subject: Different Types Of Toners [print this page] Ever wondered what the difference between toners and cartridges are?
You're not alone, there is a lot of confusion regarding the subject, and this article should hopefully clear things up for you. This article splits up the different types of toners, in an attempt to stop the confusion. We're going to cover the main types of cartridges in this article; Original toners and cartridges, Re manufactured or compatible toners and cartridges, and finally, refilled toners and cartridges.
What are "Original" toners?"Original" toners and ink cartridges are usually made by your printer manufacturer. (e.g. Dell, HP, or Epson). You might also find "Original" toners from companies other than your printer manufacturer; these companies have been given permission or a licence from the printer manufacturer to produce toners for their printers. Each original toner cartridge is made from scratch, with new materials; although some manufacturers such as HP do recycle some parts of their cartridges (e.g. the plastic mold) to save money. The prices are still higher compared to Remanufactured.What are "Remanufactured" toners?"Remanufactured" toners and ink cartridges are generally made from companies other than your printer manufacturer. Remanufactured toners and ink cartridges may also be known as "Compatible" toners by some sellers. When a toner is remanufactured, all of the parts inside are replaced, such as the drum, the roller and the wiper blade. Then the toner is re-assembled after been refilled, then it's ready to be sold.What are "Refilled" toners?"Refilled" toners and ink cartridges are quite simply; refilled. The process takes place by opening up the cartridge, and usually piercing a hole in the container where the ink is stored. The containers are then filled with the new toner and then sealed up again. A downside with having your cartridges refilled is that parts, for example; the drum or roller, aren't guaranteed on how long they will work past the toner's first use due to wear over time. This may lead to the toner failing unexpectedly, and usually quite unpredictably. This is why refilled toners and ink cartridges are priced lower than remanufactured.
Hopefully things should be a lot clearer for you now, and I hope this has helped you understand the differences between Original toners and cartridges, Re manufactured or compatible toners and cartridges, and finally, refilled toners and cartridges. You should now also have more knowledge about what choice of ink you will purchase next time your printer runs out, and what to go for.
