If you've been shopping for replacement ink and noticed changes to HP 61, HP 63, or HP 65 cartridges, you're not alone. HP has updated portions of its Original HP Ink lineup to simplify cartridge selection, without changing print quality or printer compatibility.
The biggest updates: HP 63 and HP 65 have been combined into a single HP 63/65 cartridge, and the HP 61 family has been refreshed with updated configurations.
Whether you're printing school assignments, family photos, or business documents, here's what changed, why, and what to buy next.
What's Changing with HP 63 and HP 65?
Previously, you'd buy either an HP 63 or HP 65 cartridge depending on your printer model. Now, those two cartridges have been merged into one: HP 63/65.
The idea is simple, fewer cartridge names, less confusion at the shelf, and the new HP 63/65 works with every printer that previously accepted HP 63 or HP 65 cartridges. No new printer required.
HP 63 and HP 65 Transition at a Glance
Previous Cartridge | New Cartridge | Printer Compatibility |
HP 63 Black | HP 63/65 Black | Same compatible printers |
HP 63 Tri-Color | HP 63/65 Tri-Color | Same compatible printers |
HP 63XL Black | HP 63/65XL Black | Same compatible printers |
HP 65 Black | HP 63/65 Black | Same compatible printers |
HP 65 Tri-Color | HP 63/65 Tri-Color | Same compatible printers |
HP 65XL Black | HP 63/65XL Black | Same compatible printers |
— | HP 63/65 Multipack | Same compatible printers |
Same Cartridge, Same Performance
A common concern: does merging two cartridges mean lower quality? No. The HP 63/65 delivers the same crisp black text, vivid color photos, and fade-resistant output you'd expect from Original HP Ink.
Bottom line: If your printer used HP 63 or HP 65, just buy HP 63/65 from now on.
What's Changing with HP 61?
HP 61 isn't going away, but several configurations are being refreshed with updated yields and simplified naming.
HP 61 Changes Overview
Previous Product | Status | New Product |
HP 61 Standard Black | End of Life | New HP 61 Black |
HP 61XL Black | End of Life | New HP 61 High Yield Black |
HP 61 Standard Tri-Color | End of Life | New HP 61 Tri-Color |
HP 61XL Tri-Color | End of Life | New HP 61 Tri-Color |
HP 61 Multipack | Updated | New HP 61 Multipack |
The updated cartridges work with the same printers you already own. You don't need new hardware, and there are no settings to change, just pick up the refreshed HP 61 cartridge that matches your printer when it's time to replace ink.
Why Is HP Simplifying Its Ink Lineup?
Anyone who's stood in the ink aisle wondering which cartridge is actually the right one understands the problem HP is trying to solve. Consolidating cartridge families means:
Fewer purchasing mistakes. Less overlap between similar-sounding cartridge names reduces the chance of buying the wrong one.
Faster shopping. One cartridge name per printer instead of two makes online and in-store buying more straightforward.
Same reliability. Original HP Ink cartridges are still engineered and tested for consistent quality throughout the cartridge's life.
Which Cartridge Should I Buy?
If your printer currently uses... | Buy... |
HP 63 or HP 63XL | HP 63/65 or HP 63/65XL |
HP 65 or HP 65XL | HP 63/65 or HP 63/65XL |
HP 61 | The updated HP 61 cartridge for your printer model |
Already own an HP printer? Keep it. These updates don't require a new device.
Why Choose Original HP Ink?
Original HP Ink cartridges are built specifically for HP printers, which means you get:
Crisp text and vivid color output
Fade-resistant documents and photos
Low-ink alerts so you're never caught off guard
Free cartridge recycling through HP Planet Partners
Compatibility with HP Instant Ink–eligible printers
They also help cut down on reprints and wasted supplies, so you can print with confidence at home, school, or work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will HP 63 work instead of HP 65? Both are being replaced by HP 63/65. If your printer previously used either one, HP 63/65 is your new cartridge.
Is HP 61 discontinued? No. HP 61 is still available, but the lineup has been refreshed with updated configurations and yields.
Do I need a new printer? No. Your existing printer works with the new cartridges, no hardware changes needed.
Why can't I find HP 63 cartridges? Legacy HP 63 cartridges are being phased out as HP 63/65 rolls out. The new cartridge supports all the same printers.
Has print quality changed? No. The updated cartridges deliver the same performance, vivid colors, and sharp text you expect from Original HP Ink.
About the Author
HP writer Jessica Smith specializes in technology, innovation, and digital transformation content focused on the future of computing and workplace solutions. As an internal contributor supporting HP’s Tech Takes blog, she partners closely with subject matter experts, engineers, and cross-functional teams to curate informative, customer-focused content that helps readers better understand emerging technologies, devices, and industry trends. With a strong focus on clarity and accessibility, Jessica helps translate complex technical topics into engaging stories for both business and consumer audiences.