Many consumers do not see the difference between these types of cartridges. Today we present to you the differences that exist between these computer consumables which are not original brand. On the other hand, this represents a saving compared to the originals. Whether it’s ink cartridges or toner cartridges. Here is the difference between a compatible, recycled, recycled or OEM cartridge?
3 Types of cartridges available in the market, Original (OEM cartridge), recycled (refurbished), compatible (generic)
- Original – 3 months to one year warranty – Plus or minus 1% return rate – Expensive price, Top Quality
- Recycled – 2 to 3 year warranty – More or less 3% return rate – Average savings of 50%, Superior quality
- Compatible – 2 to 3 year warranty – More or less 3% return rate – Average saving of 75%, Respectable quality
Original OEM cartridge
Original cartridges are those made by major printer manufacturers such as Brother, HP, Epson, etc. These cartridges usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Original (OEM) cartridges are sometimes the only ones available for certain models. Manufacturers often change printer and cartridge models to outsmart the alternative cartridge market. The defect rate of these cartridges is approximately 1%
Compatible cartridges
Compatible, or generic, cartridges are a type of newly manufactured cartridges. This type of cartridge is new, has not been used before. To be compatible with your printer, manufacturers follow the original manufacturer’s specifications in all accessories. Such as sponges, updated chips, cylinders, etc. So when you use them in your printer, you will have virtually no problem. The quality is therefore a little lower than that of the original cartridges. On the other hand, the average 2 year warranty for laser cartridges makes this product a safe and economical purchase. When it comes to compatible inkjet cartridges, the warranty is often similar to that of OEM cartridges.
Recycled or remanufactured cartridges
Recycled or remanufactured cartridges, this is an original cartridge but with small modifications, that is to say that the parts that have suffered wear have been replaced by new parts, and have been changed to continue the printing process. Thus, before putting it in the hands of the distributors, the manufacturer checks them and an internal and external cleaning of the cartridge. Manufacturer passes one or more test impressions and gives an optimal result for after other marketed checks. In this sense, ecological type cartridges are remanufactured according to the strictest industry standards. Each reman cartridge is tested and packaged with care. The average warranty for this ecological and economical product varies from 2 to 3 years on average. So the risk is controlled and the savings are greatly appreciated by these customers with eco-responsible values.
Cartridge filled, reloaded
The refilled cartridge, this type of cartridge does not go through any process or cleaning, or changing of wearing parts, is only filled with ink and goes to the market, does not guarantee an ounce of safety or quality let alone performance.
After the first purchase, the price of the home refill kit is very cheap, and the only expense you will have to face is to buy ink to refill it, which is quite cheap.
However, it is true that even if you try to keep the ink cartridges in their best condition, the quality of the refilled ink cartridges will start to decline over time.
The type of ink cartridge you choose will depend on your printing needs. However, it should be noted that this is certainly not the case, as remanufactured, compatible and refilled ink cartridges are poor quality substitutes for the original product.
How to keep your inkjet cartridge from drying out.
If you want to refill your inkjet cartridges, please consult specialists in order to have an optimal filling and especially a small guarantee. The average warranty for this type of refilled cartridge varies from 30 to 90 days. Afterwards, it will be essential to keep your refilled cartridges in a place not too dry (humid) to prevent your cartridges dry too quickly. We invite you to read our tips to prevent your inkjet cartridges from drying out.
Some recommendations
Once the types of cartridges have been differentiated, we advise you not to buy a refilled cartridge because it certainly does not guarantee you anything. In addition, it may be a risk that is not worth taking.
On the other hand, not all generic or recycled cartridges are of good quality. We therefore advise you to go to a point of sale that you trust. So if for some reason the cartridge has problems, you can return it or the dealer will take over and change the cartridge for another.
What is the difference between an OEM, compatible, recycled or refilled cartridge?
Do you have questions, comments or solutions?
Express yourself!
