With so many to choose from, buying printer cartridges be a little confusing! Hopefully, this guide will point you in the right direction.

The Advantages Of Ink

Ink cartridges used in inkjet printers combine pigments and dyes that work together to boost page retention and deliver vivid colour. Ink cartridges cost less than toner cartridges at point of purchase, but the output is not as great so you'll replace ink cartridges more often.     

The Benefits Of Toner Cartridges

Toner cartridges are used in laser printers, with a dry powder being heated and applied to the page. Laser printing using a toner cartridge is fast and efficient, with an output greater than an ink cartridge, making them cost effective despite the initial outlay.       

Be An Original Printer

Original cartridges (often called Original Equipment Manufacturer - OEM) are made by the same company that manufactured your printer. Original cartridges promise the best quality and reliability.

Or Be The Compatible Type

Compatible cartridges are made by third-party companies instead of the manufacturer, and are designed to fit a range of printers. While they are cheaper than original cartridges, they may not offer the same quality as OEM.      

It's Not All Black & White

Generally speaking, toner cartridges will give you great results for plain black & white printing, while ink cartridges should be considered if you're producing colour images. Photo printers obviously need ink cartridges. 

Cost-Effective High Yield Printing

Cost is a point of consideration for any cartridge purchase. For greater cost-effectiveness, look for High Yield cartridges that offer more printing capacity at around 5% coverage.