Why Do Generic Printer Ink and Toner Cartridges Fail?

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There are a number of reasons why both printer ink cartridges and toner cartridges fail. The most common one occurs when remanufacturers put the wrong toner or ink in the cartridge. You might think that yellow toner is yellow toner, but there can be vast differences, even though the eye might not detect it.

Here's the general description of how a laser printer works -

When you click the print button on the computer, it sends a message to the laser printer telling the drum (a shiny magnetic tube or sheet) how much and where to apply its magnetic charge.

Toner is a magnetic substance. The drum picks up the toner and a transfer roller transfers it to the paper that is rolling past it.

A fuser unit heats and melts the toner onto the page.

Whilst this is the general process of printer laser toner printers, not all printers are created equal. In addition, not all printers within the same brand are created equal. Different technologies and efficiencies mean that the toner for one model will not be appropriate for another. It might be magnetically attracted, or melt, at a different rate to another batch of toner of the same colour.

Similarly, ink molecules vary. Some inks are thicker than others, and some dry at faster or slower rates. The heads in an ink printer receive the message from the printer and release the correct amount required. If the printer ink is not the one designed for the printer, it can leak through the head of the printer, onto the page, or onto other components of the printer as it moves through the machine. It can also block the print heads if it is too thick, rendering the printer unusable.

Incorrect printer ink or toner cartridges can result awful results such as images that are ghosted onto the page, smudged images, toner that is not fused (and rubs off), paper jams and many more problems. This can result in both wasted time (replacing or reordering) and presentation.

If generic ink has so many potential issues, why is it so popular? The answer in most cases is price. In Australia, Resellers can sell nearly any printer ink or toner cartridge in a generic version for up to 75% cheaper than the genuine printer ink and toner cartridges. Unfortunately many resellers have no idea if the cartridges that they are selling contain the correct ink or toner. There are a couple of reputable distributors and resellers however and it is wise to check warranties before you buy. You should only buy from resellers that offer you a 100% money back or replacement guarantee.

In addition, if you are considering buying compatible printer ink cartridges or toner to save money you may like to ensure that you have back up options to use (another printer, extra cartridges or someone who can print for you) in case of cartridge failures.

The team at tonermart and the cartridge family have over 10 years experience in printer ink cartridges and which printer ink cartridges to use. Don't hesitate to call or email and ask them.