16 x 12.7 x 3.8 cm
Weight	90 g
Network and cable type	Fast Ethernet, 10 / 100Base-T (X)
Networks	IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u

The HP JetDirect 175X J6035G connects to a local area network using an Ethernet LAN port (RJ-45). There is a USB 2.0 port for connecting a printer or MFP. The device has indicator lights. The flash memory capacity is 2 MB.

Print North is compatible with most Mac and Windows operating systems. The maximum transfer rate is 100 Mbps.

The device supports the following network protocols:

• BOOTP / DHCP and WINS;
• SNMP and http;
• TCP / IP and IPX / SPX;
• SLP and IGMP;
• AppleTalk, LPD and Telnet.

• good speed;
• indicator lights.

• not found.

HP JetDirect en3700 Print Server J7942G

Transmission speed	up to 100 Mbps
Protocol support	SSL, SNMP 3.0, HTTPS
Dimensions	10 X 113 X 3.4 cm
Weight	140 g
Guarantee period	3 years
average price	18 200 rubles

The print server package contains:

• power cord and adapter;
• user manual;
• CD with the installer;
• USB cable.

The HP JetDirect en3700 has two connectivity ports: a USB 2.0 compliant port and a 10 / 100Base-TX (RJ-45) port. The processor speed is 125 MHz, the standard memory is 8 MB, the power consumption is 5 W.

The device is controlled via the WEB interface. There is support for many operating systems.

• clear and quick setup;
• good transmission speed.

• not found.

TP-LINK TL-PS110P

average price	RUB 2,590
Dimensions	5.9 x 5.2 x 2.2 cm
Power consumption	2 A / 3.3 V

The connection to the printer is via a parallel port. TL-PS110P is compatible with most printers, including newer models. Also, the device is compatible with many operating systems and has support for many protocols.

TP-LINK TL-PS110P has a power-on self-test function, and email notifications are supported to quickly detect printing problems.

The fast print server is supported by a USB 2.0 port and a high-speed microprocessor. The size of the print server is small, which allows it to be placed anywhere.

TP-LINK TL-PS110P Package Contents:

• CD for installation;
• print server;
• RJ45 cable;
• instructions for installing the device yourself.

• compatibility with many OS and models;
• support for a large number of protocols;
• diminutiveness;
• high speed.

• not found.

TP-LINK TL-PS110U

Guarantee	1 year
Manufacturer	China
How much is	average price 2 610 rubles
Dimensions	7.3 x 6.5 x 3 cm
Power consumption	5V / 2A
Ports	1 port

TP-LINK TL-PS110U connects to a local network using a Gigabit RJ-45 connector. The device is equipped with one USB port for connecting a printer. The port supports USB 2.0 technology, which provides high speed data transfer.

The compact device has indicator lights that will notify you of the status of the work and the activity of the connection.

Functionality TL-PS110U:

• support for Samba protocol, which creates printer sharing for Microsoft Windows networks;
• assigning a dynamic or static IP address;
• support for AppleTalk, NetWare, v2c and SNMP v1 protocols;
• setting a password for changing the configuration;
• support for SNMP traps (a notification about the state of the print server is sent to the specified IP address);
• remote reboot;
• control using a special utility or via the WEB interface;
• Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) standard, for printing over the Internet;
• compatibility with more than 230 printer models;
• self-test when choosing automatic mode;
• support for a large number of operating systems.

TP-LINK TL-PS110U comes with a step-by-step installation manual, Ethernet cable and installation CD.

• great compatibility with operating systems and printers;
• fast connection;
• compact size;
• light indicators;
• easy customization;
• functionality.

• not found.

Best Wireless Print Servers

HP Jetdirect ew2400

Dimensions (cm)	10 x 13 x 3.4
Weight (g)	160
Average price (in rubles)	12000
Network standards	802.3 (10 / 100Base-TX), 802.11g and 802.11b
Guarantee	1 year

The HP Jetdirect ew2400 has an external Hi-Speed ​​USB I / O port that supports the USB 2.0 specification.

Fast Ethernet RJ45 and Ethernet wireless networks have standards 802.3 (10 / 100Base-TX) and 802.11g, 802.11b. There is wireless network protection and management.

• data protection;
• fast speed.

• not.

HP Jetdirect 2800w

Power consumption	2.5W
Guarantee period	1 year
Supported interfaces	NFC, Wi-Fi and USB 2.0
Weight	80 g
Dimensions	9.8 x 7.4 x 2.1 cm
Price	4,273 (average)

The HP Jetdirect 2800w is compatible with an HP laser MFP or printer. The device performs wireless printing at 2.4 GHz and has a USB 2.0 connector. The print server supports print on the move and NFC printing.

Management is fairly straightforward using the HP Web Jetadmin application.

• simple control;
• support for printing via NFC.

• not found.

HP Jetdirect 3000w NFC / Wireless J8030A Direct

Price	RUB 4,104 - average
Weight	61 g
Dimensions	8.2 x 5.6 x 2 cm
Guarantee	1 year
Standards	802.11 b

The wireless print server is compatible with HP LaserJet Enterprise printers and MFPs. Management is performed using HP Web Jetadmin software. Security is managed by SNMPv3, SSL / TLS (HTTPS) and WPA2-Personal (WPA2-AES) encryption.
The HP Jetdirect has a Hi-Speed ​​USB 2.0 port. NFC printing is supported.

The HP Jetdirect comes with 2 USB cables, a user manual, and a Velcro kit.

• printout via NFC;
• small size.

• not found.

Lexmark 27X0129

Dimensions	2.4 x 17.8 x 19.1 cm
Weight	99 g
Ports	1, type B
Compound	IEEE 802.11 b / g / n, SISO 1x1
Manufacturer country	China
Quality certificate	there is
Average cost (rub.)	3980

The wireless print server has limited compatibility and will work with Lexmark printers. The device is small in size and is black. To connect to a wireless network, a 2.4 GHz channel is used, the connection speed is 72 Mb / s.

The 27X0129 provides complete communication security with 802.1x and IPSec authentication, encrypted device status reporting, and support for remote secure traffic management.

There is a built-in web page for changing settings and monitoring printer status, and for updating software.

Lexmark 27X0129 supports a wide range of operating systems and is certified for quality.

• easy installation;
• small size;
• security in data exchange.

• limited compatibility.

TP-LINK TL-WPS510U

Average price (in rubles)	3700
Dimensions (cm)	6.5 x 4 x 1.9
Energy consumption	2 A / 3.3 V
Speed	up to 150 Mbps
Number of ports	1

TP-LINK TL-WPS510U is made in black and white. Its ultra-compact size allows you to place the device anywhere. The case contains one USB 2.0 connector and an external type antenna. The device has a high connection speed that reaches 150 Mbps.

TL-WPS510U supports multiple operating systems, so there will be no problem when working with printers under different operating systems. Also, the device provides secure transmission of any data through the encryption mode 64/128-bit WEP and WPA.

In addition to TP-LINK TL-WPS510U, the user will find in the box a setup guide, a removable antenna and a CD for installation.

• compatibility with different models of printers;
• support for multiple operating systems;
• encryption modes;
• compactness;
• easy setup;
• high speed encryption.

• not.

Rating of the best combined print servers

AgeStar WPRS1

Weight (kg)	2360
Dimensions (cm)	10cm × 10cm × 92
Body material	plastic
Manufacturer	China
Wireless standard	WI-FI 802.11b / g / n
Battery capacity (mA)	1200
WI-Fi radius (m)	to 10
Price	average - 1,014 rubles

AgeStar WPRS1 is a portable print server and portable router. The print server is capable of transmitting data both wirelessly via WiFi and via a USB connection.

In addition to LAN and USB ports, the device has slots for a card reader, U-Disk and SD, TF memory cards. Supports wireless audio and video playback.

WPRS1 is equipped with a built-in rechargeable battery with a capacity of 1200 mA. The operating time without recharging is 5 hours.

• portable router;
• support for wired and wireless connections.

• not.

HP JetDirect ew2500

Manufacturer	Taiwan
Guarantee	1 year
Dimensions	10 x 3.3 x 13.5 cm
Maximum speed	100 Mbps
Number of ports	3
Price	20 500 rubles

The HP JetDirect ew2500 supports wired LAN and wireless LAN or 802.11b / g wireless. The device fits a wide range of scanners, printers and MFPs. There is also compatibility with a wide range of network protocols and operating systems.

The device protects your data with advanced security options for both wired and wireless networks.

On the case there are indicator lights for the print server operating status, as well as a test button, to ensure smooth operation and assist in setup.

The box with the JetDirect ew2500 also includes a USB cable, Ethernet cable, Quick Start Guide, Documentation and Software CD, Charger and Power Cord.

• compatibility with a wide range of operating systems, protocols and equipment;
• good speed.

• not found.

Where to buy the models of print servers presented in the review?

The devices can be purchased in the Yandex Market online store or ordered online from AliExpress.

Conclusion

Managing printers, scanners and MFPs without using a computer is possible. For comfortable work, the main thing is to choose a quality device.

The review presented the best print servers in 2020, which were selected according to the positive opinion of buyers. In order to eliminate mistakes when choosing, consult with a specialist before buying.