Big brands trap their customers in a cycle. While the printers can be as cheap as chips, the prices for the ink look dubious. Replacing a cartridge may cost almost as much as the machine itself. This is true for Canon, HP, and other big names. Fortunately, there are different ways to save on consumable supplies.
For example, buying Canon 245 from a trusted online shop can help you save $30 on each replacement. Brands like Smart Ink for Canon Printers offer compatible products and remanufactured cartridges for all popular printer models. Here are your options.
1. Buying a Compatible Cartridge
As the term suggests, these products are designed for specific printers, but they come from third-party manufacturers. Top products are instantly recognized by the equipment, they comply with international quality standards and come with an extensive warranty. As a result, you get excellent quality printing at a lower cost.
Compatible cartridges are available for all the popular models of Canon printers. When shopping, look for compliance with quality standards like CE, ISO 9001, ISO 14000, Reach, or STMC. Make sure the warranty covers any transportation damage, and the product comes in multi-layer packaging.
2. Buying a Remanufactured Cartridge
Original Canon cartridges may also be recycled. This process involves disassembly, emptying, cleaning, filling with fresh ink for Canon Printers, assembly, and tests at every stage. Essentially, the providers reuse the shells and internal components (replacing them if needed), which lets consumers save big. These products are also more sustainable.
Like compatible cartridges, remanufactured goods may be ordered online with free shipping, a money-back guarantee and other benefits. Make sure the store complies with international quality standards, and it has a high rating on websites like Trustpilot.
Why Are the Original Supplies So Costly?
Major printer manufacturers seem to follow the old “razor and blades” model. Their printers can be as cheap as chips — you can find a basic model for under $100. At the same time, the supplies will cost much more in the long run. Inkjet printers are ideal for high-resolution photos, but contrast replacement is the biggest drawback unless you are familiar with the “aftermarket” alternatives.
Customers who buy cheap printers feel cheated, as the original supplies are so pricey. Companies do not mind selling their equipment at a loss, as they focus on making a profit from cartridge sales.
Is It Safe?
Yes, as long as you buy from a trusted supplier. Big printer manufacturers do everything they can to prevent customers from buying third-party products. Still, these replacements are perfectly legal, and all attempts to outlaw them have failed. Canon advises against these replacements and issues updates programming its printers to reject non-original supplies. However, third-party ink will not void your warranty for the machine, and the firmware issue is easy to fix — just disable the updates.
