Copier Toner: What's The Right Option for Your Printer

When running an efficient office, your copiers and printers are key to smooth workflows. But to keep your devices performing at their best, you need the right toner. Selecting the proper toner not only impacts print quality but also influences how long your device lasts and what you spend on maintenance and supplies. Here, we'll break down the different types of copier and printer toner and guide you in choosing the right one for your needs.

What is Copier Toner, and Why Does It Matter?

Copier toner is the powdered substance that your copier or printer uses to create text and images on paper. Unlike ink, which is liquid, toner is dry and fused onto paper using heat. The type of toner you choose can make a significant difference in your printing results, including color vibrancy, print sharpness and even how often you need to replace your toner.

Choosing the wrong toner can lead to issues such as streaks, smudges or even damage to your printer over time. 40% of businesses using non-OEM toner reported printer malfunctions or quality issues within the first six months of use, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC). But how do you know which toner is best for your device?

Types of Copier Toner

When shopping for toner, you'll come across several options. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Toner

OEM toner is created by the manufacturer that made your copier or printer. If you own a Sharp, Canon or Lexmark device, OEM toner will come directly from those brands. The biggest advantage of using OEM toner is that it is specifically designed for your device, ensuring the best possible print quality and performance. Additionally, using OEM toner typically preserves your device's warranty, giving you peace of mind.

While OEM toner tends to be more expensive, its superior performance and longer lifespan often make it the most cost-effective option in the long run. Research by Buyers Laboratory (BLI) shows that OEM toner cartridges can produce 20-30% more usable pages than remanufactured or compatible toner, reducing the frequency of replacements and lowering long-term costs.

Compatible or Generic Toner

Compatible toner, also known as generic toner, is produced by third-party manufacturers. These toners are designed to fit specific copier models but are cheaper than OEM toner. The main appeal of compatible toner is cost savings, but there are a few trade-offs. While some generic toners may perform well, others can lead to lower print quality or damage your machine over time. Keypoint Intelligence found that OEM toner cartridges produced 50% fewer pages with quality defects than compatible ones.

Using compatible toner could also void your device's warranty, and businesses using non-OEM toner reported up to 70% more service calls, according to Lexmark.

Remanufactured Toner

Remanufactured toner cartridges are recycled cartridges that have been cleaned, refilled and repaired as necessary. Choosing remanufactured toner is a great option for environmentally conscious businesses since it helps to reduce waste. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that over 375 million empty toner cartridges end up in landfills annually, taking up to 1,000 years to decompose.

While remanufactured toner offers a lower-cost and eco-friendly alternative to OEM toner, its quality can vary. Some remanufactured cartridges might not deliver the same print quality or lifespan as new cartridges, so purchasing from a trusted supplier is essential.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Toner

Not all toners are created equal, and several factors should influence your decision.

1. Printer Compatibility - The first thing to consider is whether the toner is compatible with your device. Using toner that isn't designed for your machine can cause operational issues or even damage internal components. Always check your equipment model before purchasing toner.
   
   
2. Print Volume and Frequency - High-volume printing offices may benefit from high-yield toner cartridges, which can print more pages before needing a replacement. According to Statista, high-volume businesses that print over 5,000 pages monthly can save up to 20% annually by using high-yield toner cartridges. For businesses that print regularly, investing in quality toner can save time and money by reducing how often you need to replace cartridges.
   
   
3. Cost Efficiency vs. Quality - While compatible or remanufactured toner can save you money upfront, the long-term costs could be higher if they lead to frequent machine repairs or lower print quality. Research from Lexmark shows that using non-OEM toner can result in up to 70% more service calls, adding hidden costs to cheaper toner options. Consider the balance between price and quality when making your choice.
   
   
4. Environmental Impact—If sustainability is important to your business, remanufactured toner is an eco-friendly option that helps reduce plastic waste. According to Green Office Supplies, remanufactured toner can reduce a company's carbon footprint by 60-70%. Additionally, some dealers and manufacturers offer recycling programs for used toner cartridges.

The Role of Toner in Overall Device Performance

Toner isn't just about getting crisp, professional-looking prints. The type of toner you use directly affects the performance and longevity of your device. For example, using low-quality toner can lead to issues like smudged documents, lines across the page, or even malfunctioning parts that require costly repairs. Quocirca found that 57% of IT professionals reported printing-related problems that disrupted workflows, with many of these issues linked to using low-quality toner.

Investing in high-quality toner ensures that your copier runs smoothly and produces the best possible results, saving you both time and money in the long term.

Toner Care and Maintenance Tips

Once you've selected the right toner for your copier, taking care of it properly is vital to maximizing its lifespan and maintaining print quality. Here are a few quick tips:

• Store toner cartridges in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid exposing toner to extreme temperatures.
• Shake toner cartridges gently before installing them to ensure an even toner distribution.
• If you notice faded prints or streaks, it may be time to replace your toner.

Using Genuine Copier Toner

When partnering with Fraser for your copier needs, you will be equipped with OEM toner for most copier devices. As part of your service agreement, you can be set up to have automated toner replenishment. When your toner reaches specified levels, new toner is automatically shipped to you, so you don't need to worry about being without the toner you need to stay up and running. Using genuine toner ensures your copier runs efficiently, produces quality prints and avoids costly repairs.

Selecting the right toner is essential for maintaining your copier's performance and ensuring professional-quality prints. When you work with Fraser, as part of your maintenance agreement, you'll receive OEM toner for your copiers. If you own a copier and are unsure which toner option is best for you, we can help. Contact us today to get expert advice.