Why Is My Printer Printing Faded or Light? (Laser & Inkjet Fixes)

Laser printers

1. Toner low: remove the cartridge, rock it side to side, reinstall. If it's still light, replace it.
2. Toner save / draft mode is on: turn it off in the printer settings or print dialog.
3. Print density is set low: raise it in the printer menu.
4. Worn drum: light pages with new toner usually mean the drum unit needs replacing (what a drum is).
5. Paper type: set the right type (heavy paper needs more heat).

Inkjet printers

1. Run the print head cleaning from the printer's maintenance menu, then a nozzle check.
2. Check ink levels and replace empty or old cartridges.
3. Use the right paper setting (plain vs photo).

Need a new cartridge? Find my toner.

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All troubleshooting →