Best Toner Cartridges Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding the right toner cartridge for your laser printer can feel like a maze of model numbers, page yields, and deciding between original manufacturer (OEM) and compatible options. A great toner cartridge should offer sharp, consistent prints, a high page yield for its price, and seamless installation. After extensive testing and analysis of user feedback, we’ve determined that the Cool Toner TN423 Compatible Toner Cartridge 4-Pack is our top pick. It strikes an exceptional balance between cost, performance, and page yield, providing a full set of high-capacity colour cartridges for a fraction of the OEM price, making it the ideal choice for small businesses and busy home offices in the UK.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Toner Cartridges Uk

#1 Cool Toner TN423 Compatible Toner Cartridge 4-Pack – Best for: High-Volume Colour Printing on a Budget

In our evaluation, the Cool Toner TN423 Compatible Toner Cartridge 4-Pack quickly established itself as the frontrunner for sheer value. For businesses and home users with Brother colour laser printers, the cost of original cartridges can be prohibitive. This four-pack offers a complete replacement set (Black, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow) at a price point that often rivals a single OEM cartridge. We were immediately impressed by the page yield; the black cartridge is rated for a substantial 6,500 pages, with each colour cartridge providing up to 4,000 pages. During our tests, the installation process into our Brother HL-L8260CDW was straightforward, with the pre-installed chips ensuring the printer recognised them without any errors. The print quality for standard documents was excellent, with crisp black text and vibrant, consistent colours for charts and graphics. This experience is echoed by many users who praise the seamless compatibility and cost savings for their small businesses. While we found the quality more than sufficient for everyday use, some users have reported minor inconsistencies in colour accuracy for photo-realistic printing, a common trade-off with compatible toners. We also noted a few reports of compatibility issues, though these seem to be the exception rather than the rule. Overall, for bulk printing where cost-per-page is a primary concern, this pack is an unbeatable choice.

#2 HP CF244A 44A Original Toner Cartridge Black – Ideal for: Guaranteed HP Printer Performance

When absolute reliability and consistent quality are non-negotiable, sticking with an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) cartridge is the safest bet. The HP CF244A 44A Original Toner Cartridge Black is designed specifically for HP’s compact LaserJet Pro printers like the M15w and M28w. From the moment we unboxed it, the build quality felt superior. Installation was, as expected, flawless. The printer recognised it instantly and was ready to print in seconds. Our test prints delivered the deep, rich blacks and sharp text we expect from HP. Every line was crisp, and there was no smudging or streaking, even on complex documents. This is the primary advantage of an OEM product – it just works, every time. Many users choose original cartridges precisely for this peace of mind, avoiding the potential compatibility headaches of third-party options. However, this reliability comes at a premium. With a page yield of just 1,000 pages, the cost-per-page is significantly higher than compatible alternatives. We also came across a few user reports of cartridges arriving with less-than-expected toner or failing prematurely, which can be frustrating given the high price. Despite this, for those who value guaranteed performance and printer longevity above all else, the HP 44A is the definitive choice.

#3 HALLOLUX TN248 Toner Cartridges 4 Pack – Perfect for: Cost-Effective Printing on Modern Brother Machines

The HALLOLUX TN248 Toner Cartridges 4 Pack is another excellent compatible option that impressed us, particularly for newer Brother models. This pack delivers a fantastic blend of high page yield and affordability. The black cartridge offers up to 3,000 pages, and each of the three colour cartridges provides around 2,300 pages, making it a solid workhorse for a busy home office or school environment. We tested these in a compatible Brother DCP series printer and found the installation to be refreshingly simple. The printer accepted them immediately, a sentiment confirmed by a vast number of users who highlighted the plug-and-play experience. Print quality was very good; text was sharp and clear, and colours were bright and well-saturated for everyday business documents and presentations. For a compatible cartridge, the consistency was impressive. One of the standout features is the 2-year limited warranty, which provides a level of reassurance not often seen with third-party toners. The main drawback we noted from the specifications is the lack of explicit support for duplex printing, which could be a dealbreaker for some users. However, for single-sided printing, the combination of quality, high yield, and warranty makes this a highly recommendable and reliable alternative to OEM cartridges.

#4 HP 106A Black Original Toner Cartridge – Suits: Entry-Level HP Laser Printer Users

The HP 106A Black Original Toner Cartridge is the go-to choice for owners of HP’s Laser 107, MFP 135, and MFP 137 series printers. As an official HP product, it promises and delivers seamless integration and premium performance. Our testing confirmed this: the cartridge slotted in perfectly, and the print quality was outstanding from the very first page. Text was razor-sharp, and greyscale images were rendered with smooth gradients and no banding. This is the reliability you pay for with an OEM cartridge. Many users who tried compatible versions and ran into issues often return to the genuine HP 106A for its guaranteed functionality. The cartridge is also part of HP’s Planet Partners Programme, making recycling easy and environmentally responsible. The significant downside, however, is its page yield. At just 1,000 pages, it’s not designed for high-volume environments. We found that for heavy printing schedules, the cost can add up quickly. Some users have also expressed frustration that the actual yield sometimes falls short of the 1,000-page estimate, especially when printing denser documents. Nevertheless, for light to moderate home use where print quality and trouble-free operation are the top priorities, this original cartridge is the correct and most reliable option.

#5 HP CE285A 85A Black Toner Cartridge – Best for: Reliable Workhorse HP Printers

For users of some of HP’s most popular and enduring LaserJet Pro models, like the P1102 and M1132, the HP CE285A 85A Black Toner Cartridge is a familiar and trusted component. This is a true workhorse cartridge. In our tests, it delivered the consistent, professional-grade results that these printers are known for. Documents printed with deep, solid blacks and clean, sharp edges, making it perfect for business correspondence and reports. With a page yield of 1,600 pages, it offers a better value proposition than some of HP’s other standard-yield cartridges, making it suitable for small offices with moderate printing needs. Its longevity in the market means it’s a proven performer, a fact supported by thousands of users who rely on it daily. The main challenge with this cartridge is its price. As an OEM product for older but still widely used printers, it commands a premium price that can be hard to justify against the many compatible options available. We also observed some user reports of receiving cartridges that were either faulty or did not perform as expected, highlighting the importance of purchasing from a reputable source. For those who want to maintain their trusted HP printer with genuine parts, however, the 85A remains the gold standard.

#6 Brother TN-2310 Black Toner Cartridge – Ideal for: Consistent Monochrome Brother Printing

The Brother TN-2310 Black Toner Cartridge is the genuine, standard-yield option for a wide range of Brother’s monochrome laser printers, including the popular HL-L2300D and DCP-L2500D series. Using a genuine cartridge like the TN-2310 is the best way to ensure your printer operates exactly as intended. Our hands-on experience showed flawless performance; installation was a breeze, and prints were consistently sharp and clear without any smudges or faded areas. This reliability is crucial for anyone who can’t afford printing downtime or quality issues. Brother emphasizes that using genuine supplies protects your printer’s warranty, a key consideration for new machine owners. Many long-term users swear by original Brother cartridges, noting they outperform compatibles in both consistency and longevity. The main limitation is the standard yield of 1,200 pages, which may feel restrictive for users with heavy printing demands. The cost is also higher than third-party options. A small number of users reported receiving what they suspected were refilled or non-genuine cartridges when buying online, which underscores the importance of checking the seller’s reputation. For guaranteed performance and peace of mind, however, the TN-2310 is the manufacturer-approved choice.

#7 Brother TN-243BK Black Toner Cartridge Standard Yield – Perfect for: Modern Brother Colour Laser Printers

For owners of Brother’s modern colour laser printers like the HL-L3210CW or MFC-L3750CDW, the Brother TN-243BK Black Toner Cartridge is the standard-yield OEM solution. In our testing, this genuine cartridge performed exactly as expected, delivering crisp, deep black text that perfectly complements the vibrant output from its colour counterparts. Integration with the printer was seamless, with no recognition errors or setup issues. The quality is undeniable and essential for producing professional-looking documents where both text and colour graphics are present. Users who opt for genuine Brother supplies do so for this very reason: predictable, high-quality results that keep their machine running smoothly and protect their investment. However, the most significant point of contention we found, both in our analysis and in user feedback, is the 1,000-page yield. For a modern colour printer often used in office settings, this capacity can be depleted surprisingly quickly, leading to frequent replacements and a high running cost. We also encountered several user reports of cartridges leaking or failing well before reaching their expected yield, which is particularly disappointing for a premium-priced OEM product. Despite these concerns, if you prioritize perfect print quality and warranty protection, this is the intended cartridge for your machine.

#8 HP 142A Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge Black – Suits: Home Users with Compact HP Printers

The HP 142A Original LaserJet Toner Cartridge Black is specifically engineered for HP’s newer, compact LaserJet 100 series printers, such as the M110 and M140we. These printers are popular for home offices where space is at a premium, and this cartridge is designed to match their light-duty profile. Our tests showed that the 142A delivers excellent quality. Prints are sharp, clear, and consistent—everything you’d expect from a genuine HP product. It features anti-fraud technology to ensure you’re using an authentic cartridge and is part of HP’s easy recycling program. For users who print infrequently—a few documents a week, for example—this cartridge is a perfect, hassle-free solution. The primary drawback, which we must highlight, is the very low page yield of just 950 pages. This makes it one of the least economical options on our list for anyone with more than minimal printing needs. The cost-per-page is high, and frequent replacement would be necessary in a busier environment. One user noted that it’s a great option for replacing the initial subscription-based ink that comes with some HP+ printers, which we agree is a key use case. For the target user—someone with a compact HP printer and low-volume needs—it’s a reliable if pricey choice.

#9 HP 94X High Yield Toner Cartridge Black – Best for: Reducing Replacement Frequency

The HP 94X High Yield Toner Cartridge Black is the solution for users of HP LaserJet Pro M118 and M148 printers who are tired of frequent cartridge changes. With a rated yield of 2,800 pages, it offers nearly three times the capacity of its standard counterpart, significantly lowering the cost-per-page and reducing printer downtime. In our testing environment, the cartridge performed flawlessly, delivering the high-quality, sharp prints expected from a genuine HP product. The high yield is its key selling point, making it a much more practical choice for small offices or power users. The convenience of not having to replace the toner as often cannot be overstated. However, the upfront cost is substantial. Furthermore, a recurring theme in user feedback is a significant discrepancy between the advertised 2,800-page yield and the actual number of pages printed, with some users reporting getting less than half that amount. While actual yield always depends on print density, the volume of these complaints suggests that achieving the maximum rated yield may be challenging under real-world conditions. Despite this, if your print volume is high, the HP 94X is still a more economical and convenient OEM option than the standard version.

#10 HP 410A Black Original Toner – Ideal for: Professional HP Colour LaserJet Pro Series

The HP 410A Black Original Toner is the standard cartridge for HP’s robust Color LaserJet Pro M452 and M477 series printers, machines often found in professional office settings. When your business relies on producing pristine documents, using the OEM toner is paramount. Our evaluation showed the 410A produces exceptionally sharp text and graphics, with a consistent quality that third-party cartridges struggle to match. It’s engineered to work in harmony with HP’s colour toners to create perfectly balanced, professional-grade prints. With a respectable yield of 2,300 pages, it’s suitable for moderate office use. The main barrier to entry is the extreme price. This is one of the most expensive single cartridges on our list, and outfitting a printer with a full set of genuine 410A toners represents a significant investment. We also observed a troubling pattern in user reviews regarding fulfillment issues, with customers reporting they received damaged, used, or incorrect-yield cartridges (the standard 410A instead of the high-yield 410X). While this is a seller issue rather than a product flaw, it’s a significant risk given the cost. For businesses where print quality is the absolute priority, the HP 410A is the correct choice, but we advise purchasing with caution.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Choosing the right toner cartridge involves more than just matching the model number. Consider these factors to make the best decision for your needs and budget.

• OEM vs. Compatible: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) cartridges are made by your printer’s brand (e.g., HP, Brother). They offer the highest quality and reliability but come at a premium price. Compatible (or third-party) cartridges are made by other companies and are much cheaper. While quality has improved immensely, there’s a small risk of compatibility issues or slightly lower print quality.
• Page Yield: This tells you how many pages a cartridge can print, usually based on 5% page coverage (a standard business letter). High-yield (XL) cartridges cost more upfront but offer a lower cost-per-page, making them more economical for frequent printing.
• Print Quality: For professional documents, photos, or marketing materials, OEM cartridges generally provide the best colour accuracy and sharpness. For everyday text documents, a good-quality compatible cartridge is often indistinguishable from the original.
• Cost-Per-Page: Don’t just look at the cartridge price. Calculate the cost-per-page by dividing the price by the page yield. This will give you a true measure of the cartridge’s value over its lifespan.

Understanding Page Yield

When you see a page yield of “1,000 pages,” it’s an industry-standard estimate, not a guarantee. This figure is based on the ISO/IEC standard of 5% page coverage, which is equivalent to a short letter or email with no images. If you regularly print dense documents, full-page graphics, or photos, your actual page yield will be significantly lower. Conversely, if you print very light text, you might exceed the rated yield. Always consider your typical printing habits when evaluating a cartridge’s page yield.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls when shopping for toner:

• Buying the Wrong Model: Printer model names can be confusingly similar. Double- and triple-check that the cartridge model number is listed as compatible with your exact printer model.
• Focusing Only on Price: The cheapest cartridge isn’t always the best value. A low-priced cartridge with a tiny page yield can end up costing you more in the long run than a more expensive high-yield option.
• Ignoring User Reviews: For compatible cartridges, user reviews are invaluable. They can alert you to common issues with a specific brand, such as recognition errors, streaking, or leaking, that you wouldn’t know from the product description alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between OEM, compatible, and remanufactured toner?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cartridges are made by the same company that made your printer (e.g., HP, Canon, Brother). They offer the highest quality, reliability, and are guaranteed to be compatible. Compatible cartridges are brand new cartridges made by a third-party company. They are designed to fit and work in specific printers at a lower cost. Remanufactured cartridges are original OEM cartridges that have been used, returned, professionally cleaned, refilled with toner, and tested. They are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option.

Does using a third-party toner cartridge void my printer’s warranty in the UK?

No. In the UK, consumer protection laws, such as the Consumer Rights Act 2015, prevent manufacturers from voiding a printer’s warranty simply because you used a compatible or remanufactured cartridge. The warranty can only be voided if it can be proven that the third-party cartridge directly caused damage to the printer.

How do I find the correct toner cartridge model for my printer?

The easiest way is to open your printer and look at the model number printed on the current toner cartridge. Alternatively, the correct model number is usually listed on a sticker on the printer itself (often near the front or on the back) and in the printer’s user manual. You can also search online using your printer’s brand and model name.

How long does a toner cartridge last if unused?

An unused toner cartridge, kept in its original sealed packaging and stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, can last for at least two years, and often much longer. Unlike ink cartridges, toner is a dry powder, so it doesn’t dry out. This makes it ideal for stocking up so you’re never caught without a replacement.

Which brand of toner cartridge offers the best print quality for money?

For absolute best print quality, OEM brands like HP and Brother are unmatched. However, for the best quality for your money, high-quality compatible brands like Cool Toner and HALLOLUX offer excellent performance that is nearly indistinguishable from OEM for most text-based printing, but at a significantly lower cost-per-page.

Is it cheaper to use a laser printer with toner than an inkjet printer with ink?

Generally, yes. While the upfront cost of a laser printer and its toner cartridges is often higher, the cost-per-page is usually much lower than with inkjet printers. Toner cartridges have a much higher page yield than ink cartridges and don’t dry out, making them more economical for people who print frequently or infrequently.

What are the best practices for recycling used toner cartridges in the UK?

Most major printer manufacturers (like HP’s Planet Partners and Brother’s recycling scheme) offer free postage-paid recycling programs. You can request a recycling bag or label from their website, package your old cartridge, and post it back at no cost. Additionally, many office supply stores have in-store drop-off bins, and several charities accept used cartridges to raise funds.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After thorough testing and analysis, we confidently stand by our top recommendation: the Cool Toner TN423 Compatible Toner Cartridge 4-Pack. It represents an outstanding combination of value, performance, and capacity that is difficult to beat. For the cost of what is often less than a single original cartridge, you get a full set of four high-yield toners that deliver crisp text and vibrant colours suitable for any home office or small business. Its impressive page yield—6,500 for black and 4,000 for each colour—dramatically lowers your cost-per-page and reduces the hassle of frequent replacements. While OEM cartridges offer guaranteed perfection, the Cool Toner pack provides a smart, economical alternative without a significant compromise in quality for everyday printing tasks, making it the best overall choice for UK consumers.

Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API