HP pushed automatic firmware updates in 2022 and 2023 that disabled printing when non-HP ink cartridges were installed, resulting in a federal class action lawsuit for monopolizing the replacement cartridge market. HP's All-In Plan subscription locks customers into contracts with mandatory cancellation fees even if they never print a page.

Why should I avoid HP?

HP required a constant internet connection to its servers just to print on certain printers, a program discontinued in 2024 after consumer backlash and lawsuits, but HP acknowledged existing printers would not be updated to remove the dependency. The company has used firmware updates as a tool to force customers toward its own ink subscriptions that charge up to $36 per month.

What are the best ethical alternatives to HP?

For laptops, Framework makes modular, fully repairable devices and System76 offers Linux-based computers that respect user freedom. For printers, Brother offers reliable devices with no DRM ink restrictions, and Epson EcoTank printers use refillable ink tanks that eliminate cartridge costs and subscription pressure entirely.

HP

Flagged · Avoid

One of the world's largest PC and printer manufacturers, known for aggressive ink subscription tactics and firmware-based restrictions on third-party products.

Last updated June 14, 2026

Reasons to avoid

Issues span:Consumer

HP pushed automatic firmware updates to registered printers in 2022 and 2023 that disabled printing when non-HP ink cartridges were installed, while simultaneously raising prices on HP-branded ink. A federal class action lawsuit accused HP of using the update to create a monopoly in the replacement cartridge market.theregister.com2024-04-11
HP's All-In Plan subscription charges up to $36 per month and locks customers into contracts with mandatory cancellation fees after a 30-day window — meaning someone who signs up, accepts a printer, and never prints a page still owes money.tomshardware.com2024-03-01
HP's HP+ e-series printers required a constant internet connection to HP servers just to print. The program was discontinued in 2024 after consumer backlash and lawsuits, but HP acknowledged existing printers would not be updated to remove the dependency.pcworld.com2024-07-09

Ethical alternatives

Technology

Framework

Repairable, modular laptops.

♻️ Sustainable🔧 Repairable

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System76

Linux-based laptops and desktops.

💻 Open Source

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Printers

Epson EcoTank

Refillable ink tank printers that eliminate cartridge costs entirely — no proprietary lock-in, no subscription.

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Common Questions

Is HP ethical?: HP pushed automatic firmware updates in 2022 and 2023 that disabled printing when non-HP ink cartridges were installed, resulting in a federal class action lawsuit for monopolizing the replacement cartridge market. HP's All-In Plan subscription locks customers into contracts with mandatory cancellation fees even if they never print a page.
Why should I avoid HP?: HP required a constant internet connection to its servers just to print on certain printers, a program discontinued in 2024 after consumer backlash and lawsuits, but HP acknowledged existing printers would not be updated to remove the dependency. The company has used firmware updates as a tool to force customers toward its own ink subscriptions that charge up to $36 per month.
What are the best ethical alternatives to HP?: For laptops, Framework makes modular, fully repairable devices and System76 offers Linux-based computers that respect user freedom. For printers, Brother offers reliable devices with no DRM ink restrictions, and Epson EcoTank printers use refillable ink tanks that eliminate cartridge costs and subscription pressure entirely.