HP 94A vs. HP 94X Toner Cartridges: Features, Differences, and Imaging Drum Guide

Maintaining optimal performance for your HP LaserJet printer involves understanding the specific toner cartridges and imaging drum units compatible with your model. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the HP 94A and HP 94X toner cartridges, their features, and differences, as well as the role of the HP 32A imaging drum unit. By familiarizing yourself with these components, you can make informed decisions to ensure your printer operates smoothly and efficiently, enhancing print quality and cost-effectiveness.

Overview of the HP 94A / HP 94X Toners

To ensure your HP LaserJet printer operates at its best, it’s important to understand the differences between the HP 94A, HP 94X toner cartridges, and the HP 32A imaging drum unit. Each component plays a distinct role in the printing process.

What is the HP 94A Toner Cartridge?

The HP 94A toner cartridge is essential for delivering toner powder to the printer, which is used to produce text and images on paper, available in two different yield options to suit various printing needs:

HP 94A (CF294A) (Standard Yield): ~1,200 pages. Ideal for moderate printing volume.
HP 94X (CF294X) (High Yield): ~2,800 pages. Suitable for higher printing volume.

The choice between standard and high yield cartridges depends on your printing needs and budget. If you print frequently or in large volume, high yield cartridges provide a better value and efficiency. For less frequent or lower volume printing, standard yield cartridges might be sufficient.

What is the HP 32A Drum Unit?

The HP 32A imaging drum unit is responsible for transferring the toner powder onto the paper using heat and pressure, ensuring that your prints come out clearly. Unlike toner cartridges, which are replaced more frequently, the imaging drum unit has a much longer lifespan.

HP 32A (CF232A) Imaging Drum Unit: ~20,000 pages.

Both the toner cartridges (HP 94A and HP 94X) and the imaging drum unit (HP 32A) are crucial for your printer’s performance. While the toner cartridges provide the printing material, the imaging drum unit ensures that this material is accurately applied to the paper. If you notice print quality issues, start by checking the toner cartridges. If you notice faded prints, ghosting, or vertical stripes or lines, then it may be a sign that the drum needs replacement. The imaging drum unit generally needs replacement after using several toner cartridges.

Breakdown of HP 94A and HP 94X:

SKU	PRICE	PAGE YIELD	TYPE
Compatible HP 94A (CF294A) Black Toner	$25.99	~1,200 pages	Standard Yield Toner
Compatible HP 94X (CF294X) Black Toner	$29.99	~2,800 pages	High Yield Toner
Compatible HP 32A (CF232A) Imaging Drum	$38.99	~20,000 pages	Imaging Drum Unit
Set of 5: Compatible HP 94X (CF294X) Black Toners	$134.95	~2,800 pages / each	High Yield Toners
OEM HP 94A (CF294A) Black Toner	$53.89	~1,200 pages	Standard Yield Toner
OEM HP 94X (CF294X) Black Toner	$95.89	~2,800 pages	High Yield Toner
OEM HP 32A (CF232A) Imaging Drum	$101.99	~20,000 pages	Imaging Drum Unit

For more insights and detailed information on HP toner cartridges, refer to our Ultimate Guide for HP Toners.

Compatible Printers for HP 94A / HP 94X Toners

The HP 94A and HP 94X laser black toner cartridges are compatible with the following HP LaserJet Pro printers:

For more detailed insights and recommendations on printers, check out our other articles: Best HP Laser Printers and What’s the Best Laser printer for Home and Small Business Use?

Installation Instructions for HP 94A / HP 94X

Proper installation of toner cartridges and imaging drums is essential for maintaining your printer’s performance and print quality. Follow these detailed steps to replace the HP 94A and HP 94X toner cartridges and the HP 32A imaging drum efficiently, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

Replace HP 94A / 94X Toner

Lift the scanner assembly
Open the top cover door
Grab the middle handle to remove the toner
Unpack your replacement toner cartridge
Gently rock the toner side to side to redistribute toner
Hold the middle handle of the toner and insert it until it clicks into place
Close the top cover door
Close the scanner assembly

Replace HP 32A Drum Unit

Lift the scanner assembly
Open the top cover door
Grab the middle handle to remove the toner and set aside
Grab the middle handle to remove the drum
Unpack your replacement drum unit
Hold the middle handle of the drum and insert it until it locks into place
Hold the middle handle of the toner and insert it until it locks into place
Close the top cover door
Close the scanner assembly

⚠️ Don’t forget to check ▶ LD Products YouTube channel for more tutorials and tricks!

FAQ for HP 94A / HP 94X Toner

What is the difference between the HP 94A and HP 94X?

The HP 94A is the standard yield cartridge, while the HP 94X is the high yield cartridge. The difference is the amount of toner the cartridge contains, the HP 94X offering approximately double the page out of the HP 94A.

Does HP 94A (CF294A) toner work with HP LaserJet Pro M118dw?

Yes, the HP 94A and HP 94X toner is compatible with the HP LaserJet Pro M118dw printer.

What is the page yield for the HP 94A and HP 94X toners?

The actual page yield may vary based on the content you print and your printer’s settings. Here are the estimated page yield for each cartridge type:

HP 94A (CF294A) (Standard Yield): ~1,200 pages
HP 94X (CF294X) (High Yield): ~2,800 pages

The HP 94A and HP 94X toner cartridges, along with the HP 32A imaging drum, are essential for maintaining high-quality print output from your HP LaserJet printer. Whether you choose the standard yield HP 94A or the high yield HP 94X, these options cater to various printing needs and budgets. The HP 32A imaging drum further enhances print precision and longevity. By selecting the right toner cartridges and following proper installation procedures, you can ensure your printer delivers excellent performance and cost-efficiency. For further assistance and to purchase your cartridges, visit LD Products today, and explore our full range of printer supplies.