I recently purchased an HP Smart Tank 529 printer, which is a USB-only model. I am trying to use it

[rohtih]

I recently purchased an HP Smart Tank 529 printer, which is a USB-only model. I am trying to use it with my MacBook, but I am facing the following issues:

• I connected the printer via USB and it is detected in Printers & Scanners.

• When I try to add the printer, options like “Secure AirPrint” and “HP Smart Tank Series” appear, but nothing prints when I send a job.

• I also tried selecting Generic PCL Printer, but still no response from the printer.

• The HP Easy Start tool does not show macOS drivers for this model.

• I tried deleting and re-adding the printer, using different drivers, and resetting the printing system, but none of these steps worked.

Please help me with the correct driver or setup method to use this printer with macOS.

Thank you.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @rohtih 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for laying everything out so clearly—it’s clear you’ve been persistent and methodical, and I can imagine how frustrating it must be when the printer is detected but refuses to cooperate. 😣 

Let’s get this sorted out together.

🛠️ Setup Method for HP Smart Tank 529 on macOS (USB-only)

Since this model doesn’t support AirPrint and lacks native macOS drivers in HP Easy Start, here’s a workaround that’s helped others in similar situations:

 

✅ 1. Use HP Smart App for USB Setup

• Download the HP Smart app from the Mac App Store.
• Open the app and connect your printer via USB.
• If it doesn’t auto-detect, click Add Printer and choose USB connection manually.
• This app often bypasses driver limitations and enables basic printing and scanning.

 

✅ 2. Avoid AirPrint and Generic Drivers

• In System Settings → Printers & Scanners, remove any existing printer entries.
• Click + to add a new printer.
• Select your printer from the list.
• In the “Use” dropdown, choose HP Smart Tank Series if available (not Secure AirPrint or Generic PCL).
• If that option doesn’t appear, try using HP Smart Tank 520 or 525 Series drivers from HP’s support page.

 

✅ 3. Try Legacy Driver Compatibility

• Some users have had success installing drivers for similar models like the HP Smart Tank 520 on newer macOS versions.
• You can find community guidance and shared experiences on HP’s support forum.

If none of these steps work, a temporary workaround is to install the printer on a Windows machine, share it over the network, and print from your Mac that way. Not ideal, but it can help in a pinch.

You’ve already done a ton—let’s keep pushing until this printer behaves. 💪 Want help walking through any of these steps live? I’m right here with you.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye