How to Fix HP Printer Printing Only in Black and White?

HP printers are known for delivering vibrant color prints, sharp text, and reliable performance. However, sometimes users face an issue where the printer prints only in black and white even when color printing is selected. This problem can occur due to incorrect settings, outdated drivers, low ink levels, or software conflicts.

Common Reasons Why HP Printer Prints Only in Black and White

Before fixing the issue, it is important to understand the possible causes:

Color printing disabled in printer settings
“Grayscale” or “Black Ink Only” mode enabled
Low or empty color cartridges
Clogged printhead
Outdated or corrupted printer drivers
Incorrect HP Smart app configuration
Firmware not updated

Identifying the root cause will help you apply the correct solution quickly.

Check Printer Settings (Disable Grayscale Mode)

One of the most common reasons is that grayscale printing is enabled.

Steps to Disable Black & White Mode:

Open Control Panel on your computer.
Click Devices and Printers.
Right-click your HP printer.
Select Printing Preferences.
Go to the Color tab.
Uncheck Print in Grayscale or Black Ink Only.
Click Apply and then OK.

After saving the settings, try printing a color document again.

Check Ink Levels and Cartridge Status

Low or empty color cartridges can force your HP printer to print only in black and white.

Steps to Check Ink Levels:

Open the HP Smart App on your computer or mobile.
Check the ink level indicators.
Replace any low or empty color cartridge.

If cartridges are full but color is not printing, clean the printhead.

Clean and Align Printhead

Clogged nozzles can prevent color ink from printing properly.

Steps to Clean Printhead:

Open HP Smart App.
Go to Printer Maintenance.
Select Clean Printhead.
Follow on-screen instructions.

If needed, run the cleaning process 2–3 times.

HP Printer Login and Signup Process

To manage printer settings, updates, and services, you need an HP account.

How to Login:

Open the HP Smart App.
Click Sign In.
Enter your registered email and password.

How to Signup:

Select Create Account.
Enter your name, email, and password.
Verify your email.
Login to activate your printer services.

An active account helps in managing ink services, updates, and remote printing.

Download and Install HP Printer Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause black and white printing issues.

Steps to Download Drivers:

Visit HP official support page.
Enter your printer model number.
Download the latest driver for your operating system.

Install the Driver:

Open the downloaded file.
Follow on-screen instructions.
Restart your computer after installation.

After installation, test color printing again.

Activate HP Printer Services

Activating printer services ensures your device works correctly with online features.

Activation Steps:

Open HP Smart App.
Add your printer device.
Complete setup instructions.
Confirm printer registration under your account.

Activation helps in firmware updates and service access.

Update HP Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware may restrict full printer functionality.

How to Update:

Open HP Smart App.
Go to Advanced Settings.
Select Printer Update.
Install available firmware updates.

Restart the printer after updating.

Troubleshooting HP Printer Printing Issues

If your HP printer is still printing only in black and white, try these additional solutions:

Remove and reinstall printer from system
Restart printer and router
Reset printer to factory settings
Use genuine HP ink cartridges
Run Windows Printer Troubleshooter

These steps often resolve hidden configuration problems.

HP Printer Not Working Properly? Try These Fixes

If color still does not print:

Ensure correct paper type is selected
Check advanced printing settings
Disable “Use Black Cartridge Only”
Check for system updates on your computer

If the problem continues, contact customer support.

HP Customer Support and Service Options

If troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, you can contact HP support.

Support Services Include:

Remote technical assistance
Driver and software help
Warranty service
Hardware repair guidance
Ink cartridge support

Keep your printer model number ready before contacting support.

Prevent HP Printer from Printing Only in Black and White

To avoid this issue in the future:

Keep drivers updated
Regularly clean printhead
Use genuine HP cartridges
Keep firmware updated
Monitor ink levels frequently

Routine maintenance ensures consistent color printing performance.

Conclusion

If your HP printer is printing only in black and white, the issue is usually related to grayscale settings, low ink levels, outdated drivers, or printhead blockage. By checking printer settings, updating drivers, cleaning printhead, and ensuring proper activation, you can restore full color printing functionality.