10 Ways to Reduce Printing Costs and Save Money on Ink

1. Use Draft Mode for Everyday Documents

Reduce ink consumption by switching to draft mode or economy mode for internal documents. This simple printer setting uses less ink per page while still producing readable text, helping you save money on ink cartridges.

2. Subscribe to HP Instant Ink for Automatic Savings

HP Instant Ink is a printer ink subscription service that can save up to 50% on ink costs. The service monitors your ink levels and ships replacement cartridges before you run out. Plans start at just a few dollars per month, and HP+ printers include free months of Instant Ink.

3. Print Only What You Need - Go Paperless

Before printing, ask if you really need a physical copy. Use the HP Smart app to scan documents and store them digitally. Going paperless reduces both paper and ink costs while helping the environment.

4. Regular Printer Maintenance Saves Money

Proper printer maintenance extends your device's lifespan and prevents costly repairs. Run cleaning cycles periodically, use quality paper to prevent jams, and keep firmware updated for optimal performance.

5. Consider Tank Printers for High-Volume Printing

If you print frequently, ink tank printers like the HP Smart Tank 7602 offer the lowest cost per page. These refillable tank systems include up to 2 years of ink in the box, dramatically reducing your printing costs compared to traditional cartridges.

6. Use Compatible Paper Sizes

Printing on the correct paper size prevents waste. Use letter size (8.5x11) for documents and photo paper only when printing photographs to maximize your ink efficiency.

7. Preview Before Printing

Always use print preview to check your document layout. This prevents wasted pages from formatting errors and helps you identify unnecessary pages that can be removed.

8. Buy Ink in Bulk or Multi-Packs

Purchase ink cartridge multi-packs for significant per-cartridge savings. XL or high-yield cartridges also offer better value for regular printers.