Ink Cartridge Low/Empty
Last updated: February 16, 2026
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How to fix ink cartridge errors on HP Inkjet printers | HP Support
Ink cartridge error messages can appear on your printer or in the printer software, stating that the cartridge is 'Incompatible,' ...
This error indicates that one or more ink cartridges are low on ink or empty. The printer will prompt you to replace them to continue printing.
- 1Ink cartridge is genuinely low or empty
- 2Faulty ink cartridge chip (incorrect level reading)
- 3Non-HP or refilled ink cartridge (inaccurate level reporting)
- 4Dirty or damaged ink cartridge reader contacts
- 5Printer's internal ink level tracking error
- Printer displays 'low ink' or 'empty ink'
- Print quality degradation (fading, missing colors)
- Printer stops printing
- Error message on display identifying cartridge
- Printer prompts for cartridge replacement
- 1
Identify the low or empty ink cartridge from the printer's display.
- 2
Remove the low/empty ink cartridge.
- 3
Replace it with a new, genuine HP ink cartridge.
- 4
Close the ink cartridge door. The printer should now operate normally.
Always keep spare ink cartridges on hand to avoid downtime. Replace cartridges when prompted to maintain optimal print quality and prevent air ingress into the ink system.
Reference diagrams for common repair procedures related to this error:
Ink System Components & Flow Path

Note: These diagrams are for reference only. Always consult official HP service documentation and follow proper ESD precautions.
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Glossary Terms
Related Questions
Service Providers
A replaceable cartridge that collects excess ink from printhead cleaning cycles, spitting, and other maintenance operations.
A print mode where the printhead deposits ink in both directions of travel (left-to-right and right-to-left), doubling print speed compared to uni-directional printing.
A numeric or alphanumeric code displayed on the printer's front panel or in diagnostic logs that identifies a specific hardware or software malfunction.
HP 711 ink cartridges are available in black (80ml/38ml), cyan, magenta, and yellow (29ml) for DesignJet T120, T520, T125, T130, T525, and T530 printers.
HP 727 ink cartridges come in 6 colors for DesignJet T920, T930, T1500, T1530, T2500, T2530, and T3500 printers.
HP 728 ink cartridges are available in 4 colors for DesignJet T730 and T830 printers.
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