Ink for printers is usually made from a combination of unionized water, buffering agents, fungicides, resins, biocides, pigments, dyes and humectants. Nowadays, ink for printers can either be found as pigment-based ink or dye-based ink. These types of inks are used for different printing needs and are also sold at different prices. Pigment-based printer ink is deemed superior by most people for reasons of quality and durability of the print.
Pigment-based ink
Pigment based ink is mixture of tiny pigmented particles and a carrier liquid. The particles make it possible for the ink to settle on top of conventional paper and prevent the ink from being absorbed. This gives the ink color superiority compared to dye based ink. Pigment ink is best for archival printing because it is highly UV light resistant hence doesn’t fade away easily. Fabric and textile printing uses this type of ink for its water resistance properties. It is also less toxic.
Dye-based Ink
Dye based ink is a mixture of water and a soluble dye. Its composition makes it have a low level of water resistance which causes any print made using this kind of ink prone to smudges, blurring and bleeding marks. It also fades very easily especially when the resultant print is exposed to UV light for a long time. However, dye ink is able to produce way higher quality image prints on paper and other print surfaces compared to pigment ink. This is because of its completely liquid nature. In terms of price, this type of ink is far cheaper than pigment printer ink.
The differences between these two types of ink for printers are what help different users to decide on which one is best suited for their specific needs. Both types inks can be used together to produce even better prints which are clearer, more colored, water and fade resistant. The specific dye or pigment used by the manufacturer to make the ink is what mainly influences the final look of a print.
Printer ink cartridges can be purchased from authorized retailers in order to get genuine cartridges. Genuine cartridges may be a bit more expensive compared to generic ones, but they guarantee you quality prints and will not damage your printer. Re-manufactured or generic cartridges are also available at cheaper prices, but are less likely to give you your expected results. To get the best it is advisable to go online and check out several ink cartridges making a comparison of them. You can also search for reviews or ask for referrals from friends or family to know from their experience, which is the best to use.
There is a popular misconception that all inks for printers are the same, which is very misleading. Printer ink is a product that is very carefully engineered in tightly controlled manufacturing procedures to ensure the best quality. Branded inks are not only of high quality, but also specifically made to work on specific brands of printers. Different brands of ink for printers produce different results, the same goes for inks of different prices.