What is the difference between Original, Remanufactured and Compatible Cartridges?
What is an original (OEM) cartridge?
An ‘original’ or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) cartridge is a cartridge which has been manufactured by the brand specifically for their printer. An example; a cartridge manufactured by Brother for a Brother printer. These brand name cartridges have never been used and often cost more than ‘remanufactured’ and ‘compatible’ cartridges.
What is a remanufactured cartridge?
Remanufactured toner and inkjet cartridges are empty OEM brand cartridges that have undergone a professional remanufacturing process. These cartridges are thoroughly cleaned and remanufactured with some new parts and then refilled with a high quality equivalent toner or ink formulation. They are then inspected for any possible shell leakages and to ensure that the electrical circuitry is operational before undergoing and passing a lengthy print testing process. Ink cartridges can in some cases be remanufactured up to seven times, which has a positive impact on the environment; reducing waste and decreasing the use of plastics.
What is a compatible cartridge?
Compatible toner and ink cartridges are cartridges that are produced by a company other than the printer’s manufacturer. Sometimes called aftermarket cartridges, these third-party supplies are designed to meet the specifications of the printer’s manufacturer. Often filled to full capacity, a compatible cartridge will print as many or in some cases more pages than an OEM cartridge.
Why should I buy compatible or remanufactured cartridges?
In most cases, the only difference between a compatible and an OEM cartridge is the logo on the box and the amount of money you pay for it. Compatible toner cartridges cost less and let you stretch your print budget further.
Does using compatible toner invalidate my warranty?
This is a common fear, but thanks to 1975’s Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act—an antitrust law, your printer’s warranty should remain intact even if you use a third-party toner cartridge.