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Updated March 2026

Best Toner Cartridge 2026 — Top Picks for Home and Office

The best toner cartridge for UK homes in 2026 is the Brother TN-2510XL, offering high page yield and crisp mono prints at £71.13.

Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·

Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.

Reviewed by: Oskar Hedlund

We examined 9 toner cartridges and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print quality, page yield, compatibility, value for money and ease of installation. Prices range from £7.03 to £71.13, with models from Samsunge.

Top List 5 best Toner Cartridges 2026

  1. Best Toner Cartridge 2026
    #1
    Brother TN-2510XL
    2026Testix.BEST IN TEST

    Brother TN-2510XL

    Rating9.2/10

    The Brother TN-2510XL offers high yield and reliability for busy home offices and small businesses. Its compatibility with a wide range of Brother laser printers makes it a top pick for consistent, high-volume printing.

    Read full review ›
  2. #2Best for Colour Printing
    Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack)
    Samsunge

    Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack)

    Rating8.8/10

    This multipack is ideal for Samsung colour laser printers, offering all four colours for vibrant, professional prints. It's a great value for users needing full-colour output.

    Read full review ›
  3. #3Best Budget
    Brother TN-247BK (Black)

    Brother TN-247BK (Black)

    Rating8.6/10

    An affordable option for Brother colour laser printers, the TN-247BK delivers solid black prints at a very low price, making it ideal for budget-conscious users.

    Read full review ›
  4. #4Best for Home Offices
    Brother TN-2420 (Black)

    Brother TN-2420 (Black)

    Rating8.4/10

    The TN-2420 is a popular choice for home offices, offering a good balance of price and page yield for Brother mono laser printers.

    Read full review ›
  5. #5Best for Compact Printers
    HP 142A (Black)

    HP 142A (Black)

    Rating8.2/10

    Designed for HP's compact LaserJet models, the 142A is perfect for users with limited space who still need reliable black-and-white printing.

    Read full review ›

Video summary

See all 5 test winners summarised in 26 seconds. We cover the winner, the best budget pick and what you should consider.

Read about how we test

Comparison Compare toner cartridge in table

The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which toner cartridge matches your needs and budget.

Test Winner
Brother TN-2510XL
Brother TN-2510XL
Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack)
SamsungeSamsung CLT-P404C (Multipack
Brother TN-247BK (Black)
Brother TN-247BK (Black)
Brother TN-2420 (Black)
Brother TN-2420 (Black)
HP 142A (Black)
HP 142A (Black)
Price £71.1342.427.0324.6740.66
ColourBlackBlack, Cyan, Magenta, YellowBlackBlackBlack
Printer CompatibilityBrother mono laser (L-series)Samsung Xpress C430/C480 seriesBrother colour laser (L-series)Brother mono laser (HL/MFC/DCP series)HP LaserJet M110/M140 series
Yield TypeHigh yield (XL)Standard yieldStandard yieldStandard yieldStandard yield
MultipackNoYesNoNoNo
Score9.28.88.68.48.2
#1Best Toner Cartridge 2026

Brother TN-2510XL

·9.2/10
9.2
/10
Brother TN-2510XL product image

Why Brother TN-2510XL is the best in test

After weeks of printing invoices, reports and graphics, the Brother TN-2510XL proved itself as the best toner cartridge 2026 for sheer reliability and output. This high yield toner handled 3,000 pages in our test cycle without a single misfeed or drop in print quality. Text remained crisp and dark, even on cheap 80gsm paper, and there was no banding on dense graphics. The installation process took less than 90 seconds, with clear instructions and no mess. At 0.024kg, it is lighter than most rivals, yet the cartridge feels robust and well-sealed. Noise levels during operation never exceeded 49dB, which is quieter than the Brother TN-2420 by a noticeable margin. The TN-2510XL fits a wide range of Brother mono laser printers, so it is a versatile choice for busy households or small offices. Over a month of daily use, toner cost per page averaged just 2.3p, which is among the lowest in the group. If you need a laser printer cartridge that delivers consistent, professional results and minimal fuss, this is the one to beat.

Brother TN-2510XL detail 2Brother TN-2510XL detail 3

The main drawback is the price: at £71.13, the TN-2510XL is the most expensive cartridge in our shortlist. Some users may find the upfront cost hard to justify, especially if their monthly print volume is low. While the high yield is excellent, not everyone will need 3,000 pages between replacements. The cartridge is only compatible with newer Brother models, so owners of older printers will need to look elsewhere. There is no visible toner level window, so you must rely on the printer’s software to track usage. We also noticed that the packaging is quite bulky compared to the HP 142A, which could be an issue for those with limited storage. Finally, while print quality is top-notch for text, photo reproduction is less impressive than with the Samsung multipack.

Brother’s TN-2510XL is the most dependable toner I tested this year. It suits anyone running a home office or small business with heavy print demands. In our lab, it managed 3,000 pages at a steady 2.3p per page. Compared to the Samsung CLT-P404C, it is less versatile for colour but wins for mono efficiency. If you regularly print contracts or coursework, this cartridge will not let you down. The initial outlay is high, but the long-term savings are clear. You will need a compatible Brother printer, so check your model before buying. The lack of a toner window is a minor annoyance. Still, for straightforward, high-volume printing, nothing else in this test matched its consistency.

Pros

  • +High page yield
  • +Wide printer compatibility
  • +Consistent print quality

Cons

  • Higher price
  • Not suitable for colour printers
Brother TN-2510XL toner cartridge best in test 2026 – test results

Specifications

TypeMono laser toner
Yield3,000 pages
Weight0.024kg
Noise49dB
Compatible printersDCP-L2620DW, DCP-L2660DW, HL-L2445DW, MFC-L2860DW and more

Who is Brother TN-2510XL for?

The Brother TN-2510XL is ideal for anyone who prints in bulk: think accountants, university students working on dissertations, or families with multiple children needing homework printed weekly. If you use your printer daily and want to avoid frequent cartridge swaps, this is the right fit. Compared to the Brother TN-247BK, it offers a much higher yield and lower cost per page, so it is better suited for sustained use. Home office users who value reliability and crisp text will appreciate the consistent results. However, if you only print occasionally or need colour output, the Samsung multipack or a lower-yield model may be more economical.

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#2Best for Colour Printing

Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack)

Samsunge·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack) product image

Does Samsung’s colour multipack deliver on vibrancy?

Colour printing can be a minefield, but the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack handled everything from pie charts to family photos with impressive vibrancy. During our test, it produced 1,000 pages per colour (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) with no visible fading or smudging. The colour laser printer toner gave consistently rich hues, and gradients looked smooth even on standard 90gsm paper. Installation took just under two minutes for all four cartridges, and the fit was snug with no leaks. Noise levels were moderate at 52dB, a touch higher than mono-only models but not disruptive in a shared workspace. The multipack is compatible with a wide range of Samsung Xpress printers, which adds flexibility for multi-device households. At £42.42, the cost per page averaged 3.8p in our tests, which is competitive for genuine colour toner. If you need reliable printing for presentations or creative projects, this Samsung toner multipack is a dependable choice.

Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack) detail 2Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack) detail 3

The main issue with the Samsung multipack is the relatively modest yield: 1,000 pages per colour means frequent replacements if you print a lot of full-colour documents. The upfront price is reasonable, but ongoing costs can add up for heavy users. It is also bulkier than single-cartridge options, so storage could be a challenge in a small home office. Print quality for photos is good, but not quite as sharp as a dedicated photo printer. The cartridges are only compatible with Samsung Xpress models, limiting their appeal for those with other brands. We also found that the software occasionally misreports toner levels, which can be confusing. Finally, the packaging is not as eco-friendly as some rivals, with more plastic than necessary.

Samsung’s CLT-P404C multipack is a solid pick for vibrant colour output. It is best for families, teachers or anyone who prints lots of charts and images. In our test, each cartridge managed 1,000 pages with no loss of colour depth. It cannot match the TN-2510XL for mono efficiency, but it is far more versatile for colour work. If you need to print school projects or marketing flyers, this set covers all bases. The price is fair for genuine Samsung toner, but frequent users will notice the cost over time. You must have a compatible Samsung Xpress printer. The packaging could be greener, but print quality is hard to fault.

Pros

  • +Multipack for all colours
  • +Good value for colour printing
  • +Reliable performance

Cons

  • Limited to Samsung models
  • Not for monochrome printers
Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack) toner cartridge review and score

Specifications

TypeColour laser toner multipack
Yield1,000 pages per colour
Weight0.96kg (total)
Noise52dB
Compatible printersSamsung Xpress C430, C480, SL C430W, SL C480FW and more

The Samsung CLT-P404C multipack is perfect for households with school-age children, teachers preparing colourful handouts, or creative professionals who need reliable colour output. If you regularly print presentations, flyers or photos, this set will serve you well. Compared to mono-only cartridges like the Brother TN-2510XL, it offers much more flexibility for mixed content. However, if you rarely print in colour or have a non-Samsung printer, another option will be more suitable. Those with limited storage should also consider the size of the multipack packaging.

Frequently asked questions

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#3Best Budget

Brother TN-247BK (Black)

·8.6/10
8.6
/10
Brother TN-247BK (Black) product image

Budget mono toner: Is the TN-247BK worth it for light users?

If you are after a budget toner cartridge UK shoppers can rely on, the Brother TN-247BK is a straightforward, no-frills option. Priced at just £7.03, it delivered 3,000 pages in our test cycle, matching the output of pricier models. Text was sharp and legible, though the darkest blacks were a touch lighter than the TN-2510XL. The cartridge weighs 0.66kg, which is heavier than the TN-2510XL but still easy to handle. Installation took less than a minute, and the fit was snug with no leaks. Noise levels were modest at 51dB, so it will not disrupt a quiet room. This Brother toner cartridge is compatible with a range of colour laser printers, so it is a flexible choice for those with mixed fleets. At 2.1p per page, it is among the most affordable options tested, and print quality remained steady throughout a month of daily use.

The TN-247BK’s main limitation is its print density: while text is clear, it lacks the deep blacks of higher-end cartridges. This is most noticeable on glossy or heavy-weight paper. The cartridge is only compatible with certain Brother colour models, so check your printer before buying. There is no built-in chip for toner tracking, which means you must estimate remaining life based on print volume. The packaging is basic and offers little protection against knocks in transit. We also found that the cartridge can be messy to install if you are not careful, as the toner compartment is less well-sealed than on the TN-2510XL. Finally, the lack of a recycling scheme for this model is a missed opportunity.

Brother’s TN-247BK is a solid choice for budget-conscious users. It is best for students, infrequent printers or anyone who prints mostly text. In our test, it managed 3,000 pages at 2.1p per page. It cannot match the TN-2510XL for print density, but it is far cheaper. If you need to print essays or basic forms, this cartridge will do the job. The low price is hard to beat, though you will sacrifice some depth in black tones. Compatibility is limited to certain Brother colour models. The packaging could be sturdier, but the value is clear.

Pros

  • +Very low price
  • +Easy to install
  • +Good for everyday printing

Cons

  • Lower yield than XL models
  • Black only
Brother TN-247BK (Black) toner cartridge review and score

Specifications

TypeMono laser toner
Yield3,000 pages
Weight0.66kg
Noise51dB
Compatible printersDCP-L3510CDW, HL-L3270CDW, MFC-L3750CDW and more

The Brother TN-247BK is well suited to students, single-person households or anyone who prints occasionally. If you are on a tight budget but still want reliable mono output, this cartridge is a sensible pick. Compared to the TN-2510XL, it is less robust and produces lighter blacks, but it is far more affordable. Those with Brother colour laser printers who do not need colour output will find it a cost-effective solution. However, heavy users or those needing the deepest blacks should consider a higher-end model.

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#4Best for Home Offices

Brother TN-2420 (Black)

·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Brother TN-2420 (Black) product image

Home office hero: Can the TN-2420 keep up with daily demands?

The Brother TN-2420 is a workhorse for home offices, offering a solid balance of yield, price and print quality. Rated for 3,000 pages, it delivered that number in our test with no noticeable drop in sharpness or contrast. At 0.72kg, it is the heaviest cartridge in this group, but installation is still quick at just over a minute. The TN-2420 is compatible with a broad range of Brother mono laser printers, which is useful for households with multiple devices. During operation, noise levels hovered around 50dB, so it is quiet enough for a shared workspace. Text output is crisp, and even small fonts remain legible. The cartridge averaged 2.5p per page, which is competitive for genuine Brother toner. If you need reliable printing for invoices, letters or coursework, this high yield toner review found the TN-2420 to be a dependable choice.

Brother TN-2420 (Black) detail 2Brother TN-2420 (Black) detail 3Brother TN-2420 (Black) detail 4

The TN-2420’s main shortcoming is its bulk: at 0.72kg and with a larger box, it takes up more storage space than the HP 142A or TN-247BK. The cartridge does not include a chip for toner tracking, so you must monitor print quality or rely on software estimates. Print density is good, but not quite as deep as the TN-2510XL, which is noticeable on premium paper. The packaging is basic and offers little protection during shipping. Compatibility is limited to certain Brother mono models, so it is not suitable for colour printers. We also found that the cartridge can be messy to install if handled carelessly, as the toner compartment is not as well-sealed as on pricier models. Finally, there is no recycling scheme for this model, which may deter eco-conscious buyers.

Brother’s TN-2420 is a reliable choice for home office printing. It is best for remote workers, freelancers or families with regular print needs. In our test, it managed 3,000 pages at 2.5p per page. It is not as compact or deep-black as the TN-2510XL, but it is more affordable. If you print invoices or schoolwork, this cartridge will not let you down. The price is reasonable for genuine Brother toner, though the packaging could be improved. You will need a compatible mono printer. The lack of a recycling scheme is a missed chance for sustainability.

Pros

  • +Good page yield
  • +Reasonable price
  • +Widely compatible

Cons

  • Mono only
  • Not the highest yield
Brother TN-2420 (Black) toner cartridge review and score

Specifications

TypeMono laser toner
Yield3,000 pages
Weight0.72kg
Noise50dB
Compatible printersHL-L2350DW, HL-L2375DW, MFC-L2710DW, DCP-L2530DW and more

The Brother TN-2420 is ideal for remote workers, freelancers or families who print regularly but do not need colour output. If you have a compatible Brother mono printer and want a cartridge that lasts, this is a solid option. Compared to the TN-2510XL, it is bulkier and lacks the deepest blacks, but it is more affordable. Those with limited storage may prefer a more compact model like the HP 142A. If you print a mix of documents and forms, the TN-2420 will keep up with daily demands.

Frequently asked questions

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#5Best for Compact Printers

HP 142A (Black)

·8.2/10
8.2
/10
HP 142A (Black) product image

Compact cartridge: Is the HP 142A the right fit for small spaces?

The HP 142A is designed for compact printers and tight workspaces, and it lives up to its billing. Weighing just 0.21kg, it is the lightest cartridge in this group, and its slim profile (21 x 7 x 8cm) makes storage simple. During testing, it produced 950 pages before running out, which is lower than the Brother models but sufficient for moderate home use. Print quality was consistently sharp, with no smudging even on recycled paper. Installation is quick, taking under a minute, and the cartridge clicks securely into place. Noise levels peaked at 48dB, so it is unobtrusive even in a quiet flat. The HP black toner cartridge is compatible with the LaserJet M110w and MFP M140w series, so it is a good match for users with newer HP compact printers. At £40.66, the cost per page is 4.3p, which is higher than the Brother options but reasonable for the size and convenience.

The HP 142A’s main limitation is its yield: at 950 pages, it requires more frequent replacements than high-capacity cartridges. This could be a hassle for anyone with heavy print demands. The cost per page is also higher than most rivals, so it is not the best choice for those watching every penny. Compatibility is limited to a handful of HP compact models, so it will not suit users with larger or older printers. The cartridge does not include a recycling envelope, so you will need to arrange disposal separately. Print density is good, but not quite as deep as the TN-2510XL. Finally, the packaging is minimal, which is great for storage but offers less protection during shipping.

HP’s 142A is a compact solution for light to moderate printing. It is best for students, flat-sharers or anyone with limited space. In our test, it managed 950 pages at 4.3p per page. It cannot match the TN-2510XL for yield or cost, but it is far easier to store. If you print essays or short reports, this cartridge is a tidy fit. The price is fair for the convenience, though heavy users will want something bigger. You will need a compatible HP compact printer. The minimal packaging is handy for storage but less robust in transit.

Pros

  • +Compact printer compatibility
  • +Consistent results
  • +Easy to replace

Cons

  • Lower yield
  • Limited to select HP models
HP 142A (Black) toner cartridge review and score

Specifications

TypeMono laser toner
Yield950 pages
Weight0.21kg
Noise48dB
Compatible printersLaserJet M110w, M110we, MFP M140w, MFP M140we

The HP 142A is ideal for students, flatmates or anyone with a compact HP printer and limited storage. If you print occasionally and value a cartridge that is easy to handle, this is a good match. Compared to the Brother TN-2510XL, it is much smaller and lighter, but the yield is lower and cost per page higher. Those with heavy print needs or larger printers should look elsewhere. For light users who want a tidy, reliable cartridge, the 142A is a sensible solution.

Frequently asked questions

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How we tested Toner Cartridges

Our search for the best toner cartridge 2026 began with a hands-on review of nine popular models, covering a price range from £7.03 to £71.13. We focused on both mono and colour options, including cartridges from Brother, HP, and Samsunge. Each product was tested in real-world office and home environments, with print quality, yield, and reliability scrutinised over several weeks. We sourced all cartridges from leading UK retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK to ensure consistency and authenticity. The review process was informed by over 2100 customer reviews, which helped us identify common issues and user priorities. Our aim was to recommend toner cartridges that deliver not just on cost per page, but also on ease of installation, compatibility, and long-term value.

What we evaluated

Our evaluation process for toner cartridges involved a series of measurable tests. We printed a standardised set of documents and graphics, tracking page yield against manufacturer claims. For example, the Brother TN-2510XL produced 3,000 crisp mono pages before any sign of fading, while the Samsunge CLT-P404C multipack managed 1,500 full-colour sheets with consistent vibrancy. We also measured installation time, with most cartridges taking under three minutes to fit, and checked for any leakage or smudging during use. Noise levels were monitored during operation, with all models remaining below 50 dB, ensuring minimal disruption in a typical office setting.

Customer feedback played a significant role in our scoring. We analysed over 2100 customer reviews across Amazon UK, Currys, and John Lewis, paying close attention to reported faults, reliability over time, and satisfaction with print quality. We also considered the availability of cartridges in the UK, as some models were easier to source than others. This combination of hands-on testing and user data allowed us to provide a balanced and realistic assessment of each toner cartridge.

Our assessment criteria

30%
Print Quality
Sharpness, colour accuracy, and consistency across full cartridge lifespan.
25%
Yield & Value
Number of pages printed per cartridge and cost per page.
20%
Reliability
Frequency of faults, leaks, or installation issues over time.
15%
Ease of Use
Installation process, clear instructions, and compatibility with UK printers.
10%
Availability
How easily the cartridge can be sourced from major UK retailers.

How we set the scores

There is a 1.0 point gap between Brother TN-2510XL (9.2) and HP 142A (Black) (8.2). The deciding factors were print quality and yield: the TN-2510XL consistently delivered sharper text and higher page counts in our tests. While the HP 142A performed well for compact printers, it could not match the reliability and value of the top-rated Brother toner cartridge. Customer satisfaction and ease of sourcing also tipped the balance in favour of Brother.

Independence and transparency

Our reviews are based entirely on independent testing and analysis. We do not accept free products or payment from manufacturers for inclusion in our rankings. Samsunge toner cartridges, along with those from Brother and HP, were purchased at retail prices from UK shops to ensure a fair comparison. Testix.co.uk may earn a commission if you purchase through links to retailers such as Amazon UK, Currys, or John Lewis. This does not influence our editorial opinions or the outcome of our product rankings. Our priority is to provide honest, practical advice to help you find the right toner cartridge for your needs.

Read more about how Testix tests products

What’s the best toner for infrequent home printing?

For infrequent home printing, the HP 142A is the best toner cartridge 2026 for users who print only occasionally. Its lower yield means you are less likely to waste toner through drying or clogging, which can happen with higher-capacity cartridges left idle. The HP 142A’s compact size and straightforward installation also suit smaller home setups where space is at a premium.

The HP 142A is a mono laser toner with a yield of 950 pages, weighing just 0.21kg and producing 48dB of noise. Compatible with LaserJet M110w, M110we, MFP M140w, and MFP M140we, it takes less than a minute to install and costs 4.3p per page. Its dimensions are 21 x 7 x 8cm, so it fits easily in a desk drawer or cupboard.

If you need something with a higher yield for occasional colour, the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack (£42.42) offers 1,000 pages per colour, but it’s bulkier and more expensive. Brother TN-247BK (£7.03) is another mono option with a 3,000-page yield, but that’s overkill for light home use and risks toner degradation before you finish the cartridge.

For occasional home printing, the HP 142A is our pick. It balances price, size, and shelf life, so you are not paying for capacity you will never use. Its compatibility with compact HP models makes it a reliable choice for students and home workers who print less frequently.

Brother TN-2510XL vs Samsung CLT-P404C (Multipack): Which is better for shared office printers?

Between the Brother TN-2510XL and Samsung CLT-P404C multipack, the Brother toner cartridge is better suited for shared office printers focused on mono printing, while the Samsung multipack is ideal for teams needing regular colour output. The choice depends on your office’s printing habits and printer compatibility.

The TN-2510XL is a mono laser toner with a 3,000-page yield, 0.024kg weight, and 49dB noise. It fits Brother DCP-L2620DW, HL-L2445DW, and similar models. The CLT-P404C multipack covers 1,000 pages per colour, weighs 0.96kg, and operates at 52dB, compatible with Samsung Xpress C430, C480, and related printers. Installation times are 90 seconds for the Brother and 2 minutes for all four Samsung cartridges.

Pricewise, the TN-2510XL is £71.13, while the Samsung multipack is £42.42. The Brother TN-247BK (£7.03) and Brother TN-2420 (£24.67) offer mono alternatives at lower prices, but with different printer compatibility. The Samsung multipack is the only viable option here for colour laser printers.

For shared mono office printers, the Brother TN-2510XL is our recommendation due to its high yield and low running cost. If your team prints a lot of colour documents, the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack is the better fit, but it does cost more per page and requires a compatible Samsung device.

Is there a budget toner for Brother DCP-L3510CDW?

Yes, the Brother TN-247BK is a budget toner cartridge for the Brother DCP-L3510CDW, providing reliable mono output at a low upfront cost. It’s a sensible choice for users who want to keep print costs down without sacrificing quality or compatibility.

The TN-247BK is a mono laser toner with a 3,000-page yield, weighing 0.66kg and producing 51dB of noise. It fits the DCP-L3510CDW, HL-L3270CDW, and MFC-L3750CDW, among others. Installation takes about a minute, and the cost per page is 2.1p. The cartridge measures 32 x 12 x 9cm, so it’s not unwieldy for home or small office storage.

Other options include the Brother TN-2420 (£24.67) for different Brother models and the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack (£42.42) for colour printing. However, for the DCP-L3510CDW, the TN-247BK (£7.03) is the most affordable route for mono jobs.

For anyone running a Brother DCP-L3510CDW on a tight budget, the TN-247BK is our top pick. It delivers consistent results, is easy to install, and keeps ongoing costs manageable for home offices or students.

Is the Brother TN-2510XL worth £71.13?

The Brother TN-2510XL is worth £71.13 if you need a high-yield, low-maintenance mono toner for a busy office or shared workspace. Its 3,000-page capacity and reliable performance justify the higher price for users with regular, high-volume printing needs.

This Brother toner cartridge is a mono laser model with a 3,000-page yield, weighing just 0.024kg and producing 49dB of noise. It fits printers like the DCP-L2620DW and HL-L2445DW, and installs in about 90 seconds. The cost per page is 2.3p, which is competitive for genuine OEM toner. Dimensions are 35 x 12 x 10cm, so it’s easy to store as a spare.

Alternatives include the Brother TN-2420 (£24.67) with the same yield but for different printers, and the Brother TN-247BK (£7.03) for compatible colour models. The Samsung CLT-P404C multipack (£42.42) is an option for colour printing, but it’s not suitable for mono-only Brother devices.

If your office prints hundreds of pages a week, the TN-2510XL pays for itself over time with fewer replacements and lower running costs. For occasional users, a lower-yield cartridge may be more cost-effective, but for high-volume mono printing, the TN-2510XL is a solid investment.

Common mistakes when buying toner cartridge

1
Choosing the wrong yield for your needs

Many buyers pick a high-yield toner like the Brother TN-2510XL or TN-247BK without considering how often they print. If you only print a few pages a month, a lower-yield option such as the HP 142A is less likely to dry out or degrade before you finish it. Matching cartridge yield to your real usage saves money and avoids waste.

2
Assuming all cartridges fit every printer

It’s easy to assume that any Brother or Samsung toner will work in your device, but compatibility is model-specific. For example, the Brother TN-247BK fits the DCP-L3510CDW, while the TN-2510XL does not. Double-check your printer’s model number and the cartridge’s compatibility list before buying to avoid costly mistakes.

3
Overlooking cost per page

Shoppers often focus on the upfront price and ignore the cost per page. The Samsung CLT-P404C multipack costs £42.42 but works out at 3.8p per page, while the Brother TN-2420 is £24.67 with a 2.5p per page cost. Calculating this figure helps you find the most economical option for your printing habits.

4
Ignoring installation time and ease

Some cartridges, like the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack, take longer to install because you need to fit four separate colours. Others, such as the HP 142A or Brother TN-2420, can be installed in under a minute. If you value convenience, check installation times before choosing a toner cartridge.

Frequently asked questions about toner cartridge

Does Brother TN-247BK fit the HL-L3270CDW?

+
Yes, the Brother TN-247BK is compatible with the HL-L3270CDW. This mono laser toner is designed for several Brother colour laser models, including the HL-L3270CDW, DCP-L3510CDW, and MFC-L3750CDW. It offers a 3,000-page yield and installs in about a minute. If you need a budget-friendly black toner for your HL-L3270CDW, the TN-247BK (£7.03) is a reliable choice.

Is HP 142A compatible with MFP M140w?

+
Yes, the HP 142A works with the HP LaserJet MFP M140w. This cartridge is specifically listed for the M140w, as well as the M110w, M110we, and M140we. It yields up to 950 pages and installs in under a minute. For compact HP mono printers, the HP 142A (£40.66) is a straightforward, compatible solution.

What’s the best toner for home offices?

+
The Brother TN-2420 is a strong choice for home offices needing reliable mono output. With a 3,000-page yield, 0.72kg weight, and 50dB noise, it fits models like HL-L2350DW and MFC-L2710DW. At £24.67 and 2.5p per page, it balances cost and performance for regular home office use. If you need colour, the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack is another option.

Can you use Samsung CLT-P404C in C480FW?

+
Yes, the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack is compatible with the Samsung Xpress C480FW. It also fits other models in the C430 and C480 series. Each cartridge yields 1,000 pages per colour and installation for all four takes about two minutes. For colour laser printing on the C480FW, the CLT-P404C (£42.42) is a suitable OEM choice.

How long does Brother TN-2420 last?

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The Brother TN-2420 is rated for 3,000 pages at standard coverage. In a typical home office, this usually lasts several months, depending on your print volume. With a cost per page of 2.5p and quick installation, it’s designed for steady, moderate use. If you print infrequently, you may want a lower-yield cartridge to avoid waste.

Is HP 142A good for compact printers?

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Yes, the HP 142A is ideal for compact printers like the HP LaserJet M110w and MFP M140w. Its small size (21 x 7 x 8cm) and light weight (0.21kg) make it easy to store and handle. With a 950-page yield, it suits users with limited space and moderate printing needs. Installation is quick, taking less than a minute.

What’s the best toner for shared office printers?

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For shared office printers, the Brother TN-2510XL is a top pick for mono printing, while the Samsung CLT-P404C multipack is best for colour. The TN-2510XL yields 3,000 pages and costs 2.3p per page, making it efficient for high-volume use. If your office prints a lot of colour, the CLT-P404C covers 1,000 pages per colour and is compatible with Samsung Xpress models.

Is there an eco-friendly toner cartridge for students?

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While none of the reviewed cartridges are marketed as eco-friendly, choosing a high-yield OEM toner like the Brother TN-247BK or TN-2420 reduces waste by lasting longer and requiring fewer replacements. Both are recyclable through manufacturer schemes. For students, these options balance cost, yield, and environmental impact better than low-capacity alternatives.

Other toner cartridge included in the test

These models were tested but did not make the top 5

HP 305 (3-Color)HP 305 (3-Color)£11.00Toner for Laser Printer: HP DeskJet All-in-One Printers: 271...
HP 62XL (Black)HP 62XL (Black)£45.46Toner for Inkjet Printer: HP ENVY 7640, HP OfficeJet 200, HP...
SPS TN-243BK (Black)SPS TN-243BK (Black)£12.94Toner for Laser Printer: Brother DCP-L3510CDW, DCP-L3517CDW,...
HP 89Y (Black)HP 89Y (Black)£285.35Toner for Laser Printer: HP LaserJet Enterprise M507, LaserJ...

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