Kentucky woman goes to Walmart for some ink, sees it’s cheaper to buy the printer again. Then she confronts a worker about it: ‘This makes no sense’
Printer ink is one of those items that never seems to go down in price. While efficiencies in the market have allowed some tech products to become incredibly cheap—for example, it’s pretty easy to get a massive TV on a budget these days—there are some items that seem wholly immune to this trend.
For example, internet users have long complained about the price of ink. Despite the continuing (occasional) need for printers, prices on ink haven’t come down. In fact, by volume, printer ink is substantially more expensive than Dom Pérignon champagne or Chanel No. 5 perfume.
These high prices can lead to some pretty ridiculous situations. For example, one user on TikTok says that she went to buy ink at Walmart, only to discover a ludicrous method for getting a good deal.
What Happened During This Walmart Shopper’s Printer Ink Purchase?
In a video with over 618,000 views, TikTok user Julie (@life.styled.withjulie) films herself standing in the aisle of a Walmart.
According to Julie, she went to the store to purchase ink for her printer. When she got there, she discovered that her ink, which typically cost around $40, was “now $79.”
That’s when she noticed something bizarre.
“This is my printer, and this is the exact same ink that’s included in this printer,” she says. She then shows the box for a Canon Pixma TR4722 — which claims it contains ink for the printer.
“So, it was $79 just for ink,” she says. “This whole printer is $64. So it’s cheaper to buy the printer and get the ink than just buy the ink.”
Looking online, Julie says she was able to find the same ink for just $33. However, when she asked an employee if it was possible to price match, they said they could not.
“So now I’m gonna buy a whole printer to just get some ink and save probably $8,” she concludes. “This makes no sense to me. America is crazy. We’re crazy.”
How Is Buying a Printer With Ink Cheaper Than Buying Ink?
There are a few factors at play here.
First, many printer companies run their business on what’s called a “razor and blades” model. This is where a dependent good, such as a printer, is sold at cost or at a loss. This is done because the companies know they can make their money back by charging customers for things like ink, which they do at a hefty markup.
Second, printer companies often have a monopoly on the kinds of ink that a printer can use. If one’s printer can only use a certain kind of ink, they have to buy it. This incentivizes companies to increase costs on this ink, as buyers have no alternative.
Does The ‘Just Buy a New Printer’ Trick Actually Work?
Sadly, no.
The cartridges that come with new printers tend to be “starter cartridges.” These will help one get their printer up and running, but they are not filled to the same capacity as a new cartridge.
Unfortunately, the only way to save money on printer cartridges for a printer already in one’s possession is hunting around the internet for a good deal, even if it means avoiding name brands.
However, someone who prints a lot may want to consider a laser printer. While upfront costs are higher, an owner will likely save money over time compared to someone who uses an inkjet printer.
@life.styled.withjulie I’m convinced we’re living in some alternate universe because how is this okay ? I was so dumbfounded. A whole brand new printer was actually going to save me money ?! The math ain’t mathin' and the universe ain’t universe-in. I’m still confused ??♀️ #whatishappeninginamerica #Walmart #crazywork ♬ original sound – Julie
Commenters Can’t Believe It
In the comments section, users lamented the cost of ink at Walmart while also offering their own printer tips.
“Buy the printer, take the ink, sell the printer at a garage sale for $5 and come out even more ahead,” said a user.
“Unless you’re printing a huge amount. Consider printing at your local library. Not only would it be cheaper (possibly free), but you’d also be supporting an important community resource,” advised another.
“We have an HP printer that won’t let us use generic ink cartridges, the price of a new printer is cheaper than the new cartridges,” wrote a third. “I’m so tired of the GREED from corporations. what happened to good will and ethics?”
The Mary Sue reached out to Julie via email, Canon via email, and Walmart via media relations contact form.
Need a Gift?
Three picks from the shopping experts at Gee Thanks!
- Finally, a coffee machine for cold brew lovers.
- This oversized cashmere wrap ties together any winter outfit.
- The de-puffing wand we swear by is now $30 off.
Have a tip we should know? [email protected]
