Samsung ML-1610: Setup, Drivers, Ink and Common Problems

Is the Samsung ML-1610 right for you?

The ML-1610 was one of the first sub-$100 mono lasers and sold in enormous volumes in 2005-2007. It is a USB-only, host-based printer that depends entirely on Samsung's driver, which is why Windows 11 and modern macOS owners struggle with it. The ML-1610D2 cartridge is still made by third parties and has no chip, so refilling is simple. Mechanically the printers are tough; pickup rollers and the solenoid are the usual wear items.

Best for: Anyone nursing a 2005-era budget laser that still has working toner

Setting up the Samsung ML-1610

HP's support site still lists a Windows driver for the ML-1610; install it in compatibility mode if the installer refuses Windows 11. There is no built-in Microsoft driver, so the Samsung package or the SpliX open-source driver on Linux are the only routes. On macOS, recent versions cannot load the old driver; sharing the printer from a Linux or Windows PC is the practical workaround.

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 Samsung'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 Samsung ML-1610 uses the following consumables. Match the number exactly when you buy: the same printer family often uses several different cartridge numbers by region.

• ML-1610D2 toner (2,000 pages)

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