How to Check Ink Levels on an HP Printer (Windows, Mac & HP Smart)
Last Updated:Last updated: September 24, 2026.
Quick answer: You can check HP ink levels four ways: on the printer’s control panel (touchscreen models show an ink-drop icon), in the free HP Smart app on your phone, tablet or computer, in Windows printer settings or HP’s printer software, or on a Mac under Printers & Scanners > Options & Supplies > Supply Levels. Printers without a screen can also print a status report that shows estimated levels. All of these are estimates, so a low-ink warning usually leaves some printing time.
Knowing exactly how much ink your HP printer has left can save you from a half-printed report or a missed deadline. The good news is that HP gives you several built-in ways to peek at your ink supply — from the printer itself, your computer, or your phone. Here's how to check ink levels on every popular HP printer model.
How Do I Check Ink Levels on the HP Printer Itself?
Most HP OfficeJet, Envy, and DeskJet models with a touchscreen show estimated ink levels right on the home screen. Look for an ink-drop icon or tap Setup > Tools > Estimated Ink Levels. Older HP LaserJet and DeskJet 2700/4100 models without a touchscreen require the HP Smart app or a computer to view levels.
How Do I Check HP Ink Levels in the HP Smart App?
The HP Smart app (free on iOS and Android) is the most user-friendly option. Open the app, select your printer, and the dashboard displays current ink levels along with a one-tap reorder button. HP Smart also alerts you when ink runs low so you can plan ahead.
How Do I Check HP Ink Levels on Windows?
On Windows 10 or 11, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, click your HP printer, and select Printer properties. Look under the Services or Device Settings tab for ink level details. Alternatively, install the HP Smart desktop app from the Microsoft Store for an easier dashboard.
How Do I Check HP Ink Levels on a Mac?
On macOS, open System Settings > Printers & Scanners, choose your HP printer, click Options & Supplies, then click the Supply Levels tab. You'll see a colored bar for each cartridge installed.
How Accurate Are HP Ink Level Estimates?
HP printers don't measure ink with a true sensor — they estimate based on droplet counts. That means a low-ink alert doesn't always mean empty. Most HP cartridges still have 10–20% ink remaining when the warning appears, so you can usually keep printing for several days.
What to Do When Ink Runs Low
When you do need a refill, you don't have to pay HP's premium prices. Castle Ink's compatible HP cartridges are remanufactured to OEM page yields and backed by our satisfaction guarantee — so you can keep printing without breaking the bank.
How to Check Ink on HP Printers Without a Screen
Basic models like the DeskJet 2700 and 4100 series have no display, but you still have two options:
- Print a status report: on most DeskJets, press the Information button (the “i” icon) to print a one-page report that includes estimated ink levels. On some models you hold the Information button for a few seconds or press it together with Resume.
- Use HP Smart: once the printer is added to the app, the home screen shows a bar for each cartridge.
Not sure which cartridges your model takes? Look it up on our find ink by printer page.
Why Does My HP Printer Show No Ink Level for a Cartridge?
With remanufactured or refilled cartridges, HP printers often show a question mark or an empty gauge along with a “used” or “non-HP cartridge” message. That’s normal. The chip can’t report a level the way a brand-new HP chip does. Clear the message and keep printing; the cartridge works normally. When the print gets faint or streaky, replace it. If the printer refuses the cartridge entirely, see how to stop HP firmware updates from blocking your ink.
HP Ink Level FAQs
How do I check my HP ink levels without a computer?
On a touchscreen model, tap the ink-drop icon on the home screen. On models without a screen, press the Information (“i”) button to print a status report, or use the HP Smart app on your phone.
How accurate are HP ink level warnings?
They’re estimates based on how many drops the printer has fired, not a direct measurement. A low-ink warning usually still leaves you time to keep printing, but order a replacement so you’re not caught short.
Why does HP Smart say my cartridge is empty when it isn’t?
Remanufactured and refilled cartridges often can’t report a level, so the app shows empty or a question mark. If pages still look good, keep printing.
Can I print when HP says ink is low?
Yes. Low isn’t empty. Keep printing until the output fades or streaks, then replace that cartridge.
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See also: Printer Ink Cost Calculator | Which printers work best with compatible ink
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