When replacing printer ink or toner, you’ll likely find three options: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), remanufactured, and compatible cartridges. Each varies in cost, print quality, environmental impact, and warranty coverage.
If you need a breakdown of ink vs. toner, refer to our detailed guide on the differences between ink and toner. Here, we’ll compare OEM, remanufactured, and compatible cartridges to help you choose the right one for your printer.
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) printer cartridges
OEM or original equipment manufacturer printer cartridges are made specifically for your brand of printer such as HP, Canon, Brother, or Epson. To purchase the right cartridge for your printers, you will need to know the corresponding printer models. OEM cartridges are known for their high quality and reliability, but there are some drawbacks. We’ll go through the pros and cons below.
You can find OEM printer cartridges through our Ink & Toner Finder categorized by brand for easy selection.
Pros:
- High quality – OEM cartridges are designed for optimal print performance, ensuring sharp text and vibrant colors.
- Guaranteed compatibility – Since they are made by the same brand, they work seamlessly with your printer.
- Manufacturer warranty – OEM cartridges often come with a warranty, protecting against defects or performance issues.
Cons:
- Higher price – OEM cartridges are the most expensive option, often costing significantly more than remanufactured or compatible alternatives.
- Environmental impact – Since they are new, they contribute to more plastic waste compared to remanufactured cartridges.
Remanufactured printer cartridges
A more environmentally sustainable choice, a remanufactured printer cartridge is an OEM cartridge that has been professionally cleaned, refilled with fresh ink or toner, and tested to ensure quality performance. This process gives used cartridges a recycled life, making them a more eco-friendly option.
You can find remanufactured printer cartridges in our Ink & Toner Finder including Quill® brand remanufactured cartridges that offer great quality at a great value. Plus, Quill® brand remanufactured printer cartridges come with a lifetime guarantee to give you more peace of mind about your purchase.
Pros:
- Price – Remanufactured cartridges cost 30-50% less than OEM cartridges while maintaining similar print quality.
- Eco-friendly – By reusing cartridges, they help reduce plastic waste and lower carbon footprints.
- Reliability – High-quality remanufactured cartridges are rigorously tested to meet industry standards.
Cons:
- Minor variations in quality – Print quality may differ slightly depending on the remanufacturing process.
- Availability for new printers – These are returned OEM cartridges, so availability can be limited for the latest printer models.
Compatible printer cartridges
Compatible printer cartridges are new, cost-effective third-party cartridges created to work with OEM printers. Unlike remanufactured cartridges, they are not reused but entirely new alternatives.
Explore compatible options in our Ink & Toner Finder, including Quill® brand compatible cartridge selections that offer both affordability and reliable performance.
Pros:
- Cost – Compatible cartridges are often a more affordable option compared to OEM products.
- Wider availability
Cons:
- Quality can vary – Some third-party manufacturers cut corners, leading to inconsistent print results. Choosing a reputable brand like Quill ensures better reliability.
- Printer compatibility issues – While most work seamlessly, some printers may display warnings when using non-OEM cartridges.
Selecting the right printer cartridges for your workplace
When making your ink cartridge selection, remember these considerations:
- OEM: Quality and reliability at a premium price
- Remanufactured: Good quality, lower cost, and environmentally friendly
- Compatible third party: Budget-conscious solution
The good news is you can select from any of the above at Quill with the assurance of the Quill quality you’ve come to expect. Check out the Quill Ink & Toner Finder to find the cartridges that suit your needs best.