Abstract: An ink cartridge 1 for a print head 2, comprising a container 3 having a lid 4 and a bottom 5, the lid having at least one opening 6,16, the bottom having an outlet 7 and the container forming an ink reservoir 8. A porous and compressible element 9 is positioned in the ink reservoir and has a first holding capacity and a first flow resistance for ink. A barrier 10 completely covers the element 9, and the barrier has a second holding capacity and a second flow resistance for ink. In at least some regions, the second holding capacity is lower than the first holding capacity of the element 9, or the second flow resistance is greater than the first flow resistance of element 9. The barrier is positioned in the container in such a way that it contacts the lid and prevents contact between the element and the lid. The ink cartridge is characterized by a simple construction and improved printing quality over its operating life.