HP 304 Black Original Ink Cartridge vs Canon Ink & Paper Multipack - PG-545/CL-546 Genuine Printer Ink Cartridges 2 Pac

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, the HP 304 Black Original Ink Cartridge is significantly cheaper at £14.40 compared to the Canon Ink & Paper Multipack, which retails at £34.14. This price difference of £19.74 means that if you're looking for a straightforward black ink solution, the HP cartridge is more budget-friendly. However, the Canon multipack includes two cartridges (black and colour) along with 50 sheets of glossy photo paper, which adds value if you require both ink types and photo printing capabilities.

Page Yield and Efficiency

The HP 304 Black Original Ink Cartridge offers an approximate page yield of 120 pages. This is a reasonable output for users primarily printing text documents. In contrast, the Canon multipack does not specify a page yield, but it is known that genuine Canon ink produces on average up to 35% more quality prints than imitation cartridges. For those who print high volumes, particularly colour prints, the Canon option may offer better efficiency in the long run, despite the initial higher cost.

Print Quality

In terms of print quality, the HP 304 cartridge is designed to deliver sharp text and vibrant colours, ensuring that important moments are preserved over time. Conversely, the Canon Ink & Paper Multipack guarantees consistent quality prints 100% of the time, thanks to its genuine Canon ink. This claim highlights the reliability associated with using original manufacturer products, making Canon a strong contender for users prioritising print quality.

Versatility and Compatibility

The HP 304 Black Ink Cartridge is compatible with a range of HP printers, including popular models like the DeskJet 2622 and HP ENVY 5010. This wide compatibility is beneficial for users who may already own these printer models. On the other hand, the Canon multipack is compatible with various PIXMA printers, such as the TR, IP, MG, MX, and TS series. The choice between the two will largely depend on your current printer brand and model, as each product is designed to optimise performance with its respective brand.

Additional Features

While the HP 304 cartridge focuses solely on providing black ink, the Canon Ink & Paper Multipack stands out by including 50 sheets of GP-501 10x15cm glossy photo paper. This addition is particularly advantageous for users who enjoy printing photos, making the Canon pack a more comprehensive solution for those needs. Additionally, both brands offer recycling programmes for their cartridges, promoting environmental responsibility.

User Experience and Convenience

The HP 304 cartridge is designed to work the first time, every time, which provides peace of mind for users concerned about reliability. It also allows for easy recycling through HP Planet Partners. Meanwhile, the Canon multipack emphasises that its products are designed to work seamlessly with Canon printers, ensuring high quality and reliable performance. This focus on compatibility and ease of use makes both products appealing, but the inclusion of photo paper with the Canon multipack may enhance user experience for those who print diverse types of documents.

Brand Reputation

HP and Canon are both reputable brands in the printing industry. HP is well-known for its reliable ink cartridges that deliver quality prints, while Canon has a strong reputation for producing high-quality photo prints. Choosing between the two may come down to personal preference and past experiences with either brand. If you value a brand known for its photo printing capabilities, Canon may be the preferred choice. Conversely, if you are after a straightforward black ink solution, HP may have the upper hand.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the HP 304 Black Original Ink Cartridge and the Canon Ink & Paper Multipack ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution primarily for text documents, the HP cartridge is a clear winner at £14.40 with a decent page yield. However, if you require colour printing and enjoy producing high-quality photos, the Canon multipack, despite its higher price of £34.14, offers greater versatility and value with the inclusion of photo paper. Consider your printing habits and preferences to determine which product aligns best with your requirements.