HP 134X Toner Cartridge Review: Reliable But Pricey Buy
A surprising pattern emerged in feedback for the HP 134X Black High-yield Toner Cartridge — while the official rating promises 2,400 pages of sharp printing, many long-term users say real-world yield can be noticeably lower depending on workload. Still, with a strong 4.5–4.6 star consensus across platforms, this cartridge scores 8.7/10 for office productivity and reliability.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy — best for users who prioritize consistent quality over lowest cost-per-page.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Crisp, professional-quality black text | Real-world yield sometimes lower than claimed |
| Easy installation and packaging | Higher price compared to compatibles |
| Long shelf-life | Delays in delivery from some sellers |
| Reliable compatibility with HP models | Not compatible with HP+ “e” series printers |
| Strong build with recycled content | No direct tech support from HP for troubleshooting |
| Auto seal removal prevents mess | Some feel cost-per-page isn’t double vs. standard yield |
Claims vs Reality
HP markets the 134X as a high-yield, 2,400-page cartridge with “JetIntelligence” for efficient toner use and consistently professional results. Officially, they state: “Print for longer — over 2 times more pages with optional high-yield cartridges.”
However, user reports suggest mixed real-world numbers. A Staples customer shared: “This offers very good quality, but I have yet to see 2,400 pages per cartridge.” Another added: “Cost is double but number of prints not double” — hinting that while the higher yield is noticeable, it doesn’t always reach the advertised ratio.
HP also claims “no delays or mess — quickly replace your cartridges, using auto seal removal and easy-open packaging.” This is confirmed by customers like “J Keene,” who said: “Excellent cartridge, easy to install.” Ease of replacement is one feature where feedback aligns fully with marketing.
Finally, HP emphasizes anti-fraud technology and recycled content. While few end-users comment directly on chip security, many appreciate the environmental angle. Sellers on eBay highlight “feel good about printing with recycled materials — help close the loop” as part of the appeal.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Amazon, Staples, and Reddit discussions, the most consistent praise is for print quality. Verified buyers repeatedly note “crisp black text” and “professional-appearance graphics,” making this a reliable choice for formal business documents and academic use. Staples customer Robert P. praised longevity — “Last cartridge lasted 1 week shy of a year! Good deal for the price” — suggesting that in steady-use environments, high-yield performance does translate to fewer replacements.
For microbusiness owners, reliability matters more than marginal cost savings. Reddit user feedback on compatible models explained that “Even though HP 134X has much higher printing volume, it prints more for less… it’s a better choice to save money in the long haul.” HP loyalists like Galen H. sum it up: “I have tried compatibles but I am sticking with HP.”
Ease of install is a recurring benefit. Multiple Staples reviewers used phrases like “easy to install,” “fit right in to my HP printer,” and “problem solved” when discussing the switch-out process. This matters for light home users who may dread fiddly installations.
Common Complaints
While officially rated for 2,400 pages, several users underscored the yield gap. Enzo Devuono compared it unfavorably with older models: “Not a high yield as the old HP 2100 cartridge… the old one was going on the 3rd year.” Another Staples buyer commented, “Good enough but no bargain” when contrasting price with output.
Price sensitivity is evident in eBay and aftermarket seller notes, where lower-cost compatibles aim directly at those unwilling to pay OEM premiums. Delivery delays also frustrate buyers — Kenneth W. said: “I liked these so much I bought 2 more… I just could not believe how long it took to receive this item.”
HP’s lack of direct troubleshooting support emerged as a loyalty risk. One buyer stated: “I would not buy another HP printer because you offer no phone number to talk to someone when the printer doesn’t work.”
Divisive Features
Security chip technology, designed to block counterfeits, splits opinion. OEM buyers see it as protective — HP says it “helps identify whether a cartridge is original HP, used, or counterfeit” — whereas third-party sellers note compatibility barriers. Cool Toner warns: “Can’t work with HP+ printers with ‘e’ at the end of the printer model… due to different chip version.”
Environmental features like recycled content are appreciated in theory but less discussed in personal use stories. While HP’s statements about meeting eco-label emission criteria add corporate responsibility appeal, only a minority of buyers mention these as a deciding factor.
Trust & Reliability
Long-term reliability is a clear strength. Staples customer JR BF reported: “I print documents daily and [was] surprised how long it lasts.” Many mention using HP cartridges exclusively due to dependable output and low failure rates.
Trustpilot-logged Staples reviews depict HP users resistant to switching brands, citing failed results with compatibles. “This HP toner is the only toner I will use… I can depend on the quality,” one buyer said. However, HP’s absence in troubleshooting situations (no direct phone support) occasionally erodes goodwill in first-time buyers.
On the reliability front, aftermarket sellers also claim parity — CompAndSave promotes “made with precision… proven and tested to work like OEM cartridges,” offering reassurance to cost-conscious but quality-aware buyers.
Alternatives
For shoppers comparing costs, standard yield HP 134A (1,100 pages) is the closest in-house alternative. In community terms, it’s seen as appropriate for low-volume users, but for those printing daily, doubling output with the 134X is economically smarter — if the actual yield matches your needs.
Third-party compatibles like Cool Toner and CompAndSave offer roughly 45–50% lower upfront prices and match OEM specs on paper. However, as Cool Toner warns, chip compatibility issues can block use on certain HP+ models, especially those ending in “e.” These may suit users willing to trade some security and brand support for savings.
Price & Value
Official OEM prices range from $104.99 (HP US) to $167 (HP NZ) at retail, with promotions and Amazon listings fluctuating based on stock. eBay offers new OEM units around $88.89, with discounts up to 20% off standard pricing. Aftermarket compatibles often land at $43–$50 per cartridge, pulling cost-per-page toward 1.8 cents, as noted by CompAndSave.
Community buying tips:
- Bulk buy when possible — multiple Staples customers stock up to avoid delivery delays.
- Check printer model compatibility before buying aftermarket to dodge chip conflicts.
- Consider resale value — unopened OEM cartridges maintain strong price retention in secondary markets like eBay.
FAQ
Q: Does the HP 134X really print 2,400 pages?
A: Officially, yes — but actual yield varies based on print density. Users reporting heavy document loads sometimes fall short of that figure.
Q: Is the 134X compatible with HP+ printers?
A: No, cartridges — especially third-party ones — may fail on HP+ “e” models due to chip restrictions.
Q: How long does it last in daily office use?
A: Daily document printers have reported lifespans ranging from several months to nearly a year, depending on volume.
Q: Are aftermarket versions worth it?
A: For non-HP+ printers, they can save 40–50% while matching OEM quality claims, but brand loyalists note compatibility risks.
Q: Does using a compatible cartridge void warranty?
A: No — several sellers and community sources confirm it won’t void your printer warranty.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re an office or home user who values guaranteed HP quality and wants fewer cartridge changes across the year. Avoid if yield-per-dollar is your primary metric and you’re open to compatible brands — especially on non-HP+ models. Pro tip from community: Stock up during promotions to offset high OEM pricing and avoid delivery delays.
