HP Incompatible ink cartridges: Incompatible ink cartridges
Also shows as: Incompatible cartridge; cartridges not intended for use in this printer
The printer has detected one or more cartridges made for a different printer or country or region, or there is a poor connection between the cartridge and printer.
What to try
- Open the cartridge door and compare the cartridge numbers with the list of compatible cartridges for your printer.
- If you moved the printer to another country or region, you may need HP Support to do a regionalization reset.
- Instant Ink and HP+ printers need the cartridges for that program; HP+ printers need Original HP cartridges.
- On four-cartridge printers, wipe the copper contact on the cartridge with a lint-free cloth and reseat it firmly.
- Replace any incompatible cartridge. A cartridge still within its Warranty Ends date may qualify for an HP replacement.
When it needs a technician
If the error continues with correct new cartridges, HP says to service or replace the printer.
Which models show Incompatible ink cartridges
HP documents this code for models including HP DeskJet printers, HP ENVY printers, HP OfficeJet printers, HP OfficeJet Pro printers.
First steps for any printer error
- Write down the exact code before you do anything else — similar-looking codes often mean completely different things.
- Power the printer off, unplug it for a couple of minutes, then power it back on. A surprising number of transient errors clear here.
- Open the covers and check for paper scraps, packaging material, or anything blocking the carriage.
- Check the cartridges or tanks are genuine, correctly seated, and not empty.
- Confirm the printer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension lead.
- Check your model’s own manual — codes are model-specific, and the manual is the authority for your machine.
Source: HP Customer Support - HP ink cartridge issues including incompatible, missing and not recognized errors. Codes are model-specific, so your own model's manual is the final word. Reviewed October 2026.
Still showing Incompatible ink cartridges?
Tell our printer technician your model and what you've tried. You'll find out whether it's fixable at home or worth repairing at all.
Ask about my printer — $1Eric Paul Amora · Printer & Hardware Repair Technician