Drivers, queue and errors
Printer 'Memory is low' error: why it happens and how to fix it
Written by Fix a Printer Editorial Team · Updated
A “Memory is low” message on an HP LaserJet usually appears partway through a big copy, fax or print job, sometimes with the job cancelled. It refers to the printer’s own small internal memory, not to your computer, and it is almost always fixable without a repair. This guide follows HP’s own troubleshooting steps and adds the practical workarounds that stop it coming back.
This is an independent guide; fixaprinter.com is not affiliated with HP. If your printer shows a numbered error such as 20.xx or 21.xx, that is a different memory or print failure; look up that code on HP’s support site for your model.
Why printer memory runs out
According to HP, the internal memory is nearing capacity, and the likely reasons are:
- A very complex print job, for example pages full of high-resolution images or detailed graphics.
- Downloaded fonts or macros used by the job.
- Memory already filled by stored fonts, faxes or macros.
- Out-of-date printer firmware.
HP also notes the error is not seen when scanning, only when copying, faxing or printing.
Step 1: clear the message
On the printer’s control panel, press OK to let the printer finish the job, or Cancel to stop it. HP warns that if you press OK, some pages or details may be skipped so the job can complete, so check the output and plan to reprint after the steps below.
Step 2: free up the printer’s memory
- Delete stored faxes if your model can fax. Faxes kept in memory are a common cause on multifunction models.
- Turn the printer off and on. This clears stored fonts, macros and temporary memory.
- Try the job again.
Step 3: update the firmware
If the error comes back, HP’s advice is to make sure the printer runs the latest firmware:
- Print a Configuration Report from the control panel and note the firmware date.
- On HP’s support site, find your printer and open Software, Drivers and Firmware.
- Expand the Firmware section and compare the version date with your report.
- If a newer version is available, install it, keeping the printer switched on and connected throughout.
Step 4: make the job simpler
These workarounds, also from HP, reduce how much memory a job needs:
- Split big jobs into smaller ones with fewer pages.
- Print PDFs as an image. In Adobe Acrobat or Reader, open Print > Advanced and tick Print As Image. See our guide to a printer that won’t print PDFs for other viewers.
- Change the driver. HP says a PostScript driver usually creates a more complex print file. Install a PCL6 driver if your printer has one, or HP’s Universal Print Driver.
- Lower the print quality for drafts. A lower resolution setting in the driver produces a smaller job.
Step 5: add memory or reset, if needed
- Extra memory. If the printer supports expandable memory, HP suggests installing a memory DIMM. Check your printer’s user guide first; many compact LaserJets do not have a memory slot.
- Restore factory defaults. As a later step, HP suggests restoring the printer’s defaults from the control panel. This removes saved settings, including fax contacts and scan-to-email setup, so note them first. Our factory reset guide explains the general process.
If none of this helps, contact HP support or an HP-authorised service provider. Avoid “printer support” phone numbers from search ads.
Related problems
If the job never reaches the printer at all, see the print spooler fix. If pages come out but only the first one prints, see printer only prints the first page, and for slow jobs see printer printing slowly.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Memory is low' mean on an HP printer?
It means the printer's internal memory is nearing capacity while it processes a copy, fax or print job. HP says the usual causes are a very complex job, downloaded fonts or macros, memory filled by stored faxes, and out-of-date firmware.
How do I clear the 'Memory is low, press OK' message?
Press OK to let the printer finish the job, or Cancel to cancel it. HP notes that pressing OK can skip some pages or details. Then delete stored faxes and turn the printer off and on to clear temporary memory.
Why does a PDF cause 'Memory is low' when other documents print?
PDFs with large images, layers or many fonts can produce a very complex print job. HP suggests printing the PDF as an image, splitting it into smaller jobs, or using a PCL6 or Universal Print Driver instead of PostScript.
Can I add memory to my printer?
Some HP LaserJet models accept extra memory modules (DIMMs). HP advises checking the printer's user guide to see whether yours supports it; many small models do not.
Will restoring factory defaults fix it?
It can, as a later step, but HP warns that restoring defaults removes saved settings such as fax contacts and scan-to-email settings. Try the other fixes first.
Sources
Editorial team
The Fix a Printer team writes and updates independent printer troubleshooting guides, checking Windows and macOS steps against Microsoft and Apple documentation.
