When that dreaded “low toner” warning flashes across your printer screen, it’s never good news—especially if you own an HP LaserJet Enterprise model.
OEM cartridges like the HP 90A can run upward of $185 each, which quickly adds up for busy offices. That’s why many people turn to compatible alternatives like the Cool Toner CE390A 90A 2-pack, which costs around $68.98 for both cartridges. But here’s the real question: can these budget-friendly replacements hold up against the originals?
In this article, we’ll walk through what the Cool Toner cartridges offer, how they compare to HP originals, and whether they’re worth the switch for your printing needs.
What Exactly Is the Cool Toner CE390A 90A Compatible 2-Pack?
Cool Toner manufactures a non-OEM alternative to HP’s original toner supplies. This 2-pack is designed for HP LaserJet Enterprise 600 series printers (M601, M602, M603) as well as the M4555 MFP series.
At $68.98 for two cartridges—about $34.49 each—it’s immediately clear that price is the biggest selling point. That’s more than 80% savings compared to buying OEM. Each cartridge weighs about 3.6 pounds, noticeably lighter than HP’s 5.4-pound original.
Performance Claims: Yield and Print Quality
Cool Toner claims each cartridge produces 10,000 pages based on the standard 5% coverage rule, which matches HP’s stated yield. The product description also promises “vivid colors and clear prints”—a curious phrasing, since these are black-only cartridges for monochrome printers.
While the page yield sounds good on paper, one major drawback is the lack of verified feedback. Currently, only a single 5-star review exists, which makes it difficult to know how well the claims hold up in real-world use.
How Does It Compare to the Original HP 90A Toner?
Before making the switch, let’s break down the key differences.
Price Comparison
- Cool Toner 2-pack: ~$68.98 total
- HP 90A OEM single cartridge: $185–$253 each
That’s where the Cool Toner option really shines—you get two cartridges for less than half the price of one HP original.
Performance Specs
Both cartridges claim a 10,000-page yield and list the same printer compatibility, so on paper they look identical.
Physical Differences
The weight gap is worth noting: Cool Toner’s 3.6 pounds vs HP’s 5.4 pounds per cartridge. This could mean differences in build quality or internal materials.
Quality Assurance and Support
- HP OEM: Backed by extensive testing, warranty coverage, and recycling programs like HP Planet Partners.
- Cool Toner: Minimal documentation, no listed recycling option, and undefined warranty terms.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Compatible Cartridges
Like most third-party consumables, Cool Toner brings both upsides and potential concerns.
Benefits
- Huge savings: ~80% cheaper than OEM
- Same listed yield of 10,000 pages
- Works with the same HP LaserJet Enterprise models
- Lightweight, potentially lowering shipping costs
Drawbacks
- Very limited customer reviews and validation
- No clear warranty or printer protection guarantees
- No recycling program mentioned
- Possible risks of inconsistent quality or compatibility issues
Making the Right Choice for Your Printing Needs
So, should you make the switch? It really comes down to your budget and risk tolerance.
- If your office prints high volumes and cost control is a top priority, the Cool Toner CE390A 90A 2-pack could save you a significant amount of money without sacrificing much—if anything—in day-to-day performance.
- If your printing needs are mission-critical—such as client-facing reports, contracts, or official documentation—you may prefer the proven reliability of HP originals, despite the higher price.
A smart middle ground? Check the seller’s return policy. That way, you can test the Cool Toner cartridges in your own printer before committing to larger quantities.
The Hunt for Affordable Toner Without Sacrificing Quality
Finding the right balance between cost and reliability is the real challenge with toner cartridges. The Cool Toner CE390A 90A compatible 2-pack makes a bold case with its massive savings, but the limited feedback means you’ll need to weigh the trade-offs carefully.
For many businesses, these cartridges may be the perfect cost-saving solution. For others, sticking with HP originals offers peace of mind. Either way, the good news is that you have options—whether it’s cutting costs with compatible replacements or investing in OEM reliability.The Cool Toner CE390A 90A 2-Pack is available on Amazon, and you can also explore similar toner options in the same category if you want to compare prices and features before deciding.
