Printer cartridges are the removable and replaceable sources of ink for printers. Printer cartridges can be divided into three categories: OEM manufactured cartridges, compatible cartridges, and remanufactured cartridges. OEM cartridges are cartridges produced by the same name-brand companies as the printer itself. OEM cartridges, such as those of HP, Lexmark and Canon, offer quality guarantees at a cost premium. Compatible printer cartridges are produced by lesser known manufacturing companies, but are built to replicate the features of specific OEM cartridges at greatly reduced cost. Remanufactured cartridges are either OEM or compatible cartridges that have been returned, cleaned, and reloaded with ink.



Related terms: toner, toner cartridges, printers, replacement printer cartridges, compatible cartridges