Hi I regret this happening to you. I can understand if you are disappointed that the cartridges seem to run out too quickly. Generally ink usage determines how long a cartridge lasts. High-density prints (such as images and graphs) will use more ink especially if the paper is highly absorbent and the surrounding air is dry. Here are some things that might help lower your ink usage: - Set the printer to draft mode whenever possible - Using the black-only setting will save on colored ink usage. - Shut the printer down between uses - Always use the power button on the printer itself to turn it off. That gives it time to ‘park’ so that the cartridges are protected from excessive drying - Subscribe to Instant Ink then you only pay by the page and not for the cartridges themselves If poor performance appears to be due to a defective cartridge consider returning it to the seller. Mary HP Care hp.com/support