Liquid versus Powder
There are a few differences between Ink Cartridges and Toner Cartridges. The first and most obvious difference is the difference in substance type.
- Ink cartridges contain liquid.
- Toner cartridges contain powder.
Dye versus Pigment
Ink jet printers use ink cartridges, while laser printers use toner cartridges. The type of ink used within ink cartridges can be either dye-based or pigment-based. While toner is always pigment-based. Pigment-based inks and toner are better for longevity of the printed item. Dye-based inks are better for color and glossy prints.
Difference in Application Process
A notable difference between ink and toner cartridges is that toner cartridges use a drum (an electrically charged cylinder) to fuse the ink and printed image upon paper. Toner cartridges sometimes contain built in drums. While ink-based printers use jets to apply ink by propelling droplets onto the paper.
Quality or Quantity
You should select your printer type, depending on what your specific needs are. If you are printing photos and wish to have a glossy end result you may consider an ink-based printer. If you are looking to achieve high yield printing, then toner cartridges may be a better fit for you. The yield comparison of liquid ink versus powder toner may be a direct result of the reservoir size. Where as, liquids take up more room and the application rate is higher due to the jet application process. This is why refilling ink printers is something that is required more frequently than toner (powder based) cartridges.
Page Yield and how to Compare Apples to Apples
If you are printing quantities, toner printers are better for high yield printing. When considering yields, every ink and toner cartridge is subject to page yield testing per ISO/IEC 24711. ISO is an independent, non-governmental international organization which publishes standards for numerous industries and processes. ISO/IEC 24711 is relative to Information technology, specifically office equipment and the method for the determination of ink cartridge yield for color inkjet printers and multi-function devices that contain printer components.
In closing, the type of cartridge required for your printer is dictated by the design of you printer. This is why it is important to consider these many variables at the point of purchase for your printer. Aside from considering print quality and page yield you should also investigate if there are quality compatible cartridge manufacturers available for the printer you are considering. As there are options beyond the ink and toner cartridges offered by your printer manufacturer.