Inside an Ink Cartridge: What’s Actually In There and How It Works
We use them all the time, but most people have never thought about what’s actually inside an ink cartridge. Whether you use HP, Canon, Epson or Brother, these small plastic containers are more advanced than they look — and they’re built with precision technology that balances quality, performance, and safety.
So what’s really going on inside that cartridge? Let’s take a look.
1. The Ink (and It’s Not Just Colour)
It might sound obvious, but the ink itself is highly engineered. Different types are used depending on your printer and what you're printing:
- Dye-based inks: Ideal for bright, vibrant colours (often used in photo printing)
- Pigment-based inks: Designed for crisp text and longer-lasting prints
Ink isn’t just coloured water — it includes carefully balanced chemicals to control drying time, colour blending, and even fade resistance over time.
2. The Sponge or Reservoir
Most cartridges include a sponge or reservoir that holds the ink inside. It slowly releases ink in controlled amounts as the printer needs it. Some models use foam, while others rely on pressure or vacuum-sealed chambers to move the ink.
3. The Print Head (Sometimes)
In many HP and Canon cartridges, the print head is built right into the cartridge itself. This is the tiny component that sprays ink onto the page in microscopic droplets. Other printers, like many Epson models, have the print head built into the printer instead.
4. Smart Chips and Sensors
Modern cartridges often include microchips or sensors that:
- Communicate ink levels to your printer
- Ensure the cartridge is genuine and not refilled incorrectly
- Optimise performance and prevent damage
These chips are part of why genuine cartridges tend to work more reliably than cheap refills or compatibles.
5. Environmental Design
Many cartridges are now designed to be recyclable. Brands like HP and Canon support recycling schemes where old cartridges are collected, disassembled, cleaned, and used to create new ones — helping reduce waste and conserve resources.
Learn more about how ink cartridge recycling works:
👉 Recycle with Crazy Kangaroo
More Than Just a Box of Ink
Next time you slot a new cartridge into your printer, you’ll know it’s more than just a box of coloured liquid. There’s genuine tech inside — and that’s why original cartridges tend to perform better, last longer, and keep your printer healthy.
