How to choose printer consumables

When you choose consumables for your printer, these points can help you get good print results and keep running costs under control

1. Print quality and cost per page:
   • Original, compatible and remanufactured cartridges can differ in print quality and page yield. A cartridge that does not suit your printer can lead to wasted pages, time and supplies.
   • If you are looking at a high yield cartridge, compare the cost per printed page rather than only the purchase price, and check that the yield matches how much you actually print.
   • Ink has a limited shelf life, so it helps to buy a size you will use up within a reasonable time.
2. Printer and cartridge combination:
   • When buying a printer, look at the cartridges it uses as well as the printer price, since cartridges make up most of the running cost.
   • Some printers use a single tri-colour cartridge. When one colour runs out, the whole cartridge needs replacing, which can cost more over time than a printer with separate cartridges for each colour.
3. Separate drum units:
   • Some printer brands, such as Brother, use a drum unit that is separate from the toner cartridge, so the two are bought and replaced separately.
   • The drum (also called an organic photoconductor or OPC drum) transfers toner onto the paper and has a limited page life.
   • Drum units vary in how long they last, so check the rated page yield when comparing options.
4. Choosing ink:
   • Inkjet printers are usually compact, cost less to buy and produce strong colour.
   • They work well with regular use, since ink can dry out in a printer that stands unused for long periods.
   • Ink usually costs more per page than toner, so high yield (XL) cartridges can give better value if your printer supports them.
   • If you are unsure which type to use, original cartridges from the printer manufacturer are a straightforward choice, and compatible cartridges are an option if cost per page matters more to you.
5. Choosing toner:
   • Toner quality affects how sharp and even the print is on a laser printer.
   • Toner cartridges and laser printers are well suited to fast, high volume document printing.
   • Refilling toner cartridges yourself can be messy, so many people prefer to buy a new original or compatible cartridge instead.
6. The fuser unit:
   • The fuser melts the toner onto the paper and is an easy part to overlook.
   • A worn fuser can cause faded or smudged prints, creasing and paper jams.
   • If you suspect a fuser problem, a printer technician can confirm it, and a new replacement fuser is usually a better option than a used one.

Keeping these points in mind will help you choose consumables that suit your printer and your budget. If you are unsure which cartridge, drum or toner fits your printer, you can send your printer model to support@maxiprint.co.za.