Printer Costs Comparison OEM vs Premium vs Generic Compatible

Some of you might be already users of aftermarket printer consumables. Some of you might still be hesitant to try. But of course, that’s your decision. What I’m about to take on this article however is to find out the truth about the lower cost per page these compatible cartridges claim. We always read that they are cheaper and therefore lowers costs per page. Let’s find out the difference between prices and operation costs for each. I’m going to compare HP 8600 ink cartridges which are HP 950 black and HP 951 color in OEM, premium cartridge and generic compatible cartridge. Let’s find out.

Specifications:

OEM: (Original Equipment Manufacturer) – means they were made by the same manufacturer as your printer.  In this case, HP 8600 inkjet printer.

HP 8600 ink series comes in standard and high yield (XL). But I’m just going to put the high yield for comparison.

Premium Cartridges – Premium quality cartridges are different in a way from other compatible cartridges in terms of materials used. They are brand new materials, uses higher quality of toner or ink and most of the time patented for their own formulation.

Generic compatible cartridges – These replacement cartridges may come as refurbished or remanufactured from used OEM cartridges. Worn out parts are replaced by new materials and are refilled with compatible ink or toner.

If you’ve noticed, there is indeed a significant difference between these printer cartridges. Cartridge cost is one determiner whether the printer is actually cost-efficient. In most cases though, the cheaper the printer, the pricier the cartridges. HP 8600 inkjet printer for one costs around $129 up to $250 depending on the upgrade. With its OEM cartridges costing $30, when combined, it is more expensive than the printer itself. But of course, there are a lot of tips on saving or lowering your printing costs you can find. Thanks for reading and leave your comments below.