To print from tablet to wireless printer, both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and your tablet should support a built-in printing method like Apple AirPrint or Android's Default Print Service. Once these basics are in place, you can send documents or photos directly from your tablet without needing a computer.
Before you print from tablet to wireless printer: check the basics
Before starting, confirm that your tablet and wireless printer are on the same Wi-Fi network. If you haven't yet connected your printer to your network, you'll need to setup a wireless printer first. For iPads, check if your printer supports AirPrint; for Android tablets, look for Mopria or Default Print Service compatibility. Most modern printers from HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother support AirPrint, but you can verify in your printer's manual or the manufacturer's website. Bluetooth printing is a limited alternative, it works without Wi-Fi but has a short range (around 30 feet), and iPads can only connect to one Bluetooth printer at a time. Note that Google Cloud Print was discontinued at the end of 2020, so current alternatives include Mopria, Microsoft Universal Print, and PaperCut Mobility Print.
How to print from an iPad using AirPrint
- Open the document or photo you want to print in any app that supports sharing.
- Tap the Share icon (a square with an upward arrow).
- Scroll down and tap Print.
- Tap No Printer Selected, then choose your AirPrint-enabled printer from the list. Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Adjust settings such as number of copies, color or black and white, and page range if needed.
- Tap Print in the upper-right corner.
AirPrint works over Wi-Fi or wired network connections but does not work with printers connected via Bluetooth or USB to an Apple AirPort Base Station.
How to print from an Android tablet using the default print service
- Open the document or photo you want to print.
- Tap the Menu icon (three vertical dots) or the Share icon.
- Tap Print from the menu that appears.
- Select your printer from the list. If your printer supports Mopria or the Default Print Service, it should appear automatically when both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Adjust settings such as paper size, orientation, color, and number of copies.
- Tap the print icon to send the job.
When to use a printer manufacturer's app
If your printer is not AirPrint or Mopria compatible, or if you need advanced features like scanning and ink monitoring, download the official app from your printer's manufacturer. Common apps include HP Smart, Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY, Epson iPrint, and Brother Mobile Connect. These apps also simplify the process of connecting a printer to Wi-Fi if you haven't done so already. To use a manufacturer's app, install it from your tablet's app store, open it, and follow the prompts to add and connect your printer, ensuring both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Then, use the app's interface to select and print your files. This is also the most reliable way to connect a tablet to a printer when built-in methods are not available.
Adjusting print settings and finishing the job
Before sending your print job, review optional settings that may be available in the print menu or app. Common adjustments include paper size, number of copies, color versus black and white, orientation (portrait or landscape), and print quality. These settings help you conserve ink, match the paper loaded in your printer, and get the output you want. Once everything looks correct, tap the final print button. Your tablet will send the job to the wireless printer, and printing should begin shortly. Check the printed output to confirm it meets your expectations.
