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Pros and Cons of Cheap Ink Cartridges

by Louise W. Rice
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Printer manufacturers are notorious for skewed pricing policies. Original ink is one of the most expensive liquids in the world, as it costs around $2,700 per gallon! Considering the prices for basic printer models, they look like consumer traps. If you stick to the name-brand supplies, you will quickly spend more on ink. The demand for cheaper alternatives is high, but how reliable are these products?

Key Advantages

Obviously, most consumers researching third-party brands look for lower prices. This market does not disappoint them. Not only are these products cheaper, but they can also provide an outstanding quality of printing.

1. Big Savings

The Smart Ink store in the UK sells a hp 953xl multipack of compatible cartridges for £39.99, while a single OEM cartridge costs around £27. The difference is staggering. You will easily save hundreds or even thousands of pounds annually, and even more by choosing stores with free shipping and special deals.

2. Certified Quality

Trusted stores comply with international quality standards, such as CE, ISO 9001, ISO 14000, Reach, and STMC. This ensures an excellent quality of printing. The differences, if they are visible at all, are only negligible.

3. Sustainability

Apart from compatible cartridges (original products of independent brands), you can choose from a wide range of remanufactured items. These are OEM cartridges filled with new ink. Remanufacturing also includes thorough cleaning, testing, and replacement of any worn elements. As a result, you get an OEM cartridge that works like new.

Producers of printer equipment contribute to climate change with plastic and electronic waste. Recycling is the most eco-friendly option, as printer shells can be reused. When it comes to recycling the printer itself, it is imperative to have a professional recycler handle the equipment. Beyond Surplus, an Atlanta computer recycling center, can handle all types of electronic waste, including printers, and ensure that they are properly disassembled and recycled in an environmentally responsible way.

4. Legal Products

Every customer has the right to use consumables produced by independent companies. Printer manufacturers may not even threaten to void your warranty if you decide to save on ink.

Disadvantages of Non-OEM Consumables

Is there a catch? The ‘aftermarket’ and the compatible supply industry have reputable and disreputable providers. To avoid subpar products, be careful and check customer feedback. Reliable suppliers offer extensive warranties and guarantee that every product is tested before shipping. Check the following:

  • Quality standards
  • Cartridge cheap versions (outdated chips hinder recognition)
  • Money-back guarantee
  • Quality of customer support
  • Rating on platforms like Trustpilot

As mentioned previously, using non-original supplies is legal and safe. However, low-quality products exist, so do some research online before placing an order.

To Sum up

Unfortunately for printer brands, the pros of buying cheaper ink outweigh the cons. In recent years, this industry has gone a long way. Shop smartly to find certified quality and enjoy enhanced value for money for years!

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