5 Best Tips to Buy the Right Ink and Toner Cartridges
By Space Coast Daily // March 18, 2025
Running out of ink or toner at the wrong moment can be frustrating, especially when printing important documents.
Choosing the right cartridges isn’t just about grabbing the first option available. The right choice ensures smooth printing without smudges or streaks.
With so many options on the market, it’s important to know what to look for when buying ink & toner cartridges. This guide will share the five best tips to help you make the right purchase.
1. Know Your Printer Model
It is important to check the model of your printer before purchasing ink or toner. Each printer requires a particular kind of cartridge, and if you use the wrong kind, your printer will not function properly.
You can find the printer model on the front of the printer or in the manual. The correct cartridge model is usually listed in the printer settings or on the old cartridge. Checking this information ensures you buy the right cartridge without wasting money.
2. Original vs. Compatible vs. Remanufactured Cartridges
In general, there are three different kinds of cartridges. Original cartridges (OEM) are made by the printer’s brand and offer high quality but cost more.
Third-party manufacturers produce compatible cartridges, which are of superior quality and can be purchased at a lower cost. Remanufactured cartridges are recycled and refilled, making them eco-friendly and budget-friendly.
Go with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) if you want the best quality. If you want to save money, choose compatible or remanufactured options.
3. Assess Print Quality
To achieve prints that are clear and sharp, it is essential to have a high print quality. Some cartridges produce faded or blurry prints, which can affect documents and photos.
Reading customer reviews helps check the quality of a cartridge before buying. If possible, buy from trusted brands or sellers with a return policy. High-quality ink or toner ensures better printing results and avoids wasted paper.
4. Verify Expiration Dates
Cartridges for ink and toner both have expiration dates labelled on them. Using an expired cartridge can cause poor print quality or even clog your printer.
Before buying, check the manufacturing and expiration dates on the package. If you don’t print often, avoid buying in bulk to prevent ink from drying out. Choosing fresh cartridges ensures smooth printing without issues.
5. Value for Money
It might appear to be a good deal to purchase a low-cost cartridge, but it might not last very long or produce satisfactory results. Instead of looking for the lowest price, compare page yield (how many pages it can print) and cost per print.
Some high-yield cartridges last longer, saving money in the long run. Checking warranty and return policies also helps in case of defects. Choosing the best value ensures better performance and fewer replacements.
Buy from Reputable Suppliers Today
Ensuring high-quality prints starts with choosing the right ink and toner cartridges. Make the smart choice today and keep your printer running smoothly with the best cartridges for your needs.