HP C510a Ink
Photosmart C510a Ink Cartridges

HP C510a Printer Review

The HP Photosmart C510a e-All-in-One inkjet printer is built for easy printing, scanning, and copying, and integrates with a tablet-like control panel that can be removed and used away from the printer. With mobile printing features and print speeds of up to 33 pages per minute, it is one of the most advanced models on the market. Users also won't be spending too much on HP C510a printer ink over its lifetime either.

As mentioned, the front control panel of the C510a is actually a 7-inch tablet, which runs a version of the Android operating system. The tablet can be removed to easily control the unit from any area of the home or office, but it significantly increases the price as well. As a result, it may be a better choice for buyers who were considering a tablet purchase already. Reviewers also noted that the tablet is a bit under-powered, showing slow performance with web browsing, Facebook, and more, but it does an excellent job of controlling tasks and viewing printer stats like paper supply and the remaining Photosmart C510a ink levels.

The machine is not exactly compact either, measuring 9.7x17.7x18 inches, with a weight of 17.4 pounds. With the tablet removed, users can still make copies and do a few tasks using buttons on the machine, which is a nice touch. AirPrint and HP ePrint support are included, so the unit integrates with other mobile devices as well.

The inkjet system includes five separate HP C510a printer ink cartridges, but this often results in less waste. High-capacity Photosmart C510a ink cartridges are a better value than the standard supplies, as they offer a lower cost per page. Remanufactured HP C510a ink supplies are the best option overall, though, as they are a fraction of the cost of OEM equivalents.

The C510a certainly has its "wow" factor in the included tablet interface, which trumps even the best full-color touch screens of competing models. Still, it adds a lot to the price and is somewhat underpowered, so buyers might do better to purchase their tablet separately and find a less expensive printer.