In the last couple or so years, continuous ink systems, also known as continuous flow systems, have been steadily gaining in popularity amongst printer ink users, especially with those who do a lot of digital photo printing. Continuous ink systems have developed a reputation for being cheaper and more cost-effective than the regular branded inkjet printer cartridges.

But before you go rushing off to buy a unit for your printer, you have to weigh a few things before you make your purchase. Even good things have a positive and a negative side to them, and it is always best to consider first whether a continuous flow system is right for you or not.

The Pros of a Continuous Ink System

The main reason why continuous flow systems are popular these days is that they are cheap. Let us do a little of the math. One printer model that is often used with continuous flow systems is the Epson Stylus PHOTO R200. It needs six cartridges of ink in different colours. Each cartridge costs an average of ?11.99. If the printer needs all six cartridges replaced, that would amount to ?71.94.

One unit of a continuous ink system with six cartridges fitted for this Epson Stylus printer model usually costs ?69.99. It is easy to think that the difference in price between a set of branded Epson cartridges and a unit of continuous flow system inks is negligible. However, one bottle in a continuous flow unit usually has 100mL worth of ink in it. That is ten times as much usable ink that a regular Epson ink cartridge has. Moreover, it is highly possible to use the ink in a continuous flow unit up to the last drop; this is definitely a no-no with regular cartridges.

So, a continuous ink system is a lot cheaper than regular cartridges, not to mention very economical.

The Cons of a Continuous Ink System

The one main disadvantage that continuous flow systems have is that it voids the warranty of the printer. Printer manufacturers would naturally insist on users of their printers consuming only their own inks. They make the most of their profits from their printer consumables ? the ink and the paper ? and so, they would naturally encourage only the use of their own inks. But then again, printers are cheap these days, so no one really pays attention to warranty.

Another downside to using a continuous ink system is that it can be messy to install. There is a proper way of installing these systems to your printer, and they are explained in detail in the CD or DVD manual that comes with the system. However, one mistake can stain your clothes and your work area permanently. More importantly, a mistake can flood your printer with ink and damage it.

It is also not advisable to use continuous ink systems when you are not really a heavy printer user. Just like any other ink, continuous ink systems can dry up too if they are not used. So, if you are not a heavy printer user, just stick to regular ink cartridges or other kinds of replacement ink.