-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
-
×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Printers
- Printer Ink Cartridges & Print Quality
- Printing without colour

Create an account on the HP Community to personalize your profile and ask a question
07-14-2024 02:30 PM
Hi. I’m considering buying the HP Deskjet 2810e, but want to know if it’s possible to only use black and white without ever putting a colour cartridge in.
I believe it is possible to print in single cartridge mode on this printer, but wasn’t sure if I would have to put the colour cartridge in.
Solved! Go to Solution.
Accepted Solutions
07-17-2024 10:25 AM
Hi @Trace2233
Using your printer in single-cartridge mode for a long time won't inherently ruin the printer, but it can cause issues with the print heads, especially for the unused color cartridge.
By taking steps to periodically use the color cartridge and performing regular maintenance, you can minimize these risks and ensure that your printer remains in good working condition when you decide to use color printing again.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee
07-16-2024 08:58 AM
Hi @Trace2233,
Welcome to the HP Support Community.
I'd be happy to help you!
Yes, the HP DeskJet 2810e can print in single-cartridge mode, which allows you to use only the black cartridge. In this mode, you don't need to install the color cartridge if you don't intend to use color printing.
However, keep in mind the following points:
Initial Setup: During the initial setup of the printer, you might need to install both the black and color cartridges as the printer might require both to be present for the setup process. After the setup, you can remove the color cartridge and use only the black one.
Single-Cartridge Mode: Once the initial setup is complete, the printer can operate in single-cartridge mode. This mode allows you to print with only one cartridge (either black or color).
Printer Notifications: The printer might display warnings or notifications about the missing color cartridge, but these can usually be dismissed, and it won't affect the functionality of printing in black and white.
Firmware and Software: Ensure that your printer's firmware is up-to-date, and you have the latest version of the HP printer software installed. This can help in managing and configuring the single-cartridge mode effectively.
HP Instant Ink: If you are enrolled in HP's Instant Ink program, be aware that the program might have specific requirements regarding cartridge usage.
By following these steps, you should be able to use the HP DeskJet 2810e with only the black cartridge installed, effectively printing in black and white without the need for a color cartridge.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee
07-17-2024 08:39 AM
Hi Elohi,
Thank you for letting me know. Just one more question, if I use the printer in single cartridge mode for a long time, will that ruin the printer or ruin the colour print heads if I ever want to use colour cartridges in the future?
07-17-2024 10:25 AM
Hi @Trace2233
Using your printer in single-cartridge mode for a long time won't inherently ruin the printer, but it can cause issues with the print heads, especially for the unused color cartridge.
By taking steps to periodically use the color cartridge and performing regular maintenance, you can minimize these risks and ensure that your printer remains in good working condition when you decide to use color printing again.
Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Nal_NR-Moderator
I am an HP Employee