How to Print Front and Back in Word on Your Mac: A Complete Guide

Learning how to print front and back on Mac in Microsoft Word can save paper, reduce clutter, and streamline your workflow—especially in professional and academic settings. While macOS offers robust printing features, many users still struggle to activate duplex printing or configure it correctly within Word.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step needed to print double-sided documents using Word on your Mac. Whether you’re working with a home inkjet or an office laser printer, you’ll also discover how the Air Printer app can simplify the process. Compatible with macOS, iOS, and all major printer brands, Air Printer ensures seamless printing even when AirPrint or default settings fall short.

Preparing to Print Double-Sided on Mac

Before diving into Word settings, confirm whether your printer supports automatic duplex (front-and-back) printing. If it doesn’t, you’ll still be able to print double-sided manually.

Step 1: Open Your Word Document

Launch Microsoft Word and open the document you want to print.

Step 2: Access the Print Settings

Go to File > Print or press Command (⌘) + P. A print dialog box will appear.

Step 3: Enable Two-Sided Printing

• Look for the "Two-Sided" dropdown.
  
  
• Select Long-Edge Binding (for portrait) or Short-Edge Binding (for landscape).
  
  
• If this option is grayed out, your printer may not support automatic duplex printing.
  
  

Tip: Air Printer users can bypass such limitations by enabling duplex emulation within the app—ideal for older printers or limited macOS drivers.

Step 4: Adjust Additional Print Settings

You can change orientation, paper size, or page range here. Once ready, click Print.

Troubleshooting Common Printing Issues

How to Print in Color on Mac

Some users report grayscale output even when using a color printer.
To fix this:

• In the Print dialog, click "Show Details".
  
  
• Select Color Options or Quality & Media, depending on your printer model.
  
  
• Make sure “Color” is selected—not “Black & White.”
  
  

If you're using an HP printer and notice that your HP Envy won’t print in color on Mac, reinstalling the latest drivers or using the Air Printer app can restore color functionality by offering advanced settings not found in macOS defaults.

H3: How to Print Double Sided on Mac Word

Follow the main guide above. If your printer doesn’t support duplex printing, select “Odd Pages Only,” print, flip the paper, then select “Even Pages Only.”

H3: How to Print Single Sided on Mac

Go to File > Print > “Two-Sided” and select Off. This ensures your pages print one side at a time.

How to Print One Sided on Mac

This is similar to printing single-sided. If “Two-Sided” is enabled by default, make sure to uncheck or turn it Off in the Print Settings.

Conclusion

Mastering how to print front and back in Word on your Mac gives you more control over your documents and reduces waste. Whether you're printing school reports, business proposals, or colorful brochures, understanding your Mac’s print options is crucial.

With the Air Printer app, printing becomes even easier. It supports all printer brands, integrates perfectly with macOS and iOS, and eliminates compatibility frustrations. If your current setup lacks duplex support or you're running into driver limitations, Air Printer is a reliable, one-click solution.

People Also Ask

How do I enable double-sided printing on my Mac in Word?

Open your Word document, go to File > Print, and in the dialog box, check the “Two-Sided” option. If it's not clickable, your printer may not support duplex printing, but Air Printer can help.

Why is two-sided printing not an option on my Mac?

This usually means your printer doesn’t support duplex printing or macOS doesn’t recognize it. Check your driver or try using a third-party app like Air Printer.

Can I print double-sided manually on Mac?

Yes. In the Print dialog, choose “Odd Pages Only,” print them, flip the stack, then print “Even Pages Only.” Word supports this under Print Settings.

How do I change printer settings on Mac?

Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners > select your printer > Options & Supplies. Here, you can enable duplex printing if available.

What is the best app for printing from Mac without compatibility issues?

Air Printer is a top-rated solution that supports all major printer brands and simplifies duplex, color, and manual settings even for older printers.