Solved: printer saying ink isn't compatible with printer - HP Support Community

carlypc · ‎11-14-2025

I don't print very often so I cancelled my ink delivery from HP. Ive replaced the ink cartridges and now they say the cartridges are cloned or not compatible. So then I replaced those with the recommended size ( like before ) but a different brand. Still saying the same thing. Do I have to use the ink program in order to print anything?!?!

thanks !

Kuroi_Kenshi · ‎11-26-2025

Hi,

I understand your HP printer is showing “ink not compatible” messages after you cancelled Instant Ink and tried using replacement cartridges. Let’s go through a few steps to check what could be causing this.

Instant Ink vs Standard Cartridges

If you were enrolled in HP Instant Ink, the cartridges you received are tied to that subscription.

Once you cancel, those cartridges stop working.

You must use standard HP cartridges (non‑Instant Ink) for the printer to recognize them.

Check Cartridge Type

Look at the label: Instant Ink cartridges usually say “Instant Ink” or have a special code.

Standard HP cartridges will just list the cartridge number (e.g., HP 910, HP 912).

If you’re still using Instant Ink cartridges, they will not work after cancellation.

Use Genuine HP Cartridges

HP printers often reject third‑party or refilled cartridges.

Even if the size matches, the printer firmware may block them.

To restore printing, install genuine HP cartridges for your model.

Reset the Printer

Power off the printer, unplug it for 60 seconds, then restart.

This clears memory and forces the printer to re‑detect the cartridges.

Update Firmware

In the printer menu or HP Smart app, check for firmware updates.

Updates can fix recognition issues, but note that they also enforce cartridge authentication.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

I'm an HP Employee.

If this reply helped resolve your issue, please select the Accept as Solution as it helps others in the community quickly find the answer they’re looking for.

And if you found this reply helpful, clicking Yes below is a great way to let us know we’re providing the support you need, as it encourages us to keep improving and sharing helpful guidance.

View solution in original post

Kuroi_Kenshi · ‎11-17-2025

Hi @carlypc,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're stoked to have you on board!

To help us get started on resolving your issue, could you please share the model name of your device?

We're looking forward to helping you get back up and running!

Best regards,

I'm an HP Employee.

If this reply helped resolve your issue, please select the Accept as Solution as it helps others in the community quickly find the answer they’re looking for.

And if you found this reply helpful, clicking Yes below is a great way to let us know we’re providing the support you need, as it encourages us to keep improving and sharing helpful guidance.

Kuroi_Kenshi · ‎11-26-2025

Hi,

I understand your HP printer is showing “ink not compatible” messages after you cancelled Instant Ink and tried using replacement cartridges. Let’s go through a few steps to check what could be causing this.

Instant Ink vs Standard Cartridges

If you were enrolled in HP Instant Ink, the cartridges you received are tied to that subscription.

Once you cancel, those cartridges stop working.

You must use standard HP cartridges (non‑Instant Ink) for the printer to recognize them.

Check Cartridge Type

Look at the label: Instant Ink cartridges usually say “Instant Ink” or have a special code.

Standard HP cartridges will just list the cartridge number (e.g., HP 910, HP 912).

If you’re still using Instant Ink cartridges, they will not work after cancellation.

Use Genuine HP Cartridges

HP printers often reject third‑party or refilled cartridges.

Even if the size matches, the printer firmware may block them.

To restore printing, install genuine HP cartridges for your model.

Reset the Printer

Power off the printer, unplug it for 60 seconds, then restart.

This clears memory and forces the printer to re‑detect the cartridges.

Update Firmware

In the printer menu or HP Smart app, check for firmware updates.

Updates can fix recognition issues, but note that they also enforce cartridge authentication.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

I'm an HP Employee.

If this reply helped resolve your issue, please select the Accept as Solution as it helps others in the community quickly find the answer they’re looking for.

And if you found this reply helpful, clicking Yes below is a great way to let us know we’re providing the support you need, as it encourages us to keep improving and sharing helpful guidance.

printer saying ink isn't compatible with printer

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