Are Fountain Pen Ink Cartridges Universal?

One of the most popular ways to fill a fountain pen with ink is with cartridges, and it’s easy to see why. Cartridges are quick and easy to use, convenient, and hassle-free; you just insert them into your fountain pen and you’re good to go.

It is important to note, however, that not all cartridges are created in the same way. Some are made for specific brands while others can fit comfortably in many different pens. 

Given this, is it right to say that fountain pen ink cartridges are universal? 

Are fountain pen ink cartridges universal?

The short answer is no, they are not. There is no universal size and design that fits all fountain pens that are cartridge-converter types. 

Standard international size ink cartridges

However, there are many fountain pens that are compatible with what the industry calls standard international size ink cartridges. These cartridges measure approximately 1.5 inches in length with an ink capacity of 0.8ml. 

There is still some slight when it comes to standard size ink cartridges. More often than not, they will vary in terms of packaging, quantities, and color options. Many fountain pen ink brands such as J. Herbin, Caran d’Ache, Pelikan, and Diamine manufacture cartridges that qualify as Standard International Size. 

Proprietary ink cartridges

While many pen manufacturers make pens that will take standard international size ink cartridges, some do not design their pens this way. Other popular fountain pen brands require what is called a proprietary ink cartridge. This means that the fountain pen model requires ink cartridges that are from the same brand. For instance, Sailor fountain pens will only work with Sailor ink cartridges. LAMY is the same way — other ink cartridges will not fit into any of their fountain pen models. Other popular brands that require proprietary ink cartridges are Parker, Pilot, Platinum, and Cross. 

To know which of your pens can use standard international size cartridge and which ones require proprietary cartridges, we’ve made a useful guide to compatible cartridges and converters. 

There are some benefits of using pens with standard international size ink cartridges over proprietary cartridges. Usually, the latter will have a limited color selection as determined by the brand. Standard international cartridges can be interchanged, so you have a wider array of colors to choose from. You also won’t have to worry about organizing them separately. Best of all is that you can build a great collection of different-colored and even different-textured inks. 

The Bottom Line

Knowing the difference between proprietary and standard international size ink cartridges is key to buying the right type for your pen. It can also help you decide what pen model and brand to get based on your preferences on what cartridges to use.

Happy writing! 

Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting