OEM vs. Remanufactured Printer Cartridges: Understanding the Difference

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Confused about the choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and remanufactured printer cartridges?

Not sure what the best option is for your office and your bottom line?

Both OEM and remanufactured cartridges offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, so it’s important to understand the disparities before deciding. You also want to be sure to seek advice from an expert, so you get not only the best value for your dollar, but the best quality cartridges for your printer!

OEM Printer Cartridges

Original Equipment Manufacturer cartridges are produced by the same company that manufactured your printer. These cartridges are brand new and undergo rigorous quality control measures to ensure compatibility and performance.

Quality Assurance: OEM cartridges guarantee consistent quality and reliability. Since they’re designed specifically for your printer model, they’re less likely to cause compatibility issues or damage to your printer.
Warranty Protection: Using OEM cartridges typically maintains your printer's warranty coverage. If any issues arise, the manufacturer is more likely to provide support and assistance.
Cost Consideration: While OEM cartridges offer top-notch quality, they often come with a higher price tag compared to remanufactured alternatives. This cost can add up, especially for businesses or individuals with high printing needs.

Remanufactured Printer Cartridges (Compatibles)

Remanufactured cartridges (also referred to as “compatibles”) are recycled OEM cartridges that have been cleaned, refilled with new ink or toner, and tested for performance.

Cost Savings: Remanufactured cartridges are generally more affordable than their OEM counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking to save on printing costs without compromising quality.
Environmental Impact: By repurposing existing cartridges, remanufactured options contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and conserving resources. This eco-friendly aspect appeals to those of us who are environmentally conscious consumers!
Quality Variability: While remanufactured cartridges undergo testing, there may be variations in quality and performance compared to OEM cartridges. Factors such as ink or toner quality and cartridge compatibility can affect print results.

Choosing the Right Option from your Local Printer Supply Company

Mistakes when buying cartridges can cost you both time and money. If you’re running a small business, not being able to get printer supplies when you need them can disrupt your workflow. Need advice on which is the best option for your machine? We can help!

We stock a wide variety of toner cartridges that can be hard to find locally. We also carry name brand toner like HP, Lexmark, and Brother to name a few. Most OEM cartridges are guaranteed by their manufacturers for 30 days from the date of purchase.

Our Premium Compatibles offer on average a 30% savings from OEM prices and the Standard Compatibles can offer as much as a 60% savings. Our compatible toner cartridges come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee with no questions asked for the entire life each cartridge.

Our local compatible toner customers enjoy FREE cleanings and routine maintenance as well. This means you will never have to struggle with nor pay for the installation of fusers, maintenance kits, transfer belts, or other consumable components in your machine. Find out more about the benefits of compatible toner cartridges from a reputable printer supply company in Ann Arbor.