Fountain Pen Converter vs Cartridge: Which Is Better?

Fountain pens are an excellent tool when it comes to penmanship and impressing whoever you’re writing to, but as you continue to write, you’ll eventually be forced to replace the ink cartridge. There are two specific methods to replacing and refilling the ink, and that’s by either using a pen converter or a replacement ink cartridge.

However, which one should you use between fountain pen converter vs cartridge? Let’s find out together.

Direct Comparison

Product 1: Ink Cartridges
-Color variety: Limited
– Convenience: Very convenient
– Ink capacity: Limited

Product 1: Ink Converters
– Color variety: A lot
– Convenience: Less convenient
– Ink capacity: High

Breaking It Down

In order to determine which one would work best for you, we will compare and contrast ink cartridges and ink converters based on how convenient they are, the availability of ink colors, and how long the ink will last.

1. Color Variety

The variety of colors available is important, especially if you are someone who wants to do a lot of calligraphy and other writing techniques.

Ink Cartridges

A cartridge is a small cylindrical tube that is full of ink and is used to replace an ink cartridge that’s already in a fountain pen. These cartridges usually only come with either black or blue ink and can be attached to the fountain pen through a small needle. After waiting a bit, the ink cartridge will then swap ink into the nib of the fountain pen, and you’ll be able to write again.

Ink Converters

One of the biggest benefits of using an ink converter is that you’ll be able to use almost any ink with the converter. This enables you to choose your ink color, type, and select from a wide range of different brands.

Winner: Ink converters

2. Convenience

When it comes to convenience of refilling ink, you must determine whether you need a lot of time doing it. Besides, you would want to spend most of your time writing instead of refilling ink.

Ink Cartridges

The advantage of using ink cartridges is that they are convenient and easy to use. You don’t need to hassle with trying to fill the pen with ink or risk damaging the nib. On top of that, they are mess-free and don’t require you to use an ink bottle. Plus, you’ll be able to easily travel with them and keep extra on hand for when you run out of ink.

However, fountain pens only work with certain cartridges. You’ll have to take the time to match the cartridges to the pen. In most cases, the company that developed the pen will make specific cartridges that only work with that pen.

Ink Converters

An ink converter is a type of actuator that is used to suction in ink from an ink bottle and then reattached to the fountain pen. These are easier to use because they enable you to detach and reattach the ink converter quickly. However, many people tend to stray away from these because it can get messy if you don’t have a steady hand.

While you may be able to select your ink, the downside is that the ink cartridges aren’t as easy to transport. You’ll need to carry around converters and bottles of ink, which can be troublesome when you’re going through airport security, at hotels, or staying at a rental. It’s easy to accidentally spill some ink when refilling and the bottle may not always stay closed.

On top of that, an ink bottle is messier and requires you to clean up after you’re done filling the converter. The sides of the container tend to have ink drippings, and you’ll need to clean that each time you’re done using the bottle. Plus, ink bottles that aren’t tightly sealed tend to dry out over time, which can be a hassle.

Winner: Ink cartridges

3. Ink Capacity

Similar to convenience, ink capacity will greatly affect your writing time.

Ink Cartridges

Other than that, you’ll also be limited to the quantity of the ink. Cartridges can only hold a tiny amount of liquid ink in them, especially piston or converter types of fountain pens. If you frequently use your pen to write, then you may need to keep multiple replacement cartridges on hand.

Ink Converters

Ink converters are less wasteful and eco-friendlier because you can reuse them multiple times without having to throw away any part of the converter.

Winner: Ink converters

Final Recount

• Ink cartridges: 1/3
• Ink converters: 2/3

Pros and Cons

Ink Cartridges

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Convenient to travel around with
• Mess-free refilling

Cons:

• Limited colors and types
• Low ink capacity

Ink Converters

Pros:

• Quick refills
• A wide variety of colors
• Eco-friendly
• High capacity

Cons:

• Messy
• Cumbersome to travel around with

Which Is Better?

When it comes to choosing which is best, we find that every person is different. While some writers may enjoy the convenience of ink cartridges, others tend to like the variety of ink converters.

That being said, we would recommend ink cartridges to beginners because they’re less of a hassle and more accessible to install. You’ll be able to carry them when you’re on the go, plus setup only takes a few seconds if you understand how to take apart a fountain pen.

On the other hand, ink converters give professional writers a wide range of ink types and colors to use. It may be more difficult to replace the ink, but after some practice, it becomes relatively easy. We don’t recommend using this method if you’re traveling, but if you’re planning to be at your desk, this method is perfect for adding style and color to your stationery.

As you can see, the final verdict comes down to which preference will be easiest for you. No matter what you choose, though, you’ll be able to replace the ink and get back to writing successfully. Hopefully, you’ve found this guide helpful for determining fountain pen converter vs cartridge.