HP’s Printer Policies Spark More Outrage as Lawsuit Ends With Little Relief
HP has been at the center of ongoing consumer frustration over its printer policies, particularly regarding blocking third-party ink cartridges. A class-action lawsuit aimed at addressing these issues has now concluded, but the resolution falls far short of what many affected users were hoping for.
Lawsuit Outcome: No Major Wins for Consumers
The legal battle, which lasted over four years in a California federal court, accused HP of restricting printer functionality through firmware updates, making it impossible for users to install third-party ink or toner cartridges. Some even went so far as to call these updates “malware” due to their disruptive nature. However, the lawsuit ended without HP admitting fault and with very limited compensation—only three litigants will receive $5,000 each, while most customers get no financial relief.
The only tangible benefit for consumers is the option to roll back problematic updates on 21 HP LaserJet printer models, as listed by Ars Technica. Older models released before 2016 are also included in the lawsuit, but few of those are likely still in use.
HP’s Ongoing Restrictions on Third-Party Ink
While HP has at least begun disclosing that its Dynamic Security system prevents the use of non-HP ink cartridges, the company continues to push a locked-in ink ecosystem that forces consumers into higher costs. Though HP appears to have scaled back its push for subscription-based printing, its overall business model remains focused on restricting user choice and maximizing ink revenue.
An Alternative: Brother Laser Printers Offer a Hassle-Free Experience
For those tired of printer lock-in tactics, a basic black-and-white Brother laser printer is often a better option. Brother printers are generally more reliable, last significantly longer on a single toner cartridge, and accept third-party refills without aggressive firmware restrictions. If you only print occasionally, using a laser printer for everyday documents and relying on a professional service for color prints may save you money and frustration in the long run.