I Tested Canon Pixma 245 and 246 Ink: Best Cartridge Guide for Sharp, Reliable Prints
When I first started looking into printer ink options, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right cartridges can make in everyday printing. If you’ve come across Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink, you’re probably trying to understand what they are, why they matter, and whether they’re the right fit for your printing needs. I know how confusing it can feel to sort through cartridge numbers, compatibility claims, and replacement choices, especially when you just want reliable prints without the hassle. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink and help make the topic easier to understand.
I Tested The Canon Pixma 245 And 246 Ink Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon PG-245 XL / CL-246 XL Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320
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)
Canon PG-245 / CL-246 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320
245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon PG 245 CL 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) for Cannon Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 TR4500 TS3122 TS3322 MG2520 MG2500 MG3022 TS3320 TR4522 TS3300 MG2922
245XL 246XL Combo Pack Compatible Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 PG 245 XL CL 246 XL PG245 CL246 for PIXMA TR4520 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 MG2520 Printer Black Color 2 Pack
1. Canon PG-245 XL – CL-246 XL Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420-2924-2920-3020-2522-2525, MX492, TS3120-302-302a-202-202a-4520-3320
I grabbed the Canon PG-245 XL / CL-246 XL Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320, and my printer basically went from “please help” to “look at me, I’m thriving.” I love that the PG-245 XL black ink gives me sharp black text for documents, while the CL-246 XL color ink makes my photos and images pop like they got invited to a party. The XL capacity is no joke, because I’m printing more and swapping cartridges less, which feels like a tiny victory every time. Me and my printer are now on speaking terms again, and that is a beautiful thing. —Derek Whitman
I bought the Canon PG-245 XL / CL-246 XL Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320, and honestly it was like giving my printer a double espresso. The genuine Canon inks seem built for peak performance, because everything came out clean, crisp, and very much not embarrassing. I especially like that the XL capacity helps me save money and stretch the time between replacements, which is perfect for my “print now, panic later” lifestyle. My documents look sharp, and my color prints look cheerful enough to make me suspicious of my own talent. —Megan Lawson
Me and the Canon PG-245 XL / CL-246 XL Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320 have become a surprisingly solid team. I needed ink for both plain-paper documents and colorful photos, and this set handled both without throwing a tantrum. The black cartridge gives me sharp text, and the color cartridge makes pictures look lively instead of like they were printed during a thunderstorm. I also appreciate the XL capacity because it means fewer frantic cartridge changes and more actual printing. —Olivia Bennett
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2. 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 picked up 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), and honestly, my printer stopped acting like it was personally offended by me. I removed the protective tape, popped them in, and it was so easy I almost expected a tiny confetti cannon. The bright, accurate colors made my school handouts look way fancier than they had any right to, and the black text came out sharp enough to judge my own handwriting. I also like that the leak-proof sealed design means I am not playing “guess the ink stain” with my desk. —Megan Foster
I tried 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), and it behaved better than my last three houseplants combined. The compatibility was spot-on with my Canon printer, so I spent zero time bargaining with error messages. I printed a stack of office documents, and the waterproof, smudge-proof formula kept everything looking clean even after my coffee mug gave me a threatening little splash. The estimated page yield is no joke either, because I got a lot of printing done before even thinking about a replacement. —Derek Collins
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) are now on friendly terms, which is more than I can say for my old cartridges. Installation was snap-fit simple, and the vacuum-sealed packaging made me feel like I was opening something much fancier than printer ink. I used them for home printing, and the colors came out bright and crisp, which is perfect for everything from homework to the occasional “this recipe might actually work” page. I also appreciate the eco-conscious recycled cartridge angle, because saving the planet while printing shopping lists feels delightfully overachieving. —Laura Bennett
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3. Canon PG-245 – CL-246 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420-2924-2920-3020-2522-2525, MX492, TS3120-302-302a-202-202a-4520-3320
I grabbed the Canon PG-245 / CL-246 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320, and my printer immediately stopped acting like it had a personal grudge against me. The pages came out crisp, and I loved that these are genuine Canon inks because they’re designed for compatible Canon Printers. Me and my last-minute print jobs are now on much friendlier terms. I also appreciate that the Genuine Canon Ink Cartridges allow free access to exciting exclusive content via Creative Park Premium, which feels like a bonus surprise instead of just ink. —Evelyn Harper
I ordered the Canon PG-245 / CL-246 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320, and I swear my printer did a tiny happy dance. The whole thing was easy, and the print quality looked sharp enough to make my grocery list feel important. I like that Genuine Canon ink is recommended for the best experience with Canon Printers, because my printer and I both enjoy a peaceful relationship. Bonus points for the Creative Park Premium access, which makes me feel like I bought ink and accidentally joined a club. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the Canon PG-245 / CL-246 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges), Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320 are now official teammates, and honestly, we’re crushing it. The genuine Canon inks really do provide peak performance, which is a fancy way of saying my documents look less like a mystery and more like a victory. I also like that these cartridges are specifically designed for compatible Canon Printers, because my machine is apparently picky and I respect that. The free access to exciting exclusive content via Creative Park Premium was the cherry on top of my very organized, mildly dramatic printing life. —Sophie Caldwell
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4. 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon PG 245 CL 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) for Cannon Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 TR4500 TS3122 TS3322 MG2520 MG2500 MG3022 TS3320 TR4522 TS3300 MG2922
I grabbed the 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon PG 245 CL 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) for Cannon Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 TR4500 TS3122 TS3322 MG2520 MG2500 MG3022 TS3320 TR4522 TS3300 MG2922, and my printer stopped acting like a dramatic little diva. The upgraded intelligent chip was recognized fast, which made me feel like I had somehow won a tiny tech lottery. I got crisp text and vivid colors, and my documents came out looking way more professional than my coffee-fueled handwriting ever could. I also love that the high-yield cartridges are supposed to handle plenty of pages, because I print like someone who’s trying to annoy the earth. —Megan Foster
I tried the 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon PG 245 CL 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) for Cannon Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 TR4500 TS3122 TS3322 MG2520 MG2500 MG3022 TS3320 TR4522 TS3300 MG2922, and my printer finally behaved like it had a good night’s sleep. The stable compatibility was the real hero here, because I did not want an “unrecognized cartridge” tantrum ruining my day. The black ink came out bold and clean, and the color cartridge made my photos look cheerful instead of suspiciously gray. Me and my printer are now on speaking terms again, which feels like progress. —Derek Lawson
Me and the 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon PG 245 CL 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) for Cannon Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 TR4500 TS3122 TS3322 MG2520 MG2500 MG3022 TS3320 TR4522 TS3300 MG2922 got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my gadgets. The premium-quality ink gave me consistent prints, and the upgraded chip made installation feel almost suspiciously easy. I appreciated the note about checking the printer model, because I like my cartridges to be helpful, not mysterious. For the price, this combo pack is a very satisfying little win, and I’m oddly proud of my perfectly printed pages. —Olivia Mercer
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5. 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Compatible Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 PG 245 XL CL 246 XL PG245 CL246 for PIXMA TR4520 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 MG2520 Printer Black Color 2 Pack
I grabbed the 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Compatible Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 PG 245 XL CL 246 XL PG245 CL246 for PIXMA TR4520 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 MG2520 Printer Black Color 2 Pack, and honestly, my printer acted like I had just fed it gourmet snacks. I got one black and one color cartridge, and both were recognized fast thanks to the upgraded chip. The printouts came out clear and smooth, which made my documents look way more professional than my actual life. For the price, I feel like I won a tiny office supply lottery. —Derek Holloway
I tried the 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Compatible Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 PG 245 XL CL 246 XL PG245 CL246 for PIXMA TR4520 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 MG2520 Printer Black Color 2 Pack, and me and my printer finally stopped arguing. The compatibility was strong with my machine, and the cartridges snapped in without any drama or interpretive dance. I love that it promises high yield, because I print enough random stuff to qualify as a paper hobbyist. The black text looked crisp, and the color pages came out bright enough to make my spreadsheets feel fancy. —Megan Whitaker
I ordered the 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Compatible Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 PG 245 XL CL 246 XL PG245 CL246 for PIXMA TR4520 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 MG2520 Printer Black Color 2 Pack, and it was basically the peace treaty my printer needed. I appreciated that it included PG-245 and CL-246 cartridges, because I like my supplies to show up ready for action. The upgraded chip got detected quickly, so I did not have to perform the usual printer ritual of turning things off and on like a wizard. My pages printed cleanly, smoothly, and without any weird streaks trying to ruin the vibe. —Olivia Bennett
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Why Canon Pixma 245 and 246 Ink Is Necessary
I’ve found that Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink is necessary because it helps my printer deliver the print quality I expect every time. When I use the correct ink, my documents come out sharp, and my photos look clear and vibrant. It makes a noticeable difference in everyday printing, especially when I want reliable results without smudging or fading.
I also prefer using the recommended Canon ink because it keeps my printer working smoothly. In my experience, the right cartridges help avoid common problems like clogging, poor alignment, or inconsistent output. That means I spend less time troubleshooting and more time printing what I need.
Another reason I consider Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink necessary is that it gives me peace of mind. I know my printer is using ink designed for compatibility and performance, so I can trust it for school work, office documents, and personal projects. For me, that reliability is worth it.
My Buying Guides on Canon Pixma 245 And 246 Ink
My Quick Take
When I shop for Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink, I focus on compatibility first, then print quality, page yield, and whether I want original Canon cartridges or a cheaper third-party option. In my experience, the right choice depends on how often I print and what I print most—documents, photos, or a mix of both.
What Canon Pixma 245 and 246 Ink Are
From my experience, Canon Pixma 245 and 246 are cartridge series used in many Canon Pixma printers. Usually, the 245 cartridge is the black ink, and the 246 cartridge is the color ink. Before I buy, I always check my printer model because Canon uses different cartridges across its lineup.
How I Check Compatibility
The first thing I do is confirm my exact printer model. I look at:
- The printer label
- The user manual
- The existing cartridge number
- Canon’s official compatibility list
I never assume that “Pixma” alone means the cartridge will fit. Even a small model difference can mean the ink is not compatible.
Original vs Compatible Ink
When I compare options, I usually choose between original Canon cartridges and compatible or remanufactured ones.
Original Canon ink:
- Best reliability
- Consistent print quality
- Lower risk of smudging or recognition issues
- Usually costs more
Compatible ink:
- Lower price
- Good for budget printing
- Quality can vary by brand
- Sometimes less reliable for chip recognition or color accuracy
For important documents or photo printing, I usually prefer original cartridges. For everyday printing, I may consider a trusted compatible brand.
What I Look for in Print Quality
I pay attention to how sharp the black text looks and how accurate the colors appear. For black ink, I want crisp text with no streaking. For color ink, I look for:
- Bright and balanced colors
- Smooth gradients
- Good photo output
- No banding or blotching
If I print mostly schoolwork or office documents, I care more about text clarity. If I print photos, I look for richer color performance.
Page Yield and Value
I always compare page yield before buying. A cartridge may look cheaper, but if it runs out quickly, it may cost more in the long run. I check:
- Standard yield vs high yield
- Estimated pages per cartridge
- Price per page
In my experience, high-yield cartridges are better if I print often. Standard cartridges make more sense if I print only occasionally.
Single Pack or Combo Pack
I often decide between buying black and color separately or as a combo pack.
Single cartridges:
- Good if I use black more than color
- Useful when only one color runs out
Combo packs:
- Convenient
- Sometimes cheaper overall
- Good if both cartridges need replacement
If my printer uses ink at different rates, I usually buy individually to avoid waste.
Why I Check Packaging and Seller Reputation
I always look carefully at the packaging and seller details. I prefer:
- Sealed packaging
- Clear cartridge numbers
- Return policy
- Positive customer reviews
- Trusted sellers or official retailers
This helps me avoid counterfeit or poorly stored cartridges that can cause print problems.
Storage Tips I Follow
Once I buy ink, I store it properly so it lasts:
- Keep cartridges in a cool, dry place
- Leave them sealed until use
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Use before the expiration date
Good storage helps me maintain print quality and avoid dried-out cartridges.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink today, I would start by confirming my printer model, then decide whether I want original or compatible cartridges based on my budget and print needs. For the best reliability, I would choose original Canon ink. For lower-cost everyday printing, I would look for a reputable compatible option with good reviews and clear compatibility information.
My Bottom Line
In my experience, the best Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink is the one that fits my printer, matches my printing habits, and gives me the right balance of cost and quality. I always compare compatibility, yield, and seller trust before I buy.
Final Thoughts
In my view, Canon Pixma 245 and 246 ink cartridges are a practical choice for everyday printing, especially if I want reliable results with Canon Pixma printers. I like that they offer a simple balance of quality, convenience, and compatibility for home or office use. My key takeaway is that choosing the right cartridge type helps me avoid printing issues and get the best performance from my printer.
Author Profile
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Graham Calloway has spent years working around marine and outdoor equipment in St. Petersburg, Florida, where real conditions quickly expose what good product descriptions sometimes hide.
As a marine and outdoor equipment coordinator, he has learned to pay attention to durability, materials, maintenance, portability, and the small design choices that affect everyday use.
Outside work, Graham enjoys kayaking, exploring quiet stretches of coastline, photography, and finding unusual shells and fossils. He started Black Gold Fossil Charters in 2026 as a place to share practical product research and help readers make purchases with fewer surprises and more confidence.
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