Buying a new inkjet printer

I've been contemplating on buying a new inkjet printer long enough.  I'm using a hp and a canon for more than 3 years now.  They still work fine but I feel like I'm missing something new on the technology side.  But is there really any difference between a 3 year old printer and an up to date printer running on the same type of cartridge?  Furthermore, some printing software already have their own color management, although I don't really understand how they work.

And then there's the auto-refill system which is rather brilliant.  A typical auto-refill system would have four separate compartments for black, yellow, magenta and cyan reservoirs.  The hoses make it look like your printer is running on a life support system, which is exactly what it does. Not only does it save on printing cost, it extends your cartridge's lifespan as well.  Sure, the original cartridge supplier will tell you it can ruin your cartridge but tell me this, what do you do when your original ink runs out? You simply buy a new one don't you? Imagine how much you save if you are able to refill your cartridge more than 5 times! It's definitely a life support system alright.

There are some downsides though. The ink may not give you the best result since they're not original.  Duhh! This could be the cause of serious depression especially when you're trying to get the best and most realistic looking print from your favorite photography collection.  It's worse when you're paid to do it and the deadline looms ever so close!  Been there, done that.

Secondly, the ink cartridge is very sensitive with pressure.  A slight pressure imbalance between the ink reservoir and the cartridge would cause the ink to bleed from the cartridge.  This is bad for your cartridge and also your printer, not to mention the lingering stubborn mess.  I now have a rainbow stain on my untreated wood table top at home.  Even transporting a printer attached with the system may result in bleeding due to pressure imbalance caused by movement of fluid in the reservoir.

Finally, self maintenance of the system is a messy job.  You'd definitely get ink all over your fingers and other body parts in your attempt to do your own maintenance, especially for the crucial cartridge replacement. Best option is to have it done at the shop where you're buying the new cartridge.  Heck,those original cartridges aren't cheap, they should replace it for free.  The only trouble is taking the bulky printer to the shop.  All that aside, considering the value for money the auto refill system offers, it's my ultimate option.

Now I'm off to look for the best inkjet printer in the market.