I haven't actually used the ink yet. I reordered it because the ink-level indicator shows my old cartridge was running low on ink. These ink cartridges have always worked just find in the past, so I feel reasonably confident this one will, too. It's hard to wax ecstatic about black printer ink. The exorbitant price is about the only stimulating thing about it.
I have tried other off-brand 61XL black & color cartridges... and they were a waste of money! Never again will I do that. Yes, they were cheaper and "seemed" to work as well, but before the end of their usefulness they were... indeed useless. I won't go back to any off-brand again. The best part was the extreme speed that they arrive on my front porch! Ordered one day here the next! Yes, indeed, cannot beat that service! Thank you for your service and dependability of your products! Now if I ever am far enough ahead of my bills - it will be a new all-in-one or other similar desktop. I've had this one for longer that I care to think about, but it keeps running perfectly - I think it's about 10 or 11 years old and I can only applaud how well it continues to function! I update as needed, and anything that pops up that needs attention. HP - the "place" to be!