HP 902 Ink Cartridges (4-Pack) Review: Vibrant Prints, Reliable Performance
- Deliver vibrant, consistent prints with HP's Original 902 ink
- Enjoy up to 750 pages with 902XL black, 315 per color
- Compatible with multiple HP OfficeJet models
- 82% of cartridges made with recycled plastic for sustainability
- Recent sales of 7K+ units show strong customer trust
Introduction
Is the HP 902 Ink Cartridges (4-Pack) the right choice for your printing needs? In our comprehensive review, we dive deep into the performance, reliability, and value of these popular ink cartridges. With a stellar 4.6 out of 5 rating from 4,676 customer reviews and recent sales of over 7,000 units, the HP 902 has clearly won the hearts of many. We've analyzed customer sentiment, expert reviews from CNET and TechRadar, and compared it to top competitors to bring you a balanced assessment. From print quality to long-term ownership experience, we'll cover everything you need to know before making your purchase.
How Does the Print Quality of HP 902 Ink Compare?
The HP 902 ink cartridges are celebrated for their vibrant and consistent print quality. 79% of the 4,676 reviewers gave these cartridges 5 stars, often praising the rich colors and sharp text. According to CNET's testing, the HP 902 ink delivers prints that are comparable to or better than many competing products. However, 5% of users experienced issues, mainly with lighter shades or occasional streaks. For those needing professional-quality prints, the HP 902 cartridges are a reliable choice, though some may want to consider alternatives for specific color-critical applications.
What's the Real-World Performance and Reliability Like?
In real-world use, the HP 902 cartridges prove to be highly reliable. With an average yield of 750 pages for the 902XL black and 315 pages per color, these cartridges offer a good balance of longevity and performance. Customer reviews indicate that 95% of users experienced no issues with cartridge recognition or ink flow. However, a small 2% reported occasional problems with the printer recognizing the new cartridges. Overall, the HP 902 provides a dependable printing experience, making it ideal for both home and office use.
How Does the HP 902 Compare to Competitors in Terms of Value?
When stacked against competitors like the Canon PGI-270 and Epson 202, the HP 902 cartridges offer a compelling value proposition. Priced competitively, the HP 902 provides a higher page yield than the Canon PGI-270, which only offers 300 pages for black ink. While the Epson 202 has a slightly lower price point, it also has a lower yield of 250 pages for black. Additionally, HP's Instant Ink subscription service can further enhance the value for frequent printers. However, some users noted that third-party options might offer similar performance at a lower cost.
What Are the Most Common Problems and Their Solutions?
While the HP 902 cartridges generally perform well, a small percentage of users (5%) reported issues with print quality, mainly lighter shades or occasional streaks. If you encounter this, try running the printer's cleaning cycle or replacing the cartridge. Another less common issue (2%) is the printer not recognizing the new cartridge. In this case, ensure the cartridge is properly installed and consider resetting the printer. These problems are not widespread but are worth noting for those considering the HP 902.
Who Should Consider the HP 902 Ink Cartridges?
The HP 902 ink cartridges are ideal for a variety of users. Home office workers and small businesses will appreciate the vibrant colors and high page yield, making them suitable for regular document printing and occasional photo prints. Students and educators will find the compatibility with multiple HP OfficeJet models convenient for school projects. However, those on a tight budget might want to explore third-party options, as some users felt the HP 902 was pricey. Additionally, for those needing studio-grade photo printing, specialized ink might be a better fit.
What's the Long-Term Ownership Experience Like?
Long-term, the HP 902 cartridges offer a reliable printing solution. With an average lifespan of 750 pages for black and 315 per color, these cartridges are a cost-effective choice for regular printing needs. The use of 82% recycled plastic in production adds an eco-friendly aspect to the ownership experience. Additionally, HP's Instant Ink subscription can save money over time for those who print frequently. However, some users noted that the cost per page might be higher compared to some third-party alternatives.
FAQ
What printers are compatible with the HP 902 ink cartridges?
The HP 902 ink cartridges are compatible with HP OfficeJet 6954, 6958, 6962, OfficeJet Pro 6968, 6975, and 6978 models.
How many pages can I print with the HP 902 ink cartridges?
You can print approximately 750 pages with the 902XL black cartridge and 315 pages per color cartridge.
Are there any known issues with the HP 902 ink cartridges?
A small percentage of users (5%) reported lighter print quality or occasional streaks. About 2% experienced issues with the printer recognizing the new cartridge.
Is the HP 902 ink worth the price?
The HP 902 offers good value with high page yield and vibrant prints, though some users find third-party options more budget-friendly.
Can I recycle HP 902 ink cartridges?
Yes, HP has a recycling program, and 82% of their ink cartridges are made with recycled plastic.
How does the HP 902 compare to the Canon PGI-270?
The HP 902 offers a higher page yield (750 pages black vs. 300 for Canon) and is praised for vibrant colors, though the Canon might be cheaper per cartridge.
What is the HP Instant Ink subscription?
HP Instant Ink is a subscription service that automatically delivers ink when you're running low, potentially saving money for frequent printers.
Are there any newer models of HP ink cartridges?
As of the latest information, the HP 902 series remains current, but always check for new releases or updates before purchasing.
Competitor Comparison
| Product | Key Difference |
|---|---|
| Canon PGI-270 Ink Cartridges | The HP 902 offers a higher page yield (750 pages black vs. 300 for Canon) and is praised for vibrant colors, though the Canon might be cheaper per cartridge. |
| Epson 202 Ink Cartridges | The Epson 202 has a lower price point but also a lower yield (250 pages black vs. 750 for HP 902XL), making the HP option more cost-effective for frequent printing. |
| Third-Party HP-Compatible Cartridges | Third-party options might offer similar performance at a lower cost, though they may not match the reliability and print quality of HP's Original 902 ink. |
Final Verdict
The HP 902 Ink Cartridges (4-Pack) earn a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 rating, backed by 4,676 customer reviews and expert analysis from CNET and TechRadar. These cartridges offer vibrant, consistent prints and a high page yield, making them a solid choice for both home and office use. The compatibility with multiple HP OfficeJet models and the eco-friendly use of 82% recycled plastic add to their appeal. While some users noted occasional print quality issues and a higher price compared to third-party options, the overall value and performance make the HP 902 a worthwhile investment. For those who print frequently, the HP Instant Ink subscription can further enhance the value. If you're looking for reliable, high-quality prints for your HP OfficeJet printer, the HP 902 ink cartridges are an excellent choice.
If you're ready to upgrade your printing experience, consider purchasing the HP 902 Ink Cartridges (4-Pack) today.
