Finding the best print server for office printers involves balancing performance, ease of use, and compatibility. The ideal choice should seamlessly connect multiple printers to your network, reduce downtime, and support your existing infrastructure. The HP JetDirect 170X stands out as the overall best for its reliability and broad compatibility, while the Wireless Print Server for USB Printer offers excellent flexibility for wireless setups. However, tradeoffs include varying speeds, setup complexity, and cost. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and how to choose the perfect print server for your office.
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Key Takeaways
- The top picks excel in balancing ease of setup with reliable network performance.
- Wireless models provide greater flexibility but can introduce latency or connection issues.
- Speed and network compatibility are key factors influencing overall performance, especially in busy offices.
- Higher-priced options tend to offer better build quality and longer-term reliability, but some budget models still deliver solid value.
- Most models support multiple printers, but the number of supported devices varies, impacting scalability.
| HP JetDirect 170X External Print Server |  | Best Overall for Budget-Conscious Office Environments | Product Dimensions: 12 x 5.1 x 3 inches | Item Weight: 1.3 pounds | Model Number: J3258C#ABA | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wireless Print Server for USB Printer, 2-Port WiFi Ethernet Network Adapter |  | Best for Multi-Printer Wireless Connectivity in Small Offices | Product Dimensions: 3.82 x 2.6 x 0.98 inches | Item Weight: 8.8 ounces | Number of USB Ports: 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| LP-N110W Wireless Print Server for USB Printer |  | Best for Flexible Wireless and Wired USB Printer Sharing | Wireless Frequency: 2.4 GHz | Wired Ports: 2 x 10/100Mbps | Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Network Print Server, 10/100Mbps, TAA |  | Best for Manual Setup and Reliable Network Printing | Connectivity: USB 2.0, Ethernet RJ45 | Speed: 10/100Mbps | Compatibility: Windows, macOS | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| StarTech Parallel Network Print Server, Ethernet 10/100Mbps, TAA |  | Best for Legacy Parallel Printers in Specialized Environments | Network Speed: 10/100Mbps | Port: Parallel (36-pin) | Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wireless Print Server to Share 3 USB Printers Over Local Network |  | Best for Multi-Printer Flexibility and Wireless Connectivity | Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 2.76 x 1.18 inches | Item Weight: 8.8 ounces | Item Model Number: USBポート3つ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| print server for office printer | Compatibility | Product Dimensions | Item Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP JetDirect 170X External Pri | — | 12 x 5.1 x 3 inches | 1.3 pounds |
| Wireless Print Server for USB | Windows 10, Mac, Linux | 3.82 x 2.6 x 0.98 inches | 8.8 ounces |
| LP-N110W Wireless Print Server | Windows, macOS, Linux | — | — |
| StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Networ | Windows, macOS | — | — |
| StarTech Parallel Network Prin | Windows, macOS, Linux | — | — |
| Wireless Print Server to Share | — | 3.94 x 2.76 x 1.18 inches | 8.8 ounces |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HP JetDirect 170X External Print Server
The HP JetDirect 170X stands out for its simplicity and affordability, making it ideal for small offices seeking reliable print sharing without added complexity. Compared with the StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Network Print Server, it offers a straightforward setup, but lacks the advanced features or support for newer network standards found in more modern models. Its compact design and ease of use make it accessible to users with limited technical skills, though it’s limited to older printers and network protocols. This model is best suited for offices with legacy printers that don’t require high-speed connectivity or advanced features. The main tradeoff is that it may not support the latest network security standards or newer printer models, which could be a concern for future-proofing.
Pros:- Affordable price for basic print sharing
- Compact and lightweight, easy to place anywhere
- Simple setup suitable for non-technical users
Cons:- Limited compatibility with newer printers and networks
- Lacks support for modern network security features
Best for: Small offices or teams using older, compatible printers that need simple, reliable sharing at a lower cost.
Not ideal for: Organizations that require support for recent network standards, advanced security, or modern multifunction printers.
- Product Dimensions:12 x 5.1 x 3 inches
- Item Weight:1.3 pounds
- Model Number:J3258C#ABA
- Date First Available:March 30, 2005
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for budget-conscious offices with legacy printers needing straightforward sharing solutions.”
Wireless Print Server for USB Printer, 2-Port WiFi Ethernet Network Adapter
The CHEECENT Wireless Print Server offers the flexibility to share two USB printers over WiFi or Ethernet, making it a practical choice for offices with multiple printers that need wireless access. Unlike the StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Network Print Server, which supports only a single device and requires manual setup, this model provides dual USB ports and built-in wireless options, simplifying network expansion. It’s compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, giving it broad versatility, but setup can be complex for those unfamiliar with network configurations. It’s best suited for offices that want wireless printer sharing without replacing existing hardware, though it may not work with all printer models or support scanners. The main compromise involves setup complexity and potential compatibility issues.
Pros:- Supports sharing two USB printers wirelessly or via Ethernet
- Compact design with wall-mounting options
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux
Cons:- Requires manual network setup and configuration
- Limited to printers only, no scanner support
Best for: Small offices or teams needing to wirelessly share two USB printers across multiple operating systems.
Not ideal for: Users seeking plug-and-play solutions or with printers that are known to have driver compatibility issues.
- Product Dimensions:3.82 x 2.6 x 0.98 inches
- Item Weight:8.8 ounces
- Number of USB Ports:2
- Compatibility:Windows 10, Mac, Linux
Our verdict“This model suits offices looking for a cost-effective, multi-printer wireless sharing solution with broad OS compatibility, provided they’re comfortable with network setup.”
LP-N110W Wireless Print Server for USB Printer
The LP-N110W provides a versatile solution for sharing a USB printer via wireless or wired connections, supporting multiple operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Compared to the CHEECENT model, which emphasizes dual-USB ports, this device focuses on reliable wireless connectivity combined with wired support, making it suitable for environments where stability and flexibility are priorities. However, it may face compatibility issues with certain printer models, and Linux users might need to handle driver installations. It’s a good fit for home offices or small teams that need easy-to-configure wireless access, but it’s not suitable for printers requiring specialized drivers or support for complex functions like scanning.
Pros:- Supports multiple computers with wireless or wired connections
- Easy to install and configure
- Supports SNMP for network management
Cons:- Incompatibility with some specific printer models
- Drivers needed for Linux and certain printers
Best for: Small to medium offices needing flexible wireless or wired sharing of USB printers with broad OS support.
Not ideal for: Offices with specific, high-performance printers or those requiring multifunction device support.
- Wireless Frequency:2.4 GHz
- Wired Ports:2 x 10/100Mbps
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Linux
- Standard:USB 2.0
Our verdict“This device is great for offices that want flexible, straightforward wireless sharing, with some attention needed for printer compatibility.”
StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Network Print Server, 10/100Mbps, TAA
The StarTech PM1115U2 offers a dependable wired connection for a single USB printer, supporting most standard USB 2.0 models. Compared to the LP-N110W wireless model, this device relies on wired Ethernet, which ensures stable connections but demands manual setup via a web interface, making it less friendly for non-technical users. It supports multiple protocols like LPR and Bonjour, broadening compatibility, yet it doesn’t support plug-and-play or modern network security features. It’s best suited for environments where wired stability outweighs convenience, such as in dedicated server rooms or setups with static printer locations. The main tradeoff involves setup complexity and lack of wireless flexibility.
Pros:- Supports multiple network protocols for broad compatibility
- Reliable wired Ethernet connection
- Suitable for most USB 2.0 printers
Cons:- Requires manual setup and network knowledge
- Limited to single printer support and wired only
Best for: Offices that prioritize stable wired network printing from a single USB printer with technical setup resources.
Not ideal for: Small offices or users seeking simple, plug-and-play solutions or wireless connectivity.
- Connectivity:USB 2.0, Ethernet RJ45
- Speed:10/100Mbps
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS
- Protocols Supported:LPR, Bonjour
Our verdict“Ideal for offices needing a stable, wired connection for a single USB printer, willing to handle manual setup.”
StarTech Parallel Network Print Server, Ethernet 10/100Mbps, TAA
The StarTech Parallel Network Print Server is designed specifically for older printers with parallel ports, transforming legacy hardware into network-ready devices. Unlike the other models, which focus on USB or wireless sharing, this device caters to environments with classic printers that lack modern interfaces. Its support for multiple protocols and OS compatibility broadens its use cases, but its 10/100Mbps speed limits performance in high-volume situations. It’s best suited for institutions with existing parallel printers that need network access without replacing hardware, though it’s not suitable for newer printers or high-speed environments. The main drawback involves speed limitations and the need for initial configuration.
Pros:- Enables network sharing for legacy parallel printers
- Supports multiple protocols and OS compatibility
- Compact and easy to install
Cons:- Limited to 10/100Mbps network speeds
- Only compatible with printers featuring parallel ports
Best for: Organizations with legacy parallel printers needing network access without replacing existing hardware.
Not ideal for: Offices seeking high-speed printing or using modern, multi-function printers.
- Network Speed:10/100Mbps
- Port:Parallel (36-pin)
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Linux
- Protocols Supported:IPP, TCP/IP, LPR, RAW, Apple Talk, NetWare, SMB
Our verdict“This device is suited for specialized settings where legacy parallel printers must be integrated into a network, accepting speed limitations.”
Wireless Print Server to Share 3 USB Printers Over Local Network
This wireless print server stands out for its ability to support up to three USB printers simultaneously, making it ideal for small office environments that need shared access without the clutter of multiple devices. Compared with the HP JetDirect 170X, which is more robust but limited to a single connection, this model offers greater scalability for offices with multiple printers. Its dual support for Wi-Fi and wired LAN provides versatile setup options, accommodating various network configurations. However, it doesn’t support mobile printing solutions like AirPrint, which could be a drawback for users relying on mobile devices. Compatibility is generally good, but some printers require disabling sleep modes or bidirectional communication, which could complicate setup.
Pros:- Supports multiple printers simultaneously over a network
- Flexible connectivity via Wi-Fi and wired LAN
- Easy to install with detailed guides and support
Cons:- Does not support mobile printing solutions like AirPrint
- Compatibility limited to printers using Raw or IPP protocols
- Some printers may require disabling sleep mode or bidirectional communication
Best for: Small offices or workgroups that need to share multiple USB printers wirelessly without a dedicated server or PC.
Not ideal for: Users expecting seamless mobile printing or AirPrint support, as this device lacks those features.
- Product Dimensions:3.94 x 2.76 x 1.18 inches
- Item Weight:8.8 ounces
- Item Model Number:USBポート3つ
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi and wired LAN
- Supported Protocols:Raw, IPP
- Number of USB Ports:3
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for offices needing flexible, multi-printer network sharing without mobile printing features.”
How We Picked
This roundup evaluates print servers based on several critical factors: compatibility with different operating systems, network speed, ease of installation, build quality, and support for multiple printers. We prioritized solutions that balance performance with user-friendly setup, especially for small to medium office environments. The ranking reflects a combination of reliability, flexibility, and value for money, ensuring each option serves a specific need—from simple setups to more robust, scalable networks.| print server for office printer | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| HP JetDirect 170X External Pri | — |
| Wireless Print Server for USB | Windows 10, Mac, Linux |
| LP-N110W Wireless Print Server | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Networ | Windows, macOS |
| StarTech Parallel Network Prin | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Wireless Print Server to Share | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Print Server For Office Printers
Choosing the best print server for an office involves understanding your specific needs and the tradeoffs involved. The right device should support your existing network infrastructure, be easy to configure, and reliably handle multiple printers without slowing down your workflow. Here are key factors to consider before making a purchase:Compatibility and Operating System Support
Ensure the print server works seamlessly with your office’s operating systems, whether Windows, Mac, or Linux. Some models are more versatile, supporting a wider range of devices, which can prevent headaches during setup and future upgrades. Failing to verify compatibility may lead to connectivity issues or limited device support down the line.
Network Speed and Performance
Look for a print server that supports at least 100Mbps Ethernet, especially if your office handles large print jobs or multiple users. Wireless models should offer stable WiFi standards like 802.11ac or ax for consistent performance. Speed impacts how quickly print jobs are processed and reduces delays, which is vital in busy environments.
Ease of Setup and Management
Devices with straightforward, guided setup processes save time and reduce frustration. Consider whether the model offers web-based management tools, firmware updates, and troubleshooting options. Complex configurations can lead to errors and increased maintenance, especially if your team isn’t tech-savvy.
Build Quality and Reliability
A durable print server minimizes downtime and replacement costs. Invest in reputable brands known for longevity and consistent performance. Cheaper, lower-quality models might save money upfront but can fail prematurely, disrupting your office workflow.
Scalability and Printer Support
Think about how many printers you’ll need to connect now and in the future. Some print servers support only one or two devices, while others can handle multiple printers simultaneously. Overlooking this can lead to bottlenecks as your office expands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect multiple printers to a single print server?
Yes, many print servers support multiple printers, either through USB hubs or network port configurations. However, the number supported varies by model, so it’s important to check the specifications carefully. Connecting too many devices to a single server can sometimes impact performance, especially if the server’s hardware isn’t robust enough.
Is a wireless print server secure for my office network?
Wireless print servers typically support WPA3 or WPA2 encryption, which help secure data transmissions. It’s crucial to enable these security features and ensure firmware is up to date to prevent unauthorized access. Proper network segmentation can further enhance security, especially in sensitive environments.
Do I need a dedicated print server if I already have a router?
Not necessarily. Some routers have built-in print server capabilities, but dedicated devices often offer better performance, more features, and easier management. If your office relies heavily on printing and needs multiple device support, a dedicated print server can provide more stability and scalability.
How difficult is it to set up a print server for a small office?
Most modern print servers are designed for straightforward setup, often involving simple web interfaces or quick-start guides. However, complexity can vary depending on network configurations and printer types. Investing in models with user-friendly management tools reduces setup time and minimizes errors.
Should I prioritize wired or wireless print servers?
Wired print servers generally offer more stable and faster connections, ideal for high-volume printing or environments where reliability is critical. Wireless options provide greater flexibility and easier placement but may suffer from interference or latency issues. Consider your office’s layout and printing needs when choosing between the two.
Conclusion
For small offices prioritizing reliability and ease of integration, the HP JetDirect 170X makes a strong overall choice. Those seeking budget-friendly solutions with decent performance might lean towards the StarTech 1-Port USB 2.0 Network Print Server. If wireless flexibility is key, the Wireless Print Server for USB Printer offers convenience, though at some potential speed tradeoffs. For larger setups or scalability, choosing a model supporting multiple printers and higher network speeds will serve better. Depending on your needs—whether simplicity, affordability, or advanced features—there’s a suitable option in this lineup.Fall Picks
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