Green Printing: Toner Based Printers
All printers use either Ink or Toner. Sounds simple…until you realize there are multiple choices for both. Following is an overview of not only Ink vs. Toner, but also the different Ink and Toner solutions. Thanks, Mason, for compiling this information!
Toner
Toner-based printers typically provide the lowest cost per page and higher page yields per cartridge. These ”work horse” printers tend to be middle of the road when it comes to pricing. However, the print quality is generally not as good as with Ink-based printers.
Toner is toner is toner. However, the cartridges it comes in have distinct differences. Cartridges are available as New (OEM), Refilled and Remanufactured. Which should you use?
-
New (often referred to as OEM)- the most expensive option. However, all parts are new and print quality is virtually never a problem.
-
Refilled - typically the cheapest option. No parts are repaired or replaced, only the toner is replaced (refilled). As a result, print quality is sacrificed.
-
Remanufactured - middle of the road on price. Not only is toner replaced, but so are parts. Print quality is good, but sometimes there are defective cartridges.
Green Factor: ReUse It’s all about the cartridge. This plastic container is typically not recyclable (definitely not around Richmond). New cartridges have no green factor - unless you donate them to companies who refill and/or remanufacture. An added green factor with Refilled and Remanufactured - their vendors typically will pick up the used cartridges when they deliver the “new” ones.