
Original HP 85A Black Toner Cartridge | Works with HP LaserJet Pro P1102, P1109 Series, HP LaserJet Pro MFP M1212, M1217 Series | CE285A
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AI Verdict
A 1,600-page black toner cartridge specifically for HP LaserJet Pro P1102, P1109, M1212, and M1217 series printers.
This toner cartridge is a strong fit for owners of the specific HP LaserJet Pro P1102, P1109, M1212, or M1217 series printers who value consistent performance and security features. Its 1,600-page yield and claims of preventing leaks and premature failures align with productivity needs.
If you need higher page yields or color printing, look for cartridges with 'high-yield' designations or color toner sets compatible with your specific printer model.
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Pros
- Delivers approximately 1,600 pages, suitable for consistent office use.
- Contains 100% recycled content, supporting sustainability efforts.
- Includes tamper-resistant chips, firmware, and packaging to protect against malicious code and maintain data integrity.
- Engineered to eliminate toner leaks and premature failures, ensuring consistent output.
- Installs quickly and easily into compatible printers.
Cons
- Only works with specific HP LaserJet Pro P1102, P1109, M1212, and M1217 series printers, limiting its use.
- Priced in the entry-plus range for a single black toner cartridge, which can be a significant recurring cost.
- Actual page yield can vary from the stated 1,600 pages depending on printed content and other factors.
- Monochrome only, so it won't work if you need color prints.
Dimension Scores
Installation is straightforward and quick, requiring only insertion into the printer, and it's designed to avoid common printing problems.
As a toner cartridge, there are no adjustable features; it's a static component.
The cartridge is built to HP's specifications, claiming to eliminate toner leaks and premature failures, and reviews mention a durable toner drum.
Aesthetics are not a functional consideration for an internal printer component like a toner cartridge; it has a standard, utilitarian design.
Best For
- Small offices or home users with compatible HP LaserJet Pro P1102, P1109, M1212, or M1217 series printers.
- Users prioritizing security features like tamper-resistant chips for sensitive documents.
- Individuals seeking a consistent, reliable printing experience without troubleshooting common toner issues.
Not Recommended For
- Users with HP printers outside the specified LaserJet Pro P1102, P1109, M1212, or M1217 series.
- Anyone needing color printing capabilities.
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for the lowest upfront cost per page, who might consider third-party compatible cartridges.
Watch Out For
- The 1,600-page yield is an approximation; actual pages printed will vary based on the content's density and other usage factors.
- Choosing cheaper, non-original compatible cartridges can lead to inconsistent print quality, premature failures, or even damage to your printer, despite some claims of similar quality.
- The cartridge is monochrome, meaning it only prints in black and white, which is a limitation if color documents are ever needed.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B003BFU4TI |
| Item Weight | 1.74 pounds |
| Manufacturer | HP |
| Item model number | CE285A |
| Product Dimensions | 4.45 x 14.76 x 4.92 inches |
| National Stock Number | 7510-01-603-2937 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
Many users report that this original HP 85A cartridge consistently delivers sharp, clear black text without the common issues found with cheaper alternatives. The installation process is repeatedly described as simple and quick, which is a big plus when you're just trying to get back to printing. While the cost is a frequent point of discussion, the reliability and print quality seem to justify it for many who depend on their printers for daily tasks.
“Look, I shelled out for the real HP one this time after a cheap knock-off totally messed up my last print job, and honestly, the difference in print quality and just not having to worry about it is worth the extra cash.”
Common Praise
- Produces bold, crisp black text and sharp black-and-white images consistently.
- Installs easily and quickly into compatible HP LaserJet printers.
- Provides reliable printing, minimizing downtime and common printing problems.
- Offers a consistent page yield of around 1,600 pages for typical documents.
- Original HP quality means fewer issues like leaks or smudges compared to some third-party options.
Common Complaints
- The price is significantly higher than many compatible or remanufactured toner cartridges.
- Only works with a very specific list of older HP LaserJet Pro models, limiting its utility if you upgrade your printer.
- Actual page yield can sometimes be less than the advertised 1,600 pages depending on print density and usage.
Ownership Tips
- The print quality remains consistent from the first page to the last, with no noticeable fading or streaking as the toner gets low.
- You really do get close to the advertised 1,600 pages if your printing is mostly text-based documents, but heavy graphics will drop that number.
- The printer's toner level indicator seems accurate, giving enough warning before the cartridge completely runs out.
- Even after sitting in the printer for a while between uses, the toner doesn't dry out or cause issues when you start printing again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color toner does this cartridge produce?
This is a black toner cartridge, designed for monochrome printing only.
How many pages can I expect to print with this cartridge?
You can expect approximately 1,600 pages, based on 5% page coverage on an 8.5" x 11" page.
Is this toner cartridge easy to install?
Yes, it's designed for quick and easy installation; you just insert it into the printer's cartridge box.
Does this cartridge work with my HP LaserJet Pro M1212nf MFP?
Yes, this cartridge is compatible with the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M1212nf, as well as the P1102w, P1109w, and M1217nfw models.
Does this toner cartridge contain recycled materials?
Yes, 100% of Original HP Toner Cartridges contain recycled content.
Buying Guide
When you're buying toner, you're essentially buying the ink for your laser printer, but it's a dry powder, not liquid. This HP 85A cartridge is designed to work perfectly with specific HP LaserJet Pro models, ensuring you get the print quality and reliability HP promises. Don't just look at the upfront cost; consider how many pages you'll get and how often you'll need to replace it. Going with the original usually means fewer headaches down the line.
Cartridge yield (approx.): 1,600 pages
This number tells you roughly how many standard pages you can print before needing a new cartridge. Think of it like the 'miles per gallon' for your car – a higher number means you'll refill less often, saving you time and potentially money over time.
Works with: HP LaserJet Pro P1102w, P1109w; HP LaserJet Pro MFP M1212nf, M1217nfw
This is crucial for compatibility. Just like a specific key only fits one lock, this toner cartridge is engineered to fit and function only with these exact HP printer models. Double-check your printer's model number to avoid buying the wrong one.
100% of Original HP Toner Cartridges contain recycled content
This means the cartridge is made using materials from old cartridges or other recycled sources. If you care about reducing waste and supporting environmentally conscious manufacturing, this is a spec to look for.
Alternatives
If this cartridge doesn't fit your budget or printer, search for 'compatible toner cartridges' for your specific printer model, but be aware of potential quality and reliability trade-offs. For higher volume printing, look for 'high-yield' versions of original toner cartridges.



