{"id":5762,"date":"2026-08-14T16:35:18","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T15:35:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog2.thepencompany.live\/blog\/uncategorized\/converter-vs-cartridge-how-to-fill-a-fountain-pen\/"},"modified":"2026-08-14T16:35:38","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T15:35:38","slug":"converter-vs-cartridge-how-to-fill-a-fountain-pen","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/ink\/converter-vs-cartridge-how-to-fill-a-fountain-pen\/","title":{"rendered":"Converter vs cartridge: How to fill a fountain pen"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No matter which style of fountain pen you use, it needs a continuous flow of ink to perform at its best.\u00a0 In most fountain pens, that ink is supplied by either a converter or a cartridge, with the right option depending on your pen&#8217;s design and your preferred way of writing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Converters and cartridges serve the same purpose, but they work in different ways, with each offering its own advantages.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The choice comes down to convenience versus flexibility. Ink cartridges offer a quick and mess-free refill, while converters allow you to use bottled ink, opening up a much wider range of colours and often proving more economical over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let\u2019s explore the differences between fountain pen cartridges and converters, learn how to fill a fountain pen using either option, and help you decide which one is right for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cartridge vs converter: What\u2019s the difference?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The main difference between a cartridge and a converter is how they store and supply ink to your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/fountain-pen\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fountain pen<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ink cartridge<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A sealed, disposable tube pre-filled with fountain pen ink. Once it\u2019s empty, you simply replace it with a new one.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ink converter<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A reusable reservoir that fits into your fountain pen in place of a cartridge. Rather than being pre-filled, it draws ink directly from a bottle using a piston or twisting mechanism.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both systems achieve the same result, but each is better suited to different writing styles and preferences.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s also important to check which filling systems your fountain pen supports. Some pens accept standard international cartridges and converters, while others use proprietary systems designed specifically for that manufacturer or pen model.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you only plan to use a fountain pen you already own, you\u2019ll need to use whichever filling system it supports. However, if you\u2019re considering a new fountain pen, you\u2019ll have the opportunity to choose the system that best suits your writing style.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is a fountain pen cartridge?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/ink-cartridges\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fountain pen cartridge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a small, disposable ink reservoir that slots directly into the grip section of your pen. When inserted, the cartridge is punctured, allowing ink to flow through the feed and into the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/pens\/fountain-pens\/fountain-pen-nib-types\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fountain pen nib<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cartridges are often recommended for beginners because they\u2019re clean, straightforward to use, and require very little maintenance. They\u2019re also travel-friendly, as you can carry spare cartridges without needing to bring bottled ink.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many manufacturers produce cartridges designed specifically for their own pens. Brands like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/lamy\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LAMY<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/parker\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parker<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/pilot\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pilot<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> manufacture cartridges designed to fit their models, while many others are compatible with standard international cartridges.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ultimately, cartridges are often a great choice if you\u2019re looking for a simple and hassle-free refilling experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is a fountain pen converter?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead of containing ink in a disposable cartridge, a fountain pen converter acts as a refillable reservoir that draws ink from a bottle.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most converters use a small piston mechanism. By twisting or operating the converter while the nib is submerged in ink, you create a vacuum that pulls ink into the reservoir.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using a converter gives you access to a wider selection of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/bottled-ink\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">bottled fountain pen inks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> than is usually available with cartridges. This means you can experiment with different colours, ink types, and finishes without being limited by cartridge compatibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although converters require a little more care when filling, many fountain pen enthusiasts enjoy the ritual and tradition of using bottled ink and appreciate the flexibility it offers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cartridge vs converter: Which is better?\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-5754 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"Decorative image of fountain pen and bottle of ink.\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/fountain-pen-ink-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There\u2019s no single answer to this question, as the best choice depends on how and where you use your fountain pen.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cartridges<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cartridges are the ideal choice if you:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are new to fountain pens<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Want the quickest and cleanest refill<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regularly write away from home<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prefer a simple and low-maintenance option<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They\u2019re particularly useful for students, commuters, and anyone who wants to replace their ink in seconds.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Converters<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0A converter may be the better choice if you:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Write frequently<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enjoy experimenting with ink colours<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Want to reduce single-use plastic waste<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prefer better value over the long term<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although buying bottled ink and a converter involves a slightly higher upfront cost, it often works out to be more cost-effective over time, especially if you write regularly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In short, cartridges are best for convenience and portability, while converters are better suited to writers who value flexibility and a wider choice of inks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to replace a fountain pen cartridge\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Replacing a fountain pen cartridge only takes a few minutes, but understanding the process before you start makes it much easier. Follow these steps to install an ink cartridge:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unscrew the barrel of the fountain pen<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remove the empty cartridge if one is already fitted<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Push the new cartridge firmly into the grip section until you feel it click or puncture<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Screw the barrel back onto the pen<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hold the pen nib down for a minute or two while the ink travels through the feed<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the ink reaches the nib, your pen is ready to write.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the pen doesn\u2019t start writing immediately, gently squeeze the cartridge or hold the pen nib-down for a little longer to help the ink flow.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019d like to refill an existing cartridge instead of replacing it, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/pens\/fountain-pens\/how-to-refill-a-fountain-pen-ink-cartridge\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">take a look at our guide to refilling a fountain pen ink cartridge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. You\u2019ll need bottled ink to do this, but it can be a great way to extend the life of your cartridges and reduce plastic consumption.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to fill a fountain pen converter\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Filling a converter takes a little more effort than replacing a cartridge, but it quickly becomes second nature. Simply follow these steps and you\u2019ll be writing in no time:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Attach the converter securely to your fountain pen if it isn\u2019t already fitted<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Twist the piston until it\u2019s fully lowered<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submerge the nib completely into your bottle of fountain pen ink, making sure the breather hole is below the surface<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slowly twist the piston in the opposite direction to draw ink into the converter<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If necessary, expel a small amount of ink and refill again to remove any trapped air bubbles<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lift the pen from the bottle and carefully wipe away excess ink using a soft cloth or paper towel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reassemble your pen and you\u2019re ready to write.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re using bottled ink for the first time, our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/pens\/fountain-pens\/how-to-use-fountain-pen-ink-converters\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guide to using fountain pen ink converters<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> explains the process in more detail.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can every fountain pen use a converter?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some fountain pens are designed to accept cartridges and converters, while others only work with cartridges or require a converter made specifically for that brand.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, if a fountain pen only accepts proprietary converters, you won\u2019t be able to use converters from other manufacturers for that pen. Make sure to check whether a converter is compatible with your pen model before committing to a purchase.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common mistakes when filling a fountain pen\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even experienced fountain pen users occasionally make mistakes. Fortunately, they\u2019re usually easy to avoid. Familiarise yourself with these common mistakes to keep your pen performing smoothly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using the wrong converter<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As we\u2019ve discovered, converters aren\u2019t universal. Using an incompatible converter can prevent your pen from filling correctly or stop ink flowing altogether. If you\u2019re buying a fountain pen for the first time, choose one that accepts a variety of converters so you can experiment before committing to a single brand.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not submerging the nib fully<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When filling from bottled ink, the nib and breather hole should be below the surface of the ink. If they aren\u2019t, the converter may draw in air instead of ink, creating bubbles that can disrupt the ink flow while writing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changing ink colours without cleaning the pen<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Switching from one ink colour to another without <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/pens\/fountain-pens\/how-to-clean-your-nib\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cleaning your fountain pen<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can produce unexpected colour changes and may affect ink flow.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flushing the nib and converter with clean water between colours helps keep your pen performing at its best.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overfilling the converter<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To avoid overfilling your pen, leave a small air pocket in the converter. If the converter is too full, excess ink may pool in the grip section, causing a messy writing experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using the wrong type of ink<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Only use inks specifically formulated for fountain pens. India ink, acrylic ink, calligraphy ink, and other specialist varieties can clog the feed and damage your pen. Using unsuitable ink may even invalidate the manufacturer\u2019s warranty, making it harder to replace or repair the damaged pen.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which filling system is right for you?\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both cartridges and converters have their place, and neither is inherently better than the other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you value speed, convenience, and portability, cartridges are an excellent choice. If you enjoy exploring different inks, write frequently, or want a more sustainable and economical solution, a converter is likely the better option for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whichever filling system you choose, using the right ink and keeping your fountain pen clean will help it perform at its best for years to come. Explore the extensive range of fountain pen inks, cartridges, converters, and fountain pens at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Pen Company<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to find everything you need for an enjoyable writing experience.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>No matter which style of fountain pen you use, it needs a continuous flow of ink to perform at its best.\u00a0 In most fountain pens, &#8230; <a title=\"Converter vs cartridge: How to fill a fountain pen\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thepencompany.live\/blog\/ink\/converter-vs-cartridge-how-to-fill-a-fountain-pen\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Converter vs cartridge: How to fill a fountain pen\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":5764,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[29,10,15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5762","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-fountain-pens","category-ink","category-pens","infinite-scroll-item","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-33","resize-featured-image"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Converter vs cartridge: How to fill a fountain pen - The Pen Company Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn more about fountain pen converters and ink cartridges, including a step-by-step filling guide, so you can choose which is right for you. 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