---
# System prepended metadata

title: ' Why is HP printer not printing full page?'
tags: [cropped print, update printer driver, page scaling, partial print, HP printer not printing full page, "\_printer margins", paper size mismatch]

---

# Why is HP printer not printing full page?

If your HP printer is not printing full pages, **call 1-844-957-6312** This guide shows quick fixes Partial prints — where text or images are cropped, margins are wrong, or the bottom/top of a page is missing — usually stem from software settings, paper-size mismatches, driver issues, or occasional hardware faults. Below is a step-by-step guide to diagnose and fix the problem, with preventative tips so it doesn’t recur.
![Screenshot 2025-08-20 174238](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/BkcSVL3txe.png)

### Common reasons printers don’t print full pages

* **Page size or scaling mismatch:** The document’s page size (A4, Letter, Legal) or the print scaling setting (e.g., “Scale to Fit”, “Fit to Page”, or custom scaling) may not match the printer’s configured paper size.
* **Incorrect margins or printable area:** Some printers have non-printable margins; if margins in the document are set too wide or the printable area is misconfigured, content can be cut off.
* **Driver or software problems:** Outdated or corrupt printer drivers and [print spooler issues](https://www.helpocenter.com/printer/how-to-fix-hp-print-spooler-error/) can cause incomplete jobs.
* **Paper feeding and alignment issues:** If the paper isn’t seated correctly or the tray guides are misaligned, the printer might grab the sheet incorrectly and print off the edge.
* **Firmware bugs or hardware faults:** Rarely, firmware problems or failing internal components (like sensors) can cause printing anomalies.

### Quick checks you should do first

1. **Verify paper size:** Make sure the paper loaded in the tray matches the paper size set in the printer preferences and the document page setup.
2. **Check document settings:** In your application (Word, Adobe Reader, etc.), open Page Setup and confirm page size, orientation, and margins.
3. **Preview before printing:** Use Print Preview — this often shows exactly what the printer will print and reveals cropping issues before wasting paper.
4. **Try another document:** Print a different file (simple text or a test page) to see whether the issue is document-specific.
![Screenshot 2025-08-19 170841](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/B1DLELhFxg.png)

### Fixing page size & scaling problems

* In the print dialog, ensure **Paper Size** matches the loaded paper (e.g., choose “Letter 8.5 x 11” or “A4” as appropriate).
* Set **Scaling** to 100% or choose **Actual Size** (avoid “Fit to Printable Area” if it causes unexpected margin changes).
* If using a PDF viewer, check options like **Choose Paper Source by PDF page size** or **Use PDF page size** — toggle these to see which produces the correct output.
* For large-format prints, select the correct paper type and uncheck any “Shrink to Fit” or “Scale to Fit” settings that distort layout.

### Update drivers and firmware

* **Update the printer driver:** Visit HP’s official support page, find the exact model, and download the latest full-feature driver package. Installing the manufacturer’s driver instead of a generic driver often fixes layout and margin problems.
* **Update printer firmware:** Some bugs that affect printing behavior are fixed via [firmware updates](https://www.helpocenter.com/printer/how-to-update-hp-printer-firmware/). Follow HP’s instructions carefully — certain updates require direct USB connection or network stability.

### Check application-specific settings

* **Microsoft Word / Office apps:** Review Page Layout → Margins and Page Setup → Paper. Also check File → Print → Settings for scaling options.
* **Adobe Acrobat / Reader:** Use Page Sizing & Handling and try “Actual Size” or “Custom Scale” set to 100%. Avoid “Fit” if it crops content unexpectedly.
* **Browser printing:** Browsers sometimes add headers/footers or scale pages; open print preview and disable headers/footers and set scale to 100%.

### Printer preferences and hardware checks

* Open **Devices and Printers** (Windows) or **Printers & Scanners** (Mac), choose your HP printer, and click **Preferences** or **Options & Supplies**. Confirm paper size, source, and tray selection.
* Make sure paper guides in the tray are snug against the paper. Loose guides can shift paper and cause off-center printing.
* Inspect the tray and feed path for any obstructions that could cause misfeeds or skewed feeding.

### Reset print spooler and clear stuck jobs (Windows)

* A clogged print queue or spooler can lead to weird printing results. Open **Services**, restart the **Print Spooler**, and clear any stuck jobs in the queue. Reprint after clearing.
![Screenshot 2025-08-19 171142](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/HkHvVLntgg.png)

### Test on another device or app

* Connect and print from a different computer or try printing from a different app. If the printer prints full pages from another source, the problem is likely with the original computer or application settings.

### When it’s a hardware or service issue

* If you’ve exhausted software and settings solutions and the printer still truncates pages, there may be an internal sensor, formatter board, or paper feed problem. Check warranty status and consider contacting HP support or an authorized service center for diagnosis.

### Preventive tips

* Standardize the paper you use and store it in a dry environment to avoid curling or expansion that affects alignment.
* Regularly update drivers and firmware.
* Use Print Preview before large print jobs.
* Keep a small test page template (one page set to your default paper and margins) for quick diagnostics.

### Summary

Partial or cropped prints usually arise from mismatched page sizes, scaling settings, driver issues, or tray alignment. Start with simple checks: confirm paper size, preview the print, and ensure scaling is at 100%. If software fixes fail, update drivers and firmware, test on another device, and seek professional repair if hardware faults are suspected. With the right steps, you can restore full-page printing and avoid wasted paper.
