HP LaserJet Pro M404dn M404dw M404n Toner Cartridges
Your HP LASERJET-PRO-M404DN-M404DW-M404N uses the 76A / 76X cartridge family. This monochrome laser system is built for high-speed office output, relying on a single black toner unit that integrates the developer and drum for simplified maintenance. Because these machines are typically deployed in high-volume environments, monitoring the internal page counter is more effective than relying on visual density alone to gauge replacement timing. For consistent office performance, most professional users quickly transition from the standard 76A to the 76X high-yield variant to reduce physical replacements and lower running costs.
Managing high-volume office printing
Choosing between standard and high-yield cartridges depends entirely on your weekly print volume. While the 76A (Standard) is suitable for low-intensity environments, the 76X (High Yield) is the preferred choice for M404 series users who print more than a few hundred pages per month.
| Cartridge Number | Type | Page Yield | Cost Per Page |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP 76A (CF276A) | Genuine | 3,000 | 5.3c |
| HP 76X (CF276X) | Genuine | 10,000 | 3.2c |
| HP 76A (CF276A) | Compatible | 3,000 | 2.1c |
| HP 76X (CF276X) | Compatible | 10,000 | 0.9c |
Cost Per Page = Total Cartridge Price ÷ Page Yield (at 5% coverage). Yields are based on the ISO/IEC 19752 standard for monochrome laser printers.
Genuine vs compatible toner options
We provide both original HP toners and high-quality compatible alternatives. Our compatible 76A and 76X units are engineered to match the mechanical requirements of the LaserJet Pro M404 series. Under Australian Consumer Law, using compatible cartridges does not void your printer warranty. For extra peace of mind, all our compatibles are backed by a money-back guarantee if they do not perform to your expectations; please see our Returns policy for details. You can read more about the differences in our genuine vs compatible guide.
Efficient stocking and delivery
If you primarily print text-heavy reports and invoices, the 76X high-yield cartridges offer the best efficiency. For the absolute lowest cost-per-page, our 2-pack bundles for the HP LaserJet Pro series provide a significant discount over individual units. We ensure rapid replenishment by shipping from warehouses in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Free delivery applies on all orders over $99 (conditions apply).
Pro Tip
The M404 series is designed for speed, which generates significant heat. If you are using high-yield 76X cartridges, ensure your printer has adequate ventilation. Overheating in high-volume runs can occasionally cause toner to "cake" on the developer roller, leading to vertical streaking before the cartridge is actually empty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from a 76A to a 76X cartridge without changing printer settings?
Yes. The 76A and 76X cartridges are identical in their external dimensions. The "X" high-yield version simply contains a larger internal reservoir of toner powder. Your M404 printer will automatically recognise the high-yield chip and update the "Estimated Pages Remaining" counter accordingly.
Why does my printer say "Low Toner" when there is still plenty of ink on the page?
HP laser printers use an internal counter based on rotations and pixel coverage to estimate life. In an office setting, you can often continue printing for several hundred more pages after the first alert. However, once you notice the "grey-out" effect in the centre of the page, the toner is physically depleted.
Does the 76X high-yield toner provide better print quality than the 76A?
The print quality—resolution and black density—is identical between the two. The only difference is the volume of toner. Both use the same polymerised toner powder designed for the M404's fuser temperature to ensure no smudging on high-speed print runs.
