Cartridge vs. Converter Systems for Fountain Pens

Introduction

When I bought my first fountain pen, I thought the hardest part would be choosing the nib. Then I realized I had another decision to make: how to actually fill the pen with ink. That’s when I learned about two main systems — cartridges and converters.

What Are Cartridges?

Cartridges are small, pre-filled plastic tubes of ink that you pop into your fountain pen. They’re the most convenient option, especially for beginners, since there’s no mess and no fuss. When the ink runs out, you simply replace the cartridge with a new one.

Cartridges are great if you:

• Want a simple, beginner-friendly system.

• Don’t want to deal with bottles of ink.

• Need something easy to carry when you’re travelling.

The trade-off is that cartridges limit your ink choices. You’re mostly tied to the brand’s colour range, and you’ll be throwing away each cartridge after use.

What Are Converters?

Converters are small refillable devices that fit inside your fountain pen, replacing the cartridge. Instead of being pre-filled, you dip the nib into a bottle of ink and draw it up into the converter, almost like a tiny piston. You can check out our latest Converter Set.

Converters are perfect if you:

• Want access to a huge variety of bottled inks.

• Enjoy the ritual of filling your pen.

• Care about sustainability and reducing waste.

The downside? They’re a little messier, and they take more time to refill compared to just snapping in a cartridge.

How They Compare

Think of it like this: cartridges are quick and easy, while converters are flexible and creative.

• Convenience: Cartridges win. Just pop in a new one and go.

• Ink variety: Converters win. You can use almost any bottled ink.

• Cost: Converters save money long term, since bottled ink is cheaper per fill.

• Sustainability: Converters reduce waste, while cartridges are disposable.

Neither is “better” — it depends on how you like to write and what matters to you.

Which Should You Choose?

If you’re just getting started, cartridges are the easiest way to dip your toe into the world of fountain pens. They’re clean, portable, and beginner-friendly. But if you want to explore the full world of inks — shimmering colours, vintage tones, playful shades — a converter opens that door. Browse all the different colours you can choose in our Fountain pen inks collection.

Many fountain pens can use both systems, so you don’t have to commit forever. Start with cartridges, and once you’re ready, try a converter. You may find yourself enjoying the ritual as much as the writing itself.

FAQs

Are cartridges and converters interchangeable?
Most modern fountain pens can use either, but always check your pen’s compatibility.

Do converters fit every pen?
Not always. Some brands make proprietary converters that only fit their pens.

Which system lasts longer?
Converters usually hold more ink than cartridges, but it depends on the pen and the design.

Is it messy to use a converter?
It can be at first, but with practice it’s no trouble — and many people enjoy the process.