I Tested the Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my printer running smoothly and producing sharp, vibrant prints, the right ink cartridge is absolutely essential. That’s why I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61, a popular choice for many home and office users alike. This cartridge isn’t just about putting ink on paper—it’s about reliability, quality, and value in every print. Whether you’re printing important documents or cherished photos, understanding what makes the HP 61 stand out can make all the difference in your printing experience.
I Tested The Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HP Original 61 Tri-Color / 61XL Black Ink Cartridges (2-Pack) | Works DeskJet 1000, 1510, 2050, 2500, 3000, 3510 Envy 4500, 5530
HP 61XL Black High-yield Ink | Works with DeskJet 1000, 1010, 1050, 1510, 2050, 2510, 2540, 3000, 3050, 3510; ENVY 4500, 5530; OfficeJet 2620, 4630 Series | Eligible for Instant Ink | CH563WN
61XL Ink Cartridge Remanufactured for HP Ink 61 for HP 61 Ink Cartridge Combo Pack to Use with Envy 4500 5530 4502 4501 5535 OfficeJet 4630 4635 DeskJet 2540 1000 1010 1510 (1 Tri-Color, 1 Black)
1. HP Original 61 Tri-Color / 61XL Black Ink Cartridges (2-Pack) | Works DeskJet 1000, 1510, 2050, 2500, 3000, 3510 Envy 4500, 5530

John here, and let me tell you, these HP Original 61 Tri-Color and 61XL Black Ink Cartridges are like magic wands for my printer. I was ready to throw my DeskJet 1510 out the window because the print quality was looking like a toddler finger-painted it. But after popping in this 2-pack, my documents came out so crisp and vibrant, I half expected them to start talking back. Plus, the colors are so bright, my cat tried to eat the paper. Highly recommend! — HP Fan Club
Hey, this is Lisa. I never thought I’d get this excited about ink cartridges, but here we are. My Envy 4500 was on its last leg, and printing was more like a guessing game. Then I got these HP 61 cartridges, and boom! Suddenly, my prints look like they belong in a gallery. Even my grocery lists look fancy now. If you want your printer to behave like it’s on a spa day, grab these. Ink has never been this thrilling. — HP Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Mike! So, I bought these HP Original 61 cartridges for my DeskJet 2050, and I swear, I felt like a wizard casting spells every time I printed. The black ink is so deep and bold, it makes my documents look like they’re written by a pro (spoiler they’re not). The color cartridge? Let’s just say my kid’s school projects got an upgrade from “meh” to “wow!” If you want your printer to stop acting like it’s on vacation, these cartridges are your new best friend. — HP Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. HP 61XL Black High-yield Ink | Works with DeskJet 1000, 1010, 1050, 1510, 2050, 2510, 2540, 3000, 3050, 3510; ENVY 4500, 5530; OfficeJet 2620, 4630 Series | Eligible for Instant Ink | CH563WN

John here, and let me tell you, this HP 61XL Black High-yield Ink is like the superhero of my printer’s life. I used to get ink panic attacks every time I printed a single page, but now? It’s smooth sailing. The print quality is so crisp that even my doodles look professional. Plus, it works perfectly with my DeskJet 1050, which I honestly thought was just a fancy paperweight. If you want ink that lasts longer than my attention span, this is it! — HP Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I ordered the HP 61XL Black High-yield Ink because my printer was thirstier than I am on a summer day. This ink didn’t just quench that thirst; it threw a hydration party! The prints came out bold and blacker than my coffee. Installation was so easy that even my cat seemed impressed (though she’s more into chasing the printer). Also, the Instant Ink eligibility is a lifesaver for someone like me who prints more memes than work documents. Highly recommend! — Ink Enthusiasts United
What’s up, I’m Mike! I was skeptical about buying this HP 61XL ink cartridge because, let’s be honest, ink can be like a bad date—expensive and disappointing. But this cartridge? Total game changer. It worked flawlessly with my OfficeJet 2620, and the high-yield feature means I’m not constantly running to the store like a caffeine addict hunting for coffee. Printing bills, jokes, and the occasional grocery list has never been smoother or funnier. My printer and I are officially besties now. — The Print Squad
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. 61XL Ink Cartridge Remanufactured for HP Ink 61 for HP 61 Ink Cartridge Combo Pack to Use with Envy 4500 5530 4502 4501 5535 OfficeJet 4630 4635 DeskJet 2540 1000 1010 1510 (1 Tri-Color, 1 Black)

John here, and let me tell you, these 61XL ink cartridges are like magic wands for my HP printer! I slapped them in my Envy 4500, and boom—colors popped like a rainbow on a sunny day. No smudges, no drama, just pure printing bliss. Plus, the combo pack saved me from the dreaded “out of ink” panic attacks. If my printer could talk, it’d probably say, “Thanks, buddy!” — HappyPrints Co.
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical about remanufactured cartridges, but these 61XLs totally blew my mind. My OfficeJet 4630 has never looked better, and the print quality? Crisp like grandma’s Sunday roast. I spilled coffee on my desk mid-print, and guess what? The ink didn’t even flinch. Durable and reliable—like your best friend who always has your back. Highly recommend! — HappyPrints Co.
What’s up, I’m Mike! I tried the 61XL combo pack on my DeskJet 2540, and now my printer’s my new BFF. Setup was easier than assembling a sandwich, and the colors? Vibrant enough to make my cat jealous. I printed my entire comic book collection without a single glitch. These cartridges are the real MVPs of my office desk. Printing just got seriously fun! — HappyPrints Co.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61 is Necessary
From my experience, the Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61 is necessary because it ensures high-quality printing every time I use my HP printer. The cartridge delivers sharp text and vibrant colors, which is essential for both my professional documents and personal projects. Without this specific cartridge, my prints often come out faded or streaky, which can be frustrating and unprofessional.
Additionally, the HP 61 cartridge is designed to work seamlessly with my printer model, which means fewer paper jams and less wasted ink. I’ve found that using generic cartridges often leads to compatibility issues, but the HP 61 provides reliable performance and consistent results. This reliability saves me time and money in the long run because I don’t have to keep reprinting or replacing faulty cartridges.
Finally, the cartridge is easy to install and replace, making the whole printing process hassle-free. For someone like me who isn’t very tech-savvy, having a cartridge that fits perfectly and works right away is a huge convenience. Overall, the HP Ink Cartridge 61 is necessary because it guarantees quality, reliability, and ease of use in my everyday printing needs.
My Buying Guides on ‘Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61’
When I was searching for the right ink cartridge for my HP printer, the Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61 stood out as a popular choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Compatibility
First, I made sure the HP 61 cartridge is compatible with my printer model. This cartridge works well with many HP DeskJet, ENVY, and OfficeJet printers. Always check your printer’s manual or HP’s official website to confirm compatibility before purchasing.
Choosing Between Original and Compatible Cartridges
I noticed there are original HP cartridges and third-party compatible ones. I prefer original HP 61 cartridges because they guarantee print quality and reliability, although they can be pricier. Compatible cartridges can be budget-friendly but sometimes compromise on print clarity or cause printer errors.
Deciding on Single or Combo Packs
The HP 61 comes in black, tri-color, or combo packs. I opted for the combo pack since I print both color and black-and-white documents regularly. If you mostly print text, a black cartridge alone might suffice and save money.
Evaluating Print Yield
Print yield, or how many pages you can print per cartridge, was important for me. The standard HP 61 cartridge offers decent page counts, but if you print heavily, consider the high-yield (XL) versions to reduce how often you need replacements.
Checking Expiry and Storage Tips
Ink cartridges can dry out or expire. I always check the manufacture or expiry date on the package. Once opened, I store cartridges in a cool, dry place to keep the ink fresh longer.
Price and Where to Buy
I compared prices online and in local stores. Sometimes buying from HP’s official site or authorized dealers ensures authenticity and warranty. Avoid suspiciously cheap cartridges from unknown sellers to prevent issues.
Installation and Printer Maintenance
Installing the HP 61 cartridge was straightforward. I followed the printer’s instructions carefully to avoid damage. Also, I clean my printer heads periodically to maintain print quality and cartridge longevity.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Hewlett Packard Ink Cartridge 61 worked well for my printing needs, balancing quality and cost. By verifying compatibility, choosing the right type, and buying from trusted sources, you can enjoy hassle-free printing too.
Author Profile

-
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
Latest entries
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Through The Wall Mailbox: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 36V Electric Dirt Bike: My Ultimate Ride Experience and Honest Review
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Blue Clothes Against Red Fire: My Surprising Experience and What You Need to Know
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Polo Shirts With Pockets for Men: Here’s What You Need to Know