OEM Printer Ribbon vs Compatible Printer Ribbon: There is little difference between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) printer ribbons and compatible or aftermarket printer ribbons. OEM printer ribbons are made by the manufacturer of the printer or fax machine. For example, an epson ribbon printer is used in an Epson printer. Compatible or aftermarket printer ribbons are made by a third-party, but compatible with name brand machines. Compatible printer ribbon may be referred to as "generic," but it is of the same quality as brand name ribbon and will produce the same results and same amount of pages. FULIHUA carries a full line of discount printer ribbon from a variety of trusted manufacturers.