HP 5000 shows only "print to PDF" How do I get it to print on paper?

[Banjova]

HP 5000 shows only "Print to PDF file.  How do I get it to print on paper?

[Max3Aj]

@Banjova, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

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

If your HP ENVY 5000 All-in-One or HP Smart Tank 5000 series only shows "Print to PDF" as the option and doesn't show your physical printer, it usually means your printer is not installed or not set as the default printer on your Windows 11 system. Here's how to fix it:
 

Step 1: Make Sure the Printer Is Properly Connected

• USB printer: Ensure the USB cable is firmly connected to both your PC and the printer.
• Wi-Fi printer: Confirm that the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your PC.

Step 2: Install HP Smart App

This is the easiest way to get your HP ENVY or Smart Tank installed correctly.

1. Open Microsoft Store.
2. Search for HP Smart.
3. Install it and launch it.
4. Click “Set up a new printer”.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect your HP 5000 series printer.
   • This will install the correct driver and add it to your list of printers in Windows.

Step 3: Check If It’s Installed in Windows

After using HP Smart:

1. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
2. Your HP ENVY 5000 or HP Smart Tank 5000 should appear.
3. Click it and select Set as default printer.
4. If it’s not there, click Add a printer or scanner and wait for Windows to detect it.

Step 4: Try Printing Again

Now go back to your app (Word, PDF reader, etc.):

1. Click File > Print.
2. Choose your HP printer (not “Print to PDF”).
3. Hit Print.

Extra Tip: Disable “Let Windows Manage My Default Printer”

1. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.
2. Scroll down and turn OFF “Let Windows manage my default printer”.
   • This prevents Windows from auto-switching back to “Print to PDF.”

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support