A Comparison Of Pigment-Based Inks And Dye-Based Inks

Pigment based inks and dye-based inks

For various reasons, most inkjet printers use inks made of dyes, whereas some photographers prefer inks made of pigment. This blog will discuss the differences between pigment, also known as the colorant, and dyes and the benefits and drawbacks of each kind of ink.

For inkjet printers, dye-based inks are the standard ink type. They are made of a colorant that is suspended in liquid and fully dissolved. Colorant ink is made of a very fine powder, a solid colorant particle suspended in a liquid carrier.

Difference Between Pigment And Dye Ink

Until a few years back, the primary benefits of pigment for dyes were less cost and a wide color range. In contrast, its disadvantages are that it is water-soluble (a single drop of water can ruin a print) and that it fades more quickly. In contrast, colorant inks last longer and are more water-resistant. However, it is more expensive and has less color depth.

Today, dye-based inks and colorant inks are almost identical, with colorant inks having a slight advantage. Improvements in the formula of both these inks have addressed the disadvantages of both these types. Inks made in today’s time from branded manufacturers are more resistant to fade. This will help the ink last for a lifetime when printed on the recommended paper.

Dye-based inks that are low in cost are for enthusiasts, while colorant ink is perfect for users who are a pro. Black and white photographers prefer using colorant inks. Photographers who are serious and professional will, however, only be able to appreciate subtle differences between side-by-side prints.

Inks Made From Dyes Or Pigments: Which Is Better?

There is no correct answer to the question when comparing dyes and pigments. It is dependent on your requirements, tolerances, and also preferences. Since technology has advanced, the shortcomings of each have decreased.

Dye-based inks tend to be less expensive and more readily available than colorant inks and their counterparts. If you are looking for absolute superior quality that will last the longest time, and if the budget is not the matter for the equipment and ink, then you should prefer colorant ink as it is a better choice.

Moreover, for professional quality black and white prints, you may want to opt for pigment ink because of the increased monochrome dynamic range.

Ink Pigment Or Dye: Which Lasts Longer?

How long do you need your inks to resist fade? Is it 10 years, 20 years, or 70? Do you want the inks to resist fade like a professional quality? If your answer to the second question is yes, and if your timeline exceeds 25 years, then you should surely prefer colorant based inks.

The science behind pigment allows resisting fade for the longest possible time. When you pair colorant inks with high-quality paper and display prints away from bright light, the probability of seeing significant fade before the 50-year mark is low.

For more detail information read out Differences between Dyes and Pigments in Flooring