HP Instant Ink: how it works, pros and cons, and how to cancel
HP Instant Ink is a subscription where you pay a monthly fee based on pages printed rather than buying ink each time. It suits some households and not others, so it helps to understand it before signing up or cancelling.
How it works
Your printer must be connected to Wi-Fi and the internet. It reports how many pages you print, and HP posts new ink when you are running low. You pick a monthly plan with a page allowance. Unused pages can roll over, up to a limit set by HP (HP's UK page says up to three times your monthly plan). Plans and terms change, so check HP's current UK page.
Possible advantages
- Can cost less than buying cartridges if you print regularly.
- Ink arrives before you run out.
- A small plan can suit someone who prints very little.
Possible disadvantages
- The special cartridges only work while the subscription is active. HP says they stop working after your plan ends.
- The printer needs an internet connection.
- You pay every month, even in months when you print little.
- Some HP printers sold as HP+ only accept HP cartridges, which can limit your choices later.
How to cancel or change a plan
- Go to your HP Instant Ink account on HP's website, or use the HP Smart app.
- Sign in with the HP account used to enrol.
- Choose to change or cancel your plan and follow the steps.
HP states you can change or cancel at any time with no fee, and that changes take effect at the end of your billing period. Before you cancel, buy standard cartridges so you can keep printing. We could not verify a "pause" option, so check your account or HP's page to see what your plan offers.
When to get more help
Get help if you cannot sign in, if a charge looks wrong, or if the printer shows a cartridge error after cancelling. For billing questions, contact HP directly using your account details.