differences MFP M234sdwe and MFP M234sdw--confused

[bw48]

I am trying to understand differences between HP Laser Jet MFP M234dwe and MFP M234dw--without the e.

The dw model is $60 more expensive. 

When comparing the two models all I see is.

dw has 1-year warranty. dwe has 2-year.

This question was asked previously.  The answer was something about PLUS version of software but was all.  In reading Reviews there are issues like not being able to print using just USB cable. Having to be on internet and logged into account etc. issues.  I was told by HP sales that dwe model the USB connected printing is ok as long as printer is connected every few days.  I think some of the dwe has more to do with Instant Ink program and using HP ink/toner (which I am OK with) than anything else.  

Why the $60 price difference

What am I misunderstanding?

Thanks

[Valsimot]

The e model is an HP+ printer. It must have an internet connection and a user must set it up with an HP account to work. When setup is done you can use it over USB but an internet connection is mandatory. Instant ink is not mandatory it's free for the first 6 months and you get 2 years warranty on HP+.

https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/slp/hp-plus-printers 

[bw48]

So, with "e", to use printer I have to be connected to internet even when using USB?

Is this the same without "e"?

Why $60 price difference?

Thanks

[Valsimot]

A printer without e doesn't need to have an internet connection, USB will work just fine.

You don't need to worry about the difference in price it will be covered through the printer usage on toners only. All the printer manufacturers are making money on selling toners, not on selling printers.

[bw48]

Honestly and sincerely, I thank you for your help but still confused...

To clarify use of USB:

With an "e" to print using USB I need to be connected or it will NOT print--correct?

Without an "e" I can print with USB without being connected to internet---correct?

Confusion on $60 price difference by toner usage

If I pay $60 more for same printer without "e", how do I get this back through Toner usage?

There would be Toner cost whether on Instant Ink program at a monthly fee or buy Toner Cartridge for $49.00 for approx.1100 pages.  (plus one year less warranty and optional ink program what ever that means)

Hp has been trying to control 2nd party ink for years and understand why. I have always used Hp ink and has cost me alot of time and hundreds of dollars the way the cartridge chips have been programed and programed changes.  The HP+, "e" and Instant ink Programs are complicated and deceiving and about to make be go elsewhere after about 30 years.

Sorry I got so wordy but please reply to the above questions.

Again, Thank You for your time and patience--also try get some sleep 😉

[Valsimot]

e printer must be connected to the internet and you can connect it with USB but the wireless connection to the internet is a must, it will not work without an internet connection. The model without e can work on USB no internet needed.

The printers are the same, one needs internet to work one doesn't.

If you go for a 60$ expensive printer it's possible to use non-HP toner cartridges that are cheaper, take note that all defects caused by non-HP toners are not covered with a warranty.

Instant ink is not mandatory, you are not obligated to use an Instant ink subscription on both models.

With e model you get the first 6 months free of Instant ink later you pay.

It's all up to you, do the math how much you print monthly how much would a toner cost you, and how much it would be for 12 or 24 months and you will know is it worth or not for your needs.

[bw48]

Sorry it has taken so long to get back to you.

So, if my router is not working or my internet provider is down, I cannot print, copy scan anything, Correct?

Connecting Printer to Computer with USB cables I still will not be able to print?

[bw48]

Sorry I forgot a question:

If router etc. ARE working but computer is not connected to router, can I use USB cables printer to computer to print, etc.?

Which I can do now on my HP printer.

Not on Ink program

[Valsimot]

If you don't have an internet connection to the printer you will not be able to print. You can use USB connection to the printer from a computer, but an internet connection to a printer is a must.

[bw48]

Sorry I do not mean to beat this to death........

My old printer if computer was connected wireless to router, I could use printer without connecting to Bing, Google, etc. 

Or

I could connect USB cables printer to computer without wireless connection.

Any HP printer that HAS an "e" CAN NOT DO either of these scenarios, correct?

Any HP printer that DOES NOT HAVE an "e" CAN DO the above scenarios, correct?

Also. about the HP or non-HP branded cartridges depending for no "e" depends one place it says you can only use HP branded cartridge another area says you can use different branded cartridges.  I have never tried to or plan on using ink/toner other than HP.