If you’ve ever bought a new printer, you may have noticed that the cartridges included in the box don’t last very long. That’s because they’re usually starter cartridges. But what exactly does that mean, and how are they different from regular cartridges? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Starter Cartridge?
- A starter cartridge is the toner or ink that comes with a brand-new printer.
- Unlike a standard replacement cartridge, it contains less toner or ink, often only a fraction of a full supply.
- The purpose is to let you set up the printer right away and print a limited number of pages.
Why Do Manufacturers Use Starter Cartridges?
- Lower Printer Cost: By including less toner, manufacturers keep the price of the printer itself more appealing.
- Encourage Early Reorders: Because starter cartridges run out quickly, users often need to buy a replacement soon after setup.
How Long Do They Last?
- Yields vary, but starter cartridges may last only 25%–50% as long as a standard cartridge.
- For example, if a full cartridge prints 3,000 pages, a starter version might only print 700–1,500 pages.
What Should You Do?
- Don’t be surprised if you need new cartridges soon after buying a printer.
- When purchasing, factor in the cost of replacement cartridges, not just the printer itself.
Final Thoughts
Starter cartridges are a way for manufacturers to get you printing right away, but they won’t last as long as full cartridges. Planning ahead by ordering standard or high-yield replacements will keep your printer running without interruptions.
