How to save big money on printer ink

One of the most frustrating things computer users can go through is to suddenly be faced with an “out of ink” message when printing an important document. Even more frustrating is going to the store and paying those outrageous prices for new ink cartridges.

If you’ve ever gone to the store to buy ink cartridges and discovered that buying an entirely new printer might actually be cheaper, you already know just how much brand name ink cartridges can cost. You’ve probably also tried buying so-called replacement inks at a bargain price, only to find that they didn’t offer the same quality or represented very little actual value.

Is it possible to find high-quality ink that rivals the cartridges offered by the manufacturer without paying a premium price?

The answer is yes. Just do a search on remanufactured or crcycled ink cartridges and you’ll find several companies online that provide these services. I use a company called 123inkjets.com. They provide free shipping on most of my orders, a one year money back guarantee and terrific prices.

I have saved as much as 75% by buying re manufactured ink cartridges. The ones I got from123inkjets.com have worked flawlessly with every printer I’ve ever used – HP, Canon, Epson, Lexmark, you name it.

They’re not the only company out there, of course. And I’ve noticed a lot of ink recycling shops opening in storefronts. I just prefer the convenience of ordering online and not having to run out. Because of the savings, I can order in advance and always have a supply on hand when the printer runs dry.

This article was posted by Tech Reporter Mike Wendland. It has been archieved under How To, Tech Tips.

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12568 ResponsesHow+to+save+big+money+on+printer+ink2009-05-16+08%3A45%3A56Mike+Wendland to “How to save big money on printer ink”

John D Says:
October 9th, 2008 at 2:32 am

Hi Mike,

Indeed, purchasing remanufactured ink cartridges is a great way to save money. However, what if I told you that is an even better solution? It may not be the best for everyone but a continuous ink supply system is very cost effective and ink quality is excellent. I’ve written up an article about it here: Should You Buy Cheap Ink?
Nick K from the Big-D Says:
February 22nd, 2009 at 1:52 pm

Very useful site!

Instead of impulsively purchasing ink from a retail store at $30.00, I can purchase my ink online for $10.00. Next time I am running low, I will utilize this recommendation. I am also going to recommend this site to family and friends.

Thank you for sharing.
Dace Says:
March 9th, 2009 at 2:01 am

Oh!! Great… I’m just looking for high quality of ink for my printer… Thanks for the link!!
Tim Says:
March 19th, 2009 at 1:54 pm

I have had significant problems with several off-brand ink toner cartridges. I finally returned to manufacturer cartridges and haven’t had a problem with my Brother HL2040 Laser.
Betty Says:
March 20th, 2009 at 5:52 pm

Have used 123Inkjets and really like them. Just got 5 black cartridges for $63 and free shipping. All work great!! They give you a one year guarantee and will take back any if you change printers or have problem. Most other sites only give you a 90-day guarantee.
Sue M. Says:
May 17th, 2009 at 11:31 pm

I have save probably THOUSANDS of USD (dollars) by refilling my own cartridges. I have up to 23 refills on a few. I still have ink left over from about 8 years ago…still works well. It is a minor skill that most can learn. My printer is messy from the inside (splattered ink) but handles most everything else well…when I do delicate printing, I put in a new cartridge.
David F Says:
June 19th, 2009 at 5:44 am

I now use Epson brand ink exclusively in my R300 & R340 printers. Following your 123InkJet lead, I found they only claim to have “compatible” inks as an alternative to genuine Epson and do not even mention remanufactured for my printers. I have tried the so called best brands of compatible inks for these photo printers with only dismal to barely acceptable results. At best, my resulting prints were never predictable except when Epson brand ink cartridges. I too would love to save money on ink and I shop aggressively for the best deals out there but can not sacrifice quality over saving a few dollars.
Eric Kushner Says:
June 24th, 2009 at 4:41 pm

I took your lead, Mike, with 123 inkjets for my HP3310 and have been saving money and enjoying good print quality ever since. I actually asked a friend that is in the toner business what he thought of the prices and he said that he couldn’t beat that wholesale. Thanks for the tip!

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