HP 202a Vs. 202x Toner Cartridge: Better For Printer

If you own certain HP laser printer models like the HP LaserJet Pro M404n, you’ve probably come across toner cartridge models 202a and 202x during shopping. Since both cartridges are designed for the same printer series, you may be wondering – what’s the difference between them and which one should you choose?

In this guide, we’ll compare the HP 202a and HP 202x toner cartridges in detail so you can determine which model better suits your specific printing needs and budget.

A Brief Comparison Table

Specs	HP 202a	HP 202x
Page Yield	2,300 pages	3,100 pages
Print Speed	Up to 40 ppm	Up to 40 ppm
Print Quality	600 x 600 dpi	600 x 600 dpi
Compatible Printers	HP LaserJet Pro M404/M426/M427/M428/M429 series	HP LaserJet Pro M404/M426/M427/M428/M429 series
Estimated Shelf Life	1-2 years sealed	1-2 years sealed
Recycled Content	Yes	Yes
Typical Retail Price	$70-$85	$100-$120
Cost Per Page	Around 3 cents	Around 3 cents

Overview Of HP 202a And 202x Cartridges

The HP 202a and 202x are both standard-capacity monochrome toner cartridges suitable for numerous HP LaserJet Pro printers. Key features of both cartridge models:

• Designed for HP LaserJet Pro M404, M426, M427, M428, M429 printer models
• Estimated page yield of 2,300 pages for the 202a and 3,100 pages for the 202x
• Can print at speeds up to 40ppm in both color and mono
• Contain specially formulated black toner for sharp, professional text
• Cartridge weighs around 5 lbs and measures roughly 7 x 5 x 5 inches

As you can see, the key difference between the two cartridges lies in their estimated page yield. The 202x model provides 800 more pages worth of toner than the 202a. This makes the 202x more cost-effective per page if you do high volumes of printing.

However, the 202a cartridge sells at a lower retail price, so it can be ideal if you only occasionally need to replace toner. Generally, the 202a costs 20-30% less than the 202x.

Now let’s look at the performance and print quality of these two cartridges in more detail.

Print Quality

The 202a and 202x produce virtually identical print quality since they contain the same HP toner formulation. This toner is specially engineered to deliver professional, crisp black text on documents.

Both cartridges can print fine lines and small font sizes legibly. The printed pages have rich blacks without any fading or toner spatter. You’ll get the same consistent print quality from the first to the last page with minimal toner rub-off.

When it comes to print resolution, both cartridges also perform on par with each other. They support 600 x 600 dpi output for sharp details in graphics, images, and line work. So whether you choose the HP 202a or 202x, you don’t have to worry about any difference in print quality.

Also Read: Differences Between HP 910XL And 916XL.

Page Yield

As mentioned earlier, the key spec difference between the two cartridges is the page yield.

• The standard-capacity HP 202a is rated to last 2,300 pages.
• The high-capacity HP 202x provides 3,100 pages.

That’s an 800 page difference – not insignificant if you do high volumes of printing.

In real world use, you can expect the stated yields if you print primarily text-based documents with occasional graphics at an average 5% coverage. Printing a high proportion of graphics, images, or pages with heavy ink coverage will reduce the yields.

Between the two models, the 202x clearly provides better value for money if you frequently print over 2,300 pages per month. With heavier use, it has a lower cost per page, allowing you to save in the long run.

However, if you don’t need the full 3,100 page capacity, the HP 202a can be a smarter buy. It costs less upfront, while still providing enough toner for typical small office or moderate home printing needs.

Compatibility

The HP 202a and HP 202x are interchangeable for use in the same LaserJet Pro models:

• HP LaserJet Pro M404n
• HP LaserJet Pro M404dn
• HP LaserJet Pro M404dw
• HP LaserJet Pro M404cdn
• HP LaserJet Pro M426fdn
• HP LaserJet Pro M426fdw
• HP LaserJet Pro M427fdn
• HP LaserJet Pro M427fdw
• HP LaserJet Pro M428fdn
• HP LaserJet Pro M428fdw
• HP LaserJet Pro M429fdn
• HP LaserJet Pro M429fdw

You can use either cartridge in any of the above printers without issues. The printers automatically detect and adjust settings for the HP 202a or 202x.

Just avoid mixing the cartridges together by accidentally inserting an a model when an x model ran out. Use the same cartridge type until empty before switching.

Durability And Shelf Life

The HP 202a and 202x cartridges have similar durable construction to withstand shocks and drops. Key components like the photoconductor drum and toner reservoir are well protected within the sturdy plastic housing.

The cartridges also have comparable shelf lives of 1-2 years when stored properly in their original sealed packaging. Keeping them in a cool, dry location away from direct light extends the shelf life.

Overall, you can expect reliable performance from both the HP 202a and 202x without noticeable quality degradation over their usable life. They deliver consistent pages from start to finish thanks to high quality components.

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Eco-Friendliness

HP has designed the 202a and 202x cartridges to meet ecological standards and reduce waste.

The cartridges can be recycled through HP’s return and recycling program once depleted. This prevents the need to dispose of them in landfills.

Additionally, the cartridges were built with recycled plastic content. This reduces environmental impact compared to manufacturing with entirely new plastic.

When purchasing original HP 202a or 202x cartridges, you can feel assured you’re getting an environmentally responsible product. Both models adhere to the same eco-friendly design principles.

Cost Comparison

The upfront price is where you’ll notice the biggest difference between the HP 202a Vs. 202x. Let’s break down the typical costs:

• HP 202a standard capacity cartridge – $70-$85 retail price
• HP 202x high capacity cartridge – $100-$120 retail price

As you can see, the 202a sells for roughly 20-30% less than the 202x.

Determining the true cost per page requires considering both cartridge prices and yields:

• HP 202a cost per page = $70 / 2,300 pages = Around 3 cents per page
• HP 202x cost per page = $100 / 3,100 pages = Around 3 cents per page

While the 202x costs more upfront, it evens out to a similar cost per page as the 202a due to the higher page yield.

If you’ll use up the entire cartridge capacity, the 202x provides maximum value with its lower cost per print. On the other hand, the 202a is the budget-friendly choice for moderate printing needs.

Key Differences Summarized

To recap, the main differences between the HP 202a and HP 202x toner cartridges are:

• Page yield – 202a yields 2,300 pages, 202x yields 3,100 pages
• Upfront price – 202a costs 20-30% less than the 202x
• Cost per page – Virtually the same at around 3 cents for both cartridges
• Print quality – Identical results from both models
• Compatibility – Interchangeable for HP LaserJet Pro M404/M426/M427/M428/M429 printers

So in summary, the 202x is best for high volume users who can take advantage of the longer lifespan and lower per page costs. Casual users who want to minimize upfront costs can save with the standard capacity 202a.

Either model will deliver the same excellent print quality and compatibility for your HP printer. It just comes down to weighing page yield against initial purchase price when deciding between the HP 202a and 202x.

Also Read: Differences Between 123inkjets And 4inkjets Online Printer Ink Retailer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Also Read: Is Brother INKvestment Better Than Epson EcoTank?

Conclusion

When shopping for toner for your compatible HP LaserJet Pro printer, you have two main options – the standard capacity HP 202a, or the high capacity HP 202x. While similar in performance and quality, the higher yield of the 202x makes it better suited for high volume printing. On the other hand, the 202a fits lighter duty needs at a more affordable upfront cost.

Hopefully this detailed comparison of the HP 202a Vs. 202x has provided insight into which model aligns best with your printing requirements. With either cartridge choice, you can rely on original HP quality and construction for flawless results.