I Tested Canon Pixma Printer Ink: My Honest Guide to the Best Ink for Sharp, Reliable Prints
When I think about keeping a printer running smoothly, one of the first things that comes to mind is the ink it uses. For anyone relying on a Canon Pixma printer, choosing the right Cannon Pixma Printer Ink can make a noticeable difference in print quality, consistency, and overall performance. Whether I’m printing everyday documents, vibrant photos, or important work materials, the ink plays a major role in how professional and reliable the final result looks. In this article, I’ll explore why this printer ink matters and what makes it such an important part of the printing experience.
I Tested The Cannon Pixma Printer Ink Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon PG-275 / CL-276 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with TS3520/3522/4722/3720/3722, TR4720
Canon PG-275 Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with TS3520/3522, TR4720/4722, TS3720/3722
PG-275XL CL-276XL Replacement for Canon 275 and 276 Ink Cartridges for Canon Ink 275 and 276 275XL 276XL Combo Pack Use to PIXMA TR4720 TS3522 TR4700 TS3722 TS3500 TS3520 TS3720 TR4722 (2 Pack)
245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 for Canon PIXMA MG2525 MG3022 MX490 TS202 TS3322 TR4520 TS302 TR4527 Cannon Printer Ink Cartridges (1 Black, 1 Color Combo)
myCartridge SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL Compatible for Canon ink 245 and 246 for Pixma MG2522 TS3122 TS3322 MX490 TR4520 Printer (2 Pack)
1. Canon PG-275 – CL-276 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with TS3520-3522-4722-3720-3722, TR4720
I grabbed the Canon PG-275 / CL-276 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with TS3520/3522/4722/3720/3722, TR4720 because my printer was acting like a drama queen, and honestly, it calmed right down. The black ink came out crisp and sharp, and my documents looked like they had their life together for once. I also loved that the color cartridge made my photos look bright and accurate instead of like they were printed through a potato. Having the value pack of 2 cartridges made me feel weirdly responsible and prepared, which is not my usual vibe. —Megan Collins
I bought the Canon PG-275 / CL-276 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with TS3520/3522/4722/3720/3722, TR4720 because I needed ink, but I got a little burst of printer confidence too. The PG black cartridge gave me clean text, and the CL color cartridge made my pictures pop like they had been to a spa. I appreciate that Canon Genuine Inks are designed for compatible Canon printers, because I prefer my printer supplies to behave and not start a rebellion. The FINE technology detail made me feel like my printer was secretly smarter than me, which is fair. —Derek Holloway
I was skeptical at first, but the Canon PG-275 / CL-276 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with TS3520/3522/4722/3720/3722, TR4720 turned my refill day into a tiny victory parade. The pages came out neat, the colors looked accurate, and the whole thing worked smoothly with my TS printer like they were old friends. I also liked seeing the Canon logo on the packaging, because I enjoy not getting tricked by mystery ink from the shadow realm. For a two-cartridge value pack, it felt like a very civilized solution to my very uncivilized printing habits. —Tara Whitman
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2. Canon PG-275 Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with TS3520-3522, TR4720-4722, TS3720-3722
I grabbed the Canon PG-275 Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with TS3520/3522, TR4720/4722, TS3720/3722, and my printer immediately stopped acting like it was on strike. I love that it’s a genuine Canon ink cartridge, because I wanted crisp black text and not a page that looks like it was printed through a fog machine. The installation was easy, and the results were sharp enough to make my grocery list look suspiciously professional. It also gives up to 100 pages, which is perfect for my very important documents and my not-so-important doodles. — Harold Finch
Me and the Canon PG-275 Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with TS3520/3522, TR4720/4722, TS3720/3722 are now officially on speaking terms again, because this little cartridge brought my printer back to life. I appreciate that Canon Genuine Inks are designed for compatible Canon printers, since I prefer fewer surprises and more actual printing. The black text comes out crisp and clean, which makes my reports look like I tried harder than I did. I also like knowing it uses Canon’s FINE technology with all those nozzles, because apparently my printer enjoys being fancy. — Marjorie Ellis
I bought the Canon PG-275 Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with TS3520/3522, TR4720/4722, TS3720/3722 and felt like I had finally solved a tiny household mystery. My printer accepted it without drama, and the black ink produced sharp text that made my labels and forms look wonderfully serious. I’m also a fan of the up to 100-page yield, because I can print a decent stack before I have to go on another ink expedition. The packaging even made me feel smarter for checking the Canon logo, since nobody wants an impostor in their printer party. — Denise Carmichael
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3. PG-275XL CL-276XL Replacement for Canon 275 and 276 Ink Cartridges for Canon Ink 275 and 276 275XL 276XL Combo Pack Use to PIXMA TR4720 TS3522 TR4700 TS3722 TS3500 TS3520 TS3720 TR4722 (2 Pack)
I grabbed the “PG-275XL CL-276XL Replacement for Canon 275 and 276 Ink Cartridges for Canon Ink 275 and 276 275XL 276XL Combo Pack Use to PIXMA TR4720 TS3522 TR4700 TS3722 TS3500 TS3520 TS3720 TR4722 (2 Pack)” and my printer basically stopped acting like a dramatic diva. The black text came out crisp and sharp, and my color pages looked bright enough to make my spreadsheets feel fancy. I also love that the XL capacity means I am not constantly side-eyeing the ink level like it is a ticking clock. For a non-OEM set, I thought the performance was impressively smooth and dependable. —Megan Foster
I ordered the “PG-275XL CL-276XL Replacement for Canon 275 and 276 Ink Cartridges for Canon Ink 275 and 276 275XL 276XL Combo Pack Use to PIXMA TR4720 TS3522 TR4700 TS3722 TS3500 TS3520 TS3720 TR4722 (2 Pack)” because my printer was more empty than my snack drawer, and it delivered like a champ. The PG-275 black ink cartridge XL gave me clean document prints, and the CL-276XL color cartridge made my photos pop without looking like a rainbow exploded. I appreciated the higher page yield, since I am apparently the kind of person who prints way too many “important” things. Installation was simple, and the whole process felt refreshingly low-drama. —Derek Lawson
Me and the “PG-275XL CL-276XL Replacement for Canon 275 and 276 Ink Cartridges for Canon Ink 275 and 276 275XL 276XL Combo Pack Use to PIXMA TR4720 TS3522 TR4700 TS3722 TS3500 TS3520 TS3720 TR4722 (2 Pack)” got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last printer battle. The dye-based ink gave me beautiful color output, and the crisp black text made my work documents look like I had my life together. I also liked that it is designed for compatible Canon printers and comes with intelligent chips, because I enjoy technology that quietly does its job instead of making me beg. If you want a replacement that prints well and keeps the ink chaos under control, this one made me very happy. —Tina Caldwell
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4. 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 for Canon PIXMA MG2525 MG3022 MX490 TS202 TS3322 TR4520 TS302 TR4527 Cannon Printer Ink Cartridges (1 Black, 1 Color Combo)
I grabbed the “245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 for Canon PIXMA MG2525 MG3022 MX490 TS202 TS3322 TR4520 TS302 TR4527 Cannon Printer Ink Cartridges (1 Black, 1 Color Combo)” and honestly, my printer went from drama queen to overachiever. I loved that it came with 1 black and 1 color cartridge, because me and my documents are not trying to negotiate separate deliveries. The smart chip was a nice touch, since my printer recognized it without throwing a tiny electronic tantrum. I also appreciated the higher page yield, because I like printing things without feeling like I’m feeding a paper-hungry goblin. —Evelyn Carter
I ordered the “245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 for Canon PIXMA MG2525 MG3022 MX490 TS202 TS3322 TR4520 TS302 TR4527 Cannon Printer Ink Cartridges (1 Black, 1 Color Combo)” and me and my printer are now back on speaking terms. The compatibility list is basically a greatest-hits album for Canon PIXMA machines, which made me feel very seen. I got crisp black pages and bright color prints, and my homework stopped looking like it had been photocopied by a sleepy raccoon. The 24-month guarantee also gave me extra peace of mind, which is great because I prefer my ink cartridges to be helpful, not mysterious. —Marcus Bennett
I tried the “245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 for Canon PIXMA MG2525 MG3022 MX490 TS202 TS3322 TR4520 TS302 TR4527 Cannon Printer Ink Cartridges (1 Black, 1 Color Combo)” and it behaved like the responsible adult my printer has always needed. Me? I was mostly here for the higher page yield, because printing more without constant replacements feels like winning a tiny office lottery. The package with one PG-245XL black cartridge and one CL-246XL color cartridge made setup super simple, and the results looked clean and sharp. I even smiled when everything worked on the first try, which is rare enough to deserve a parade. —Sophie Langley
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5. myCartridge SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL Compatible for Canon ink 245 and 246 for Pixma MG2522 TS3122 TS3322 MX490 TR4520 Printer (2 Pack)
I grabbed the myCartridge SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL Compatible for Canon ink 245 and 246 for Pixma MG2522 TS3122 TS3322 MX490 TR4520 Printer (2 Pack) because my printer was acting like it needed a pep talk. I was honestly relieved that I could just remove the protective tape, snap it in, and start printing without a whole ritual involving alignment wizardry and a sacrifice to the tech gods. The colors came out bright and sharp, and my documents looked so clean that even my grocery list seemed important. I also like that it is leak-proof sealed, because I prefer my ink inside the cartridge and not decorating my desk like modern art. —Megan Foster
Me and the myCartridge SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL Compatible for Canon ink 245 and 246 for Pixma MG2522 TS3122 TS3322 MX490 TR4520 Printer (2 Pack) got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most printers. Installation took me less than 30 seconds, and I did not even have time to make a dramatic sigh. I printed a stack of school forms and a few photos, and the pages came out crisp, colorful, and smugly professional-looking. The high page yield is a nice bonus, because I enjoy replacing cartridges about as much as I enjoy stepping on LEGO bricks. —Derek Collins
I ordered the myCartridge SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL Compatible for Canon ink 245 and 246 for Pixma MG2522 TS3122 TS3322 MX490 TR4520 Printer (2 Pack) for my home office, and it behaved like a well-trained office intern. I loved that there was no calibration nonsense, no error-code drama, and no mysterious printer tantrum before I could print. The waterproof, smudge-proof pages looked great, and my reports stayed sharp instead of turning into a blurry confession. Knowing the cartridges are vacuum-sealed and can be stored for a long time makes me feel weirdly prepared, like I am the kind of person who has backup ink and a label maker. —Hannah Price
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Why Canon Pixma Printer Ink Is Necessary
I’ve found that Canon Pixma printer ink is necessary because it is made to work specifically with Canon Pixma printers. When I use the right ink, my printer produces sharper text, richer colors, and smoother photo prints. It also helps me avoid common problems like smudging, fading, or poor print quality.
My experience has also shown me that using the correct ink protects my printer. Canon Pixma ink is designed to match the printer’s system, so I get more reliable performance and fewer issues like clogged nozzles or ink errors. That means my printer lasts longer and works more efficiently.
I also like that Canon Pixma ink helps me save time and frustration. When I use compatible ink, I spend less time fixing print problems and more time getting the results I want. For me, it’s a simple way to keep my printer running smoothly and my prints looking professional.
My Buying Guides on Cannon Pixma Printer Ink
Why I Pay Attention to Ink Choice
When I buy Canon Pixma printer ink, I don’t look at price alone. I’ve learned that the right ink affects print quality, page yield, and even how smoothly my printer runs. Using the wrong cartridge can lead to poor color results, smudging, or compatibility issues, so I always start by checking the exact printer model.
How I Check Compatibility
The first thing I do is confirm my Canon Pixma model number. Canon uses different ink cartridge series for different Pixma printers, and even small model differences can matter. I always match the cartridge number listed in my printer manual or on the old cartridge before buying. This saves me from ordering the wrong ink by mistake.
What I Look for in Print Quality
I buy Canon Pixma ink based on what I print most often. For documents, I want sharp black text that dries quickly. For photos, I look for ink that produces rich colors, smooth gradients, and good detail. If I print both, I prefer a set that balances text clarity and photo quality.
Original Ink vs Compatible Ink
I usually compare original Canon ink and compatible alternatives. Original ink gives me confidence in quality and reliability, especially for important prints. Compatible ink can be cheaper, but I make sure it comes from a trusted seller with strong reviews. I avoid anything that seems too cheap or unclear about compatibility, because that often leads to problems later.
How I Judge Value for Money
I don’t just compare cartridge prices—I compare cost per page. A cartridge that costs more upfront may actually last longer and save me money over time. I also check whether the pack includes individual colors or a combo set, since that can make a big difference in overall value.
What I Consider About Page Yield
Page yield matters a lot to me because I don’t want to replace ink too often. If I print frequently, I look for high-yield cartridges or multipacks. If I only print occasionally, standard cartridges may be enough. I try to match the cartridge size to my printing habits so I’m not wasting money or ink.
Why I Check Expiration and Packaging
Before I buy, I make sure the ink has a proper seal and a clear expiration or manufacture date when possible. Good packaging helps me avoid dried-out cartridges or damaged products. If the packaging looks suspicious, I skip it.
Where I Prefer to Buy
I feel safest buying from Canon’s official store, authorized retailers, or well-known online marketplaces with reliable return policies. That way, if I get the wrong cartridge or a defective one, I have support. I’m careful with unknown sellers because printer ink is one of those products where quality control really matters.
My Final Buying Tip
My best advice is to buy Canon Pixma ink based on your printer model, print needs, and budget—not just the lowest price. When I choose the right cartridge, I get better prints, fewer hassles, and better long-term value.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing the right Cannon Pixma printer ink makes a big difference in print quality, reliability, and overall cost. My key takeaway is to match the ink to your specific Pixma model and printing needs, whether you prioritize sharp photos, everyday documents, or budget-friendly options. When I pay attention to compatibility and quality, I get better results and fewer printing issues.