Hewlett-Packard profits fall 19 percent

The technology giant, HP, relies in part on printer supplies such as ink to make a profit. As people turn to cheaper alternatives for their ink re-supplies, HP feels the pressure. They reported a 19% drop.

The tough competition from more affordable brands, such as Castle Ink itself, may force companies like HP to rethink their strategy of overcharging for ink. Or it may not, HP CEO predicts a "better for all" year in 2010, which probably means brand-name ink will continue to be overpriced.

Hewlett-Packard will not be going out of business in the foreseeable future; buying printers from the company is a safe bet, just get your supplies elsewhere, and you will do your pocket-book a favor.

A comparison of average brand name prices to online prices shows online costs in a favorable light. Comparing the HP 51625A online cost to those found online shows a cost saving of almost 50%. No wonder shoppers are turning to outlets outside HP.