Black isn't quite black enough

[Crazyscissors02]

I have HP Instant ink, and I have plenty of black ink, but my prints aren't printing quite black. They are grey. I've cleaned my printer heads, did diagnostics and everything seems fine. I went into color management and it is listed for best quality and i chose the correct paper element. Maybe it's a driver? 

[Raj_05]

Hi @Crazyscissors02,

Welcome to HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

If your HP OfficeJet 4650 printer is not producing black prints that are dark enough, there are several steps you can take to address the issue. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help improve the print quality.

• Check ink levels: Ensure that the black ink cartridge has enough ink. If it's low, replace it with a new one or refill it if it's a refillable cartridge.
• Use high-quality paper: The type of paper you use can affect the print quality. Try using a higher-quality paper designed for inkjet printers.
• Adjust print settings: Access the printer's settings on your computer and check the print quality settings. Set the print quality to the highest option available for better results.
• Clean the print head: Over time, the print head can become clogged, leading to faded or poor-quality prints. Many printers have a cleaning utility in their settings that you can run to clean the print head. Refer to your printer's manual for specific instructions.
• Align the print head: Properly aligning the print head can improve print quality. Again, check your printer's manual for instructions on how to do this.
• Update printer drivers: Ensure that you have the latest printer drivers installed on your computer. Sometimes, outdated drivers can cause printing issues.
• Perform a firmware update: Check for any available firmware updates for your printer model and install them. Firmware updates can sometimes fix bugs and improve performance.
• Calibrate the printer: Some printers have calibration options that help improve color and print quality. Look for a calibration option in your printer's settings.
• Replace or shake the cartridge: If you've recently replaced the black ink cartridge and are still experiencing issues, try gently shaking the cartridge to ensure even distribution of the ink. Sometimes, air bubbles can affect print quality.

I hope this helps. 
 

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4
HP Support