Communicated Content – According to printer manufacturers, their cartridges are costly as they spend a ton of money on R&D. Branded products ensure top-notch quality, but the official justification is questioned by many. As basic printers are so affordable, some consumers wonder if this industry works just like “razor and blades”.
One look at the market of compatible supplies is enough to raise suspicion. If you can pay around $28 for a 5-pack of XL HP 950 ink from Smart Ink, why does the brand charge $46.99 for a single pigment? Considering the price of simple printers ($80-120), brands seem to capitalize on expensive consumables for cheap core products. Bargain hunters should think twice before snatching these deals.
Tip 1. Use Non-OEM Ink
Thanks to improved technologies and a focus on innovation, this industry has made big progress. Manufacturers of compatible ink have almost bridged the printer performance gap. Some brands provide the same level of quality as the biggest brands.
Not every independent brand is reliable, but customer reviews are a click away. You can easily find a well-established store with a five-star rating.
Tip 2. Research Printers Before Buying
New printer models appear every few months. The cost of running is just as important as printer type. How much will you need to pay for a pack of cartridges? Finding a machine that uses affordable replacements will take some research.
Tip 3. Reconsider Ink Consumption
Customers seizing printer bargains spend more on consumables. Over a year, these additional costs amount to several hundred or thousand dollars, depending on the intensity of use. Switching to low-cost cartridges is your first step towards efficiency, but there are ways to pay even less. Think about these questions:
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Does the printer meet your needs?
Different models have different standard page yield rates. Typically, color laser printers are more efficient than their inkjet counterparts. When shopping for new equipment, think about what you will print and how quickly the ink will run out.
Ink cartridges are best for high-resolution tasks, photos, and home use. They are smaller than toner products in terms of size and capacity, so replacements are more frequent. Offices with heavy-duty printing needs typically opt for laser machines. The upfront costs are higher, but so is efficiency.
2. Is page yield sufficient?
The number of pages is calculated based on 5% coverage — i.e., covering just 5% of a page with ink. XL and XXL cartridges have a larger capacity, so you get the best bang for your buck. Choose extra high yield to save more per purchase.
To Sum Up
To spend less on ink, use the most efficient supplies and print wisely. High yield, free shipping and additional discounts will help you save hundreds of dollars every year.
