Ink vs Toner: What's the Difference?

Ink and toner are both printer supplies, but they are used by different printing technologies. Knowing the difference makes it easier to find the correct cartridge for your printer.

What is printer ink?

Ink cartridges are used by inkjet printers. Liquid ink is delivered to the page through the printer's ink system. HP, Brother, Canon and Epson all offer inkjet printer families with different cartridge numbers.

What is printer toner?

Toner is a dry printing material used by laser printers and related electrophotographic printing systems. Toner cartridges are identified by model-specific cartridge numbers.

How do I know which one I need?

Start with your printer model. If it is an inkjet printer, shop for the correct ink cartridge family. If it is a laser printer, look for the correct toner cartridge.

Vonex separates HP ink cartridges from HP toner cartridges, and also maintains dedicated Brother ink and Brother toner collections.

Why the distinction matters

Buying the wrong supply type is an easy mistake when shopping online. A printer model search is the best starting point because it identifies the technology and cartridge family.

Once you know the cartridge number, compare the available product options by brand, cartridge type, yield, compatibility and price.

Related Printer Supply Guides

Continue researching: How to Find the Right Toner Cartridge, HP Ink Cartridge Numbers Guide, and HP toner cartridges in Canada.