What is HP+? Should I activate it?

A Definitive Guide to HP Plus

HP Plus (commonly referred to as HP+) is a cloud-based way to use an HP inkjet or laser printer. Introduced in 2021, printers enabled for HP+ promise additional features and benefits that aren’t available with standard HP printers.

HP+ printers are also the first to incorporate permanent DRM (Digital Rights Management) technology, which affects users’ choice of ink and toner.

In this article, we delve into the intricacies of HP+ and its purported benefits (such as free HP Instant Ink and HP Smart Advance), helping you decide whether an HP+ printer is right for you.

Don’t buy an HP+ printer unless you understand what HP+ is

HP+ promises added features and benefits, together with free offers that — at first glance — look too good to refuse.

To get HP+, you have to buy an HP+-enabled printer. It may seem like an attractive deal, especially with up to three months’ worth of free ink and an extra year of warranty.

However, HP+ is not for everyone.

Many users regret signing up for HP+ because they cannot use third-party compatible ink or toner, even after cancelling the service. If you value choice and affordability in printer supplies, HP+ may not be the best option.

How do I know if I have an HP+ printer?

At the time of writing, the following HP+ printers are sold in New Zealand:

• HP DeskJet 2820e
• HP ENVY 6130e, 6530e
• HP OfficeJet Pro 9130e, 9720e, 9730e

You can recognise an HP+ printer by the product code—the letter “e” at the end signifies HP+ eligibility.

When setting up any of these inkjet printers, you must create an HP account, but you can choose not to sign up for HP+. However, if you do opt for HP+, your printer will receive a permanent firmware update, locking it into using only genuine HP ink cartridges.

Sign up for HP+ and there’s no going back

HP claims you can “change or cancel anytime.” However, once you sign up for HP+, your printer is permanently updated with firmware that prevents it from using third-party ink or toner.

This restriction remains in place even if you later cancel HP+. Unlike standard HP printers, HP+ models cannot be reverted to allow non-HP cartridges.

Because there’s no going back, choosing whether to get an HP+ printer is an important decision that shouldn’t be rushed.

Buyer Beware (Read the fine print)

When you sign up for HP+, you agree to:

• Only use genuine HP ink cartridges (third-party cartridges are permanently blocked).
• Keep your printer online (some features will not work if your printer is offline).
• Share your printing data with HP.

If you decline HP+ during setup, you won’t get the extra warranty and free ink, but you can still use third-party ink or toner.

HP also offers a separate ink subscription service, Instant Ink, which charges you for the number of pages you print each month and delivers new ink before you run out. You do not need HP+ to subscribe to Instant Ink.

If you want to know more about Instant Ink, we have put together an informative article with all the pros and cons that will help you decide if HP Instant Ink will work for you. 

Firmware Updates and Restrictions on Third-Party Cartridges

HP printers use Dynamic Security, a technology designed to detect and block third-party ink and toner cartridges.

• Firmware updates can disable non-HP cartridges, forcing users to purchase more expensive HP-branded supplies.
• In mid-2024, reports confirmed that new firmware updates expanded these restrictions, causing even previously compatible third-party cartridges to stop working.
• HP+ users cannot roll back firmware updates, making third-party cartridge use permanently impossible.

For users who prefer the affordability of third-party compatible or remanufactured cartridges, a standard (non-HP+) printer may be a better choice.

What is HP Smart?

HP Smart is an app available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS that allows users to set up and manage their HP printer, print and scan from mobile devices, and access various HP services.

The app is used for setting up both standard and HP+ printers. If you have an HP+ printer, HP Smart provides additional functionality.

What is HP Smart Advance?

HP Smart Advance is an upgraded version of the HP Smart app that is available to HP+ printer owners. It provides:

• Print Anywhere – Remotely send print jobs and check printer status.
• Private Pickup – Control when a print job prints, protecting sensitive information.
• Advanced Scanning Features – These include the ability to convert scanned files into searchable PDFs or editable text files.
• Automated Notifications – Alerts when ink, toner, or paper is running low.
• Enhanced Security Features – These include secure browsing, malware protection, and automatic firmware updates.

HP Smart Advance is free for two years with an HP+ printer, after which a subscription fee applies. HP does not publicly disclose the ongoing cost.

Is HP+ worth it?

If convenience, cloud-based printing, and free ink for a few months matter more to you than cartridge flexibility, HP+ may be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer affordability and the ability to choose between OEM and third-party compatible cartridges, then a standard HP printer or another brand may be a better option.