Printers may sometimes display a message to replace the ink cartridge even if they are not empty for several reasons: to maintain print quality, for technical reasons related to ink distribution, or for safety considerations to avoid any risk of damage to the printer in case of a cartridge being too empty.
Modern ink cartridges almost all use a small integrated electronic chip. This component communicates directly with your printer. Its job? Mainly to indicate the estimated remaining ink level, take into account the number of pages already printed, or prevent the use of unofficial cartridges. Sometimes, even if a cartridge still contains ink, the chip decides that it is empty based on data predetermined by the manufacturer. And that’s why your printer gently (or not) prompts you to replace a cartridge that could still print a few more pages.
Our printers estimate ink levels using an internal algorithm: it does not directly measure the amount of ink remaining but uses an approximate calculation. In simple terms, the printer counts how many times and how you have printed – number of pages, type of document (plain text, color photos, etc.), selected quality – and subtracts a theoretical level with each use. As a result, after a certain number of prints, even if there is actually some ink left in the cartridge, the printer decides that it is empty as a precaution. The idea is to avoid any risk of failed printing or damaging the print head due to a truly dry cartridge. But obviously, this sometimes leads to replacing a cartridge that is still usable.
Manufacturers often recommend replacing cartridges before they are actually empty to prevent air from entering the print head nozzles. Once air gets inside, the remaining ink can dry out, causing clogs or nozzle blockages. This forces the printer to perform repetitive cleanings, which are costly in ink and rarely 100% effective. In the long run, these efforts strain the print head, which can wear out prematurely or even become completely unusable. Replacing early, even if it's frustrating, reduces the risk of damaging vital parts, which are much more expensive than a simple cartridge.
The printer constantly monitors the amount of ink to ensure optimal print quality. The lower the ink level, the more likely the print will become uneven, with faint lines or less accurate colors. Even with a small amount of ink left, it prefers to anticipate by requesting a replacement to avoid disappointing results or wasting sheets with a failed print. It also helps to preserve its print heads, which could be damaged if they regularly operated with insufficient ink.
Manufacturers often use electronic chips that indicate cartridges are empty before they actually are. These chips work with a software estimation that encourages users to replace cartridges more quickly. It's a rather subtle way to boost ink sales, as cartridges are expensive, sometimes costing more than the printer itself. Some manufacturers have even faced lawsuits for abusive practices, including blocking generic or recycled cartridges, forcing users to repurchase more expensive ink from the original brand. These business tactics annoy consumers but remain common in the printing industry.
Laser printers often have a similar system with toners: they may indicate that toner cartridges are empty even when they still contain enough powder for several dozen additional pages.
Frequent changes of an ink cartridge at the first warning can often be avoided by gently shaking the cartridge to evenly distribute the remaining ink, thereby extending its lifespan.
Independent studies show that, in many printers, the electronic chip can indicate that a cartridge is empty even though there is still up to 20% of usable ink remaining.
Some ink cartridges have an expiration date built into their electronic chip. Even if the cartridge is still full, an expired date may trigger a replacement alert to protect print quality.
You can extend the life of your cartridges by printing regularly, thus preventing the nozzles from drying out. Additionally, selecting the 'draft' mode for less important prints and using only black and white when color is not essential helps save ink.
In general, yes, as long as you choose a reliable brand. However, be aware that some manufacturers strongly advise against their use and will refuse any warranty coverage in case of issues with the printer.
This message is based on a software estimate of the ink level, determined by the number of prints or droplets used. It is common for the printer to display this message before the cartridge is actually completely empty, in order to prevent damage to the print head.
Many specialized stores, major brands, or manufacturers offer dedicated collection bins for recycling. You can also choose to send the cartridges by mail to specific recycling services. Find out about the preferred system near you.
Sure, here’s the translation: "Yes, but it’s risky. Continuing to print despite the warning can lead to poor print quality, clogged nozzles, or, in the worst case, damage to the print head."
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