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Finding the correct toner cartridge for your HP LaserJet printer can significantly impact print quality and your budget. The HP201A and HP201X toner cartridges are designed for specific HP LaserJet Pro models, but understanding the differences between these options is crucial for making an informed decision.
This comprehensive guide will compare the specifications, compatibility, and cost-effectiveness of HP201A standard-capacity and HP201X high-capacity toner cartridges. We’ll also explore compatible alternatives that could save you money without compromising quality, helping you make the best choice for your printing needs in Singapore.
HP201A vs HP201X: Specifications Comparison
HP201A vs HP201X Toner Cartridges: Complete Comparison Guide
The primary difference between HP201A and HP201X toner cartridges lies in their page yield – the number of pages you can print before needing a replacement. This yield is measured according to ISO/IEC 19798 standards, which provide a consistent method for determining cartridge yield based on 5% page coverage (meaning about 5% of the page contains toner).
| Specification | HP201A (Standard) | HP201X (High Capacity) |
| Black Cartridge (Model) | CF400A | CF400X |
| Cyan Cartridge (Model) | CF401A | CF401X |
| Magenta Cartridge (Model) | CF403A | CF403X |
| Yellow Cartridge (Model) | CF402A | CF402X |
| Black Page Yield | 1,420 pages | 2,800 pages |
| Color Page Yield | 1,330 pages | 2,300 pages |
| Singapore Price (Black) | S$127.40 | S$171.20 |
| Singapore Price (Cyan) | S$150.30 | S$189.90 |
| Singapore Price (Magenta) | S$150.30 | S$189.90 |
| Singapore Price (Yellow) | S$150.30 | S$177.30 |
Understanding ISO/IEC 19798 Page Yield Standards
The ISO/IEC 19798 standard provides a consistent method for measuring toner cartridge yield. This standardised testing involves repeatedly printing five test pages until the cartridge is depleted, under controlled laboratory conditions. The test assumes approximately 5% coverage per page, representing a typical business document with text and small graphics.
It’s important to note that your actual results may vary based on the content you print. Documents with higher coverage (more text, images, or colored areas) will reduce the number of pages you can print with each cartridge.
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Shop & Save InkWorld CartridgesCost-Per-Page Analysis: HP201A vs HP201X
To determine the true value of each cartridge option, we need to calculate the cost-per-page – a metric that shows how much you pay for each printed page. This helps you understand which cartridge provides better long-term value despite different upfront prices.
| Cartridge Type | Price (SGD) | Page Yield | Cost Per Page | Savings Per Page |
| HP201A Black (CF400A) | S$127.40 | 1,420 | S$0.090 | – |
| HP201X Black (CF400X) | S$171.20 | 2,800 | S$0.061 | 32% less |
| HP201A Cyan (CF401A) | S$150.30 | 1,330 | S$0.113 | – |
| HP201X Cyan (CF401X) | S$189.90 | 2,300 | S$0.083 | 27% less |
| HP201A Magenta (CF403A) | S$150.30 | 1,330 | S$0.113 | – |
| HP201X Magenta (CF403X) | S$189.90 | 2,300 | S$0.083 | 27% less |
| HP201A Yellow (CF402A) | S$150.30 | 1,330 | S$0.113 | – |
| HP201X Yellow (CF402X) | S$177.30 | 2,300 | S$0.077 | 32% less |
High-Capacity Cartridges: Better Value and Sustainability
The cost-per-page analysis shows that the HP201X high-capacity cartridges offer significantly better value despite their higher upfront cost. You’ll save 27-32% per page compared to the standard HP201A cartridges.
Economic Benefits
- Lower overall printing costs for medium to high-volume users
- Fewer cartridge replacements are needed over time
- Reduced shipping and handling costs from fewer frequent orders
- Better value for businesses with regular printing needs
Environmental Benefits
- Less packaging waste with fewer cartridge replacements
- Reduced carbon footprint from manufacturing and shipping
- Lower energy consumption per printed page
- Supports HP’s sustainability initiatives for responsible printing
Save With High-Capacity Cartridges
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Printer Compatibility: Which HP Printers Work with HP201A/X?
HP201A and HP201X toner cartridges are designed for specific HP LaserJet Pro printer models. Before purchasing, ensure your printer is compatible with these cartridges.
| Printer Series | Model Numbers | HP201A Compatible | HP201X Compatible |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro M252 | M252n, M252dw | Yes | Yes |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M277 | M277n, M277dw | Yes | Yes |
| HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M274 | M274n | Yes | Yes |
Which Cartridge Type Is Right For You?
Choose HP201A If You:
- Print less than 200 pages per month
- Have budget constraints for upfront costs
- Need occasional colour printing
- Have a home office or small business
Choose HP201X If You:
- Print more than 200 pages per month
- Want the lowest cost-per-page
- Need to reduce cartridge replacements
- Run a business with regular printing needs
Compatible HP201A and HP201X Alternatives: Save Without Compromise
While original HP cartridges offer guaranteed quality and reliability, compatible alternatives from reputable suppliers can provide significant cost savings without compromising print quality. These third-party cartridges are designed to work with the same HP printers at a fraction of the cost.
Original vs. Compatible: Cost Comparison
| Cartridge Type | Original HP Price | Compatible Price | Savings (SGD) | Savings (%) |
| HP201A Black (CF400A) | S$127.40 | S$54.90 | S$72.50 | 57% |
| HP201X Black (CF400X) | S$171.20 | S$54.90 | S$116.30 | 68% |
| HP201A Cyan (CF401A) | S$150.30 | S$57.90 | S$92.40 | 61% |
| HP201X Cyan (CF401X) | S$189.90 | S$57.90 | S$132.00 | 70% |
| Full Set (4 Colours) | S$578.30 | S$219.90 | S$358.40 | 62% |
Cost-Per-Page: Original vs. Compatible
Compatible cartridges offer lower upfront costs and better cost-per-page metrics, especially with high-capacity options that match or exceed the page yield of original HP cartridges.
| Cartridge Type | Page Yield | Original Cost Per Page | Compatible Cost Per Page | Savings Per Page |
| HP201A Black | 1,420 | S$0.090 | S$0.039 | 57% |
| HP201X Black | 2,800 | S$0.061 | S$0.020 | 68% |
| HP201A Colour (Average) | 1,330 | S$0.113 | S$0.044 | 61% |
| HP201X Colour (Average) | 2,300 | S$0.083 | S$0.025 | 70% |
Advantages of Compatible Cartridges
- Save up to 70% compared to original HP prices
- Many offer the same or higher page yields
- Manufactured to ISO-9001 certified standards
- Environmentally friendly with recycling programs
- Often come with satisfaction guarantees
- Reduced printing costs for businesses
Considerations for Compatible Cartridges
- Quality can vary between manufacturers
- May not include HP’s proprietary technologies
- Some printers display “non-genuine” warnings
- Potential warranty concerns (though legally protected)
- Slight variations in colour reproduction are possible
- Need to purchase from reputable suppliers
Singapore Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act
Under Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, printer manufacturers cannot void your warranty simply because you use compatible cartridges. Your warranty remains valid if the compatible cartridge doesn’t damage your printer. This legal protection ensures consumers have the freedom to choose cost-effective alternatives.
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Shop Compatible CartridgesHow to Install HP201A and HP201X Toner Cartridges
Installing HP201A and HP201X toner cartridges is a straightforward process that takes just a few minutes. Follow these steps to ensure proper installation and optimal performance:
- Prepare the printer
Please turn on your HP LaserJet Pro printer and wait until it is idle. Open the front cover by pressing the button on the left side of the printer. The cartridge drawer will automatically extend outward.
- Remove the old cartridge.
Grasp the old toner cartridge by its middle handle and pull it straight from the printer. Place it aside for proper recycling.
- Prepare the new cartridge.
Remove the new HP201A or HP201X cartridge from its packaging. Gently rock the cartridge back and forth 5-6 times to distribute the toner evenly inside.
- Remove the sealing tape.
Locate the orange pull tab on the side of the cartridge. Pull it straight out smoothly to remove the sealing tape completely. This exposes the toner outlet.
- Insert the new cartridge.
Align the cartridge with its slot in the drawer, matching the colour-coded label. Insert it until it clicks into place, ensuring it’s fully seated.
- Close the printer
Close the printer’s front cover firmly. The printer will initialise the new cartridge, which may take a few moments.
- Print a test page
To verify proper installation and print quality, print a test page. Go to your printer settings and select “Print Test Page” or print a document with text and images.
Important Installation Tips
- Never touch the green imaging drum on the bottom of the cartridge
- Don’t expose the cartridge to direct light for more than a few minutes
- Always remove the sealing tape completely before installation
- If you encounter resistance when inserting, don’t force it – check alignment
- Keep the packaging for recycling the old cartridge
Troubleshooting Common HP201A/X Cartridge Issues
Even with proper installation, you might occasionally encounter issues with your HP201A or HP201X toner cartridges. Here are solutions to the most common problems:
Printer Doesn’t Recognise the Cartridge
If your printer displays a “Cartridge Missing” or “Incompatible Cartridge” message:
- Remove and reinsert the cartridge, ensuring it clicks into place
- Check for and remove any remaining packaging material or tape
- Clean the gold/copper contacts on the cartridge with a lint-free cloth
- Turn the printer off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on
- If using a compatible cartridge, look for a chip reset option in your printer menu
Poor Print Quality or Streaks
For streaky, faded, or spotty prints:
- Run the printer’s cleaning cycle from the control panel or printer properties
- Remove the cartridge and gently rock it side to side to redistribute toner
- Check for damage to the imaging drum (the green cylinder)
- Print a few test pages to clear any clogged toner
- For persistent streaks, check if the fuser needs cleaning or replacement
Toner Smudging or Not Fusing Properly
If the toner smears or rubs off the page:
- Ensure you’re using the correct paper type setting in the print driver
- Check that the paper meets HP specifications for weight and smoothness
- The fuser may be worn or set to the wrong temperature – run a fuser cleaning page
- If using a compatible cartridge, try adjusting print density settings
- For persistent issues, the fuser assembly may need replacement
“Low Toner” Warning Appears Too Early
If you get premature low toner warnings:
- Continue printing – HP printers often show warnings when 20-30% toner remains
- Gently rock the cartridge to redistribute toner
- For compatible cartridges, reset the toner counter if your printer allows it
- Check printer settings for “Override Low Toner” or similar options
- Consider upgrading to HP201X high-capacity cartridges for fewer warnings
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Contact SupportFrequently Asked Questions About HP201A and HP201X Cartridges
What’s the difference between HP201A and HP201X toner cartridges?
The main difference is page yield. HP201A are standard-capacity cartridges that print about 1,420 pages (black) and 1,330 pages (colour). HP201X are high-capacity cartridges that print approximately 2,800 pages (black) and 2,300 pages (colour). The HP201X cartridges cost more upfront but offer a lower cost per page, making them more economical for frequent printing.
Which HP printers are compatible with HP201A and HP201X cartridges?
Both HP201A and HP201X cartridges work with HP Colour LaserJet Pro M252 series (M252n, M252dw), HP Colour LaserJet Pro MFP M277 series (M277n, M277dw), and HP Colour LaserJet Pro MFP M274n printers. Always check your printer’s documentation to confirm compatibility.
Are compatible HP201A cartridges as good as original HP cartridges?
Quality varies by manufacturer, but reputable compatible cartridges can provide print quality comparable to originals at a significantly lower cost. The best compatible cartridges are manufactured to ISO standards and come with guarantees. While they may lack some HP-specific technologies, many users find the cost savings worth the minor differences in performance.
Will using compatible HP201A cartridges void my printer warranty?
No. Under Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, printer manufacturers cannot void your warranty simply because you use compatible cartridges. Your warranty remains valid as long as the compatible cartridge doesn’t cause damage to your printer. This would be considered an unfair practice if a manufacturer attempts to void your warranty solely for using compatible cartridges.
How long do HP201A and HP201X toner cartridges last?
The lifespan depends on your printing volume. Based on ISO standards (5% coverage per page), HP201A black cartridges last approximately 1,420 pages, while HP201X black cartridges last about 2,800 pages. HP201A lasts around 1,330 pages for colour cartridges, while HP201X lasts about 2,300 pages. Actual results may vary based on the content you print and printer settings.
Can I use HP201X cartridges if my printer came with HP201A?
Yes. If your printer is compatible with HP201A cartridges, it will also work with HP201X high-capacity cartridges. The HP201X is simply a higher-yield version designed for the same printer models. Upgrading to HP201X can reduce your cost-per-page and require fewer cartridge changes.
How do I know when to replace my HP201A toner cartridge?
Your HP printer will display a “Low Toner” message on the control panel when approximately 20-30% of toner remains. You can continue printing until you notice a decline in print quality. It’s time to replace the cartridge when pages appear faded or have streaks. For optimal print quality, have replacement cartridges ready when the low toner warning first appears.
What’s the shelf life of unopened HP201A and HP201X cartridges?
Unopened HP toner cartridges typically have a shelf life of 2.5 years from manufacture. The cartridge packaging usually includes a “Use By” date. For best results, store unopened cartridges in their original packaging at room temperature (15-27°C) away from direct sunlight and high humidity.
How can I recycle used HP201A and HP201X cartridges in Singapore?
HP offers the HP Planet Partners program to recycle used cartridges in Singapore. You can drop off used cartridges at participating collection points or use HP’s bulk collection service for businesses. Some retailers and compatible cartridge suppliers also offer recycling programs. Recycling helps reduce landfill waste and supports sustainable manufacturing practices.
Why does my HP201A compatible cartridge show as “non-genuine” on my printer?
HP printers include technology that identifies original HP cartridges. Your printer may display a “non-genuine” or similar message when using compatible cartridges. This is normal and doesn’t affect functionality. You can typically press “OK” or “Continue” to dismiss the message and continue printing. Some printers allow you to disable these notifications in the settings menu.
Find the Right Cartridge for Your Printer
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Shop 201A/X CartridgesConclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your HP201A Toner Needs
Whether you choose original HP201A standard-capacity cartridges, HP201X high-capacity cartridges, or compatible alternatives depends on your specific printing needs and budget considerations. Standard HP201A cartridges may be sufficient for occasional home printing. For business users with higher volume needs, the HP201X high-capacity cartridges offer better long-term value despite the higher upfront cost.
Compatible cartridges present a compelling option for cost-conscious users, offering up to 70% savings while maintaining acceptable print quality. Remember that Singapore’s consumer protection laws safeguard your printer warranty even when using compatible cartridges from reputable suppliers.
By understanding the specifications, compatibility, and cost considerations outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision that balances quality, reliability, and budget for your HP LaserJet Pro printing needs.
