The Difference between a Compatible and Original Ink Cartridge

Some people are unsure as to what the differences are between compatible (sometimes known as third party) and (OEM) original brand ink cartridges.

1. Cost
   The difference in cost is the first issue with compatible ink cartridges when they are compared to original brand. In some cases the cost of a compatible cartridge can be as much as 70% less than that of an original brand. The differences in price between original brand and compatible laser toner can still be as much as 50% but is typically around 30%.
   
2. Are compatibles as good as original cartridges?
   The print output you get from using compatible ink cartridges in terms of volume should be at least that of the original brand. Many compatible cartridges are filled to capacity unlike their original counterparts and will out-perform in terms of which lasts longer. The price difference then becomes the main concern if you are able to get the same or more printing form a compatible inkjet cartridge. A good way to decide if the quality is satisfactory is to carry out an experiment using photo gloss paper. If you have original brand cartridges in your printer print a selection of images onto the photo paper over a period of time and display them in your office or somewhere you can see them regularly. When that ink has run out, choose a set of compatible ink cartridges and run a series of the same photos on the same paper and pin them up alongside those The difference between a printed using the original brand cartridges. The results should tell you whether the difference is enough to make want to make the switch to compatibles. Of course for everyday printing that doesn't involve the printing onto photo paper it's very likely that the compatibles will be sufficient to do the job.
   
3. What is the difference between compatibles and refilled/remanufactured ink cartridges?
   Although the technology behind the different types of printers that use ink cartridges is extremely complex there is a simple reason why some printers use compatible and some use refilled ink cartridges. Canon, Brother and Epson all manufacture printers with a built in print head. Therefore, when you replace the ink cartridge you are in effect replacing the ink tank. When one colour runs out you simply replace the empty colour cartridge. HP, Lexmark and Dell manufacture printers that have the print head integrated into the ink cartridge. In this case, every time you replace a cartridge you replace the print head too. These cartridges are more expensive as a rule, as they have more technology built in. They are also more likely to be refilled, as the print head is good for more use without any loss of quality.

Compatible or refilled/remanufactured ink cartridges will always give you the best value and make your printing more economical. Perform a test today and see if you can make the switch and save.

First Published at PrinterInkCartridges.ie