OEM vs. Remanufactured Toner & Ink – What’s the Difference?
When choosing toner or ink, customers often wonder whether it’s worth paying extra for brand-name OEM cartridges or choosing the more affordable remanufactured option. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each so you can confidently choose the best option.
Original (OEM) Toner & Ink
Pros
- Manufactured by major printer brands (HP, Canon, Brother, etc.)
- Low defect rate (around 2%)
- Consistent and reliable performance
Cons
- Significantly more expensive — often nearly double the price
- Many OEM products do not include a warranty
- OEM stops producing cartridges for older printers
- Slightly lower page yield than remanufactured alternatives (about 6%)
Remanufactured Toner & Ink
Pros
- Much more affordable than OEM versions
- Print quality comparable to original cartridges
- Includes warranty for peace of mind
- Available for both new and discontinued printers
- Eco-friendly — reduces plastic and metal waste
- Cartridges are tested to ensure 0% defect rate before shipping
- Often provides a higher page yield than OEM (about 6%)
Cons
- Not manufactured by the original printer brand
Our Recommendation: If you want maximum value for your money without sacrificing print quality, remanufactured cartridges are an excellent choice. They’re reliable, environmentally friendly, and significantly cheaper — making them the best option for most homes and businesses.