Fix poor print quality in Windows (Blurry, faded, or streaked prints)

Before changing Windows settings, make sure the printer hardware is ready.

• Verify that the correct paper type and size are loaded in the tray.

• Use clean, dry paper that meets the printer manufacturer’s recommendations.

• Make sure ink or toner cartridges aren’t empty or expired.

• Remove any jammed paper or debris inside the printer.

• Restart the printer.

This helps determine whether the issue is with Windows or the printer.

1. Print a test page directly from the printer’s control panel.

2. If the test page also looks poor, clean or service the printer hardware.

3. If the test page looks fine, continue with the steps below.

Incorrect print settings can reduce output quality.

1. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners.

2. Select your printer, then select Printing preferences.

3. Check the following settings:

   • Print quality or resolution is set to Normal or Best.

   • Economy, Draft, or Toner saver mode is turned off.

   • The selected paper type matches what you’re using.

4. Select Apply, then try printing again.

If you are using a Windows 11 device, start by running the automated Printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix this Printer problem.

Run the troubleshooter in Get Help

Dirty or misaligned printheads often cause streaking or faded output.

• Open the printer’s software or control panel on the printer itself.

• Run Clean printhead, Align printhead, or Maintenance tools.

• Repeat the cleaning process only if needed, as it may use additional ink.

Outdated or incompatible drivers may cause printer issues. Ensure that the latest printer drivers are installed.

1. Select Start > Device Manager.

2. In Device Manager, expand the Printers section.

3. Right-click on your printer and select Update driver.

4. If no update is available, select Uninstall device. After uninstallation, restart your computer, and Windows will attempt to reinstall the printer drivers automatically.

For more information, see Download and install the latest printer drivers.

Blurry text or images can sometimes be caused by scaling or app issues.

• Make sure apps used for printing are up to date.

• In the app you’re printing from, verify image resolution and print scaling.

• Avoid enlarging low‑resolution images before printing.

This helps rule out app-specific problems.

• Print the same document from another app (for example, Notepad or Word).

• Try printing a different file or image.

• If the issue occurs in only one app, repair or reinstall that app.

The print spooler service handles print jobs and restarting this can resolve temporary issues with printer recognition.

1. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

2. Scroll down and locate Print Spooler.

3. Right-click on Print Spooler and select Restart.

Before changing Windows settings, make sure the printer hardware is ready.

• Verify that the correct paper type and size are loaded in the tray.

• Use clean, dry paper that meets the printer manufacturer’s recommendations.

• Make sure ink or toner cartridges aren’t empty or expired.

• Remove any jammed paper or debris inside the printer.

• Restart the printer.

This helps determine whether the issue is with Windows or the printer.

1. Print a test page directly from the printer’s control panel.

2. If the test page also looks poor, clean or service the printer hardware.

3. If the test page looks fine, continue with the steps below.

Incorrect print settings can reduce output quality.

1. Select Start > Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners.

2. Select your printer, then select Manage > Printing preferences.

3. Check the following settings:

   • Print quality or resolution is set to Normal or Best.

   • Economy, Draft, or Toner saver mode is turned off.

   • The selected paper type matches what you’re using.

4. Select Apply, then try printing again.

If you are using a Windows 10 device, start by running the automated Printer troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix this Printer problem.

Run the troubleshooter in Get Help

Dirty or misaligned printheads often cause streaking or faded output.

• Open the printer’s software or control panel on the printer itself.

• Run Clean printhead, Align printhead, or Maintenance tools.

• Repeat the cleaning process only if needed, as it may use additional ink.

Outdated or incompatible drivers may cause printer issues. Ensure that the latest printer drivers are installed.

1. Select Start > Device Manager.

2. In Device Manager, expand the Printers section.

3. Right-click on your printer and select Update driver.

4. If no update is available, select Uninstall device. After uninstallation, restart your computer, and Windows will attempt to reinstall the printer drivers automatically.

For more information, see Download and install the latest printer drivers.

Blurry text or images can sometimes be caused by scaling or app issues.

• Make sure apps used for printing are up to date.

• In the app you’re printing from, verify image resolution and print scaling.

• Avoid enlarging low‑resolution images before printing.

This helps rule out app-specific problems.

• Print the same document from another app (for example, Notepad or Word).

• Try printing a different file or image.

• If the issue occurs in only one app, repair or reinstall that app.

The print spooler service handles print jobs and restarting this can resolve temporary issues with printer recognition.

1. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

2. Scroll down and locate Print Spooler.

3. Right-click on Print Spooler and select Restart.