Comparing genuine products to compatible products.

Comparing genuine products to compatible products.

When you ask about whether compatible or genuine cartridges are the best to use you will likely have arguments for both sides. The reason is that technology is so advanced that it has become easier for third party manufacturers to successfully replicate the high quality of genuine cartridges.

One of the big difference between compatible cartridges and original cartridges is the cost. Generally, the price of genuine cartridges is significantly higher and that is often the decider for buyers.

The three main reasons why manufacturers recommend that you use genuine or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cartridges are:

Are there differences between Compatible and Genuine cartridges?

Compatible cartridges, also known as generic cartridges, are made from a combination of refurbished and new parts by third party manufacturers to work with your printer.

Pros
  • Can be purchased at a lower cost than genuine cartridges;
  • More widely available at a range of shops;
  • The warranty period with Ink Station is 12 months, which also covers problems caused by manufacturer firmware and security updates. 
  • Are manufactured for longer so you continue using your printer even when the genuine cartridges are no longer available.
  • Suitable for basic, at home, printing.  
Cons
  • Manufacturers warn they may damage printers and deliver poor print quality;
  • If your printer is still within it’s warranty period, using a compatible cartridge may void the warranty;
  • Some printers are sensitive and may refuse to accept the compatible cartridges;
  • Printer manufacturers regularly issue firmware and security updates to prevent the use of compatible cartridges. If your automatic update is not switched off you might find that your previously working compatible cartridges may suddenly stop. 
  • Not suitable for high quality photo/colour print or printing on special paper (e.g. photo paper, banners, posters).

Genuine cartridges or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cartridges are made by the same company that built your printer.

Pros
  • Guaranteed compatibility with your printer;
  • Suitable for high quality photo/colour print or printing on special paper (e.g. photo paper, banners, posters)
  • Consistent performance;
Cons
  • More expensive to buy than compatible cartridges.
  • The warranty period is limited by the manufacturer's warranty conditions and involve an extensive claim process.
The choice between genuine cartridges and compatible cartridges comes down to personal preference – and for some budget.  If you are doing photo printing, legal documents, client proposals, contracts, then it’s recommended that you stick with the genuine cartridges.

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