Printer Cartridge Guide
A printer cartridge is a lot more important than you think. Different printers require different cartridges and you need to know the specifics of each. This guide would tell you everything you need to know about printer cartridges.
With a laser printer, you replace the toner/drum printer cartridge; while with an inkjet, the ink tank is replaced. Some inkjets use a single four-coloured cartridge, which includes black ink, while others use tricolour, and a separate one. Make sure you include the expenditure incurred from cartridges to your annual budget!
Points to remember before buying a Printer Cartridge:
Go for a cartridge with a separate black ink-tank if you mainly use black ink for printing.
If longevity of photographs is a concern, go for an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturers) photo cartridge.
For all other uses, you can save money with a refill kit or remanufactured inkjet cartridge.
There is hardly any difference between an original and remanufactured black printer cartridge. However, with a coloured one, you can tell which is better.
Surf the net for the best deals on printer cartridges. Stores are often more expensive.
Some commonly available Printer Cartridges:
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Cartridges - These are produced by the manufacturers and contain their name on the product like Canon, IBM, Sharp, Lexmark, Brother, Epson, etc. 4inkjets sells OEM printer cartridges for HP, Compaq, Lexmark, Canon and many more printers.
Generic Ink Cartridges - These printer cartridges often exceed OEM specifications and are known for high standards of quality and reliability evident in the high quality printing results. They also contain new components and thus provide a cheaper alternative to branded cartridges. You should also note that all ‘compatible’ laser toner cartridges contain both new and used parts, if it has not been specified otherwise.
Remanufactured Cartridges - These cartridges are professionally remanufactured. They have been through one cycle of service and have then been recharged. However, this does not mean that remanufactured printer cartridges would offer low quality since all of them pass through an actual printing test.
Tip: Know about your printer’s specific needs as well as the quality of printing required before buying a printer cartridge.
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