Are you tired of replacing your ink cartridge every month? Do you want to save money without sacrificing quality print jobs? There are several different types of toner cartridges out there, but understanding how they work will help you make the best purchasing decision for your needs. Here’s everything you need to know about the four main types of toner cartridges available on the market today, along with the pros and cons of each one, so that you can determine which type will work best for your printing needs.
OEM Toner Cartridges
OEM toner cartridges are usually found in printers sold at major electronics stores and other retailers. These cartridges are cheaper because they’re made by third-party manufacturers, not by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). For example, an HP printer cartridge would be manufactured by HP itself; if you’re buying an aftermarket HP cartridge, it’s manufactured by a company other than HP.
- The Pros and Cons
OEM toner cartridges are generally cheaper than refilled toner cartridges, but they do not last as long as high-quality remanufactured and compatible printer supplies. If you print infrequently or are new to printing, an OEM printer cartridge may be a good option for you. However, if you print often or have prior experience with printing and/or computer peripherals, it is probably best to invest in higher quality remanufactured or compatible replacement toner.
Remanufactured Cartridges
Whether you’re interested in saving money or trying to be environmentally friendly, remanufactured cartridges are an excellent option. These cartridges have been thoroughly cleaned and refilled with new toner, meaning they’re just as good as their brand-new counterparts—and save you a lot of money.
- The Pros and Cons
Although Remanufactured Cartridges are a little more expensive upfront, they’re often cheaper in the long run since they can last up to twice as long as OEMs (and sometimes longer). They also benefit our environment by preventing manufacturers from producing more plastic waste. The only downside is that some people claim their print quality isn’t as good. It all depends on which brand you buy and what kind of printer you have. Do your research to figure out if it’s right for you.
Refilled Cartridges
Refilled cartridges cost a fraction of new ones and can have just as much toner. However, there is an array of different refilled cartridges on the market, so it’s essential to find one that uses high-quality toner and meets your printer’s needs. You may also want to keep in mind that some refilled cartridges may come without warranties for replacement or repair. Before you invest in one, do your research and make sure it will meet your needs.
- The Pros and Cons
Refilled cartridges don’t work as well as new cartridges, but they do save you a lot of money. Although they often void your printer warranty, refilling toner can be easy to cut costs and save tons on supplies.
New Compatible Cartridges
Compatible Cartridges are made from used or refurbished parts, meaning that they cost significantly less than brand-new cartridges. New compatible cartridges should last for about as long as a new cartridge and don’t require any recycling once you’re done with them.
- The Pros and Cons
They cost less than name-brand toner cartridges, but you do get what you pay for. Quality control isn’t always as good as with name-brand cartridges, so expect more frequent print failures and lower yields from compatible cartridges. In addition, some printer companies will void your warranty if you use compatible cartridges.