Top 10 Original HP 64 Tri-color / 64XL Black Review hp 64xl ink cartridge – Oemiu
Top 10 HP 64 Tri-Color and 64XL Black Ink Cartridge Review: A Deep Dive
The HP 64 and 64XL ink cartridges are workhorses for numerous HP printers, offering a combination of reliability, print quality, and availability. This review delves into ten key aspects of these cartridges, comparing and contrasting the standard HP 64 with the high-yield HP 64XL, and exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help users make informed decisions.
1. Print Quality and Color Accuracy:
Both the HP 64 tri-color and the 64XL black ink cartridges consistently deliver sharp, crisp text and vibrant, accurate colors. The tri-color cartridge, encompassing cyan, magenta, and yellow inks, blends seamlessly to produce realistic photographs and vivid graphics. Documents printed with the black ink exhibit excellent clarity and readability, essential for professional documents and everyday printing. While both offer excellent quality, users report a slight edge in color vibrancy with the original HP cartridges compared to compatibles, especially when printing high-resolution photos. This comes down to HP’s ink formulation, which is specifically designed for their print heads.
2. Page Yield and Value Proposition (Standard vs. XL):
The defining difference between the HP 64 and 64XL lies in their page yield. The standard HP 64 offers a decent number of pages for light to moderate printing needs. However, the HP 64XL significantly boosts the page yield, offering substantially more prints per cartridge. This translates to a lower cost per page, making the 64XL a much more economical option for users with higher printing demands. Investing in the 64XL is demonstrably more cost-effective in the long run if you print frequently, as it reduces the need for frequent replacements. Consider your monthly printing volume before choosing between the standard and XL versions.
3. Compatibility and Ease of Installation:
The HP 64 and 64XL cartridges boast broad compatibility across a range of HP printers, primarily within the Envy and DeskJet series. The installation process is remarkably straightforward, typically involving simply opening the printer access panel, removing the old cartridge, and snapping the new cartridge into place. Printers generally provide clear on-screen prompts to guide users through the installation. This user-friendliness is a significant advantage, especially for those less technically inclined. However, always double-check the compatibility list provided by HP or the cartridge retailer to ensure proper fit and function with your specific printer model.
4. Reliability and Printer Health:
Using genuine HP ink cartridges, including the 64 and 64XL, is generally recommended by HP to ensure optimal printer performance and longevity. Original HP inks are specifically formulated to work seamlessly with HP print heads, minimizing the risk of clogging, smearing, or other print quality issues. While compatible cartridges may offer a lower upfront cost, they can sometimes lead to print quality inconsistencies and potentially damage the print head, requiring costly repairs or replacements in the long run. The reliability of original HP cartridges contributes to smoother printing experiences and reduces downtime.
5. Environmental Considerations and Recycling Programs:
HP recognizes the importance of environmental sustainability and offers robust recycling programs for its ink cartridges. Users can easily recycle their empty HP 64 and 64XL cartridges through HP’s Planet Partners program. This initiative ensures that used cartridges are properly processed and recycled, reducing landfill waste and promoting responsible manufacturing practices. Participating in these programs aligns with environmentally conscious practices and supports a circular economy.
6. Availability and Purchasing Options:
The HP 64 and 64XL cartridges are readily available from a wide range of retailers, both online and in physical stores. Major electronics retailers, office supply stores, and online marketplaces like Seller offer these cartridges at competitive prices. This widespread availability makes it convenient for users to purchase replacement cartridges whenever needed. Furthermore, HP often offers promotions and discounts on bundled purchases of ink cartridges, providing potential cost savings.
7. Price Comparison and Value Assessment:
While original HP ink cartridges are generally priced higher than compatible alternatives, the improved print quality, reliability, and higher page yield (especially with the 64XL) often justify the investment. Conducting a thorough price comparison across different retailers and considering the long-term cost per page is crucial for determining the best value proposition. Factors such as printing frequency, print quality requirements, and printer maintenance costs should all be factored into the decision.
8. Potential Issues and Troubleshooting:
Despite their overall reliability, occasional issues may arise with the HP 64 and 64XL cartridges, such as ink level reporting errors, print quality problems, or cartridge recognition failures. These issues can often be resolved through basic troubleshooting steps, such as cleaning the print heads, realigning the cartridges, or restarting the printer. HP’s website provides comprehensive troubleshooting guides and support resources to assist users in resolving common problems.
9. Performance with Different Paper Types:
The HP 64 and 64XL cartridges perform admirably across a range of paper types, from standard plain paper to glossy photo paper. However, optimal results are typically achieved when using HP-branded paper designed specifically for use with HP printers and inks. This combination ensures vibrant colors, sharp details, and long-lasting prints. Using the appropriate paper type significantly enhances the overall print quality and minimizes the risk of smudging or bleeding.
10. Final Verdict: A Solid Choice for Everyday Printing Needs
The HP 64 tri-color and 64XL black ink cartridges represent a reliable and high-quality option for a wide range of HP printers. While the upfront cost may be higher than compatible alternatives, the superior print quality, consistent performance, and recycling options provide a compelling value proposition. For users with higher printing demands, the HP 64XL is the clear choice due to its significantly higher page yield and lower cost per page. Ultimately, choosing the HP 64 or 64XL depends on individual printing needs and budget considerations, but they remain a solid choice for delivering consistent and reliable printing results.
Price: $94.89
(as of Sep 02, 2025 15:44:42 UTC – Details)
Original HP 64 Tri-color / 64XL Black: A Deep Dive into Dependable Printing
In the realm of home and small office printing, finding the right ink cartridge can feel like navigating a labyrinth. You need something reliable, produces quality prints, and doesn’t break the bank. The Original HP 64 series, particularly the Tri-color and 64XL Black cartridges, are often touted as dependable options, striking a balance between performance and affordability. But do they live up to the hype? Let’s embark on a comprehensive exploration of these cartridges, examining their features, performance, and overall value proposition.
Unpacking the HP 64 Cartridge Series
The HP 64 ink cartridge series is designed for a specific range of HP printers, typically those found in homes and small offices. The series consists of two primary cartridges: the HP 64 Black and the HP 64 Tri-color. The “Tri-color” cartridge contains cyan, magenta, and yellow inks, all housed in a single unit. This simplifies the cartridge replacement process but also means that if one color runs out, you need to replace the entire cartridge. The HP 64 Black, on the other hand, focuses solely on producing crisp, black text and images. For users with higher printing demands, the HP 64XL versions of both cartridges are available. These “XL” cartridges offer a significantly higher page yield, making them more economical for frequent printing. The advantage of the HP 64XL high yield black ink cartridge becomes quickly apparent when comparing the price per page.
One of the defining characteristics of the HP 64 series is its use of HP’s proprietary ink formulation. HP claims this ink is specifically engineered to work seamlessly with their printers, resulting in optimal print quality and longevity. The ink is designed to resist smudging, fading, and bleeding, ensuring documents and photos remain vibrant and legible for years to come. Moreover, the cartridges themselves are designed with integrated print heads, meaning a new print head is installed with each cartridge replacement. This helps to maintain print quality and minimize the risk of clogs and streaks, ultimately extending the life of your printer.
The user experience is also a key consideration. HP has designed the 64 series cartridges for easy installation and replacement. The process is typically straightforward, involving simply opening the printer cartridge access door, removing the old cartridge, and snapping the new one into place. HP also includes software and on-screen prompts to guide users through the installation process, minimizing the chances of errors. Furthermore, the HP Smart app provides ink level monitoring, allowing users to track ink usage and proactively order replacements before running out. This ensures uninterrupted printing, a crucial factor for both home and business users.
Consider a scenario where you’re a student needing to print out important research papers. Using a standard HP 64 cartridge might suffice for smaller assignments, but the higher page yield of the HP 64XL high yield black ink cartridge would be much more suitable for a lengthy thesis or dissertation. The reduced frequency of cartridge replacements translates to less downtime and lower overall printing costs. Similarly, a small business printing invoices and reports would also benefit from the increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the XL cartridges. The key is to assess your individual printing needs and choose the cartridge that best aligns with your usage patterns.
Performance and Print Quality: A Closer Look
The true measure of any ink cartridge lies in its performance and the quality of the prints it produces. The Original HP 64 ink cartridges generally deliver impressive results, particularly when used with compatible HP printers. The black ink produces sharp, well-defined text, making it ideal for documents, reports, and other text-heavy materials. The tri-color cartridge, with its cyan, magenta, and yellow inks, excels at producing vibrant and accurate colors in photos and graphics. The color blending is smooth, and the resulting images exhibit a good level of detail and clarity. For professional-looking documents, the HP 64XL ink cartridge is a solid choice.
One of the key strengths of the HP 64 series is its consistent print quality. HP’s ink formulation and cartridge design work in tandem to minimize inconsistencies and artifacts in prints. The ink is designed to dry quickly, reducing the risk of smudging and smearing. Moreover, the integrated print head ensures a fresh print head with each cartridge replacement, preventing issues like clogs and streaks that can degrade print quality over time. This consistency is particularly important for users who rely on their printers for professional or important documents.
To illustrate the performance differences, consider a side-by-side comparison of prints produced using the standard HP 64 cartridge and the HP 64XL high yield black ink cartridge. The XL cartridge, with its higher ink capacity, will typically produce a greater number of pages with the same level of print quality. This translates to a lower cost per page, making it a more economical choice for users who print frequently. Furthermore, the XL cartridge may exhibit slightly better ink saturation and color vibrancy due to the optimized ink formulation designed for higher volume printing.
However, it’s important to note that print quality can also be influenced by factors beyond the ink cartridge itself. The type of paper used, the printer settings, and the quality of the original image or document can all impact the final result. For optimal print quality, it’s recommended to use high-quality paper specifically designed for inkjet printers and to adjust the printer settings to match the type of document or image being printed. For example, selecting the “photo” setting when printing photographs will typically result in richer colors and finer details. In summary, while the HP 64 series cartridges are capable of producing excellent print quality, it’s essential to optimize all aspects of the printing process to achieve the best possible results.
The HP 64 series, and especially the hp 64xl ink cartridge, also performs well in terms of durability. Prints created with these cartridges tend to be resistant to fading, smudging, and water damage, ensuring that your documents and photos remain in good condition for years to come. This is particularly important for archiving important documents or preserving cherished memories. The fade resistance is achieved through the use of specially formulated inks that are designed to withstand exposure to light and air. The smudge resistance is due to the quick-drying properties of the ink, preventing it from smearing or smudging even when handled immediately after printing. And the water resistance ensures that prints can withstand accidental spills or exposure to moisture without significant damage.
Cost Analysis: HP 64 vs. 64XL
When choosing an ink cartridge, cost is inevitably a major consideration. The HP 64 and 64XL cartridges differ significantly in terms of their upfront cost and long-term value. The standard HP 64 cartridges are typically less expensive to purchase initially. This makes them an attractive option for users who print infrequently or have a limited budget. However, the lower price comes with a trade-off: a lower page yield. The standard cartridges contain less ink, resulting in fewer printed pages before they need to be replaced.
The HP 64XL cartridges, on the other hand, have a higher upfront cost. However, they offer a significantly higher page yield, often more than double that of the standard cartridges. This means you can print considerably more pages with a single XL cartridge before needing to purchase a replacement. Over the long term, this can translate to significant savings, particularly for users who print frequently. The lower cost per page of the HP 64XL high yield black ink cartridge makes it a more economical choice for high-volume printing.
To illustrate the cost difference, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario. Suppose the standard HP 64 Black cartridge costs $20 and yields 200 pages, while the HP 64XL Black cartridge costs $35 and yields 600 pages. In this case, the cost per page for the standard cartridge is $0.10, while the cost per page for the XL cartridge is approximately $0.06. This means that for every 600 pages printed, you would save $25 by using the XL cartridge. While these numbers are hypothetical, they illustrate the potential for significant cost savings with the XL cartridges.
| Cartridge Type | Approximate Price | Approximate Page Yield | Approximate Cost Per Page |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP 64 Black | $20 | 200 | $0.10 |
| HP 64 Tri-color | $25 | 165 | $0.15 |
| HP 64XL Black | $35 | 600 | $0.06 |
| HP 64XL Tri-color | $40 | 415 | $0.10 |
Beyond the upfront cost and page yield, it’s also important to consider other factors that can influence the overall cost of printing. These include the cost of paper, the frequency of printer maintenance, and the potential for wasted prints due to errors or malfunctions. By optimizing all aspects of the printing process, you can minimize your overall printing costs and maximize the value of your ink cartridges. Furthermore, keep an eye out for sales and discounts on HP 64 and 64XL cartridges. Retailers often offer promotional deals that can significantly reduce the cost of these cartridges, making them even more affordable. Buying in bulk can also be a cost-effective strategy, particularly for users who print frequently.
Environmental Considerations: Sustainability and Recycling
In today’s world, environmental sustainability is an increasingly important consideration for consumers. Ink cartridges, with their plastic housings and ink components, can contribute to environmental waste if not properly disposed of. Fortunately, HP offers a comprehensive recycling program for its ink cartridges, allowing users to return empty cartridges for recycling and reuse. This program helps to reduce landfill waste and conserve valuable resources. HP’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond recycling, encompassing efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacturing processes and to develop more eco-friendly ink formulations.
The HP recycling program is easy to use. Users can simply visit the HP website to request a prepaid shipping label and then mail their empty cartridges to HP for recycling. Alternatively, many retailers that sell HP ink cartridges also offer in-store recycling programs, allowing users to drop off their empty cartridges at the store. HP ensures that the cartridges are recycled responsibly, with the plastic and metal components being recovered and reused in new products. This helps to close the loop and reduce the demand for virgin materials. The HP 64XL ink cartridge is part of this recycling program.
Beyond recycling, there are other ways to minimize the environmental impact of your printing activities. One simple step is to print only what you need. Avoid printing unnecessary documents or web pages, and carefully proofread documents before printing to minimize errors and wasted prints. Another strategy is to use both sides of the paper when printing. This can significantly reduce your paper consumption and save trees. You can also choose to use recycled paper, which is made from post-consumer waste and has a lower environmental footprint than virgin paper.
Furthermore, consider adjusting your printer settings to optimize ink usage. Many printers offer a “draft” mode that uses less ink when printing documents. This mode is suitable for printing internal documents or drafts where print quality is not critical. You can also adjust the color settings to reduce the amount of ink used for printing color images. By making these small adjustments, you can significantly reduce your ink consumption and minimize the environmental impact of your printing activities. Choosing the hp 64xl ink cartridge is a start, but sustainable practice extends further.
Alternatives and Competitors: Exploring Other Options
While the Original HP 64 and 64XL cartridges are popular choices, they are not the only options available. Several alternative ink cartridges and compatible brands offer similar performance at potentially lower prices. These alternatives can be attractive for users who are looking to save money or who are not particularly concerned about using genuine HP cartridges. However, it’s important to carefully evaluate the quality and reliability of these alternatives before making a purchase.
One type of alternative is the remanufactured ink cartridge. These cartridges are typically original HP cartridges that have been collected, cleaned, refilled with ink, and resold. Remanufactured cartridges can offer significant cost savings compared to new HP cartridges. However, the quality and reliability of remanufactured cartridges can vary depending on the manufacturer. Some remanufactured cartridges may exhibit issues such as leaks, clogs, or inconsistent print quality. It’s essential to choose a reputable remanufacturer that offers a warranty and guarantees the performance of its cartridges. The hp 64xl ink cartridge is not the only option.
Another type of alternative is the compatible ink cartridge. These cartridges are newly manufactured by third-party companies and are designed to be compatible with HP printers. Compatible cartridges are typically less expensive than original HP cartridges. However, like remanufactured cartridges, the quality and reliability of compatible cartridges can vary. Some compatible cartridges may not perform as well as original HP cartridges in terms of print quality, ink longevity, or printer compatibility. It’s crucial to research and choose a reputable brand of compatible cartridges to ensure satisfactory performance.
When considering alternative ink cartridges, it’s important to weigh the potential cost savings against the potential risks. While alternative cartridges may offer a lower upfront cost, they may also result in higher long-term costs due to lower page yields, inconsistent print quality, or potential damage to your printer. Original HP cartridges, on the other hand, offer guaranteed performance, reliability, and compatibility, ensuring optimal print quality and minimizing the risk of printer issues. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual printing needs, budget, and risk tolerance. Remember to read reviews and compare specifications carefully before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What printers are compatible with HP 64 and 64XL ink cartridges?
The HP 64 and 64XL ink cartridges are compatible with a specific range of HP printers, typically those in the Envy and DeskJet series designed for home and small office use. It’s crucial to verify compatibility before purchasing. You can find a list of compatible printers on the HP website or on the packaging of the ink cartridges themselves. The list generally includes models such as the HP Envy 5055, 5010, 5020, 5030, 5032, 5052, 5055, 5255, 5258, 5260, 5264, and the HP DeskJet 3720, 3721, 3722, 3723, 3730, 3732, 3733, 3735, 3752, 3755, 3758, 3760, 3762, 3764. Using an ink cartridge that is not designed for your printer can lead to printing errors, damage to the printer, or poor print quality. Always consult the printer’s documentation or HP’s website to confirm compatibility.
What is the difference between HP 64 and HP 64XL ink cartridges?
The primary difference between HP 64 and HP 64XL ink cartridges lies in their ink capacity and page yield. The HP 64 is the standard capacity cartridge, containing a smaller amount of ink and yielding fewer printed pages. The HP 64XL, on the other hand, is a high-yield cartridge, containing significantly more ink and yielding considerably more printed pages. While the upfront cost of the HP 64XL is higher, its lower cost per page makes it a more economical choice for users who print frequently. The HP 64 is suitable for occasional printing needs, while the HP 64XL is better suited for high-volume printing environments. Both cartridges offer the same print quality, but the 64XL requires less frequent replacements, saving time and resources.
How do I install or replace an HP 64 or 64XL ink cartridge?
Installing or replacing an HP 64 or 64XL ink cartridge is a straightforward process. First, ensure the printer is powered on and open the cartridge access door. Wait for the print carriage to move to the center. Gently press down on the old cartridge to release it, and then pull it out of the slot. Remove the new cartridge from its packaging and remove the protective tape. Insert the new cartridge into the correct slot, ensuring it clicks into place. Close the cartridge access door. The printer may then initiate an alignment process. Follow any on-screen prompts or instructions provided in the printer’s documentation. It is important to handle the cartridges carefully, avoiding touching the ink nozzles or electrical contacts, to prevent damage and ensure optimal print quality.
Are there any generic or remanufactured alternatives to HP 64/64XL ink cartridges?
Yes, there are generic and remanufactured alternatives to HP 64 and 64XL ink cartridges available on the market. These alternatives often offer lower prices compared to original HP cartridges. Remanufactured cartridges are typically original HP cartridges that have been collected, cleaned, refilled with ink, and resold. Generic cartridges are newly manufactured by third-party companies and are designed to be compatible with HP printers. While these alternatives can save money, the quality and reliability can vary significantly. Some may experience issues like leaks, clogs, or inconsistent print quality. It’s crucial to research and choose reputable brands, read reviews, and check for warranties before purchasing generic or remanufactured cartridges. Using original HP cartridges typically ensures optimal print quality and printer compatibility.
What should I do if my HP printer says “cartridge problem” or “cartridge error”?
If your HP printer displays a “cartridge problem” or “cartridge error” message, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, ensure that the cartridge is properly installed and seated correctly in its slot. Remove the cartridge, inspect it for any damage or obstructions, and reinsert it firmly. Clean the electrical contacts on both the cartridge and the printer carriage with a soft, dry cloth. Restart the printer. If the error persists, try replacing the cartridge with a new one to rule out a faulty cartridge. You can also consult the printer’s documentation or HP’s website for specific troubleshooting steps related to cartridge errors. In some cases, updating the printer’s firmware may resolve compatibility issues. If none of these steps work, contact HP customer support for further assistance.
How can I recycle my empty HP 64 or 64XL ink cartridges?
HP offers a comprehensive recycling program for its ink cartridges, making it easy to recycle your empty HP 64 and 64XL cartridges. You can participate in the HP Planet Partners program, which allows you to return empty cartridges for free recycling. Visit the HP website and request a prepaid shipping label, then mail your empty cartridges to HP. Alternatively, many retailers that sell HP ink cartridges also offer in-store recycling programs, allowing you to drop off your empty cartridges at the store. By recycling your empty cartridges, you help reduce landfill waste and conserve valuable resources. HP ensures that the cartridges are recycled responsibly, with the plastic and metal components being recovered and reused in new products.
How long do HP 64 and 64XL ink cartridges typically last?
The lifespan of an HP 64 or 64XL ink cartridge depends heavily on your printing habits and the type of documents you print. Factors that influence cartridge lifespan include the frequency of printing, the print coverage (the amount of ink used per page), the types of documents printed (text vs. graphics), and the printer settings used. As a general guideline, the HP 64 Black cartridge yields approximately 200 pages, while the HP 64 Tri-color cartridge yields around 165 pages. The HP 64XL Black cartridge yields approximately 600 pages, and the HP 64XL Tri-color cartridge yields around 415 pages. These are estimates, and actual page yields may vary. To maximize the lifespan of your ink cartridges, consider printing in draft mode when possible, avoiding unnecessary printing, and properly storing the cartridges in a cool, dry place.
