Posted by Do HP printers have subscriptions? Yes, but not the way most buyers think. HP offers HP Instant Ink (page‑based ink plan), HP+ (a device mode that requires Original HP ink for the printer’s lifetime), and HP All‑In (printer‑as‑a‑service). There are also “e‑model” free trials, but you may want to know a thing or two about them before going ahead.
Not only that, but we’ll also erase your doubts about whether the in‑box cartridges work without enrolling and why subscription cartridges stop after cancellation. Most importantly, you’ll see when a plan really becomes a money-saver and when it traps you. So, go through this entire post before tapping “Activate.”
What Are HP Printer Subscriptions?
HP has two subscriptions designed for automated ink replenishment , hardware coverage and recycling. However, the All-in plan is a broader service than the Instant Ink, making it a hardware-as-a-service model.
HP All-In Plan Subscription
The HP All-In Plan is a comprehensive monthly subscription. It bundles a new HP printer, automatic ink delivery, optional paper delivery, continuous hardware coverage, and printer support.
Here are the main features that will clarify how this HP printer subscription works:
- You select a new HP printer, included with your plan.
- Ink (and paper, if you choose) is automatically delivered before you run out, triggered by your printer’s status.
- 24/7 support is included, with overnight printer replacement if issues cannot be resolved.
- Continuous warranty-like coverage for your printer; accidental damage isn’t covered, but all other issues are managed via swift support.
- After your term (2 years for most printers, 3 years for HP Smart Tank printers), you may upgrade to a new printer at no additional up-front cost, with the old one returned and recycled.
- HP retains ownership of the printer and ink for the duration of your plan. You must return them if you cancel.
- Early cancellation fees apply if you cancel before your term ends (unless cancelled within the first 30 days).
- Managed recycling for ink and printers is there with easy prepaid return options.
- You can adjust or cancel after the minimum term with no penalty.
HP Instant Ink Subscription
HP Instant Ink is an ink or supply subscription service for all compatible HP printers. It automates the delivery of new ink cartridges when your printer runs low. It has the following main features:
- You pay a monthly fee based on how many pages you print, not on the amount of ink you use.
- Plans range from 10 to 700+ pages per month, with prices starting as low as $1.79/month.
- All pages, whether color or black-and-white, cost the same. Thus, you can print photos or documents without worrying about ink costs.
- When your printer detects it is low on ink, HP ships you more ink automatically.
- Shipping and recycling for used cartridges are included.
- Extra page sets (10-15 pages) can be purchased for an additional $1.50 if you exceed your plan.
- You can change or cancel your plan anytime without penalty.
- There is a yearly plan option that offers an extra 10% savings over paying monthly. It provides a total of up to 60% savings vs. buying original HP cartridges outright.
- Most Wi-Fi-enabled HP printers from the past 5 years are eligible for Instant Ink.
- No hardware (printer) is included in this HP printer subscription service.
What Is HP+ Printing?
HP+ Printing is commonly misunderstood as a printer subscription service. However, it is a cloud-based printing solution built into select HP printers. This solution enriches your printer with features like intelligent, cloud-based connectivity, smart security, and advanced productivity through the HP app.
Here is how it works:
- HP+ requires using only Original HP Ink or Toner cartridges and an HP account with an active internet connection.
- You do not pay an ongoing fee specifically for HP+; there are no extra charges beyond the original purchase price of your HP+ enabled printer.
- When activating HP+, you receive 3 months of HP Instant Ink (HP’s ink subscription) included for free. After those 3 months, you’ll be charged monthly for the ink plan unless you cancel.
What is an HP “e‑model” and its free trial?
Models with an “e” suffix (e.g., 9015e, 8025e, M234dwe) are HP+ printers. HP+ is a device mode that, once activated, requires an HP account, an internet signal, and the use of Original HP ink/toner for the life of the printer.
These models commonly advertise free months of Instant Ink (HP’s page‑based ink/toner plan). Typical offer length varies by model and country.
Here’s how the free trial works:
- You must enroll in Instant Ink during initial setup to claim the offer (often within 7–14 days of first installing the printer).
- A payment card is required, and billing starts automatically after the trial unless you cancel.
NOTE: HP e-model free trials are worth it if you print a predictable number of color pages monthly. You can capitalize on the included months and possibly continue on a plan that fits your volume.
Can You Cancel HP Printer Subscription and Still Use Cartridges?
HP clearly states that the Instant Ink cartridges function until the end of your current billing cycle. After that, you will need to replace them with standard HP or compatible third-party cartridges.
But there’s a trick you can use to make your cartridge work after the subscription ends.
- Do a network reset to disconnect the printer from the internet.
- By keeping the printer offline, it cannot “phone home” to HP’s servers to get the update that your subscription was cancelled and therefore does not lock the cartridges.
- You are then able to keep printing with your leftover Instant Ink cartridges until they run out.
- If the printer does get online again, it will check with HP and immediately disable the Instant Ink cartridges.
Do You Have to Use HP Printer Subscriptions?
The honest answer is no. Retail HP cartridges work easily with HP printers without any plan. Also, the In‑box SETUP cartridges initialize the printer and can print without enrollment. HP subscriptions are optional and are mainly designed to keep users using their printers for a longer period, say two years. When combined with recycling support, it makes the subscription a more sustainable method to own and use a printer.
Conclusion
Now, you know all about whether HP printers have subscriptions. The two classic subscription services are ideal if you have a steady monthly printing requirement. Otherwise, third-party ink work just well. If you still have questions regarding a plan, feel free to contact HP printer support.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do HP printers require a subscription?
No. You can print hassle-free with third-party, compatible cartridges without enrolling into a subscription service.
2. What happens when I cancel Instant Ink?
Subscription cartridges stop working when HP Instant Ink ends. You can keep using the printer by installing retail cartridges.
3. Can I add Instant Ink later?
Yes, if the model supports it and you haven’t locked yourself into constraints you don’t want. Just sign into your Instant Ink account and click Enroll.