When it's time to replace your printer ink, it's tempting to jump straight to Google and type something like “buy HP ink cartridges online” or “Canon Pixma ink near me”. But here's the problem: even if you've searched for the correct printer model, search engines can still show results for cartridges from a similar but different printer range.
One small mismatch can leave you with an ink cartridge that simply won't work.
In this guide, we'll explain why getting the exact printer model right is so important, why search results can sometimes be misleading, and how to avoid buying the wrong ink cartridges online.
Why Printer Model Compatibility Is Crucial
Every printer is designed to work with a specific range of ink cartridges. Even within the same brand, there are often dozens of ranges with nearly identical names. For example, the Canon Pixma MG series and the Canon Pixma TS series both sound similar, but they use completely different ink cartridges. Similarly, the MG5250, MG5550 and MG5750 printers are actually 3 different generations and all use completely different cartridges, despite the 1 digit change in model numbers.
Buying the wrong ink can cause:
- Frustration when the cartridge doesn't fit
- Lost money if the packaging has been opened and can't be returned
- Printing downtime while you wait for the correct cartridge
- Risk of damaging your printer if you try to force in an incompatible cartridge
If you want to save money and avoid delays, making sure you have the correct printer model before you order is essential.
Why Google Search Results Can Still Be Wrong
When you type a search like “cheap Canon Pixma ink cartridges”, search engines try to be helpful by showing “best match” results. They don't always get it right.
- Searching for “HP Envy ink 6000” might show cartridges for the Envy 5000 series, even though you own an Envy 6000 — just one character different.
- Typing “Epson XP ink” could bring up XP-2100 cartridges when your printer actually takes XP-4100 ink.
- Typing “Canon iP8750 ink” could bring up TS8750 cartridges. Similar-sounding model, completely different ink range.
Similar Name ≠ Compatible Cartridge
The names look similar and some results are cheaper, which makes them more attractive to click. The cartridges can even look alike in pictures, but they're generally not interchangeable. If the description features another printer model to yours, treat that as a warning — that's how customers end up buying the wrong printer ink online.
How to Buy the Right Ink Cartridges Online
To avoid frustration and wasted money, follow these steps:
Existing customers — use email links or favourites
If you've bought from us before, the easiest way to re-order correctly is through a link in our marketing emails. The products shown will either be those you've added to your favourite categories, or products you've previously purchased (they become favourites automatically).
Tip: keep your favourite categories up to date so emails stay accurate. Delete printers you no longer have — or tell us and we can do it for you.
Check your exact printer model number
Don't rely on memory. The correct model number is usually printed on the front or back of your printer.
Cross-check with the product listing
Every ink cartridge product page should list the exact printers it's compatible with. Make sure your printer model is on that list before you add it to your basket.
Be cautious with “similar” search results
If you see an ink cartridge for a printer that looks close but isn't an exact match, don't assume it will work.
Search your printer model on our website
Our website search is much more accurate than a Google shopping result. We have individual pages for each printer containing only the products that work in it. Searching “iP8750” will only bring up the iP8750 page, rather than the incorrect TS8750 page, for example.
Use the INKredible website search and enter your exact printer model number. You'll land on a printer page that only shows compatible cartridges — so you can compare options without guessing from a similar model name.
Final Thoughts: Don't Let Google Guess for You
Buying ink cartridges online is quick and easy — if you have the correct printer model. Don't let Google or any other search engine “guess” for you. Printers are fussy machines, and one digit out in a model number can make a huge difference.
Search engines often show a variety of results they think may be of interest based on the search term. That is not always correct.
By double-checking your printer model when you search, checking the page you land on after an internet search, and buying from a trusted supplier, you'll save money, avoid downtime, and keep your printer running smoothly.
Related reading: Are compatible ink cartridges safe? UK warranty explained · Standard vs XL ink · Product Help
Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Printer Ink Online
Always search your printer model or cartridge code using the cartridge website's own search. Alternatively, check the model number printed on your printer (usually on the front or back). Then match that model with the compatibility list on the ink cartridge product page.
Yes, in some cases. For example, several HP Envy models might use the same cartridge. However, many printers that share the Envy name still need different cartridges. Always check compatibility before buying.
If the packaging is unopened, you can usually return it (return costs may apply — see our Guarantee & Returns page). If you open it and try to install it, the cartridge may not fit or your printer may reject it. We're unable to accept back cartridges ordered in error that have been opened, so check everything before ordering.
Yes, if you buy from a trusted retailer. Look for suppliers who clearly state which printers their cartridges are compatible with, offer a website search by printer model, and have a clear guarantee or returns policy on unopened incorrect orders.
High-quality compatible and remanufactured cartridges can deliver the same results as originals, often at a lower price — provided they're designed for your exact printer model. There can sometimes be a very slight trade-off in quality for the cost saving, but it's usually indistinguishable to the eye. All cartridges listed on the correct printer model page on our site are fully compatible in that printer. See also our compatible ink safety and UK warranty guide.