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How Long Do Laser Toner Cartridges Last?
Laser printer toner cartridge life is measured in terms of yield. This measurementhas two numbers, the first is the number of pages that can be printed with thatcartridge. The second is a percentage which refers to the ratio of the page that isprinted on. For example, a yield of "35000 pages, 5%", indicates that the cartridgewill print 3500 average quality pages with text that covers five percent of eachpage.
One good thing about laser printers is that not using the machine doesn't result inreduced cartridge life. This is because laser toner is powder. So unlike the liquidink in inkjet cartridges, it doesn't dry up if unused for a long time.
What Are My Options For Replacement Cartridges?
Your first option is to get what are called OEM cartridges. These are made by theprinter manufacturer and tend to be very expensive. This is because the printersthemselves are sold as loss leaders. So the manufacturers need to make up theirprofit on the sale of replacement toner cartridges. With your laser printer having alife of around five years, you'll probably spend up to seven times the cost of theunit on replacement OEM cartridges.
An alternative is to get what are called "compatible cartridges". These are newtoner cartridges but manufactured by a third party. As they are made to thespecification of the manufacturer, the quality is generally very high, especiallywith the application of ISO 9001 in recent years. However, they are much cheaper.The price of these compatible cartridges are usually less than half that the OEMitem. These are your best option.
You can also find what are called remanufactured cartridges. These are differentfrom compatible cartridges in that they are used OEM cartridges that have beenrefilled. Good remanufactured cartridges consist of more than simply filling a usedcartridge with ink or toner, though. Reputable manufacturers also clean and qualitycheck the cartridges, too.
One good thing about remanufactured laser toner cartridges is that they'reenvironmentally-frien dly. Just think, UK users alone throw away over two millionprinter cartridges each year. In fact, many organizations now pay you for returningused laser cartridges.
Where's The Best Place To Buy Replacement Cartridges?
You have a number of options here. Your high street discount chain will have a wideselection but prices tend to be very high. Likewise for the office supply chains.Then there's ordering from an online supplier which offers many benefits. For onething, as these online dealers don't have the expense of maintaining a shop orshowroom, they can offer you very attractive prices. (Better still, they're not caught in the loss leader trap so they don't need to markup their prices so much). What's more, reputable suppliers will have onlinecatalogues so you can browse conveniently and order from the comfort of your home.Plus, delivery is very fast. Orders are usually shipped within 48 hours.
But not all online suppliers are created equal so there are a number of caveats.Firstly, you should be wary of companies that offer their laser toner cartridges atwell below market prices. Check, too, to make sure that the supplier guarantees thattheir compatible cartridges match the life and print quality of the OEM items.
Laser printing is becoming increasingly popular and by judicious shopping you canmake it very affordable. By shopping online for your laser toner cartridges, you canget the fastest, quality printing done at prices that don't break the bank.
