How Long Should A Printer Cartridge Last?

Ever bought an ink cartridge, expecting it to last you for a good few months, only to find that you need to replace it again within a couple of weeks? You’re not the only one.

Considering how much OEM printer cartridges cost, the relatively short amount of use some wield seems unfair. So unfair, in fact, that some consumers end up thinking their printer is faulty.

So, how long exactly should a printer cartridge last you after purchase?

Unfortunately, there is no single answer to that question. You can, however, get quite a good idea by considering a few factors.

Size of the Cartridge

Printer cartridges come in all shapes and sizes, with some representing much better value than others. The volume of a cartridge (that is the amount of ink inside the cartridge, rather than the actual capacity) is a major factor in how long the cartridge will last. It goes without saying that a 5cl cartridge will run out long before a 15cl cartridge.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that a 15cl cartridge represents the best value, however. The lower cost of the 5cl cartridge could make it a more viable choice if you don’t happen to print that often. If you do find yourself regularly replacing your cartridges, though, then higher capacity cartridges will see you forking out less over the long run.

Your Printer

Depending on what kind of printer you have, you may not actually have the luxury of choosing between volumes. Different printers rely on different models of cartridge, and the volume and performance of these cartridges often depends on the price range of the printer.

This means that cartridges for low-cost ‘all-in-one’ printers tend to be low capacity and thus run out very quickly, whereas more expensive printers will boast higher capacity cartridges. Choosing between the two again depends on how often you print and how often you find yourself replacing consumables.

Similarly, the toner cartridges used in laser printers will last a lot longer than an ink cartridge, although they cost a lot more initially.

How Often You Print

The most obvious factor in how long a cartridge will last, the frequency with which you print, will dictate how much you spend on cartridges. If you are a heavy printer, a new cartridge can run out within weeks. Less frequent printers, however, could see their cartridges lasting for months.

What Kind Of Prints

If you print a lot of high quality photos, it goes without saying that you’re going to be using more ink than someone who simply prints out word documents. Therefore, a photographer is going to use up a cartridge far quicker than a writer working from a home office.

The Type of Cartridge

This only really applies to colour cartridges. If you have an all-in-one cartridge, the chances are it won’t last that long as the cartridge will cease to work should one of the colours run out. Conversely, you’ll get more use out of printer that uses four different cartridges for each colour, as you will be able to continue printing even if one of the cartridges runs out.

How Well You Care For Your Cartridge

Believe it or not, printer cartridges require a degree of care to keep them working at their best. When installed, you should always let an ink cartridge run its cleaning course in order to keep the nozzles unblocked. Never leave a cartridge unused for too long!

If you’re planning to store cartridges, then keep a note of the expiry date and store them in a dark, dry place. Keep ink cartridges on their side so that the ink remains in contact with the sponge. An ink cartridge in storage just last for a good few months, whereas a toner cartridge will last anywhere between a year to two years.

If you’re interested in getting the best value out of your printer, take a look around the Cartridge World website for some great prices on third party cartridges or visit your local Cartridge World store to have your old ink cartridges replaced for a fraction of the cost of a new cartridge!