Ink tank vs cartridge: What's the difference?

Efficient printing depends on the right ink system

Features By Ritoban Mukherjee published 1 November 2024

As someone who's spent countless hours researching and testing various printers, I can tell you that the choice between an ink tank and an ink cartridge can make a world of difference in your printing experience and your wallet.

But with so many options on the market, figuring out which system is right for you can feel like a daunting task. Do you need the high-volume capacity of an ink tank? Or would the convenience of cartridges better suit your needs? And what about those initial costs versus long-term savings?

In this comprehensive guide, I'll break down the ins and outs of ink tanks and cartridges, covering everything from how they work to their pros and cons. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to choose the perfect printing solution for your home or office.

We’ve also listed the best ink tank printers and best all-in-one printers.

What is an ink tank?

Ink tank printers, also known as continuous ink tank printers or integrated bulk ink systems, represent a relatively new innovation in the printing world. These printers feature built-in, refillable reservoirs that hold a large quantity of ink. Unlike traditional cartridge systems, ink tanks don't have an inbuilt print head. Instead, they utilize an integrated bulk ink system that supplies ink directly to the printer.

The concept is simple yet effective. When you need more ink, you simply refill the tanks using ink bottles. This process is akin to refueling your car – you're adding more of what you need without replacing any components. The ink is then delivered to the print head via an airtight tube, which helps prevent the ink from drying out when the printer isn't in use.

A significant advantage of ink tank printers is their high page yield. A single refill can produce an impressive 6,000 to 7,000 pages, far surpassing the capacity of conventional cartridges. This high yield translates to a much lower cost per page, making ink tanks an attractive option for high-volume printing needs.

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