What type of printer can connect wirelessly without a router?

A Wi-Fi Direct printer is designed to establish a direct wireless connection to devices, such as computers and smartphones, without the need for an intermediary like a router. This technology enables devices to communicate with each other directly for printing tasks, making it convenient for users who need to print quickly from a mobile device or a laptop without going through a network.

Wi-Fi Direct works by creating a peer-to-peer network, which offers a simple and efficient way for devices to connect and transfer data directly. This is particularly useful in scenarios where a traditional network environment is unavailable or impractical.

In contrast, network printers typically require an established network, such as through a router, to facilitate connections from multiple devices. USB printers rely on a wired connection via a USB cable to a host device and do not offer wireless capabilities. Laser printers are a type of printer technology that may or may not be network-capable but do not inherently provide wireless connectivity without additional networking components. Hence, the unique capability of a Wi-Fi Direct printer to connect directly without a router sets it apart as the correct answer.