Compatible cartridges are printer cartridges made by third-party manufacturers, not by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of the printer. They are designed for specific printer models and provide a more cost-effective alternative to OEM cartridges.

Printer toner is a fine, dry powder composed of plastic particles, carbon, and colorants, specifically designed for use in laser printers. It is transferred to paper through an electrostatically charged drum and permanently bonded to the paper using heat and pressure, which prevents it from drying out and ensures its longevity. Toner is often more cost-effective for high-volume printing compared to liquid ink and delivers fast, professional-quality text.

Bulk ink is a system that utilizes large external ink reservoirs connected to a printer, eliminating the need for traditional smaller cartridges and facilitating continuous printing. This Continuous Ink Supply System (CISS) is a cost-effective, high-volume solution that minimizes downtime and waste associated with frequent cartridge replacements. It operates by employing tubes to deliver a steady flow of ink from the large tanks to the printhead.

A printer ribbon is a strip of fabric or plastic coated with ink, utilized in specific printers to transfer images onto paper or other media. Unlike ink cartridges, printer ribbons are employed in processes such as impact printing (e.g., dot matrix) or thermal transfer printing, where ink is melted and fused to the surface. They are commonly found in industrial, label, and card printers for tasks including printing receipts, shipping labels, and ID cards.