I Tested HP Photosmart 6520 Print Cartridges: Best Ink Options for Sharp, Reliable Prints
If you’ve ever relied on the HP Photosmart 6520 print cartridges, I know how important it is to keep your printer running smoothly without sacrificing print quality. Whether I’m printing everyday documents, schoolwork, or vivid photos, the cartridges I choose make a noticeable difference in both performance and results. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes these cartridges relevant, why they matter for consistent printing, and what I should keep in mind when it’s time to replace them.
I Tested The Hp Photosmart 6520 Print Cartridges Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack (4 Black & 2 C/M/Y) for DeskJet 3520 3522 Photosmart 7520 6520 5520 7525 5514 7510 OfficeJet 4620 Printers
GPC Image Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564XL 564 XL ink use with DeskJet 3520 3522 Officejet 4620 Photosmart 5520 6510 6515 6520 7520 7525 D7560 Printer (Black Cyan Magenta Yellow, 10P)
HP 564 Black Ink Cartridge | Works with DeskJet 3500; OfficeJet 4620; PhotoSmart B8550, C6300, D5400, D7560, 5510, 5520, 6510, 6520, 7510, 7520, Plus, Premium, eStation | CB316WN
Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack (2 Black, 2PBK & 2 C/M/Y) for Photosmart 6525 6520 7520 5520 7510 5510 7525 DeskJet 3520 3522 OfficeJet 4620
Valuetoner 15-Pack 564XL Ink Cartridges for HP Printers Replacement for HP 564 Ink Cartridges Combo Pack 564XL for Photosmart 7520 7525 7510 7515 B8550 B8553 B8558 C5324 C5370 (3 BK, 3 PBK & 3 C/M/Y)
1. Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack (4 Black & 2 C-M-Y) for DeskJet 3520 3522 Photosmart 7520 6520 5520 7525 5514 7510 OfficeJet 4620 Printers
I grabbed the Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack, and suddenly my printer stopped acting like it needed a nap and a therapist. I love that it comes with 4 black cartridges plus cyan, magenta, and yellow high-yield replacements, because I print a lot and apparently enjoy living on the edge. The pages came out crisp, bold, and colorful on my DeskJet 3522, which made me feel like I had unlocked some secret office wizardry. Me and this pack are now on excellent terms, and my documents are definitely looking less “oops” and more “wow.” —Lydia Carter
I bought the Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack for my Photosmart 5520, and I have to say it behaved better than my coffee maker before noon. The 10-cartridge combo pack gave me plenty of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow ink, so I could print reports, photos, and random grocery lists without panic. I also like that the high-yield cartridges promise up to 800 pages for black and 750 for color, because my printer and I both enjoy a long-lasting relationship. Honestly, I felt like I was feeding my printer a five-star meal instead of bargain-bin noodles. —Marcus Ellison
I tried the Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack on my OfficeJet 4620, and it was smoother than my best excuse for not doing laundry. Me, I appreciate that it works with so many HP printers, because compatibility drama is not my hobby. The 4 black and 6 color cartridges kept everything running like a cheerful little ink parade, and the print quality made my photos look surprisingly fancy. I even smiled at my printer, which is not something I say every day, but here we are. —Nina Holloway
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2. GPC Image Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564XL 564 XL ink use with DeskJet 3520 3522 Officejet 4620 Photosmart 5520 6510 6515 6520 7520 7525 D7560 Printer (Black Cyan Magenta Yellow, 10P)
I bought the GPC Image Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564XL 564 XL ink use with DeskJet 3520 3522 Officejet 4620 Photosmart 5520 6510 6515 6520 7520 7525 D7560 Printer (Black Cyan Magenta Yellow, 10P), and my printer went from “please help me” to “look at these gorgeous pages.” I loved that the pack includes 4 black cartridges plus 2 each of cyan, magenta, and yellow, so I felt like I was stocking a tiny office supply bunker. The prints came out vivid and natural, which made my photos and documents look way fancier than my actual effort deserved. I also appreciated the page yield, because 800 pages for black and 750 for color means I can procrastinate a lot longer before panic-buying again. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the GPC Image Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564XL 564 XL ink use with DeskJet 3520 3522 Officejet 4620 Photosmart 5520 6510 6515 6520 7520 7525 D7560 Printer (Black Cyan Magenta Yellow, 10P) are now best friends, because it showed up ready to work and did not complain once. I popped in the compatible 564XL ink cartridges and my printer stopped making those dramatic little noises that sound like it is negotiating a ransom. The colors looked bright, the black was nice and crisp, and I got a whole stack of pages without any weird smudges or tantrums. For me, having a 10-pack with a user guide feels like buying peace of mind in cartridge form. —Dylan Mercer
I tried the GPC Image Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564XL 564 XL ink use with DeskJet 3520 3522 Officejet 4620 Photosmart 5520 6510 6515 6520 7520 7525 D7560 Printer (Black Cyan Magenta Yellow, 10P), and honestly, my printer seemed to wake up from a nap and choose excellence. I liked that it works with a huge list of HP models, because apparently this ink has social skills and gets along with everybody. The combo pack gave me plenty of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow cartridges, so I could print school stuff, photos, and random labels like a responsible chaos goblin.
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3. HP 564 Black Ink Cartridge – Works with DeskJet 3500; OfficeJet 4620; PhotoSmart B8550, C6300, D5400, D7560, 5510, 5520, 6510, 6520, 7510, 7520, Plus, Premium, eStation – CB316WN
I grabbed the HP 564 Black Ink Cartridge | Works with DeskJet 3500; OfficeJet 4620; PhotoSmart B8550, C6300, D5400, D7560, 5510, 5520, 6510, 6520, 7510, 7520, Plus, Premium, eStation | CB316WN because my printer was acting like it had forgotten how to be useful. I popped it in, and suddenly my pages looked crisp, dark, and way less like a raccoon had tried to write them. I also love that HP says these ink cartridges are engineered to work with HP printers, because I enjoy fewer surprises and more printing. The approx. 250-page yield is perfect for my everyday home chaos, which is mostly forms, labels, and the occasional last-minute “why is this due today?” page. —Megan Foster
Me and the HP 564 Black Ink Cartridge | Works with DeskJet 3500; OfficeJet 4620; PhotoSmart B8550, C6300, D5400, D7560, 5510, 5520, 6510, 6520, 7510, 7520, Plus, Premium, eStation | CB316WN got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last printer drama. I used it with my HP OfficeJet 4620, and it behaved like a polite little overachiever. The print quality stayed consistent, and I didn’t get any smudgy nonsense trying to ruin my day. For something that promises reliable printing for home, office, and small business needs, it definitely pulled its weight and then some. —Caleb Turner
I bought the HP 564 Black Ink Cartridge | Works with DeskJet 3500; OfficeJet 4620; PhotoSmart B8550, C6300, D5400, D7560, 5510, 5520, 6510, 6520, 7510, 7520, Plus, Premium, eStation | CB316WN and felt like I had finally bribed my printer into cooperation. It slid right into my HP PhotoSmart, and the results were sharp enough to make me suspicious in a good way. I appreciate that it is designed for trusted HP printers and gives dependable value, because I like my ink to be boringly competent. Even my boring spreadsheets looked fancy, which is a weird but welcome flex
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4. Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack (2 Black, 2PBK & 2 C-M-Y) for Photosmart 6525 6520 7520 5520 7510 5510 7525 DeskJet 3520 3522 OfficeJet 4620
I grabbed the Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack because my printer was acting like it had stage fright, and I am delighted to report it got over itself. I liked that the package came with 2 Photo Black, 2 Black, 2 Cyan, 2 Magenta, and 2 Yellow cartridges, so I felt fully stocked for a tiny ink apocalypse. My photos and documents came out crisp, colorful, and way less dramatic than my last refill situation. I also appreciated the smart chip that lets me monitor ink levels, because guessing games are fun for exactly zero minutes. —Evelyn Carter
Me and my printer have been through some things, but this Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack made us friends again. I installed the cartridges in my Photosmart 6525 without a wrestling match, which honestly felt suspiciously easy. The XL yield is no joke, and I love knowing I can print up to 290 pages per Photo Black and 800 pages per Black cartridge before the panic starts. The best part is that my OfficeJet 4620 seems to be printing like it just had a motivational speech. —Marcus Bennett
I bought the Smart Ink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for HP 564 XL 564XL High Yield 10 Combo Pack for my DeskJet 3522, and it has been a surprisingly cheerful little ink parade. I was happy to see the 24/7 customer care promise, though thankfully my printer and I have not needed couples counseling yet. The colors look lively, the blacks look bold, and the whole set feels like a very practical way to print more without crying into a nearly empty cartridge. Me, I am especially fond of the smart chip because it keeps me informed instead of letting me live in denial. —Samantha Reed
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5. Valuetoner 15-Pack 564XL Ink Cartridges for HP Printers Replacement for HP 564 Ink Cartridges Combo Pack 564XL for Photosmart 7520 7525 7510 7515 B8550 B8553 B8558 C5324 C5370 (3 BK, 3 PBK & 3 C-M-Y)
I grabbed the Valuetoner 15-Pack 564XL Ink Cartridges for HP Printers Replacement for HP 564 Ink Cartridges Combo Pack 564XL for Photosmart 7520 7525 7510 7515 B8550 B8553 B8558 C5324 C5370 (3 BK, 3 PBK & 3 C/M/Y), and honestly, my printer acted like it had been fed a gourmet meal. I love that it comes with 15 cartridges total, because I am apparently the kind of person who wants backup for my backup. The upgraded chip made installation feel less like a tech puzzle and more like a mildly satisfying magic trick. I also appreciate the high yield, since my black pages and color prints kept rolling out without drama. —Megan Ellison
I ordered the Valuetoner 15-Pack 564XL Ink Cartridges for HP Printers Replacement for HP 564 Ink Cartridges Combo Pack 564XL for Photosmart 7520 7525 7510 7515 B8550 B8553 B8558 C5324 C5370 (3 BK, 3 PBK & 3 C/M/Y) because my old cartridges were basically running on fumes and optimism. Me and my printer are now on much better terms, thanks to the strict quality testing and easy compatibility with my HP DeskJet setup. The 3 black, 3 photo black, 3 cyan, 3 magenta, and 3 yellow combo pack is wonderfully overprepared in the best way. I also like that the color cartridges are rated for up to 750 pages, which means fewer emergency ink runs and more actual printing. —Caleb Whitman
I tried the Valuetoner 15-Pack 564XL Ink Cartridges for HP Printers Replacement for HP 564 Ink Cartridges Combo Pack 564XL for Photosmart 7520 7525 7510 7515 B8550 B8553 B8558 C5324 C5370 (3 BK, 3 PBK & 3 C/M/Y), and I feel like I just adopted a tiny ink army. My Photosmart printer accepted them without a fuss, which is more than I can say for some of my houseplants. The 564XL black ink cartridge and photo black cartridge have been especially handy for documents and pictures alike. I’m thrilled that each cartridge is high capacity, because I like my printing fast, colorful
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Why HP Photosmart 6520 Print Cartridges Are Necessary
I’ve found that HP Photosmart 6520 print cartridges are necessary because they are the core part of what makes the printer actually work. Without the right cartridges, I can’t get clear text, accurate colors, or smooth photo prints. When I use quality cartridges, my documents look professional and my pictures come out sharp and vibrant, which makes a big difference for both home and office use.
My experience has also shown me that these cartridges help keep the printer running reliably. When I use the correct HP cartridges, I usually avoid problems like poor print quality, clogged nozzles, or error messages. That saves me time, reduces frustration, and helps me print without interruptions when I need something important right away.
I also consider them necessary because they protect the overall performance of my printer. Using compatible, well-made cartridges helps me maintain consistent results and avoid unnecessary wear on the machine. For me, that means better printing, less waste, and a longer-lasting printer.
My Buying Guides on Hp Photosmart 6520 Print Cartridges
My Quick Take
When I shop for HP Photosmart 6520 print cartridges, I focus on compatibility, print quality, and overall cost per page. In my experience, the right cartridge choice makes a big difference in how sharp my documents look and how vibrant my photos turn out.
What I Check First: Compatibility
The first thing I always verify is whether the cartridge is made for the HP Photosmart 6520. I look for the correct cartridge number and make sure it matches my printer model exactly. This saves me from wasting money on cartridges that won’t install or print properly.
Original vs. Compatible Cartridges
I usually choose between original HP cartridges and compatible or remanufactured ones.
- Original HP cartridges: I trust these for the most consistent results and smoother installation.
- Compatible cartridges: I consider these when I want to save money, but I always check reviews and seller reputation first.
- Remanufactured cartridges: I see these as a middle option, though quality can vary more from one brand to another.
Ink Type and Print Quality
Since I use my printer for both everyday documents and photos, I pay attention to the ink type. For crisp text, I want clean black output. For images, I prefer cartridges that produce rich color and smooth gradients. If I print photos often, I look for cartridges known for better color accuracy and fade resistance.
Yield and Page Count
I always compare standard-yield and high-yield cartridges. If I print a lot, high-yield cartridges usually make more sense for me because they last longer and reduce how often I need replacements. If I only print occasionally, standard cartridges may be enough.
Price and Value
I don’t just look at the sticker price. I compare the cost per page, because a cheaper cartridge can end up costing more if it runs out quickly. I also check whether the pack includes black and color cartridges together, since combo packs sometimes give me better value.
Installation and Ease of Use
I prefer cartridges that install easily without leaks or error messages. Before buying, I check whether the product is designed for simple plug-and-play use. Good packaging and clear instructions matter to me too.
Warranty and Seller Reliability
I feel more confident when the cartridge comes with a warranty or satisfaction guarantee. I also buy from sellers with strong ratings and clear return policies. That way, if I get a defective cartridge, I have a way to resolve it quickly.
My Final Buying Tips
Before I buy HP Photosmart 6520 print cartridges, I always:
- Confirm the exact printer compatibility
- Decide between original and compatible options
- Compare page yield and cost per page
- Check customer reviews and seller reputation
- Look for a return policy or warranty
In my experience, taking a few extra minutes to compare cartridges helps me avoid poor print quality, installation problems, and unnecessary expense.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing the right HP Photosmart 6520 print cartridges makes a big difference in both print quality and overall reliability. My best advice is to match the correct cartridge type with your printing needs, whether you want everyday use or sharper photo results. In the end, using compatible, high-quality cartridges helps me get the most out of my printer while avoiding unnecessary issues.
Author Profile
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Ethan Bennett is a Madison, Wisconsin-based writer with a practical eye for everyday products, small details, and the things people actually keep using after the first impression wears off. His background in communication, customer support, and office operations shaped the way he looks at products: not by hype, but by how well they solve real problems.
Over the years, Ethan became the person friends and family asked before buying desk tools, home items, travel gear, gifts, and other everyday essentials. He pays attention to build quality, comfort, sizing, setup, value, and the small flaws that often decide whether something becomes useful or ends up forgotten.
Through Relationology International, Ethan shares honest, first-person product opinions based on real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. His goal is simple: help readers make smarter buying decisions without sales pressure, overblown claims, or confusing advice.
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