Let’s talk about a very popular cartridge here , The HP 57 (C6657AN) tri-color

The HP 57 a tri-color cartridge, meaning it contains 3 different colors within (cyan, magenta, yellow). It is great for printing photo quality images, whether on glossy photo paper or just plain copier paper. The cartridge will yield approximately 400 color graphic pages, but be warned the actual yield depends on specific use including images printed, printer and print settings. The 400 pages is based on 15% page coverage. The HP 57 ink cartridge contains 17ml of ink and can print photos at up to 2400×1200 dpi.

According to Amazon.com the C6657AN cartridge is the #5 most popular seller in their Electronics/Inkjet Printer category.

When purchasing the HP 57 cartridge, the consumer has a few different choices:

1. The OEM cartridge (cartridge made by HP): When purchasing a HP brand C6657AN cartridge you can typically expect to pay between $34 and $38 dollars. The price varies depending on where you shop.

2. A remanufactured HP 57 cartridge: Many have hear of a remanufactured, or recycled cartridge. This is simply where the empty cartridge was taken fully flushed and cleaned, refilled with OEM grade ink and then print tested (multiple times) to insure a quality of print that is the same as an OEM cartridge. When shopping online you will typically find the cartridge priced between $15-$20.

3. A Do-it-Yourself refill kit: A very easy, very popular option. Simply purchase a refill kit, which comes with all the tools you need to refill your cartridge right at home. Each kit comes with all the tools you need (illustrated directions, syringes, ink, etc). You will receive 3, 20ml bottles of ink, which will allow you to refill your cartridge 2-3 times. Refill kits typically cost around $17.

4. A “by mail” cartridge replacement service: Services such as these have become very popular over the last few years. When your HP 57 cartridge runs out ink you simply place it in a mailing box/bag and send it back to the service provider. Once the empty cartridge is received, a remanufactured cartridge is sent back to you. This option is typically less expensive than purchasing a remanufactured cartridge. Prices typically range from $16-$18 per cartridge. Pacific Ink offers Cartridge by Mail.

The HP 57 cartridge is most often purchased with the HP 56 (C6656AN) cartridge. Let us know what you think of this cartridge.