Does HP+ Cost Money? Understanding HP+ Pricing and Value

Does Hp+ Cost Money? Yes, HP+ does cost money after the initial free period. This comprehensive guide from money-central.com will explore the HP+ program, its features, pricing, and whether it’s the right financial decision for your printing needs. We’ll dive deep into understanding HP+ expenses, weighing the value of the program with genuine insights on savings, potential expenses and how to maximize your monetary resources.

1. What is the HP+ Program and How Does It Work?

The HP+ program is a subscription service offered by HP for select printer models designed to enhance the printing experience. By opting into HP+, users gain access to a suite of features, including extended warranties, advanced HP Smart App functionalities, and enrollment in HP Instant Ink. However, activating HP+ also means committing to using only genuine HP ink cartridges for the printer’s lifespan.

Here’s a breakdown of how HP+ functions:

Eligible Printers: HP+ is available on specific printer models, often denoted by an “e” in their name (e.g., HP Envy 6000e series, HP OfficeJet Pro 9025e).
HP Smart App: Users must download the HP Smart App and create an HP account to activate HP+.
Activation: For LaserJet printers, activation is mandatory upon purchase. For inkjet printers, enrollment is optional. Once activated, the printer is locked to genuine HP cartridges.
Benefits: Subscribers receive an extended warranty, access to advanced HP Smart App features, and a trial period of HP Instant Ink.

2. What Are the Key Benefits of the HP+ Program?

The HP+ program offers several advantages aimed at improving the printing experience and providing added value to users. Let’s delve into the key benefits:

Extended Warranty: HP+ provides an additional year of warranty coverage, extending the total warranty period to two years. This can offer peace of mind in case of printer malfunctions or hardware issues.
HP Instant Ink Subscription: HP+ includes a trial period (typically six months) of HP Instant Ink, a subscription service that automatically delivers ink cartridges when your printer detects low ink levels.

alt text: HP Instant Ink subscription plans showing different monthly fees and page limits.

Advanced HP Smart App Features: HP+ unlocks advanced functionalities within the HP Smart App, such as Smart Tasks (custom shortcuts for repetitive tasks), advanced security and management tools, printer usage monitoring, and proactive alerts and support.
Forest First Program: HP+ supports HP’s Forest First initiative, which aims to protect and restore forests by investing in projects for every page printed.

Here’s a comparison table summarizing the standard versus advanced features of the HP Smart App:

Feature	Standard	Advanced (Free for 2 Years)
Print, Scan, and Copy	✔️	✔️
Mobile Printing	✔️	✔️
Print from Cloud	✔️	✔️
Smart Tasks	❌	✔️
Advanced Security and Management	❌	✔️
Printer Usage Monitoring	❌	✔️
Proactive Alerts and Support	❌	✔️

3. What Are the Potential Drawbacks and Costs Associated With HP+?

While HP+ offers several enticing benefits, it’s crucial to consider the potential drawbacks and costs before enrolling.

Irreversible Activation: Once HP+ is activated, it cannot be deactivated. This means users are locked into the HP ecosystem for the printer’s lifespan.
Mandatory Use of Genuine HP Cartridges: HP+ requires the exclusive use of genuine HP ink cartridges. This eliminates the option of using cheaper third-party or refilled cartridges, potentially increasing printing costs. According to a study by money-central.com, using third-party ink cartridges can save consumers up to 50% on ink costs.
Monthly Subscription Costs: After the initial trial period, HP Instant Ink requires a monthly subscription fee. These fees can vary depending on the chosen plan and printing volume. If printing needs are minimal, the subscription cost may outweigh the benefits.
Privacy Concerns: HP+ requires users to create an HP account, raising potential privacy concerns regarding data collection and usage tracking.
Internet Connectivity Requirement: HP+ relies on a constant internet connection to function correctly. Without internet access, some features may be limited, and ink level monitoring may be inaccurate.

4. How Much Does HP+ Cost?

The cost of HP+ can be broken down into several components:

Printer Purchase Price: HP+ is only available on select printer models, which may have a higher upfront cost compared to non-HP+ enabled printers.
HP Instant Ink Subscription Fees: After the free trial period, users must pay a monthly subscription fee for HP Instant Ink. The fee varies based on the selected plan, which is determined by the number of pages printed per month. As of July 2024, HP Instant Ink plans range from $2.99 per month for 50 pages to $24.99 per month for 700 pages.
Cost of Genuine HP Ink Cartridges: HP+ requires the exclusive use of genuine HP ink cartridges, which are typically more expensive than third-party alternatives.

According to research from New York University’s Stern School of Business, in July 2025, HP’s pricing strategy with HP+ aims to create a recurring revenue stream by locking customers into their ecosystem.

5. Is HP+ Worth the Money? Factors to Consider

Determining whether HP+ is worth the money depends on individual printing habits, needs, and priorities. Consider the following factors:

Printing Volume: If you print frequently and in large volumes, the HP Instant Ink subscription may offer significant cost savings.
Budget: Evaluate your budget and determine whether the monthly subscription fees and the cost of genuine HP ink cartridges align with your financial constraints.
Printing Needs: Consider the type of printing you do. If you primarily print documents, the benefits of HP+ may not be as significant as for those who print photos or graphics.
Convenience: HP+ offers the convenience of automatic ink delivery and advanced HP Smart App features, which may be valuable for users who prioritize ease of use.
Environmental Concerns: If you are committed to environmental sustainability, HP+ supports the Forest First program, which may be an appealing factor.

6. How to Calculate the Potential Savings or Expenses with HP+

To determine whether HP+ will save you money or increase your printing expenses, perform a cost analysis:

Estimate Monthly Printing Volume: Determine the average number of pages you print each month.
Compare HP Instant Ink Plans: Review the available HP Instant Ink plans and select the plan that best aligns with your printing volume.
Calculate HP Instant Ink Costs: Calculate the annual cost of the selected HP Instant Ink plan.
Estimate Genuine HP Ink Cartridge Costs: Research the cost of genuine HP ink cartridges for your printer model and estimate how often you would need to replace them without HP Instant Ink.
Compare Total Costs: Compare the total cost of HP Instant Ink (including monthly fees) with the estimated cost of purchasing genuine HP ink cartridges independently.
Factor in Additional Benefits: Consider the value of the extended warranty, advanced HP Smart App features, and the Forest First program.

7. What Are the Alternatives to HP+ for Cost-Effective Printing?

If HP+ doesn’t align with your budget or printing needs, several alternatives can help you achieve cost-effective printing:

Third-Party Ink Cartridges: Using compatible or remanufactured ink cartridges from reputable third-party suppliers can significantly reduce ink costs.
Ink Tank Printers: Ink tank printers, such as Epson EcoTank or Canon MegaTank, utilize refillable ink tanks instead of cartridges, offering a lower cost per page.

alt text: Epson EcoTank printer showing the refillable ink tanks.

High-Yield Cartridges: Opt for high-yield ink cartridges that offer a greater page yield compared to standard cartridges.
Print in Draft Mode: When printing documents, use draft mode to conserve ink.
Refill Ink Cartridges: Purchase an ink refill kit and refill your empty cartridges yourself.

8. How Does HP+ Impact the Use of Third-Party Ink Cartridges?

One of the most significant drawbacks of HP+ is that it locks users into using only genuine HP ink cartridges. Once HP+ is activated, the printer will no longer recognize or function with third-party ink cartridges, including compatible, remanufactured, or refilled cartridges. This restriction can significantly increase printing costs, as genuine HP cartridges are typically more expensive than third-party alternatives.

9. Can You Cancel HP+ and Revert to Using Third-Party Ink?

Unfortunately, once HP+ is activated, it cannot be deactivated. This means that there is no way to revert to using third-party ink cartridges once you have enrolled in the program. This irreversible decision is a critical factor to consider before activating HP+.

10. How to Set Up Your HP Printer Without Activating HP+

If you prefer to avoid HP+ and maintain the flexibility of using third-party ink cartridges, you can set up your HP printer without activating the program:

Install Ink Cartridges: Open the printer cover and install the ink cartridges into their corresponding slots.
Decline HP+ Offer: During the setup process, the printer may prompt you to enroll in HP+. Decline this offer and choose to continue without HP+.
Cancel HP Software Installation: If prompted to install HP software, click “Cancel” to proceed without installing the software.
Confirm Cancellation: Confirm that you want to continue without the software by clicking “Cancel” again.
Complete Setup: Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to complete the printer setup.

11. What Are the Advanced Features Alternatives to the HP Smart App?

If you’re looking for similar advanced features without the HP+ lock-in, explore these alternatives:

Printer-Specific Apps: Major printer brands like Epson (Epson iPrint), Canon (Canon Print Service), and Brother (Brother iPrint&Scan) offer free apps with features like mobile printing and task management.
Third-Party Scanning Apps: Apps like Adobe Scan or Microsoft Lens offer advanced scanning capabilities.
Cloud Storage Integration: Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox for seamless printing and scanning directly from the cloud.

12. How Can You Reduce Your Environmental Footprint Without HP+?

You can still be environmentally conscious without HP+:

Use Remanufactured Cartridges: Choose remanufactured cartridges, which are recycled and help reduce waste.
Recycle Cartridges: Utilize manufacturer recycling programs or drop off used cartridges at designated recycling stations.
Print Responsibly: Reduce paper consumption by printing only when necessary, using both sides of the paper, and opting for draft mode when possible.

alt text: A person placing used ink cartridges into a recycling bin.

13. What Are the Key Considerations Before Activating HP+?

Before activating HP+, carefully consider the following:

Long-Term Cost: Evaluate the long-term cost of HP Instant Ink subscriptions and genuine HP ink cartridges compared to alternative printing solutions.
Printing Habits: Assess your printing volume and habits to determine whether the benefits of HP+ align with your needs.
Flexibility: Consider the flexibility of using third-party ink cartridges and whether you are willing to commit to the HP ecosystem.
Privacy: Review HP’s privacy policy and assess your comfort level with data collection and usage tracking.
Irreversible Decision: Remember that HP+ activation is irreversible, so make sure you are fully aware of the implications before proceeding.

14. What Are the Latest Updates on HP+ and HP Instant Ink Pricing?

As of July 2024, HP has made the following updates to HP+ and HP Instant Ink pricing:

HP Instant Ink Plans: The monthly subscription fees for HP Instant Ink plans remain the same, ranging from $2.99 per month for 50 pages to $24.99 per month for 700 pages.
Over-Usage Fees: HP has slightly increased the over-usage fees for exceeding the monthly page limit. The current over-usage fee is $1.25 for each additional 10 pages.
Printer Eligibility: HP has expanded the list of eligible printer models for HP+. Check the HP website for the most up-to-date list of compatible printers.

15. What Are the Recent Customer Reviews and Feedback on HP+?

Recent customer reviews and feedback on HP+ have been mixed:

Positive Reviews: Some customers praise the convenience of automatic ink delivery and the advanced features of the HP Smart App. They also appreciate the extended warranty and the support for the Forest First program.
Negative Reviews: Other customers express frustration with the mandatory use of genuine HP ink cartridges and the inability to deactivate HP+. They also complain about the high cost of HP Instant Ink subscriptions and the over-usage fees.

16. How Can Money-Central.Com Help You Make an Informed Decision About HP+?

Money-central.com is dedicated to providing you with the information and resources you need to make informed financial decisions. Our comprehensive guides, tools, and expert advice can help you:

Compare Printing Options: Evaluate the costs and benefits of HP+ compared to alternative printing solutions, such as third-party ink cartridges, ink tank printers, and high-yield cartridges.
Calculate Printing Costs: Use our printing cost calculator to estimate your monthly and annual printing expenses based on your printing volume and habits.
Find the Best Deals: Discover the best deals on printers, ink cartridges, and other printing supplies from reputable retailers.
Get Expert Advice: Consult our team of financial experts for personalized advice on managing your printing expenses and making informed decisions about HP+.

17. What Are the Tax Implications of HP+ Subscriptions for Businesses?

For businesses considering HP+, understanding the tax implications is crucial. Here’s a simplified overview:

Expense Deduction: HP+ subscription fees and genuine HP ink cartridge costs are generally tax-deductible as business expenses, provided they are ordinary and necessary for your business operations.
Depreciation: The HP+ enabled printer itself can be depreciated over its useful life, allowing you to deduct a portion of the cost each year.
Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of all HP+ related expenses, including subscription fees, ink cartridge purchases, and printer depreciation.

Consult a tax professional for specific advice tailored to your business situation.

18. How to Troubleshoot Common Issues With HP+ and HP Instant Ink

Encountering issues with HP+ or HP Instant Ink? Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips:

Printer Not Recognizing Ink Cartridge: Ensure you are using genuine HP ink cartridges and that they are properly installed.
Ink Not Being Delivered: Check your HP Instant Ink account to ensure your subscription is active and your payment information is up-to-date.
Connectivity Issues: Verify that your printer is connected to the internet and that the HP Smart App is functioning correctly.
Account Issues: Contact HP support for assistance with account-related issues, such as password resets or subscription cancellations.

19. What Are the Alternatives for Scanning Documents Without the HP Smart App?

If you prefer to scan documents without relying on the HP Smart App, consider these alternatives:

Built-In Scanning Features: Many printers have built-in scanning capabilities that allow you to scan directly to your computer or email.
Third-Party Scanning Software: Programs like VueScan or PaperPort offer advanced scanning features and functionality.
Mobile Scanning Apps: Apps like Adobe Scan or Microsoft Lens allow you to scan documents using your smartphone or tablet.

20. What Are the Long-Term Implications of HP’s Cartridge Locking Strategy?

HP’s cartridge locking strategy, implemented through programs like HP+, has significant long-term implications for consumers, the environment, and the printing industry:

Reduced Consumer Choice: Locking printers to genuine HP cartridges limits consumer choice and reduces the ability to save money by using third-party alternatives.
Increased Costs: Consumers may face higher printing costs due to the mandatory use of genuine HP cartridges.
Environmental Impact: Cartridge locking can discourage cartridge recycling and increase electronic waste.
Competition: The strategy can stifle competition from third-party ink cartridge manufacturers.

FAQ About HP+ and Its Costs

1. What does HP+ enabled mean?

HP+ enabled means your HP printer is eligible for the HP+ Program services, offering extra features like an extended warranty and HP Instant Ink. If your printer isn’t HP+ enabled, it can’t access these extra services.

2. What happens if you don’t activate HP+?

If you don’t activate HP+ for your printer, it will operate as usual, allowing the use of generic cartridges, but you won’t get the extended warranty and other perks of the upgrade.

3. Can I say no to HP+?

Yes, you can decline upgrading to the HP+ Program. However, you can’t undo or return the services once you turn them on, making it a permanent choice.

4. Do I need HP+ to use my printer?

No, you don’t need HP+ to use your printer. HP+ is optional, and your printer can still function without it, unless you have a LaserJet printer, which requires HP+ setup.

5. Can I use generic ink with HP+?

Unfortunately, once you enable HP+, it’s permanent, and your printer won’t accept or work with generic ink, requiring you to use more expensive HP ink cartridges.

Money-central.com understands the complexities of managing your finances. By providing this in-depth analysis of HP+, we aim to empower you to make informed decisions that align with your budget and printing needs.

Ready to take control of your printing expenses and explore cost-effective alternatives to HP+? Visit money-central.com today to access our comprehensive resources, tools, and expert advice. Discover smart strategies for saving money on printing, managing your budget, and achieving your financial goals. Let money-central.com be your trusted partner in navigating the world of personal finance.

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