Firmware-safe HP ink cartridges are compatible cartridges built to keep working after the HP firmware updates released so far. They lower the risk of a “cartridge problem” message after an update. Nobody can promise that a future update won’t change things, so this guide explains what the label means, which cartridges and printers it covers, and how to protect yourself.
Quick answer
- HP printers with dynamic security check each cartridge’s chip. HP says periodic firmware updates can “block cartridges that previously worked.”
- Firmware-safe cartridges use chips made to pass those checks on the firmware HP has released so far. That is not a promise about future updates.
- On staging.swiftink.com today, firmware-safe versions are listed for cartridges that replace the HP 952XL, 962XL, 910XL, 972A and 972X.
- HP inkjet “e” printers can use compatible ink only if HP+ was never turned on. HP LaserJet printers ending in “e” or “we” take only original HP cartridges.
- Turn off automatic updates to lower your risk. If an update causes a problem, contact our support team.
What HP dynamic security does
Every HP ink cartridge has a small chip on it. The printer reads that chip to learn which cartridge is installed and how much ink is left.
HP calls its chip check “dynamic security.” On HP’s own printer pages, the wording is plain: “Certain HP printers are intended to work only with cartridges that have a new or reused HP chip or electronic circuitry.” HP goes on to say these printers “use dynamic security measures to block cartridges using a non-HP chip or electronic circuitry.”
The key sentence for anyone using compatible ink is this one: “Periodic firmware updates will maintain the effectiveness of these measures and block cartridges that previously worked.” (HP.com product pages for the OfficeJet Pro 9015e and 9125e, checked October 14, 2026.) HP also has a support page on dynamic security.
In short: a cartridge can work fine for months, then stop after the printer installs a firmware update. That is the problem firmware-safe cartridges try to address.
- 1The cartridge’s chip passes the printer’s current check, so it prints normally.
- 2The printer downloads and installs a firmware update. The update can change how the chip check works.
- 3After the update, the printer either keeps accepting the cartridge (check mark) or shows a cartridge error (X). Which one you get depends on the chip.
What “firmware-safe” means, and what it doesn’t
“Firmware-safe” is the name we use for compatible and remanufactured cartridges whose chips are built to keep working with HP firmware released so far.
What it means:
- The cartridge is designed to work on the firmware HP has shipped up to now, including printers that have already updated.
- You don’t need an old firmware version for the cartridge to be recognized.
- If a newer HP update causes a problem, we want to hear about it so we can help.
What it doesn’t mean:
- It is not a promise about future updates. HP controls its firmware and can change the chip check at any time. No seller can guarantee what the next update will do.
- It is not an HP product. These cartridges are made by third parties and are not made, endorsed or approved by HP.
- It doesn’t get around HP+. A printer enrolled in HP+ is tied to original HP ink no matter which compatible cartridge you buy. More on that below.
- It doesn’t mean a cartridge can never be defective. Any cartridge, original or aftermarket, can fail. If one does, contact us.
Tip: Firmware-safe cartridges and turning off automatic updates work best together. The cartridge handles today’s firmware. Turning off updates keeps tomorrow’s firmware from arriving without your say.
Which firmware-safe HP cartridges are available, and which printers they fit
These are the cartridge families where staging.swiftink.com product pages say the cartridges are built to work through HP firmware updates, as of October 14, 2026. The printer models are examples from HP.com’s compatibility lists for the matching original cartridge, plus the staging.swiftink.com product pages where noted. More models in each series use these cartridges, so check your printer’s model number on the product page before you order.
| Replaces HP cartridge | Example printers it fits | Swift Ink product |
|---|---|---|
| HP 952XL | OfficeJet Pro 7720, 7740, 8210, 8216, 8710, 8720, 8730, 8740 | Compatible 4-set for HP 952XL, $39.99 |
| HP 962XL | OfficeJet Pro 9015e, 9025, 9025e (HP.com); also 9010, 9020 and other 9010/9020 series models (staging.swiftink.com) | Compatible 4-set for HP 962XL, $59.99 |
| HP 910XL | OfficeJet 8015e; OfficeJet Pro 8025e, 8028e, 8034e, 8035, 8035e (HP.com); also other 8010/8020/8030 series models (staging.swiftink.com) | Remanufactured 4-set for HP 910XL, $49.99 |
| HP 972X (high yield) | PageWide Pro 452dn, 452dw, 477dn, 477dw, 552dw, 577dw, 577z | Compatible 4-set for HP 972X, $154.99 |
| HP 972A (standard) | PageWide Pro 452dn, 452dw, 477dn, 477dw, 552dw, 577dw, 577z (HP.com); PageWide Pro 352dw, PageWide 377dw (staging.swiftink.com) | Compatible black for HP 972A, $36.99 |
Prices are staging.swiftink.com sale prices on October 14, 2026, and can change. HP notes that 972X high-yield cartridges work only in PageWide Pro 400 and 500 series printers, so 300 series owners (352dw, 377dw) need the standard 972A size.
Single cartridges and larger packs for each family are on the product pages, or you can find your printer through our HP printer list.
Do firmware-safe cartridges work in HP “e” printers?
It depends on the printer type and on one choice made at setup.
HP inkjet printers ending in “e” (for example, OfficeJet Pro 9015e or 8025e) are “HP+ enabled.” HP+ is optional, and you choose it during setup. HP’s own product pages say HP+ “requires an HP account, ongoing connection to the internet, and exclusive use of Original HP Ink cartridges for the life of the printer.”
- If HP+ was never turned on, an inkjet “e” printer can use compatible cartridges, including firmware-safe ones.
- If HP+ was turned on, the printer is locked to original HP ink. We don’t know of a supported way to undo it.
- An HP Instant Ink trial can also lead to problems with compatible cartridges later. Skip it if you plan to use compatible ink.
Our guide to skipping HP+ at setup walks through the setup screens.
HP LaserJet printers ending in “e” or “we” (such as the M110we, M140we or 3001dwe) are different. They accept only original HP toner, with or without HP+. See why HP “e” LaserJets don’t accept aftermarket cartridges.
-
1Is your printer a LaserJet whose model ends in “e” or “we”?
- Yes
- Use original HP toner. Compatible toner won’t work in these models.
- No
- Go to question 2.
-
2Is it an inkjet or PageWide model whose name ends in “e”?
- Yes
- Go to question 3.
- No
- Firmware-safe cartridges are a good fit if your printer uses one of the families above. Turn off automatic updates too.
-
3Was HP+ turned on during setup?
- Yes, or not sure
- Assume the printer needs original HP ink. Call us before buying if you’re unsure.
- No, HP+ was declined
- Firmware-safe compatible cartridges can work. Keep HP+ and Instant Ink off.
Printers where compatible ink isn’t an option yet
Some newer HP printers aren’t good candidates for compatible ink right now.
- Printers that use HP 923 or 936 cartridges. This includes the OfficeJet Pro 8120 and 8130 series and the 9110, 9120 and 9130 series. Aftermarket cartridges for these aren’t reliable yet, and we don’t carry them. If you’re shopping for a printer and want to use compatible ink, we don’t recommend these models.
- LaserJet “e” and “we” models. Original HP toner only, as covered above.
- Any HP printer already enrolled in HP+. Original HP ink only.
If you own one of these, original HP cartridges are the safe choice.
How to lower the risk from HP firmware updates
Work through these in order. The first steps are free.
-
Turn off automatic updates on the printer Free
On many HP inkjets the setting is under Setup, then Printer Maintenance, then Update the Printer. Menu names vary by model. Our HP firmware update guide covers the control panel and the printer’s web page.
-
Say no to update prompts Free
If the HP Smart app, the printer screen or a pop-up on your computer offers a printer update, decline it. Once new firmware is installed, going back can be hard or impossible.
-
Skip HP+ and the Instant Ink trial on a new printer Free
Read each setup screen instead of clicking through. Choosing HP+ is the one step you can’t undo.
-
Block HP’s update servers at your router Free
Some printers still look for updates with the setting off. Blocking the update addresses at your router stops that. The same guide lists the addresses to block.
-
Buy firmware-safe versions matched to your printer $
Match the cartridge number on your old cartridge, or look up your model on our HP printer page.
-
Keep one spare black cartridge $
A spare lets you keep printing while a problem gets sorted out. It also helps you tell a single bad cartridge from a firmware issue.
What to do if an update blocks your cartridges
The message varies by model. It often mentions a cartridge problem or cartridges using non-HP chips. Here’s what to do.
-
Write down the exact message and which cartridge it names Free
If only one color is named, that cartridge may simply be defective. That happens with any brand.
-
Reseat the cartridge once Free
Take it out, check that the protective tape is off and the copper contacts are clean, then put it back firmly. Don’t keep cycling it in and out.
-
Turn off automatic updates now Free
That stops another update from arriving while you sort this out.
-
Follow our cartridge problem guide Free
Our HP “Cartridge Problem” guide covers the next steps for this error.
-
Contact Swift Ink support Free
Have your order number, printer model and the exact message ready. Contact us by live chat, email or phone. Our returns and exchanges page explains how returns work.
Warning: Don’t buy random “firmware downgrade” tools or files from unknown websites. Printer firmware from an untrusted source can damage the printer or install something you don’t want.
What you save: dated price comparisons
We compared high-yield black cartridges for three firmware-safe families. Original HP prices are from Staples.com, a major US retailer, because HP.com didn’t show a one-time price when we checked. Yields are HP’s published figures for the original and staging.swiftink.com’s listed figures for ours.
| Cartridge | Original HP price (Staples.com) | Original HP yield | Swift Ink price | Swift Ink yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 962XL black | $63.89 | ~2,000 pages | $19.99 | 2,000 pages |
| 952XL black | $70.89 | ~2,000 pages | $12.99 | 2,000 pages |
| 910XL black | $56.89 | ~720 pages | $16.99 | 825 pages |
On these three, the Swift Ink cartridge cost $39.90 to $57.90 less per cartridge on October 14, 2026. Prices change often on both sides, so check current prices before you buy. To compare your own printer, try our cost per page calculator.
Who is Swift Ink?
Swift Ink is an online store for compatible and remanufactured ink and toner. A few facts you can check:
- In business since 2004. Our About page reads “Discount Printer Ink & Toner Since 2004.”
- Based in Michigan. Our mailing address is 47526 Clipper St. #700363, Plymouth, MI 48170.
- Real people you can reach. Call (866) 461-3801, email sales@swiftink.com, or use live chat on the contact page.
- What we sell. Compatible and remanufactured cartridges for HP, Brother, Canon, Epson, Lexmark, Xerox, Dell, Samsung and others. We don’t sell original HP cartridges, and we aren’t affiliated with HP.
- Published return policy. The terms are on our returns and exchanges page.
Cheat sheet: firmware-safe HP ink
| Your situation | What to expect | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Inkjet printer, not an “e” model | Firmware-safe cartridges should work on current firmware | Buy the matching family and turn off auto updates |
| Inkjet “e” model, HP+ declined | Compatible cartridges can work | Keep HP+ and Instant Ink off; turn off auto updates |
| Inkjet “e” model, HP+ turned on | Locked to original HP ink | Use original HP cartridges |
| LaserJet ending in “e” or “we” | Original HP toner only | Use original HP toner |
| Printer uses HP 923 or 936 | No reliable aftermarket option yet | Use original HP cartridges for now |
| Error right after an update | Chip check may have changed | Turn off updates, see the cartridge problem guide, contact support |
| One color errors, others work | Possibly one defective cartridge | Reseat once, then contact support |
Frequently asked questions
Is Swift Ink legit?
Swift Ink is a real online store that has sold discount ink and toner since 2004. It’s based in Michigan, with a published mailing address in Plymouth, MI, a toll-free number, (866) 461-3801, and email at sales@swiftink.com. It sells compatible and remanufactured cartridges, not original HP cartridges, and it isn’t affiliated with HP. Return terms are on the returns and exchanges page.
Are firmware-safe cartridges immune to future HP updates?
No. They’re built to work with the HP firmware released so far. HP can change its chip check in any future update, and HP says updates can block cartridges that worked before. Turning off automatic updates is the best protection.
Why did my HP printer suddenly stop accepting my ink cartridges?
The most common reason is a firmware update. HP says its dynamic security printers get periodic updates that can “block cartridges that previously worked.” It can also be a single defective cartridge, so check whether the error names one color or all of them. Our cartridge problem guide covers the next steps.
Can I turn off HP+ after setup?
We don’t know of a supported way to remove HP+ once a printer is enrolled. HP’s product pages describe HP+ as requiring original HP ink “for the life of the printer.” Decline HP+ at setup if you want to use compatible cartridges.
Does HP dynamic security affect HP LaserJet printers too?
HP’s wording covers “certain HP printers,” and that includes some LaserJet models. The LaserJet “e” and “we” models accept only original HP toner. This guide focuses on ink, but the same advice about automatic updates applies.
Are firmware-safe cartridges new or refilled?
It varies by family. Most of the cartridges in this guide are listed as compatible. The 910XL cartridges are listed as remanufactured. Each product page says which.
Swift Ink’s innovative approach with firmware-safe HP ink cartridges is a game-changer! Their commitment to quality and reliability ensures seamless printing without any compatibility issues. Highly recommended!