Printer ink is one of the most expensive liquids on earth. HP, like other big manufacturers, is notorious for its pricing. The global demand for cheaper alternatives explains the popularity of generic and refilled cartridges. Discover how they work, and how to save money without sacrificing quality.
In a trusted independent store, you can find any ink, including a cartridge pack for HP 972x, and get a similar value at a low cost. For example, you can pay $159.99 for the full bundle (4 cartridges) at Smart Ink, while the manufacturer offers one black cartridge for $139.99! Your potential savings are astonishing, but can you really trust these products?
How It Started
Compatible cartridges emerged as an alternative to expensive OEM supplies. All famous printer manufacturers have used the same “razor and blades” model for decades. The office equipment may be as cheap as chips, but you are guaranteed to spend more on the consumables in the long run. This is also true for more expensive machines — for example, the HP Pro 452dw model costs around $500, but it requires four original cartridges that will set you back around $400.
The official explanation refers to the impressive R&D expenses (HP spends over $1 billion per year!). Yet, customers feel that they are treated unfairly. In layman’s terms, big brands are focused on making money from cartridges. Meanwhile, their competitors offer high yield, certified quality, extensive warranties and other benefits for all popular models at a relatively low cost.
Discover Compatible Cartridges to Shop Smartly
These items are designed and produced by independent manufacturers, and they fit specific models of printers from famous brands. Not every compatible cartridge will work like the original product. To find reliable generic supplies, pay attention to quality certificates, money-back guarantees, and customer feedback. Check websites like Trustpilot before buying anything online. The optimal set of benefits includes:
- Quality certificates confirming compliance with such standards as CE or ISO;
- A money-back guarantee (2 years is an optimal period for most products);
- High page yield;
- The latest version of the cartridge chip (this ensures instant recognition);
- Ink level tracking (so you get notified about low ink in advance);
- Free shipping;
- Reliable packaging to prevent transportation damage;
- 24/7 customer support.
