How to Find Ink for Your Printer: Complete Beginner's Guide

Finding the right ink for your printer can be confusing, especially with so many cartridge options available. This guide walks you through the process step by step.

Step 1: Identify Your Printer Model

The first step is knowing your exact printer model. You can find this:

**On the printer itself** - Usually on a label on the front, back, or bottom

**In printer settings** - Check the printer's display menu

**In printer software** - HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson Print, etc.

**On printed test pages** - Many printers include model info

Common formats: "HP DeskJet 2710e", "Canon PIXMA TS8350", "Epson EcoTank ET-2720"

Step 2: Find Your Cartridge Model

Once you know your printer model, you need to find which cartridges it uses:

Method 1: Check Existing Cartridges

Remove a cartridge from your printer

Look for the cartridge code (e.g., "HP 305", "Canon PG-545", "Epson T6641")

This code tells you exactly which cartridges to buy

Method 2: Use Our Printer Database

Search for your printer model on [InkOrPrinter](/printers)

We list all compatible cartridges for each printer

See prices, yields, and cost per page

Method 3: Manufacturer Website

Visit HP, Canon, Epson, or Brother's website

Search for your printer model

Check the "Supplies" or "Cartridges" section

Step 3: Understand Cartridge Types

Printers use different cartridge systems:

Standard Cartridges

Individual cartridges for each color

Most common system

Easy to replace individual colors

Tri-color Cartridges

One cartridge with cyan, magenta, yellow combined

Replaced as a unit

Common in budget printers

Tank Systems (EcoTank, MegaTank)

Bottled ink refills

Very low cost per page

Less frequent replacement needed

Toner (Laser Printers)

Powder-based instead of liquid ink

Lower cost per page for black and white

Higher upfront cost

Step 4: Choose Standard vs XL

Most cartridge ranges offer two sizes:

**Standard** - Lower upfront cost, higher cost per page

**XL (High-Yield)** - Higher upfront cost, lower cost per page

Choose Standard if:

You print occasionally (less than 50 pages/month)

Budget is tight

You don't mind replacing cartridges more often

Choose XL if:

You print regularly (50+ pages/month)

You want lower long-term costs

You prefer less frequent replacements

Step 5: Original vs Compatible

You'll see two main options:

Original Manufacturer Cartridges

Made by HP, Canon, Epson, or Brother

Guaranteed compatibility

Usually more expensive

Compatible/Third-Party Cartridges

Made by other companies

Often 30-50% cheaper

Quality can vary

**Our recommendation**: Try compatible cartridges for everyday printing, use original for important documents or photos.

Step 6: Where to Buy

Online Options

**Amazon** - Wide selection, fast delivery

**Specialist ink suppliers** - Often best prices

**Manufacturer websites** - Original cartridges, sometimes with deals

Physical Stores

Office supply stores (Staples, Office Depot)

Electronics stores

Supermarkets (limited selection)

Step 7: Verify Compatibility

Before buying, double-check:

Cartridge code matches your printer

Standard vs XL matches your preference

Seller has good reviews

Return policy if it doesn't work

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. **Buying wrong cartridge code** - Double-check the number

2. **Mixing brands** - Don't use Canon cartridges in HP printer

3. **Ignoring XL option** - Could save money long-term

4. **Not checking prices** - Prices vary significantly

5. **Buying expired cartridges** - Check expiration dates

Still Not Sure?

If you're still unsure which ink your printer uses:

printer finder

2. **Check your printer manual** - Usually lists cartridge codes

3. **Contact manufacturer support** - They can confirm

troubleshooter

Conclusion

Finding the right ink for your printer doesn't have to be complicated. Start by identifying your printer model, then find the cartridge code. Use our database to compare options and prices, and choose based on your printing volume and budget.

Search for your printer model