What Ink Does the HP DeskJet 2540 Use?

Name: HP 61 / 61XL
Brand: HP

Quick answer

The HP DeskJet 2540 uses HP 61 or 61XL ink cartridges.

Last verified: 2026-07-29

Compatible cartridges for the HP DeskJet 2540

Cartridge	Part	Shop
Standard Black	HP 61 Black	Shop on Amazon
XL Black	HP 61XL Black	Shop on Amazon
Standard Color	HP 61 Tri-color	Shop on Amazon
XL Color	HP 61XL Tri-color	Shop on Amazon

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Standard vs. XL — which should you buy?

HP 61 or 61XL cartridges come in standard and XL (high-yield) sizes. Standard cartridges cost less upfront; XL cartridges cost more upfront but typically print two to three times as many pages, so they usually work out cheaper per page if you print regularly. If you print only occasionally, a standard cartridge may suit you better, since ink can degrade before you use up an XL cartridge's larger capacity.

Standard and XL HP 61 or 61XL cartridges are physically and electronically interchangeable in HP DeskJet 2540 - you can mix a standard black with an XL color cartridge, or switch sizes the next time you reorder, with no printer settings to change. For the full cost-per-page breakdown and when each size makes the most sense, see our guide on standard vs. XL cartridges.

How to check which cartridge is currently installed in the HP DeskJet 2540

Most HP inkjets show installed-cartridge status on their own screen or through HP Smart software: check Settings → About or Supplies on the printer, or open HP Smart's printer status or maintenance tab - both typically list the installed cartridge part numbers alongside an estimated ink level.

If your HP DeskJet 2540 doesn't have a screen, remove the cartridge from its carriage - the part number (for example, HP 61 Black) is printed directly on its label. Compare that number to the compatibility table above to confirm whether you have the standard or XL version before buying a replacement. See our guide on finding your printer model number if you're not sure exactly which HP DeskJet 2540 variant you own.

HP DeskJet 2540 Ink FAQ

What ink does the HP DeskJet 2540 use?

The HP DeskJet 2540 uses HP 61 or 61XL ink cartridges: HP 61 Black (standard) or HP 61XL Black (XL) for black, and HP 61 Tri-color (standard) or HP 61XL Tri-color (XL) for color.

Can I use HP 61 Black instead of HP 61XL Black in the HP DeskJet 2540?

Yes. HP 61 Black and HP 61XL Black are physically and electronically identical except for ink capacity - the XL version simply holds more ink and lasts roughly two to three times longer per cartridge. You can install either one in the HP DeskJet 2540 without changing any printer settings.

Does the HP DeskJet 2540 need both cartridges installed to print?

Yes, in most cases. Like most HP inkjets, the HP DeskJet 2540 generally needs both the black and color cartridges installed to print at all, even for black-and-white jobs, because removing a cartridge leaves an empty carriage slot many printers are designed to refuse to run with. Check your printer's manual to confirm this for your exact model.

Other HP 61 / 61XL printers

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