If you’ve ever come across purchase a printer lately but just can’t seem to wrap your mind around it – ink or toner?

Simply put: An inkjet printer uses liquid ink, and a laser jet printer uses toner, which is a form of powdered ink. As toner is typically more expensive than ink cartridges, it appears at first glance that inkjet printers are the more cost-effective option. However, the cost is dramatically affected by how often you must purchase new cartridges.

Here’s an overview of the key differences between ink and toner to help you make a decision.

In conclusion, Ink and toner each come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Regardless of which option you choose, properly taking care of your cartridges (and replacing them as soon as they start to run out) helps ensure the longevity of both the cartridges and your printer.