Printer Ink Cartridges for HP, Canon, Epson, Brother & More

Replacement compatible and remanufactured ink cartridges designed to work with your printer at a lower cost than manufacturer cartridges. Each cartridge is tested for compatibility and backed by our satisfaction guarantee. Enter your printer model or cartridge number below to find the correct match for your printer.

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What Is a Printer Ink Cartridge?

A printer ink cartridge is the replaceable component inside an inkjet printer that holds liquid ink used to print documents and images. Each printer model requires specific cartridge numbers designed to physically fit and electronically communicate with that printer.

When a cartridge becomes empty, it must be replaced with either an original manufacturer (OEM) cartridge or a compatible replacement cartridge. Using the correct cartridge number is important because printers are engineered to recognize only certain cartridges.

Types of Ink Cartridges

OEM (Original Manufacturer) Cartridges

OEM cartridges are produced by the printer manufacturer (such as HP, Canon, Epson, or Brother). These are the cartridges typically sold in office supply stores and included with new printers. OEM cartridges are designed specifically for each printer model, but they are usually the most expensive replacement option.

Compatible Cartridges

Compatible cartridges are newly manufactured replacement cartridges made by third-party companies to work in specific printers. They are designed to match the fit and function of OEM cartridges while providing a lower-cost alternative. A properly manufactured compatible cartridge communicates with the printer and produces comparable print results for everyday documents and photos.

Remanufactured Cartridges

Remanufactured cartridges begin as empty original manufacturer cartridges that are professionally cleaned, refilled with new ink, fitted with replacement components when necessary, and performance-tested. Because they reuse the original cartridge shell, remanufactured cartridges reduce plastic waste while providing reliable printing at a lower cost than OEM cartridges.

Do Compatible Ink Cartridges Damage Printers?

Compatible and remanufactured cartridges do not damage printers when they are properly manufactured and matched to the correct printer model. Modern printers detect cartridges electronically, but they are designed to operate with replacement cartridges that meet the printer’s specifications.

In the United States, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act prevents a manufacturer from voiding your printer warranty simply because you use third-party replacement cartridges. A printer manufacturer would have to prove that a cartridge directly caused damage in order to deny warranty service.

Many home and office users choose compatible cartridges as a cost-effective alternative for everyday printing without affecting printer operation.

How to Find the Right Cartridge for Your Printer

The easiest way to identify the correct cartridge is by using your printer model number. The model number is usually printed on the front of the printer, under the scanner lid, or on a label on the back of the device.

You can also locate the cartridge number printed directly on your existing cartridge. Cartridge numbers often include letters and numbers (for example: 61, 63XL, 902, 962XL, TN-760, etc.).

Enter either your printer model or cartridge number in our search tool and we will show the compatible replacement cartridges designed for your specific printer. Using the correct cartridge number ensures proper fit, recognition, and print quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ink and toner?

Ink cartridges are used in inkjet printers and contain liquid ink. Toner cartridges are used in laser printers and contain a fine powder that is fused to paper using heat. Inkjet printers are common for home use and photos, while laser printers are often used for high-volume document printing.

Why are OEM cartridges more expensive?

Printer manufacturers often sell printers at a low upfront cost and recover revenue through replacement cartridges. OEM cartridges include brand development, retail distribution, and packaging costs, which contribute to the higher price compared to compatible alternatives.

Will my printer recognize a compatible cartridge?

Yes. Compatible cartridges are designed with electronic chips that allow the printer to identify and monitor ink levels. Some printers may display a message indicating a non-manufacturer cartridge, but printing functionality is not affected.

This message is usually caused by protective tape not being fully removed, a cartridge not fully seated, or dirty electrical contacts inside the printer. Removing and reinstalling the cartridge normally resolves the issue.

How long do ink cartridges last?

Ink cartridge lifespan depends on page coverage, printing frequency, and whether color images are printed. A standard cartridge may print a few hundred pages, while high-yield (XL) cartridges are designed for higher page output and longer use.

Are remanufactured cartridges environmentally friendly?

Yes. Remanufactured cartridges reuse original cartridge shells that would otherwise enter landfills. Refilling and reusing cartridges significantly reduces plastic waste compared to manufacturing entirely new cartridges.

Why Choose Castle Ink?

Castle Ink is an independent U.S. online retailer specializing in compatible and remanufactured printer ink and toner cartridges. Our products are tested for printer compatibility and everyday printing performance and are backed by a satisfaction guarantee and customer support.

Our support team regularly assists customers in identifying the correct cartridge for their printer and troubleshooting common printing and compatibility questions across many printer models.

• Highest quality printer ink cartridges - fully tested
• 100% satisfaction guarantee - if you're not happy with our products we'll issue a full refund
• Prices are 50-75% lower than name brand replacements
• Best Customer Service on the internet - we respond within 24 hours
• No-nonsense return policy - we cover return shipping costs on every ink cartridge