Why use genuine ink cartridges instead of compatibles?
With a range of options on the market it can be tempting to save money by using compatible ink cartridges rather than the genuine article.
Before going down that route, it’s important to consider the benefits of paying a little extra and sticking with your manufacturer.
The benefits of using genuine cartridges include:
Quality and reliability
It probably goes without saying, but genuine ink cartridges have been specifically designed for your chosen model of printer, so the ink is perfectly formulated for that printer’s specifications. This generates more consistent, higher-quality prints with sharper text and more vibrant colours, especially when compared to third-party alternatives.
Printer life
Manufacturers design their genuine ink cartridges to work seamlessly with their printers. Using compatible cartridges, especially those at a lower price point and therefore of lower quality, can lead to your printer clogging, leaking or even suffering damage. This could result in the need for expensive repairs or even complete replacement earlier than expected or budgeted for. In essence, trying to save money on your ink cartridges can prove to be a false economy.
Warranty issues
Many printer warranties will stipulate that you use genuine ink cartridges. As a result, if you use a third-party cartridge and something goes wrong with your printer, the manufacturer may refuse to honour the warranty or repair it free of charge.
Ink efficiency
Ink technology has advanced over the years, and manufacturers’ investment in this area has enabled them to provide inks that are designed to be more efficient, meaning that they may not only last longer but also provide more consistent results. Some compatible cartridges can be less efficient and may also not be filled to the same level as their genuine equivalents, which in turn means that they’ll need to be replaced more often.
Printing problems
It’s not unheard of for compatible cartridges to trigger error messages, problems with print quality and the misreading of automatic ink levels. Genuine cartridges are more likely to work smoothly with your printer without causing problems such as these.
Sustainability
Most manufacturers of genuine ink cartridges already offer recycling opportunities, enabling you to return used cartridges for proper recycling. Several compatible brands do also offer recycling, but it’s by no means universal.
At TBM we offer business machines and IT support in Newmarket, Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds. To request a no-obligation quotation for your next multi-function machine or IT support contract, please call us on 01638 665240, send us an email or complete our enquiry form.