HP 902 Cyan, Magenta, Yellow Ink Cartridges Printers | Works with Printer Series: OfficeJet 6950, 6960; OfficeJet Pro 6960, 6970 | Eligible for Instant Ink | T0A38AN
Want the best price and purchase timing?
Our AI advisor analyzes real-time pricing across all channels to find you the best deal.
AI Verdict
These HP 902 Cyan, Magenta, Yellow ink cartridges deliver approximately 315 pages per color, designed specifically for HP OfficeJet 6950, 6960, OfficeJet Pro 6960, and 6970 series printers.
These cartridges are a strong fit if you own a compatible HP OfficeJet printer and are committed to using genuine HP supplies, especially if you find value in the Instant Ink program. However, the restrictive nature of HP's ink ecosystem, particularly with Instant Ink cancellations and blocking third-party options, makes it a less flexible choice.
If you're looking for lower running costs or more freedom with ink choices, consider an ink tank printer that uses refillable reservoirs instead of cartridges.
Regret Score™
Medium RiskLower is better — measures purchase-regret risk from real buyer complaints, review credibility, and product maturity
Issues discovered after purchase
Critically weak dimension
Amazon rating vs actual quality
Chance this product isn't for you
Pros
- Engineered to provide consistent quality and reliability with compatible HP printers.
- Each color cartridge yields approximately 315 pages.
- Eligible for HP Instant Ink service, which can manage ink delivery.
- HP states it upcycles plastic into these cartridges, contributing to environmental efforts.
- Designed to produce fade-resistant documents and brilliant images.
Cons
- HP printers may display errors or block non-HP cartridges, forcing the use of genuine ink.
- Canceling an HP Instant Ink subscription can render previously sent cartridges unusable.
- Users report feeling the ink runs out quickly, sometimes around 200-300 pages, despite the 315-page rating.
- The cost of genuine HP cartridges is perceived as high, with some users noting prices around $100 for a set.
- Instant Ink subscribers have reported paying for months without receiving new cartridges if ink levels aren't low enough.
Dimension Scores
The cartridges are designed for easy installation and consistent performance within compatible HP printers, minimizing user effort once installed.
These cartridges offer minimal adjustability, as they are specific to certain HP printer models and HP's ecosystem restricts the use of alternative ink options.
HP engineers these cartridges to provide consistent quality and reliability, aiming for precision output and fade-resistant results.
As internal printer components, the aesthetic design of ink cartridges is generally functional and does not significantly impact user experience.
Best For
- Owners of HP OfficeJet 6950, 6960, OfficeJet Pro 6960, or 6970 series printers who prioritize genuine HP ink.
- Users who prefer the convenience of HP Instant Ink and understand its subscription terms.
- Individuals or small businesses needing consistent color output for everyday documents and images.
Not Recommended For
- Budget-focused users looking for the lowest cost per page.
- Users who prefer the flexibility to use third-party or refilled ink cartridges.
- Anyone unwilling to commit to HP's Instant Ink subscription model due to its restrictions.
Watch Out For
- If you cancel HP Instant Ink, any ink cartridges sent to you under the subscription will be suspended and become unusable, even if they still contain ink.
- Your printer might display an error message like 'one or more cartridges are damaged or missing' if you attempt to use non-HP ink.
- Some users have paid for HP Instant Ink for extended periods (e.g., 8 months) without receiving new cartridges because their ink levels weren't low enough.
- The perceived high cost of genuine HP cartridges can be a barrier, with some users stating a set can cost nearly $100.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B01BYKEEFQ |
| Brand | HP |
| Color | Cyan, Magenta, Yellow |
| Ink Base | Water |
| Ink Color | Cyan, Magenta, Yellow |
| Model Name | T0A38AN |
| Page Yield | 315 |
| Item Weight | 3.04 ounces |
| Manufacturer | HP |
| Special Feature | up to 2x more prints |
| Item model number | T0A38AN#140 |
| Compatible Devices | Printer |
| Product Dimensions | 1 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Compatibility Options | Genuine |
| Compatible Printer Models | OfficeJet Pro 6968, OfficeJet Pro 6975, OfficeJet Pro 6978 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
The biggest headache with these HP 902 cartridges, and HP ink in general, isn't necessarily the print quality, but the restrictive policies around their Instant Ink subscription. Users frequently report that canceling Instant Ink renders their existing, partially full cartridges useless, which feels like a waste. There's also a recurring frustration with HP printers rejecting non-HP cartridges, often with 'damaged or missing' errors, pushing users towards the more expensive genuine options. While the cartridges themselves are designed for consistent output, the ecosystem they operate in causes significant user friction.
“Seriously, HP, making my ink stop working just because I canceled Instant Ink is a total rip-off. I paid for that ink! Never again with this subscription nonsense.”
Common Praise
- Produces clear, readable text for everyday documents.
- Colors appear vibrant and suitable for basic graphics and photos.
- Cartridges install without difficulty into compatible HP printers.
- Reliable performance for consistent printing results.
Common Complaints
- Ink cartridges received through Instant Ink become unusable upon subscription cancellation.
- Printers frequently display errors and refuse to work with third-party ink.
- The cost of replacement genuine HP cartridges is considered high by many users.
- Some Instant Ink subscribers report paying for months without receiving new cartridges if their ink levels aren't low enough.
- Ink feels like it runs out faster than expected, sometimes closer to 200-300 pages per color.
Ownership Tips
- The printer often checks for genuine HP chips, making third-party ink a gamble.
- Even if you don't use Instant Ink, the cost of buying individual cartridges can add up quickly.
- Keeping an extra set on hand is smart, as running out of one color can halt all printing.
- Firmware updates from HP can sometimes further restrict the use of non-genuine cartridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these cartridges compatible with my HP OfficeJet Pro 6970?
Yes, these HP 902 Cyan, Magenta, Yellow ink cartridges are designed to work with the HP OfficeJet Pro 6970, as well as the 6960, 6950, and 6960 series.
What is the approximate page yield for these color cartridges?
Each color cartridge (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow) is rated to yield approximately 315 pages.
Can I use third-party ink cartridges with my HP printer instead of these?
While some users attempt to use third-party ink, HP printers are engineered to work with genuine HP ink, and using non-HP cartridges often results in error messages or the printer refusing to print.
What happens if I cancel my HP Instant Ink subscription?
If you cancel your HP Instant Ink subscription, any ink cartridges you received through the program will be deactivated and become unusable, even if they still contain ink.
Are these cartridges part of HP's environmental initiatives?
Yes, HP states that it has upcycled over 2,300 metric tons of plastic into HP Ink cartridges and other products.
Buying Guide
When buying ink, you're not just buying colored liquid; you're buying into an ecosystem. For HP, that means these 902 cartridges are specifically tuned for certain OfficeJet models. You need to decide if the convenience and guaranteed compatibility of genuine HP ink, potentially with Instant Ink, outweighs the higher cost and lack of flexibility compared to third-party options. Be aware of the Instant Ink terms, especially around cancellation.
Cartridge yield (approx.): 315 pages per color
This number tells you roughly how many standard pages you can expect to print with each color cartridge before it runs out. If you print a lot of color documents, you'll go through these faster than someone printing mostly black and white.
Works with Printer Series: OfficeJet 6950, 6960; OfficeJet Pro 6960, 6970
Ink cartridges are like car parts – they're specific. This tells you exactly which HP printer models these cartridges will fit and function in. Using the wrong cartridge won't work and could potentially damage your printer.
Eligible for Instant Ink
This means you can enroll in HP's subscription service where they automatically send you ink when your printer reports it's low. It can be convenient, but understand that the ink is 'leased' and can be deactivated if you cancel the service.
Alternatives
If these cartridges don't fit your budget or desire for flexibility, look for printers that use refillable ink tanks for a much lower cost per page, or consider laser printers if your needs are primarily black and white documents.
You Might Also Like
LYMAX Computer Monitor Light Bar with Wireless Remote, Motion Sensor, Fit for Flat/Curved Monitor, Adjustable Color Temperature with Auto-Dimming, Eye-Care USB-C Monitor Lamp, No Glare Desk Lamp
$50-$99A 15.7-ounce aluminum monitor light bar with motion sensing, auto-dimming, and stepless 2700K-6500K color temperature adjustment for flat or curved screens.
Computer Monitor Lamp, Screen Monitor Light Bar for Eye Caring, Screen Monitor Light Bar with Backlight for Eye Caring, E-Reading LED Task Lamp with Dimming Adjustment, Perfect for Reading and Study
$0-$49This BLYGACN monitor lamp offers 3 color temperatures (3000K-6500K), dimming, and a 60-minute timer, powered by USB, for monitors 15-24 inches.
Monitor Light Bar with Touch Control, RGB Desk Lamp Full Spectrum Screen Lamp, Glare-Free Low Blue Light Monitor Lamp with Memory Mode, USB Powered for Gaming, Office & Work
$0-$49A USB-powered plastic monitor light bar with touch controls, RGB modes, and glare-free illumination for basic desk setups.
RGB Monitor Light Bar, Eye-Care Dual Light Reading Screen Lamp, 9 Modes Gaming Backlight LED Computer Lamp, 3 Colors Dimmable Frontlight, 15.75'' USB Desk Lights for Home, Office
$0-$49This is a budget-focused 6.4-ounce plastic monitor light bar with dual-mode lighting and 9 RGB backlight modes, designed for users needing basic task and ambient lighting without cluttering their desk