Epson Stylus CX3200 DuraBrite® Ultra Ink Technical Brief - Page 5

Comparison of DURABrite Ultra Pigment Ink and Conventional Dye-Based Ink DURABrite Ultra is the only consumer-class 4-color ink set that uses all pigment-based ink; some competitive printers use pigment-based black with dye-based color, and others use all dye-based ink. The key advantage of Epson DURABrite Ultra pigment ink is its ability to produce the highest quality text and photos, offering color qualities similar to dye-based ink with the durability qualities of pigment ink. The key differences between conventional dye ink and DURABrite Ultra pigment ink are: Key Differences Characteristics Color Gamut Conventional Dye Ink Formed from color-forming, watersoluble molecules Best DURABrite Ultra Pigment Ink Comprised of insoluble pigment particles Best on plain and matte papers; Excellent on glossy photo papers Fade-resistance Water-Resistance Plain Paper Printing Media Selection Coloring is high because ink dyes the fiber of the paper. Light reflects evenly off the surface. Fair to Good The dye inks are dependent on special paper to resist fading.. Good Inks are water-resistant on many glossy photo papers but not on matte papers. Good Feathering occurs as ink is absorbed into the plain paper fibers. Best Wide media compatibility: Plain, Matte, RC (Resin Coated) Photo and High Gloss papers, and specialty media (including self-adhesive paper and iron-on transfers) Ink remains near the paper's surface and the new resin formulation reduces gloss differential while improving the color gamut on glossy papers. Excellent DURABrite Ultra pigment ink has fade resistance beyond photo lab prints-up to 105 years (see page 2) Excellent Inks are water-resistant on all supported media, including plain paper. Excellent Sharp, clear text and graphics without bleeding. Excellent Wide media selection: Plain, matte, RC (Resin Coated) Photo papers and specialty media (including self-adhesive paper and iron-on transfers) Epson DURABrite Ultra Pigment Ink Technical Brief Page 5