HP 'Incompatible print cartridge' error
'Incompatible print cartridge' or 'Incompatible cartridge' means the printer has read the cartridge chip and found it belongs to a different model family, a different region or a product that this printer does not support. It is different from a non-recognised cartridge: the chip is readable, but what it says does not match what the printer expects. The printer will not print until a correct cartridge is installed.
What causes it
- A cartridge from a similar-looking series (for example HP 61 instead of HP 63, or HP 302 instead of HP 304)
- A cartridge bought in another region, since HP cartridges are region-locked
- A setup cartridge from a different printer being used after initial setup
- A cartridge for the same number but a different capacity variant not supported by old firmware
- A refilled cartridge whose chip was replaced with one from a different model
How to fix it, in order
Work down the list and stop when the printer recovers. The steps are ordered from most likely and least invasive to last resort.
Check the cartridge number against the printer
Open the cartridge door and look at the label inside or on the old cartridge. Compare it with the number printed on the new cartridge. HP 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 67 and the 300-series equivalents are each tied to specific printers.
Check the region code
HP cartridges sold in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and other regions have different region codes and will not work outside their region. If the cartridge was purchased abroad or online from another country, this is the cause.
Reseat the cartridge
Remove the cartridge and reinstall it until it clicks, then close the door. This rules out a partial read giving a false incompatible message.
Ask HP to change the printer's region
If you have moved countries, HP support can perform a one-time region reset on many models so the printer accepts local cartridges. You will need the serial number and the cartridge numbers from both regions.
Update the firmware
New cartridge variants (for example a new high-yield version) may need updated firmware to be recognised. Update through HP Smart or the embedded web server.
Replace with the correct cartridge
Buy the exact cartridge number for your printer and region. Keep the receipt so an incorrect purchase can be returned.
Stopping it happening again
When it is not worth fixing yourself
If you would rather not work through this alone, a printer specialist can take a look with you on a screen-share and tell you honestly whether the machine is worth saving.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an HP 61 cartridge in a printer that takes HP 63?
No. They look almost identical but the chip identifies the series and the printer rejects the wrong one with an incompatible message.
I moved from the UK to the USA and my cartridges show incompatible. Why?
HP cartridges are region-locked. Contact HP support to have the printer's region changed so it accepts US cartridges.
Are setup cartridges different from normal ones?
Yes. Setup cartridges that ship with a new printer are matched to its first-time initialisation. Using a setup cartridge in a different printer or after setup can show as incompatible.
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