HP 87A vs 87X: same black LaserJet toner for the same printers. The difference is page yield (and cost per page).
87A (CF287A) is the standard-yield black — about 9,000 pages. Buy this when you print lightly.
87X (CF287X) is the high-yield black — about 18,000 pages. Same fit. Fewer swaps. Better cost per page if the printer runs often.
| Feature | 87A | 87X |
|---|---|---|
| Black yield | ~9,000 (CF287A) | ~18,000 (CF287X) |
| Best for | Light / occasional | Regular office use |
| Printers | LaserJet Enterprise M506n/dn/dh/x; MFP M527dn/f; Flow MFP M527c/z; Pro M501dn | |
Mono black only — there is no 87 color pack. Not 94A/94X or 80A/80X. Read the label on the cartridge already in the printer.
We sell a compatible 87A black (CF287A) and a compatible 87X high-yield black (CF287X), chips installed.
When to buy which: replace toner more than a couple of times a year → start with 87X (2× the pages). Occasional printing → 87A is enough. If the label says 87X, stay on X unless you intentionally want fewer pages per cartridge.
FAQ
Are 87A and 87X for the same printers?
Yes. Same M506 / M527 / M501 family. Only the yield changes.
Is there an 87 4-pack?
No. These are single black cartridges only.
Does compatible toner void the printer warranty?
Using a non-HP cartridge does not by itself void HP’s limited printer warranty. Damage HP attributes to a non-HP cartridge is a different question.
HP+ / Instant Ink?
Those programs do not accept compatible toner. If you are not sure the printer was never enrolled, ask before you order.
Ready to order: compatible HP 87A or compatible HP 87X.