Why Is My Printer Only Printing Half a Page? 4 Quick Fixes
Last Updated:Is your printer only printing the top or bottom half of the page? It is a common formatting glitch, and it is usually fixed in a couple of minutes. Watch the video below, then follow the step-by-step fixes underneath.
4 Quick Fixes for Half-Page Printing
Fix 1: Check Your Paper Size Settings
Make sure the paper size selected in your print dialog matches what is actually loaded in the printer tray, whether that is Letter or A4. A mismatch is one of the most common causes of a page cutting off halfway down. Not sure which size you need? See our guide to paper sizes explained.
Fix 2: Check Your Page Scaling
Set your scaling option to Fit to Page instead of a custom percentage. Custom scaling can push part of the page outside the printable area.
Fix 3: Realign the Paper Guides in the Tray
Paper guides that are too loose or too tight can cause the sheet to feed unevenly. Adjust them so the paper sits snug but is not pinched.
Fix 4: Run a Print Head Alignment
Use your printer manufacturer maintenance software to run a print head alignment. This resolves many partial-page and misaligned print issues.
Related Printer Fixes
- Why Is My Printer Idle? 5 Quick Fixes to Get Printing Again
- Why Is My Printer Printing Faded Text? 4 Quick Fixes
- Canon PIXMA TR4720 Review (2026)
Need New Ink or a New Printer?
Save up to 70% on ink and toner at CastleInk. Shop compatible ink and toner by brand: HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother.