HP LaserJet Pro MFP M148fdw: Setup, Drivers, Ink and Common Problems

Is the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M148fdw right for you?

The LaserJet Pro MFP M148fdw is the value mono all-in-one that sits below the M227fdw, using the separate-drum 94A toner system to keep running costs low. It has fax, a document feeder, auto-duplex and a touchscreen, making it a very complete package for a small office. The imaging drum needs replacing every couple of toner changes, and grey backgrounds or repeating spots are the sign that its time is up.

Best for: Budget small offices wanting fax and ADF with cheap toner

Setting up the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M148fdw

Use the touchscreen Wireless menu on 2.4 GHz or plug into Ethernet, then install HP Smart or the full driver for scanning and fax. Replace the 32A drum when prompted on the screen rather than waiting for print defects. Clean the ADF rollers periodically with a damp lint-free cloth to prevent multi-feeds.

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 MFP M148fdw uses the following consumables. Match the number exactly when you buy: the same printer family often uses several different cartridge numbers by region.

• HP 94A (CF294A) toner
• HP 94X (CF294X) high-yield toner
• HP 32A (CF232A) imaging drum

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