Let’s break this printing-from-iPad rigmarole down, minus the déjà vu from the other solid replies.
First, everyone’s right—if AirPrint works, it’s magic (but it often doesn’t, and “magic” turns to “dark arts” real quick). If your WiFi printer is invisible, go past the AirPrint rabbit hole: try accessing your printer’s IP address on Safari. You can often tweak settings, verify its network, and sometimes trigger print jobs through that web portal. Oddly overlooked, but I’ve debugged many a “phantom” printer this way.
Not a fan of the “just email it and print on a computer” solution. That’s the “my smartphone is now a dumb-phone” workaround. Instead, consider using a universal printing hub app—like Printer Pro (Readdle). It’s pricier than clunky free manufacturer apps (pro: better interface, more options), but cons: may not play nice with every printer, requires setup. Still, it’s a middle ground worth exploring, especially if AirPrint compatibility is sketchy.
Cloud solutions were always awkward—RIP Google Cloud Print—and brand-specific apps (like HP Smart, Canon PRINT) are a wild card; worse if you swap printers often. One sneaky competitor move: some apps let you save as PDF or print to file, which is halfway helpful if all else fails.
To sum up:
Pros—direct from iPad printing saves a step, usually.
Cons—network gremlins, AirPrint limitations, third-party app jank.
Brand apps: feature limitations; universal hub apps: cost and setup.
Competitors hit on AirPrint and brand apps. I’d toss in: check your printer’s web interface via its IP, and don’t be shy experimenting with “open in another app” if you get desperate.
Pro tip for new gear: even if a printer is branded “AirPrint compatible,” check real-world user reviews—some models lose connectivity after every firmware update. Sometimes the simplest fix is to reconnect WiFi or re-enable AirPrint in the printer settings after said updates.
Honestly, iPad printing in 2024 still feels like a dice roll. If you want “print just works,” a cheap Chromebook or laptop alongside your iPad remains undefeated for now. But for portability, a little setup, and some patience, you can win the wireless printing lottery—eventually.