Computers & Office · PRODUCT REVIEW

HP
LaserJet 1012 Monochrome Laser Printer

Compact mono printer with manual duplex. A closer look at the benefits, the limitations, and the alternatives.

Buyer Shortlists editorial·Updated
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THE SHORT ANSWER

Our take

The HP LaserJet 1012 is a compact monochrome printer for a nearby workstation that can connect by USB and does not need network sharing. HP's user guide rates it at 14 pages per minute on A4, gives it a 150-sheet main tray and 10-sheet priority feed, and documents manual duplex. The sources do not establish Ethernet, Wi-Fi or a recommended monthly range, so the model is best treated as a simple personal printer.

Consider it for

A single-user setup that can use USB and tolerate manual paper turning for occasional two-sided jobs..

Look elsewhere if

It is not suited to buyers who need color, a shared Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection, automatic duplex, multifunction features, or a verified monthly workload range.

Pros & cons

What could work for you, and what to consider before buying.

What works in its favor

  • HP gives a clear A4 speed rating and specific 150-sheet plus priority-feed paper capacities.
  • Manual duplex offers a two-sided option without claiming an automatic duplex unit.
  • USB 2.0 provides a direct connection for a compatible single computer.

What to weigh up

  • The exact 1012 is a print-only mono model with no copy, scan or fax function.
  • A USB-focused setup does not offer built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi sharing.
  • The source gives no recommended monthly page range, so workload matching remains uncertain.

The key details

Published product specifications
Model coveredLaserJet 1012
Main functionsMonochrome print-only laser printer
Print output14 ppm A4; 150-sheet main tray plus 10-sheet priority feed
Two-sided printingUSB 2.0; manual duplex; no built-in network connection documented

Performance figures are manufacturer claims. Source checked October 6, 2026. Regional models and included accessories can differ.

What the features mean for you

A personal printer rather than an office hub

HP's support page and user guide identify the LaserJet 1012 as a monochrome laser printer. It prints documents but does not replace a copier, scanner or fax machine. That focused role can suit a desk where one computer sends occasional black-and-white jobs, and it avoids paying for functions that are not part of this product. The model's use case depends on direct placement and a compatible USB connection, not on a shared-network workflow.

Rated speed and output should be read as specifications

HP lists 14 pages per minute on A4 for the 1012 and a first page out in less than eight seconds. These are manufacturer specifications, not measurements from our testing. The guide also lists 600 by 600 dpi with Resolution Enhancement technology and 1200 dpi effective output quality. The distinction avoids presenting enhancement as native 1200 by 1200 resolution. For basic text documents, the data gives a useful comparison point, but not a promise that every file will complete at the maximum rate.

A small tray favors shorter print runs

HP documents a 150-sheet main input tray and a priority feed slot for up to ten sheets. The priority slot can handle a small media batch separately, while the main tray is sized for everyday paper. This is a personal-scale arrangement rather than a large office reserve, so frequent printing can mean more reloads. The source does not provide a recommended monthly page range. Neither the tray size nor a maximum duty-cycle figure should be interpreted as a workload recommendation.

Manual duplex means the user turns the stack

HP describes manual two-sided printing for the 1012. The printer produces one side, then the operator reloads the pages for the reverse side. That can be sufficient for occasional drafts or documents where paper use matters, but it is slower and more involved than automatic duplex. It is not a match for a buyer who needs unattended double-sided batches. The exact model source does not establish an automatic duplexer, so that requirement should remain unsatisfied in a strict finder path.

USB and driver compatibility define placement

The manufacturer guide lists USB compatible with the USB 2.0 specification for this exact 1012 model. It does not document built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi. A separate print server or later adapter would be an external setup, not a feature to assume in the base printer profile. Because this is an older design, confirm that the intended computer can use an available driver and print connection before relying on it. The exact-model Amazon search link does not imply current stock or a working unit.

What else to compare

Choose a networked mono printer with automatic duplex if multiple computers share frequent two-sided jobs.

Explore this category →

Before you buy

Does the LaserJet 1012 support manual duplex?

HP's user guide documents a manual process for printing on both sides of the page.

How much paper does it hold?

HP lists a 150-sheet main input tray and a priority slot for up to ten sheets.

Does it have Ethernet or Wi-Fi?

The reviewed exact-model guide documents USB, but does not establish built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

Where can I check the current price?

Use the Amazon link for current offers. Check the exact model, seller, product condition, delivery, and return terms. This page does not display a live price or confirm stock.

Sources & review basis

We use the following manufacturer documentation for the product features above. Our suitability notes and buying advice are editorial judgments based on those features, not measured performance results.

Read our research and update process →

The decision

The LaserJet 1012 is a straightforward USB mono printer with manual duplex, but its modest input and absent network features narrow its fit.

Is it the right fit?

Check the exact model and today’s offers on Amazon.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.