Running out of printer ink at the wrong time can be frustrating, especially when you have urgent documents to print. Fortunately, Windows 11 makes it simple to check your printer’s ink or toner levels. Knowing your ink status helps avoid interruptions and ensures smooth printing operations.
This step-by-step guide covers all the reliable methods to check printer ink levels on Windows 11.
Why Checking Printer Ink Levels Is Important
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Prevents mid-printing interruptions
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Helps plan ink replacements
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Ensures high-quality printouts without streaks or fading
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Detects low or empty cartridges early
Whether you have an inkjet or laser printer, Windows 11 provides multiple ways to view ink levels.
Step-by-Step Methods to Check Printer Ink Levels on Windows 11
1. Check Ink Levels via Windows Settings
Windows 11 allows you to view printer details, including ink status, directly from the Settings app.
Steps:
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Click Bluetooth & devices.
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Select Printers & scanners.
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Click your printer from the list.
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Look for Ink levels or Estimated ink remaining.
⚠️ Note: Not all printers display ink levels in Windows Settings. If your printer doesn’t show it, try the next methods.
2. Use the Printer Software
Most printer brands provide dedicated software that gives detailed information about ink or toner levels.
Steps:
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Open your printer’s app or software (e.g., HP Smart, Epson Printer Utility, Canon IJ Printer Assistant).
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Navigate to the Ink or Supplies section.
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View ink or toner levels for each cartridge.
These apps often include options to order ink or run maintenance tasks.
3. Check Ink Levels via Control Panel
The Control Panel in Windows 11 still provides access to printer status.
Steps:
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Press Win + R, type
control, and press Enter. -
Go to Devices and Printers.
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Right-click your printer → select Properties or Printing Preferences.
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Look for Maintenance, Supplies, or Status tab.
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View the estimated ink or toner levels.
💡 Tip: Different manufacturers label this information differently, but most include a Supplies tab.
4. Check Ink Levels on the Printer Display
If your printer has a digital display panel, you can usually check ink levels directly on the device.
Steps:
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Go to your printer.
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Access the Menu or Setup button.
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Look for Ink Levels, Supplies, or Maintenance.
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Review the status for each cartridge.
This method works even without connecting your printer to a PC.
5. Use Manufacturer’s Mobile App
Most modern printers have mobile apps that show real-time ink levels.
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HP Smart for HP printers
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Epson iPrint for Epson printers
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Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY for Canon printers
Steps:
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Install the official printer app on your smartphone.
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Connect your printer to the app.
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Open the Ink or Supplies section to see current levels.
Mobile apps often notify you when ink is low, which is handy for remote monitoring.
Tips to Manage Printer Ink Effectively
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Keep spare cartridges on hand for frequently used printers
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Use draft mode for non-critical prints to save ink
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Clean print heads regularly to prevent clogging
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Avoid leaving cartridges idle for long periods
Following these tips prolongs the life of your cartridges and ensures better print quality.
Final Thoughts
Checking printer ink levels on Windows 11 is straightforward with multiple options: via Settings, Control Panel, manufacturer software, printer display, or mobile apps. Regularly monitoring ink not only prevents interruptions but also maintains consistent print quality.
Staying proactive about ink levels ensures you’re never caught off guard when printing important documents.