Printing looks low resolution

[Marco_tl]

The printing quality looks low resolution, you can notice it a lot, specially in the curves and diagonals, my printer is supposed to print up to 600 dpi, but it seems obvious that it is not what I'm getting.

I've already tried printing from different softwares, printing different files, updating firmware, cheking toner levels and darkness. I'm using MacOS Sequoia.

Only the information report that the printer prints itself looks good (and that's why I know that the printing quality should actually look better).

Thanks to anyone who can help me with this.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Marco_tl 

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

Thanks for explaining that so clearly. You're absolutely right to expect better output—especially since the internal reports look sharp, which confirms the printer itself is capable of high-quality 600 dpi printing. The issue likely stems from how macOS Sequoia is communicating with the printer driver.

Here’s a focused approach to help improve the resolution:

1. Check macOS Driver Type

macOS may default to AirPrint, which can limit advanced print settings.

• Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners
• Select your HP LaserJet Tank MFP 1602w
• If it says AirPrint under “Kind,” remove the printer
• Re-add it using HP Smart or HP Easy Start to install the full-feature driver

AirPrint is convenient but often lacks resolution and toner density controls.

2. Install HP Easy Start for macOS Sequoia

HP’s Easy Start tool can detect your printer and install the most compatible driver.

• Download from the HP Easy Start page
• Follow the prompts to install the full feature driver
• Restart your Mac and try printing again

3. Adjust Print Quality Settings

Once the full driver is installed:

• Open your document and go to File > Print
• Click Show Details (bottom of the print dialog)
• Look for Media & Quality or Print Settings
• Set Print Quality to Best
• Disable EconoMode if available

4. Use HP Smart App for Direct Printing

Sometimes printing through HP Smart bypasses macOS limitations.

• Download the HP Smart App for macOS
• Add your printer and use the app’s built-in print tools
• Select high-quality settings before printing

5. Test with a High-Resolution PDF

Some apps (especially browsers or preview tools) compress print output.

• Export your file as a PDF with 300–600 dpi
• Open it in Adobe Acrobat Reader or Preview
• Print using the full driver and check quality

6. Utilize HP Utility Tools:

• Use printer maintenance tools provided by HP to perform tasks like recalibration, cleaning, or alignment if applicable. This could rectify physical discrepancies affecting print quality.

Let me know what you observe after trying these steps. You’re clearly doing everything right—just a few more adjustments and we’ll get those curves and diagonals looking crisp.

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