How to Choose Inkjet Printer Ink: Dye or Pigment?

Inkjet printers can print not only documents but also vibrant color images, making them a convenient, versatile, and economical tool for both work and life. However, many people know little about their inks. So how do you choose between common dye and pigment inks?

Inkjet printers are convenient, versatile, and economical.

From a compositional perspective:

Dye inks are composed of single molecules with specific chemical structures, the smallest unit being only 1-2 nanometers. The colorant is soluble in water or organic solvents, and the ink is a transparent liquid. Pigment inks are composed of molecular aggregates, the smallest unit being 50-200 nanometers. The colorant is insoluble in water and is suspended by a dispersant, making it an opaque liquid.

Regarding water resistance:

Dye ink colorant particles are small and easily soluble in water. When printed materials come into contact with water, the colorant will dissolve again, potentially causing ink bleeding. Pigment inks use a special binder that forms a durable protective film after drying, effectively preventing water penetration.

Regarding fade resistance:

Dye-based inks, when exposed to air, light, and ozone, may experience chemical chain breakage leading to fading. Pigment inks, on the other hand, primarily use powdered minerals as colorants, exhibiting high stability and a resin coating that prevents fading.

Pigment inks, primarily using powdered minerals, offer high stability.
Pigment inks are more expensive and are typically used in high-end inkjet printers costing over 4000 yuan.

Regarding clogging:

Dye-based inks, due to their smaller molecules, naturally have the advantage of being less prone to printhead clogging.
Overall, for those prioritizing waterproof and fade-resistant effects, pigment inks are a better choice, suitable for printing documents or photos that require long-term preservation and may come into contact with moisture. For those prioritizing ink cost, color vibrancy, and smooth printing, dye-based inks perform better, meeting the needs of everyday document printing and image printing with less stringent color requirements.

Obooc pigment ink is waterproof and sun-resistant, fade-resistant, non-smudging, and has strong adhesion.

Obooc Pigment Ink Three-Stage Filtration Technology - Prevents Clogs.

Obooc pigment inks use imported raw materials, possessing extremely high physicochemical stability and will never clog the printhead, even after prolonged periods of inactivity. They offer high cost-effectiveness and are suitable for printers from major brands.

Waterproof and sun-resistant, fade-resistant, non-smudging, with strong adhesion, wear and scratch resistant, long-lasting outdoor performance, and excellent resistance to UV rays. Printed works can be preserved for a long time. Designed for high-quality printing, images are durable and can remain vibrant even indoors for up to 100 years.

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Post time: Jan-22-2026