Most modern printers estimate ink or toner levels internally. You can usually view that estimate from the printer screen, the manufacturer app, or Windows and macOS printer settings. All three are reading the printer own supply information.
Does this affect you?
Use this if you want to check ink before a big print job, see toner remaining, or understand why the computer does not show supply levels for your printer.
Check levels on the printer
This is quickest when the printer has a screen.
- Open the printer home or settings menu.
- Look for Ink Levels, Supply Levels, Estimated Ink Levels, or a maintenance/supplies menu.
- Select it to view bars or percentages for each color or toner cartridge.
- If the printer has no display, use the app or computer methods instead.
Check through the manufacturer app
This is convenient from a phone or when the printer screen is small.
- Open HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson Smart Panel, Brother Mobile Connect, or the maker desktop utility.
- Select the printer.
- Look for Ink Levels, Supplies, Toner, or an ink-drop icon.
- Use any reorder option only if you want it; it is not required for checking levels.
Check from Windows or Mac
This depends on whether the installed driver reports supply data.
- On Windows, open Printers & scanners, select the printer, and look under Manage, Printer properties, Estimated Ink Levels, or Supplies.
- On Mac, open Printers & Scanners, select the printer, and check Options & Supplies or Supply Levels.
- If supply levels are missing, install the full manufacturer driver or check the printer screen/app instead.
More control
Estimated means estimated
Ink levels are calculated from usage patterns, not always from a precise physical measurement. A low cartridge may last longer or run out sooner depending on page coverage.
Low is not always empty
Treat low ink as a warning to order supplies. Many printers continue until empty or until print quality drops.
Tank printers show levels differently
EcoTank, MegaTank, and Smart Tank printers often use visible tank windows and minimum fill lines rather than exact chipped-cartridge percentages.
Toner estimates are often steadier
Laser toner usage is usually more predictable than liquid ink, so toner page estimates may feel more consistent.
Sources
- HP Support – Check Estimated Ink or Toner Levels (2025)
- Microsoft Support – Check Printer Ink or Toner Levels (2025)
- Apple Support – Check Ink or Toner Levels on Mac (2025)