HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf: Setup, Drivers, Ink and Common Problems

Is the HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf right for you?

The LaserJet Pro M1536dnf was the step-up mono MFP of its generation, with automatic duplex, a 250-sheet tray, Ethernet and fax in a compact cube. Small offices liked it enough that plenty remain in service on 78A cartridges. Scanner error 22 and 52 messages are the typical end-of-life faults, and the lack of wireless and AirPrint makes it awkward with phones and tablets, so it is best kept on a wired network with a PC driving scans.

Best for: Small offices keeping a wired duplex mono MFP with fax in service

Setting up the HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf

Set a static IP from the Network Setup menu and install HP's full M1530 series driver for printing, scanning and fax from Windows. Enable duplex in the driver's printing preferences if two-sided output stops working after a driver update. If a scanner error appears at power-on, unplug for a minute, then restart with the lid closed.

1. Unbox and prepare. Remove every piece of shipping tape and packing material, install the toner cartridge and drum unit, and load paper in the tray.
2. Join your Wi-Fi. Keep the printer close to the router for setup. Most printers only connect to the 2.4GHz band, so if your router broadcasts one merged network name you may need to split the bands temporarily. See our Wi-Fi guide if it will not join.
3. Install the setup app. Use HP's official app rather than a driver you found on a search result — third-party driver sites are the most common source of printer malware.
4. Add the printer. On Windows 11: Settings › Bluetooth & devices › Printers & scanners › Add device. On macOS: System Settings › Printers & Scanners › Add Printer.
5. Print a test page and run a scan if this is an all-in-one, so you find any problem now rather than when you are in a hurry.

Ink, toner and supplies

The HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf uses the following consumables. Match the number exactly when you buy: the same printer family often uses several different cartridge numbers by region.

• HP 78A (CE278A) toner

High-yield (XL) versions almost always cost less per page if you print regularly. On third-party ink and toner, read our honest assessment first, and note that some manufacturers push firmware that rejects non-original chips.

Full specifications