South Africa’s Printing Guide: Inkjet Tank Printer Price vs HP Ink Cartridge Costs (2025)

Whether you’re running a small business or printing schoolwork at home, choosing the right printer setup is key. In South Africa, two popular options dominate: inkjet tank printers (known for long-term savings) and HP printers using traditional ink cartridges (known for ease of use and accessibility).

This article dives into the inkjet tank printer price in South Africa, the cost of ink cartridges for HP printers, and what buyers need to know before upgrading their printing gear in 2025.

Inkjet Tank Printers: What They Are and How Much They Cost

What is an Inkjet Tank Printer?

Inkjet tank printers, also known as refillable ink tank printers or EcoTank printers, are designed to reduce long-term ink costs by using large refillable tanks instead of disposable cartridges. Brands like Epson, Canon, and HP Smart Tank have made these systems widely available in South Africa.

Inkjet Tank Printer Price in South Africa (2025)

Pricing depends on brand, print volume, and features like Wi-Fi, duplex printing, and photo capability.

Model Type

Price Range (ZAR)

Basic Home Use

R2,800 – R4,500

Office/High Volume Printing

R5,000 – R9,000

Photo Printing (A4/A3+)

R6,500 – R12,000+

Tip: The upfront cost is higher than traditional printers, but ink refills cost significantly less per page.

Popular Ink Tank Printer Brands in South Africa

  • Epson EcoTank Series

  • Canon MegaTank G Series

  • HP Smart Tank Series

These models are widely available through retailers like Park Avenue, Incredible Connection, Makro, and Loot.co.za.

Ink Cartridges for HP Printers: Still a Popular Option

Understanding HP Ink Cartridges

HP printers have long been a go-to for homes and offices. They use individual black and colour cartridges, and models like HP DeskJet, HP Envy, and HP OfficeJet are widely available and affordable.

Ink Cartridges for HP Printers – Price in South Africa (2025)

Prices vary depending on the cartridge model (original vs generic) and whether it’s black, tri-colour, or XL format.

Cartridge Type

Price Range (ZAR)

HP 305 Black/Colour

R180 – R280 each

HP 652 Combo Pack

R400 – R550 (Black + Colour)

HP 123 XL Series

R300 – R480 each

Generic Compatible Ink

R90 – R150 each

Note: Generic ink options can lower costs but may void warranties or affect print quality.

Where to Buy HP Ink Cartridges in South Africa

  • Park Avenue

  • Takealot, Loot, InkShop.co.za

  • Dis-Chem, Clicks (for convenience)

  • Makro and Game for bulk or combo packs

Ink Tank Printer vs HP Cartridge Printers: Which Is Better?

Factor

Ink Tank Printers

HP Cartridge Printers

Upfront Cost

Higher (R2,800+)

Lower (from R800 – R2,500)

Cost Per Page

Very Low

Medium to High

Ink Refill Availability

Bottles – R80 to R200 each

Cartridges – R180 to R550

Print Volume

High-volume (good for bulk)

Low to medium usage

Best For

Offices, schools, remote work

Home use, occasional printing

If you print frequently, an inkjet tank printer is more cost-effective in the long run. But if you only print now and then, an HP cartridge printer remains practical and affordable.

Buying Tips for South African Consumers

  1. Calculate your monthly print volume – This helps you decide which system will save you more in the long run.

  2. Look for combo deals – Many retailers bundle printers with ink or paper.

  3. Compare OEM vs Generic Ink – Generic ink is cheaper but may affect quality or reliability.

  4. Check for school or business discounts – Some vendors offer special pricing to institutions.

  5. Buy from trusted local sellers – Avoid fake cartridges or poor-quality refill kits by choosing authorized outlets.

 FAQs – Inkjet Tank Printers and HP Ink Cartridges in South Africa

Q1: Are inkjet tank printers better than HP cartridge printers?
They are better for frequent users due to their low cost per page. However, for occasional home use, HP cartridge printers may be more cost-effective upfront.

Q2: Can I use generic ink in my HP printer?
Yes, but using non-HP cartridges may void your warranty and could affect printer performance.

Q3: How long does an ink tank refill last?
An average refill can print between 3,000 and 7,000 pages depending on the model and print quality settings.

Q4: Where can I find the cheapest HP ink cartridges?
Check online platforms like Park Avenue, Takealot, or local outlets like PNA and Makro. Promotions are often run at the start of the school or office season.

Q5: Is ink delivery or subscription available in South Africa?
Some suppliers now offer auto-replenishment services, especially for businesses and schools. It's worth checking with your local vendor.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Printer Setup for Your Needs

Whether you're printing at home, in a school, or managing a small office, understanding the cost differences between inkjet tank printers and HP ink cartridges can save you money.

  • Go for a tank printer if you print often and need a long-term low-cost solution.

  • Stick with HP cartridge printers for simple, low-volume, plug-and-play convenience.

No matter which you choose, South African retailers offer a range of pricing and product options to fit every budget. Be sure to compare prices online, read reviews, and buy from reliable sources