With the number of toner options that are currently available on the market, it’s understandable when office managers and other purchasers are confused. If you are purchasing your toner produced directly by the manufacturer, you know that the product is of high quality and fully compatible with your equipment. Other viable options include generic toner and refilled cartridges. While all of these options are feasible, there are certain factors that separate each type of toner.

Here’s how to pick the right toner for your office printers.

OEM Toner

Purchasing Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) toner is generally what happens just after you purchase your new equipment. However, after a few reorder cycles many buyers decide to take a look at other options. OEM toner may be the most trustworthy option, but it’s also the most expensive. Here are a few important factors about OEM toner:

  • Designed for your machine, specifically
  • Will not damage your machine
  • Highest quality of printing results
  • Is a brand new product
  • Higher price point

Remanufactured Toner

Remanufactured toner, or reman, is another option for your office printer when your needs do not require top quality print clarity. Reman utilizes used cartridges that are remanufactured, refilled, and resold. If you choose this type, you will need to purchase toner from a quality manufacturer to ensure that your product is of the highest quality and reliable. Reman toner has quite a few benefits and some drawbacks, including:

  • Less expensive
  • Is a reliable option when purchased from a reputable seller
  • Quality can vary greatly between manufacturers
  • Better for the environment
  • Can damage your machine if not purchased from a trustworthy dealer

Compatible Toner

This type of toner is sometimes referred to as the “generic” choice as it is the same formula manufactured by a third-party. This middle-of-the-road option is perfect for print jobs that require a higher level of quality in a situation with price constraints:

  • Lower price point than OEM toner
  • Quality will vary by manufacturer
  • Must be purchased from a reputable seller
  • May produce inconsistent results
  • Possible damage to your machine if not purchased from a reliable manufacturer

Which toner is the correct choice for your needs?

If your printing requirements include extreme clarity and a high-quality print, OEM toner may be the best choice. In situations where most of your printing projects serve internal needs, the quality of the toner becomes less important.  As long as your product is purchased through a reputable seller, any type is suitable.

To purchase OEM, compatible, or remanufactured toner, or if you’d like to learn more about the unique toner needs of your office printers, contact Hart Office Solutions today.