Original (OEM) and compatible cartridges
Most cartridges you will find for sale fall into one of two groups:
- Original or OEM cartridges: made by the printer manufacturer itself, such as HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, Lexmark, Pantum or Samsung. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer.
- Compatible cartridges: made by third party manufacturers to fit specific printer models. They are not made by HP, Canon, Epson or the other printer manufacturers, and they usually cost less.
Both types are designed to work in your printer. The main differences are the manufacturer, the price, and in some cases the page yield and print results.
How to read the packaging
- Brand name: an OEM cartridge carries the manufacturer's name and logo, for example HP or Canon, on the box and on the cartridge. A compatible cartridge carries the third party manufacturer's name, or a generic label.
- Wording such as "compatible with" or "for use in": compatible cartridges are usually labelled this way, followed by the printer brand and model numbers. This tells you which printers the cartridge is made to fit. It does not mean the cartridge was made by that brand.
- Printer model list: check that your printer model is listed on the box or in the product description.
- Labels and seals: many OEM boxes carry a printed seal, sticker or hologram from the manufacturer, such as HP, Canon or Epson. Compatible cartridges normally have their own packaging and labels.
How to read part numbers
Every cartridge has a part number, for example CF259A, TN-2445 or 305A. You can find the correct number in your printer manual, on the cartridge already in your printer, or on the printer brand's website.
- An OEM cartridge uses the brand's own part number.
- A compatible cartridge usually lists the OEM part number it replaces, sometimes alongside its own product code.
- Small differences in a part number can mean a different yield (for example a standard and a high yield version) or a different region. Match the number exactly to your printer.
How to read page yields
Page yield is the approximate number of pages a cartridge can print. Yields are normally measured at about 5% page coverage, which is roughly a short typed letter. Pages with images, heavy text or colour fills use more ink or toner, so your actual number of pages will usually be lower than the stated yield.
When comparing cartridges, look at the price per page as well as the price of the cartridge. A high yield cartridge often costs more upfront but less per page.
Check the product page before you buy
On our store, each product page states whether the item is an OEM cartridge or a compatible cartridge, along with the part number and the printer models it fits. Please check these details before you order.
If you are unsure which cartridge fits your printer, you can send your printer model to support@maxiprint.co.za.
