Mirroring imaging is not lining up

[jjay324]

I'm trying to print something 2 sided. I want it to line up on both sides. I think this is called mirroring. I feel like I've tried everything h& for the life of me, I can't get them to line up. 
As I'm wring this I notice that my computer is connected to HP OfficeJet Pro 6970 All-in-One Printer but I actually have the HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 All-in-One Printer. Not sure if thats an issue, just pointing it out.
Anyway, how do I get these prints to line up on both sides?

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @jjay324,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

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

I understand how important it is to have your two-sided prints align perfectly; it’s frustrating when they’re just slightly off. Let’s resolve both parts of your issue: correcting the printer model configuration and ensuring accurate duplex (two-sided) printing.

Step 1: Confirm the Correct Printer Model on Your Mac

You're currently connected to the HP OfficeJet Pro 6970, but you have the 6978. That mismatch can affect advanced features like duplex printing. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Go to System Settings → Printers & Scanners.
2. Select and remove the existing 6970 printer by clicking –.
3. Click the + icon to add a printer: 
   • In the list, locate HP OfficeJet Pro 6978.
   • Select it (ideally under the Bonjour section) to install the proper driver.
4. macOS should automatically select the correct driver for the 6978.

Once reconnected, duplex options will be accurately displayed.

Step 2: Enable Two-Sided (Duplex) Printing with Proper Layout

With the correct printer driver installed, configure your print settings:

1. Open the document, select File → Print.
2. If the dialog doesn’t show options, click the dropdown below the app name (e.g., Word, Preview) and select Layout.
3. Set Two-Sided to On, and choose: 
   • Long-edge binding for portrait (flipped left/right).
   • Short-edge binding for landscape (flipped top/bottom).
4. Adjust orientation and paper size as needed.
5. Presets can save this configuration. Under the Presets dropdown, click Save Current Settings as Preset to reuse later.
6. Click Print and verify both sides align.

Optional: Duplex Printing via HP App

If you use the HP app:

1. Select your 6978 printer.
2. Go to Print Options.
3. Choose Two-sided print and confirm the binding type.
4. Start the print job.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat