Inkjet printers can be as cheap as chips, but there is a catch. When the ink runs out, you may discover that a replacement costs as much as the machine itself. Many consumers turn to affordable alternatives. You can easily cut costs and still get excellent supplies that will not damage your printheads.
Original products cost so much they seem to be a rip-off. The manufacturers justify their pricing by intensive investment in R&D. Some experts say the companies sell inkjet models at a loss, as their focus is on supplies. Expensive cartridges help them recoup their investment. Fortunately, you can find any ink cartridge replacement at a store like Smart Ink for a fraction of the cost.
New Ink
To save on ink, you could either refill your old cartridge, order a refilled name-brand product, or buy a compatible alternative from another brand. When the item is remanufactured, it is emptied, cleaned, and filled with fresh ink.
The specialist must pour in the right volume of ink without bubbles and be very careful with the chips. Today, it is not necessary to take your supplies to the service provider, as remanufactured OEM cartridges are sold online. Printer manufacturers do not prohibit refilling, and it does not void their warranties.
Compatible Products
This is a convenient and cost-effective solution if you buy from a reliable store. Such third-party products are designed to emulate the original supplies, but they still have distinctions, so their producers do not break the law. Although printer brands have tried to outlaw these items in the past, they have lost the legal battles.
The cartridges are created for specific models of the equipment, and the quality may be so high that you will not notice any differences from the original. However, the price is the key selling point — consumers can save 50% or even more on every replacement! If the store also provides free shipping, the offer is irresistible.
Choosing a Supplier
Look for certified quality in compliance with standards like CE, ISO 9001, ISO 14000, Reach, or STMC. The cartridge must come with the latest version of the chip to ensure compatibility. Note that although the big brands may not outlaw these products, they release firmware updates to prevent their printers from accepting them. This problem is usually solved by disabling the updates. In addition, look for:
- instant recognition;
- high page yield;
- XL volume;
- ink level tracking;
- extensive warranty;
- free shipping.
The Bottom Line
If you do not want to splurge on an original cartridge, you do not have to. Compatible and remanufactured products from reliable stores provide an impressive quality of printing at a fraction of the price. They are truly a bargain.