What is the difference between Inkjet Cartridge and a Print Head?

The terms "cartridge" and "printhead" are often used in the context of printers, but they refer to different components with unique roles. A cartridge holds the ink or toner used to create the printed image, while the printhead transfers that ink onto the paper in precise patterns. Cartridges can be replaced when the ink runs out, but printheads are more integral to the printer’s hardware. Understanding the difference is essential for maintaining print quality and ensuring smooth printer operation.

Praveen Kumar - Canon Printer Specialist

10/11/20243 min read

What is a Print Head?

What is a print head? The print head is the part that is responsible for transferring ink to the paper. In inkjet printers, it contain nozzles - tiny holes that precisely spray ink to create text and images. The print head works differently in dot matrix printers, but its main function remains: putting content onto the paper.

Components of the Print Head

The components of the print head vary according to the type of printer, but here is a general description for an inkjet print head:

Nozzles: Tiny holes (smaller than a needle's puncture) through which ink is sprayed.
Ink channels: Passages that carry ink from the cartridge to the nozzle.
Heating elements (for thermal inkjets): Small resistors that heat the ink, causing it to vaporize and shoot out of the nozzle.
Piezoelectric crystals (for piezoelectric inkjets): Crystals that change shape when voltage is applied, causing ink to pass through the nozzle.

Common print head problems

Print heads are prone to certain problems, especially in inkjet printers. The most common issues include:

Nozzle clogging

Inkjet print heads often get clogged due to dried ink in the nozzles. This happens if the printer is not used regularly, or if the ink used is of poor quality.

Solution: All printers have a maintenance setting in their settings to clean the print head, called ink flushing or head cleaning. Running it through the print head nozzles can open quickly.

Print head misalignment

If the print head is not aligned correctly, it can cause blurry or skewed prints. This problem is common after replacing ink cartridges or moving the printer to another location.

Solution: Most printers have an automatic or manual print head alignment process in their settings.

Shifting

Over time, the mechanical components in the print head (especially in dot matrix and inkjet printers) can wear out. Repeated use may damage the nozzle or piezoelectric crystal, causing the print to move slightly back and forth.

Solution: In some printers, the print head can be replaced separately. Therefore, replacing the print head may resolve the issue.

Overheating

Inkjet print heads may overheat if used for a long time. This results in reduced print quality and printing speed due to the heat of the print head.

Solution: Place the printer in a cool place and let the printer rest after heavy use or print intermittently to avoid overheating.

What is an Inkjet Cartridge?

An inkjet cartridge is a replaceable component in an inkjet printer that contains the ink used to print text and images on paper. It is one of the most essential parts of the printer, as it supplies the ink that the printer uses during the printing process.

Types of Inkjet Cartridges:

Single ink cartridges: These hold only one colour (black) and are usually larger.
Tri-colour cartridges: These have three separate compartments, each containing one of the primary colours (cyan, magenta and yellow). These are used for colour printing.
Individual colour cartridges: In more advanced printers, each colour has a separate cartridge. This reduces waste as only the exhausted colour needs to be replaced.

Cartridge Components:

Ink Reservoir: The container that holds the ink.
Print Head (Nozzle): Some cartridges include a print head (built-in), which controls the release of ink onto the paper.
Electronic Chip: Communicates with the printer to monitor ink levels and ensure proper alignment.

Maintenance and Considerations:

Clogging: Cartridges can clog if not used regularly, especially in pigment-based inks.
Expiration: Some cartridges may have an expiration date, after which the ink quality can deteriorate.
Refilling: While original manufacturer cartridges are recommended, refilled or third-party cartridges are often used to save costs, though this may impact print quality.

Frequently asked questions

Difference between a print head and a cartridge?

The difference between the print head and the cartridge lies in their function and role in the printer. In some printers, the print head and cartridge are combined into one unit, while in others, they are separate components.

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