Compatible HP CF226X toner (26X): guide for LaserJet Pro M402 and M426

The compatible HP CF226X toner (26X) is a high-capacity cartridge designed for professional-grade HP mono printers. With a yield of 9,000 pages to the ISO 9001 standard and a price of €14.98, it is a direct alternative to the original consumable in the same XL format. In this guide we explain which machines it works with, how to install it, what to do if your printer "does not recognise the cartridge" and what you gain by buying it from Star Toner.

What the CF226X is and which printers it works with

The CF226X is the high-yield version of the HP 26X family. It prints in black and carries a chip that reports the toner level to the printer panel. It is compatible with EXACTLY these models:

• HP LaserJet Pro M402d
• HP LaserJet Pro M402dn
• HP LaserJet Pro M402dw
• HP LaserJet Pro M402n
• HP LaserJet Pro MFP M426dw
• HP LaserJet Pro MFP M426fdn
• HP LaserJet Pro MFP M426fdw

Before buying, check the code printed on the cartridge you are removing or on the label inside the printer. If your machine appears in the list, this is your consumable.

How to install it and what to do if the "cartridge is not recognised"

Installation is identical to the original: switch off the printer, open the front cover, remove the used cartridge, take off the seals and the protective tab from the new toner, shake it gently from side to side to distribute the powder and slot it in until it clicks into place. Close the cover and switch on.

If a cartridge not recognised or non-HP consumable warning appears, it does not mean the toner is faulty. It is usually resolved like this:

• Switch off the printer, wait 30 seconds and switch it back on so it re-reads the chip.
• Reinstall the cartridge, making sure it has clicked fully into place.
• Accept the non-original consumable warning: the printer will carry on printing as normal.

These messages are linked to HP firmware updates. We explain how to manage them in our article on HP firmware that blocks cartridges.

Yield and savings compared with the original

This compatible CF226X offers the same 9,000-page capacity as the original XL version, with stable print quality and manufacturing to the ISO 9001 quality standard. The difference is in the cost per page: a compatible significantly cuts your spend on consumables without changing your workflow.

If you want to work out the real savings for your office, see our guide on the real cost of printing. And if you are wondering whether the quality holds up, in this comparison we print original and compatible side by side.

Why buy it from Star Toner

At Star Toner we work only with compatible consumables manufactured to the ISO 9001 standard, with quality control and a legal warranty. Buying a compatible cartridge is entirely legal and does not void your printer's warranty; we explain this in our guide on the legal warranty for compatible cartridges in Spain.

You can buy the compatible HP CF226X toner for €14.98 with fast delivery. And if you also have colour machines, take a look at our compatible HP CF450A and HP 508A CF360A toners to complete your office supply.

Frequently asked questions