Why are printers sold at a loss?

Using an outdated “razor-and-blades” business model, printer companies sell printers at a loss and make up for it in ink sales. Printer companies do whatever they can to squash competition from more economical and sustainable third party options by frequently updating the firmware in the cartridges.

Why is there a shortage of printer ink cartridges?

Because the global supply of ink has been disrupted on a number of different fronts, resulting in Printer Ink Shortage 2021. Printing inks use ethanol in their manufacture, but many ethanol shipments were diverted and used to make hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies, especially during the early days of the pandemic.

Why are cartridges more profitable than printers?

Why the ink cartridges more expensive than the printer? Inkjet printers are generally sold very cheap, because the manufacturer will sell this printer to you based on the cost even loss money. In fact, manufacturers do not make money by selling printers, most of their profits from your later purchase of ink cartridges.

How much does it cost to manufacture an ink cartridge?

Millions of dollars have been invested by the OEMs to get the technology to where it is today. The material cost in a typical ink cartridge is $2 to $3 with most of the cartridges manufactured in highly automated facilities in low labor-cost locations around the world.

Why has printer ink gone up in price?

Branded ink is expensive because original equipment printer manufacturers (OEMs) claim that the technology to make ink is expensive; so much is spent on R&D, and it costs a ton of money to ensure topnotch ink quality and reliability. Original brand ink is expensive, that is that.

Why are printer cartridges so expensive?

Here’s a quick and simple answer: Ink cartridges are expensive so companies can make a profit. Most printers are sold at a loss. A manufacturer makes money NOT by selling consumers an inkjet or laser printer, but by selling the supplies needed to print. The manufacturer controls the technology and the prices.