HP 963 vs HP 963XL: What’s the Difference?

If your HP printer uses the HP 963 cartridge family, you may have come across both HP 963 and HP 963XL ink cartridges.

Both belong to the same cartridge family, but the main difference is capacity and page yield.

In this guide, The Cartridge Depo explains the difference between HP 963 and HP 963XL cartridges and what to check before ordering.

What Is HP 963 Ink?

HP 963 cartridges are standard-capacity original HP ink cartridges designed for selected compatible HP inkjet printers.

The HP 963 cartridge family includes:

  • HP 963 Black
  • HP 963 Cyan
  • HP 963 Magenta
  • HP 963 Yellow

Always check the cartridge specifications and your complete printer model before placing an order.

What Is HP 963XL?

HP 963XL cartridges are higher-capacity versions within the HP 963 cartridge family.

The XL designation generally indicates that the cartridge contains more ink and offers a higher page yield than its corresponding standard-capacity version.

HP 963 vs HP 963XL

The main difference between HP 963 and HP 963XL is the amount of ink and resulting page yield.

HP 963: The standard-capacity option. It may be suitable for customers who print less frequently.

HP 963XL: The higher-capacity option. It may be more convenient for customers who regularly print documents at home or in the office.

Actual page yield can vary according to the cartridge, documents being printed, printer settings and other printing conditions.

Does XL Mean the Cartridge Is Bigger?

The XL label primarily identifies a higher-capacity cartridge. It does not mean you should automatically assume that the cartridge will not fit your printer.

If HP lists both the standard and XL versions as compatible with your exact printer model, you can select the appropriate capacity for your printing requirements.

Should I Buy HP 963 or HP 963XL?

The right option depends largely on how frequently you use your printer.

If you only print occasionally, standard HP 963 cartridges may provide sufficient capacity.

If you print regularly, HP 963XL cartridges provide a higher capacity and may reduce how frequently you need to replace your cartridges.

Can I Use HP 963XL Instead of HP 963?

You should only use a cartridge that is officially compatible with your exact printer model.

If your printer supports both HP 963 and HP 963XL cartridges, the XL version can generally be used as the higher-capacity alternative.

How Do I Check Which Cartridge My Printer Uses?

Before ordering, locate your printer's complete model number. This can normally be found on the front, top, rear or underside of the printer.

You can also check:

  • Your existing ink cartridge
  • Your printer settings
  • The printer documentation
  • The manufacturer's compatibility information

Do not purchase a cartridge based on appearance alone. Similar-looking cartridges can be designed for different printer models.

Genuine Original HP Ink Cartridges

At The Cartridge Depo, our UK range focuses on genuine original OEM printer ink and toner cartridges.

Check individual product listings for current availability and compatibility information before ordering.

Shop HP Ink Cartridges Online in the UK

The Cartridge Depo supplies genuine original printer ink and toner online to customers across the United Kingdom.

If you are unsure whether your printer requires HP 963 or HP 963XL, contact us with your printer's full make and model and we can help you identify the appropriate cartridge.

The Cartridge Depo — Genuine Original Printer Ink & Toner Delivered Across the UK.