The HP 953xl (F6U16AE) Cyan high-yield ink cartridge promises sharp text and professional-quality graphics. But does it deliver on its promises? I’ve been putting this cartridge through its paces for the past few weeks, printing a variety of documents and images, to give you a thorough and unbiased review.

The 953xl boasts a quick-drying, smudge-resistant formula, which is a significant advantage for those who need their prints to be handled immediately. HP advertises a long life and extensive utilization, claims which I’ll address in the performance section. The cartridge also incorporates Active Ink Balancing, ensuring consistent color output throughout its lifespan. The low-ink alert feature is another welcome addition, preventing unexpected interruptions to printing.

In terms of print quality, the 953xl consistently produced vibrant, crisp cyan colors. Text was sharp and clear, even at smaller font sizes. I printed several high-resolution photographs, and the color reproduction was excellent, with no noticeable banding or graininess. The quick-drying ink was a definite plus, preventing smudging even when handling prints immediately after printing. The claimed “long life” seems accurate; I printed a significant number of pages before noticing any significant color fading or reduction in print quality. The “extensive utilization” however, will depend on your individual printing habits.

However, I did notice a slight increase in drying time when printing on cheaper, less absorbent paper. This wasn’t a major issue but something to be aware of. The low-ink alert system worked flawlessly, providing ample warning before the cartridge ran completely dry.

Pros:

• Vibrant, crisp cyan color output
• Sharp text reproduction
• Quick-drying, smudge-resistant ink
• Accurate low-ink alert
• Long-lasting cartridge
• Active Ink Balancing for consistent color

Cons:

• Slightly increased drying time on less absorbent paper
• Price point may be higher compared to some third-party options (this requires further comparison)

Overall, the HP 953xl (F6U16AE) Cyan ink cartridge delivers on its promises of high-yield performance and excellent print quality. While the price might be a consideration for some, the consistent, vibrant color, sharp text, and long-lasting nature make it a worthwhile investment for those who demand professional-level results. I highly recommend it for both home and business use.