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Difference between Compatible vs. Remanufactured Printer Toner Cartridges?

What is the difference between Compatible vs. Remanufactured Printer Toner Cartridges? And I looking to buy a compatible HP 12A Compatible Printer toner, but not sure if it is safe and won't ruin my printer. It is significantly cheaper, but is it reliable?

Public Comments

1. A compatible toner cartridge is one made by another company, one other than your printer's manufacturer and not authorized by them. They are guaranteed by the company that made them to work with your printer. A remanufactured cartridge is one that uses parts that were used in another toner cartridge that was returned (usually because there is no toner left). The remanufacturer guarantees that the cartridge will work as good as new for the life of the toner in the cartridge. I have used both compatible and remanufactured cartridges for many years and have never had a problem. I've never known anyone to have a problem. I've never even heard of a compatible or remanufactured toner cartridge damaging a printer. I think you can safely go with whatever's cheapest. There is, however, one issue specific to the 12A. The 12A's toner module includes the drum, and a remanufactured cartridge may include a remanufactured drum. The remanufacturer should test the drum to ensure it has enough life to last through the toner cartridge, but they assume an average density (mix of black and white areas on the page) and an average frequency (pages printed per week). If you have a lower than expected density (pages that are more white than average) or lower than expected frequency (only a few pages per week), your drum may wear out before you run out of toner. I would recommend you start out with whatever's cheaper, and if you get printing issues, don't buy from that manufacturer again. Odds are you'll have no problems.
2. Compatible is a brand new cartridge not made with any original parts. A remanufactured toner cartridge is completely reconditioned HP original cartridge.