Toner cartridge

Updated: 05/01/2023 by Computer Hope
Toner cartridge

A toner cartridge is a removable container (shown in the image) that holds the materials used to create an image on paper with a laser printer. Some toner cartridges are all-in-one, while others have two separate parts: a cartridge and a drum.

Note

Unlike ink cartridges, toner cartridges don't contain any liquid. Consequently, while their contents can still be messy, they won't necessarily dye most surfaces.

Tip

See our laser printer page for information about how the toner is applied to paper.

How long does toner last?

A toner cartridge generally lasts about 2,000 pages. However, the exact number varies on factors like whether you're printing an image or text and the color of the content.

If your printer utilizes cartridges that come in two parts (a separate drum and cartridge), the drum portion of the assembly may last up to 35,000 pages.

Cartridge, Printer terms, Toner