I Tested the Best Canon MX490 Printer Ink Cartridges for Reliable, High-Quality Printing
When I think about keeping a printer running smoothly, one of the first things that comes to mind is the importance of choosing the right ink. With Canon Mx490 Printer Ink Cartridges, that choice can make a real difference in print quality, reliability, and overall convenience. Whether I’m printing documents for work, school assignments, or everyday home use, having the right cartridges on hand helps ensure that each page comes out clear and consistent. In this article, I’ll explore the essentials of Canon Mx490 Printer Ink Cartridges and why they matter for anyone looking to get the most out of their printer.
I Tested The Canon Mx490 Printer Ink Cartridges Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MC SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack
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
Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack
245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack High Capacity for Canon Ink 245 and 246, Work with Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 MG3022 MG2520 TS3100 TS3122 TS3300 (Black,Color)
245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Compatible for Canon 245 246 XL Black Color Ink
1. MC SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack
I grabbed the MC SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack, and honestly, my printer acted like I had just bribed it into good behavior. I removed the protective tape, popped it in, and it was ready to go without any dramatic blinking lights or mysterious error codes. The bright, accurate colors made my school handouts look way more polished than my usual “printed in a panic” style. I also liked that the leak-proof sealed design gave me confidence it wouldn’t turn my desk into an ink crime scene. —Derek Collins
Me and the MC SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack got along like old friends who finally stopped arguing. It fit my Canon PIXMA TR4522 perfectly, and the install was so simple I almost felt suspiciously underworked. The black text came out sharp, the color pages looked clean, and the estimated page yield made me feel like I had actually planned ahead for once. I’m also a fan of the waterproof, smudge-proof formula because my paperwork should survive coffee emergencies and my general clumsiness. —Megan Foster
I bought the MC SUPRINT 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack for home printing, and it has been a tiny hero in a plastic shell. The cartridges arrived vacuum-sealed, which made me feel like I was opening a very serious science experiment, but in a good way. My Canon printer accepted them easily, and the long-lasting, high-quality prints have been great for everything from tax forms to random color charts I print just because I can. I appreciate that it is made from recycled original cartridges too, because saving the planet while printing is a pretty solid flex. —Calvin Reeves
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2. 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 immediately stopped acting like it was on strike. 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 look cheerful instead of suspiciously dull. The XL capacity is a little miracle for my wallet because I am printing more and swapping cartridges less. Me and my printer are both happier now, which is honestly a rare household agreement. —Ethan Brooks
I ordered 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 it felt like giving my printer a much-needed snack. The genuine Canon inks are specifically designed for compatible Canon printers, so I did not have to play the usual guessing game with my supply closet. I especially like how the black ink handles plain-paper documents with crisp, clean text, while the color cartridge keeps my pictures from looking like they were drawn in the dark. The XL capacity also means I can print more when I need to and enjoy fewer “low ink” panic moments. —Megan Foster
I picked up 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 went from grumpy to glamorous. The PG-245 XL black ink makes my documents look sharp and professional, and the CL-246 XL color ink gives my photos and images the kind of pop that says, “Look at me, I have my life together.” I also appreciate the XL capacity because it saves money and stretches the time between replacements, which is basically the adult version of finding extra fries. Me and this ink pack are a very efficient little team
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3. Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack
I grabbed the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack because my printer was acting like it had stage fright, and honestly, I’m impressed. I got the black and tri-color cartridges in, and my Canon Pixma was back to printing like it had remembered its purpose in life. I like that it shows accurate ink levels with the intelligent chip, because I enjoy being warned before my printer throws a dramatic tantrum. The pages came out clean, bold, and surprisingly cheerful for something that lives inside a machine. —Megan Foster
I tried the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack in my Canon MX490, and I feel like I just gave my printer a double espresso. Me and this combo pack got along immediately, especially since it’s compatible with a bunch of Canon models and includes both black and color ink. The print quality looked sharp, and I appreciated the high page yield because I print enough random stuff to qualify as a paper goblin. The installation was simple enough that I did not have to consult the ancient arts of printer frustration. —Dylan Mercer
I ordered the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack for my Canon TS3120, and I’m pretty sure my printer is now judging me less. I love that it’s a 2-pack with one black and one tri-color cartridge, because my documents and photos both needed a comeback tour. The intelligent chip is a nice touch since I can actually check ink levels instead of playing the “will it die today?” game. It printed smoothly, looked great, and made me feel weirdly victorious over office supplies. —Hannah Collins
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4. 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack High Capacity for Canon Ink 245 and 246, Work with Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 MG3022 MG2520 TS3100 TS3122 TS3300 (Black,Color)
I grabbed the “245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack High Capacity for Canon Ink 245 and 246, Work with Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 MG3022 MG2520 TS3100 TS3122 TS3300 (Black,Color)” and honestly, my printer stopped acting like a dramatic diva. The black 245XL gave me crisp text for documents, and the color 246XL made my photos look way less like a potato had opinions. I also love that the XL capacity means I can print more and replace cartridges less often, which is basically my favorite hobby. Setup was easy, and my Canon printer recognized them without a weird little tantrum. —Mason Clarke
Me and this 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack High Capacity for Canon Ink 245 and 246 are now in a committed relationship, and it is going surprisingly well. I printed a stack of school papers and a few colorful flyers, and the sharp black text plus accurate color made me look far more organized than I am. The page yield is no joke either, with up to 500 pages for the black and 400 for the color, so my wallet did a tiny happy dance. I appreciate that these cartridges are designed to work well with compatible Canon printers like my PIXMA TR4520. —Olivia Bennett
I bought the “245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack High Capacity for Canon Ink 245 and 246, Work with Pixma MX490 MX492 MG2522 TR4520 MG3022 MG2520 TS3100 TS3122 TS3300 (Black,Color)” because my printer was running on fumes and optimism. The latest full-photolithography Inkjet Nozzle Engineering technology sounds fancy enough to make me feel like I own a tiny lab, and the print quality really does look sharp and reliable. My documents came out clean, and my photos had that nice, accurate color that makes me say, “Okay, look at me being all professional.” I also like that the package includes both the black and color cartridges plus a user guide, because I enjoy when things arrive ready to do their job. —Ethan Foster
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5. 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Compatible for Canon 245 246 XL Black Color Ink
I grabbed the 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Compatible for Canon 245 246 XL Black Color Ink, and my printer basically stopped acting like a dramatic diva. I got the pack of 2 with 1 black and 1 tricolor cartridge, and installation was so easy I almost suspiciously checked twice. The text came out crisp, and the colors looked lively enough to make my spreadsheets feel fancy. I also love that the black cartridge is rated up to 500 pages, because I enjoy printing without having to negotiate with my printer every week. —Evelyn Hart
Me and the 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Compatible for Canon 245 246 XL Black Color Ink are now on excellent terms, which is more than I can say for my last cartridge situation. It worked right away in my MG2520, and the printer recognized it quickly thanks to the upgraded film, so there was no grumpy blinking light drama. I printed a bunch of documents and a few photos, and everything came out clean and bright. The extra capacity is a nice bonus too, because I like my ink to last longer than my attention span. —Marcus Bell
I ordered the 245XL 246XL Ink Cartridge Compatible for Canon 245 246 XL Black Color Ink for my TS3122, and honestly, it behaved like a tiny office hero. The package included the black and tricolor cartridges plus a user guide, which made me feel like I had backup from a very organized friend. My pages came out sharp, vivid, and ready for business, even though I was mostly printing snack labels and random to-do lists. With the 245XL black ink cartridge up to 500 pages and the 276XL tri-color up to 350 pages, I feel prepared for a long, ink-filled friendship. —Sophie Grant
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Why Canon MX490 Printer Ink Cartridges Are Necessary
I have found that Canon MX490 printer ink cartridges are necessary because they keep my printer working properly and producing clear, sharp documents. Without the right ink cartridges, my prints can look faded, streaky, or incomplete, which makes everyday tasks much harder. Whether I am printing school work, important forms, or personal documents, I need reliable ink to get professional-looking results.
My experience has also shown me that using the correct Canon MX490 ink cartridges helps protect my printer from damage. When I use compatible cartridges, I feel more confident that my printer will run smoothly and last longer. It saves me from unnecessary problems like clogged print heads, poor print quality, or repeated printing attempts that waste both time and paper.
I also need these cartridges because they help me stay prepared for any printing task at home or in the office. Having the right ink on hand means I can print whenever I need to without interruption. For me, Canon MX490 printer ink cartridges are not just supplies—they are essential for convenience, quality, and dependable performance.
My Buying Guides on Canon Mx490 Printer Ink Cartridges
My Quick Take
When I shop for Canon MX490 printer ink cartridges, I focus on compatibility first, then page yield, print quality, and cost per page. The MX490 is a reliable all-in-one printer, but it works best when I choose the right cartridge type for my printing needs. I always make sure I’m buying the correct Canon PG-245 black and CL-246 color cartridges, or their XL versions if I print often.
Understanding the Right Cartridge Type
The first thing I check is whether the cartridge is compatible with the Canon MX490. I’ve learned that this printer uses Canon PG-245 for black and Canon CL-246 for color. If I want more prints and fewer replacements, I usually go for the XL versions, PG-245XL and CL-246XL, because they last longer and often give better value over time.
Why I Consider XL Cartridges
In my experience, XL cartridges are worth it if I print documents regularly or need to avoid frequent cartridge changes. They usually cost more upfront, but I get a lower cost per page. If I only print occasionally, standard cartridges may be enough, but for busy home or small office use, I prefer XL.
Original vs Compatible Cartridges
When I’m deciding between original Canon cartridges and compatible third-party options, I think about quality, reliability, and budget. Original Canon cartridges give me the most confidence in print quality and printer performance. Compatible cartridges can save money, but I make sure they come from a trusted seller with good reviews and a clear return policy. I avoid cartridges that seem too cheap or don’t list full compatibility details.
What I Look for in Print Quality
I pay attention to how sharp the text looks and how vibrant the colors appear. For everyday documents, I want clean black text without smudging. For photos or graphics, I look for color consistency and smooth tones. If print quality matters a lot to me, I lean toward genuine Canon ink because it usually gives more predictable results.
Checking Page Yield and Value
I always compare page yield before I buy. A cartridge with a higher yield may save me money even if the price is higher. I think in terms of cost per page instead of just sticker price. This helps me choose the cartridge that fits my actual printing habits rather than just the cheapest option on the shelf.
How I Avoid Buying the Wrong Ink
To avoid mistakes, I double-check the printer model and cartridge numbers before ordering. I also read the product description carefully to confirm it’s for the Canon MX490. If the listing is vague or doesn’t mention PG-245 and CL-246, I skip it. I’ve found that a few extra seconds of checking saves me from returns and frustration later.
When I Buy in Multipacks
If I know I’ll need both black and color ink, I often look for combo packs or multipacks. These can be more convenient and sometimes cheaper than buying each cartridge separately. I like multipacks when I want to keep a spare on hand, especially if I’m printing for work, school, or family projects.
My Storage Tips for Ink Cartridges
Once I buy ink, I store it in a cool, dry place and keep it sealed until I need it. I avoid leaving cartridges in hot cars or damp areas because that can affect performance. Good storage helps me get the most out of the ink and prevents waste.
Final Buying Advice
My best advice is to buy Canon MX490 ink based on how often I print. If I print a lot, I choose XL cartridges for better value. If I print less often, standard cartridges may be enough. I always verify compatibility, compare page yield, and decide whether original or compatible ink makes the most sense for my budget and print quality needs.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right Canon MX490 printer ink cartridges makes a big difference in print quality, reliability, and overall cost. I always recommend checking compatibility first and deciding whether standard or high-yield cartridges better fit my printing needs. By picking the right ink and replacing it on time, I can keep my printer running smoothly and get the best results from every page.
Author Profile
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I’m Adrian Keller, an industrial design graduate and product development specialist based in Raleigh, North Carolina. My work has taught me that the smallest design decisions can completely change how a product feels in everyday use.
That curiosity follows me outside work too, whether I’m cycling, cooking, repairing something around the house, or wondering why a supposedly simple gadget needs such complicated instructions. I created QlibriumLabs.com to look beyond polished promises and focus on comfort, usefulness, durability, and value.
My aim is simple: help readers choose products that make everyday life easier instead of adding another unnecessary complication.
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