This combo pack just makes good sense! You usually print most things in black ink so having the XL size black cartridge is wise; combine it with a set of the three individual color cartridges and you have a match made in heaven! I particularly like the fact that my HP 8600 printer uses the individual color cartridges. It is so much more economical to be able to change each cartridge individually as needed. I have also found that I can print quite a few more pages after the printer starts warning you that you are low on ink enabling me to actually empty the ink cartridge before I need to replace it. A great deal and wonderful idea!