For weeks, I’ve been putting the HP 652 Original Ink Advantage Cartridge Black through its paces. This review is the culmination of countless print jobs, ranging from simple text documents to complex photo prints. My goal was to determine whether this cartridge lives up to HP’s claims of vivid colors, resistance to fading, and overall cost-effectiveness.

The 652 cartridge is marketed as an economical solution for everyday printing needs. Out of the box, it feels robust and well-constructed. The packaging is clear and provides all the necessary information. The cartridge itself slots neatly into my HP printer (model not specified here, as this review focuses solely on the ink cartridge). Installation was straightforward and problem-free.

In terms of performance, the 652 Black cartridge consistently delivered crisp, clean text. Laser-quality isn’t quite the right description, but the output is certainly sharp and legible. Photo printing is where things got more interesting. While the colors aren’t as vibrant as some higher-end cartridges, they are accurate and true-to-life. I noticed minimal bleeding or smudging, even on more delicate papers. I printed a series of photos that I then left in direct sunlight for a week. There was some slight fading, but considerably less than other budget ink cartridges I’ve tested. The claimed ink-saving features are less quantifiable. While I didn’t meticulously track ink usage, the cartridge certainly lasted a decent amount of time for the price.

The print speed was satisfactory; nothing to write home about, but perfectly acceptable for home or small office use.

Pros:

• Crisp, clean text output
• Accurate color reproduction in photos
• Relatively resistant to fading and smudging
• Good value for money
• Easy installation

Cons:

• Photo colors aren’t as vibrant as some higher-end options
• Slight fading noticeable after prolonged sun exposure
• Ink-saving claims are difficult to fully verify

Overall, the HP 652 Original Ink Advantage Cartridge Black is a solid performer for its price point. While it might not be the best option for professional photographers or graphic designers needing the highest color accuracy and vibrancy, it’s perfect for home users, students, or small offices requiring reliable and cost-effective printing. If you’re looking for a good balance between quality and affordability, the 652 is a worthy contender.

Recommendation: I would confidently recommend the HP 652 Original Ink Advantage Cartridge Black (652) to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable black ink cartridge for their HP printer.