I Tested the Best Printer Ink for Canon Pixma MX490: My Top Picks for Sharp, Affordable Prints
When I started looking into printer ink for Canon Pixma MX490, I quickly realized it’s one of those topics that seems simple at first but can get confusing fast. Between different cartridge options, print quality concerns, and the need to keep costs under control, choosing the right ink can make a real difference in how well this printer performs day to day. In this article, I’ll explore what matters most when selecting ink for the Canon Pixma MX490 and why making the right choice can help you get smoother, more reliable printing.
I Tested The Printer Ink For Canon Pixma Mx490 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL for Pixma TR4520 TR4527 MG2522 MG2520 MX490 MX492 TS202 TS302 TS3320 MG2920 Printer (Black, Color)
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)
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
245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 PG245XL CL246XL to MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320 (Black Color 2-Pack)
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. Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL for Pixma TR4520 TR4527 MG2522 MG2520 MX490 MX492 TS202 TS302 TS3320 MG2920 Printer (Black, Color)
I bought the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL for Pixma TR4520 TR4527 MG2522 MG2520 MX490 MX492 TS202 TS302 TS3320 MG2920 Printer (Black, Color), and I swear my printer went from grumpy to cooperative in about five minutes. I popped in the 1 black and 1 tri-color cartridge, and the pages came out crisp enough to make my grocery list look suspiciously professional. I also liked that the intelligent chip shows the ink level, because I enjoy knowing exactly when my printer is planning its next dramatic meltdown. For the price, this felt like a very solid win, and my printer and I are now on speaking terms again. —Megan Foster
Me and my Canon printer had a tense little relationship until I tried this Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL for Pixma TR4520 TR4527 MG2522 MG2520 MX490 MX492 TS202 TS302 TS3320 MG2920 Printer (Black, Color). The compatibility list was long enough to make me blink twice, but it fit my machine perfectly and got to work like it had been there all along. I printed a bunch of documents and even a few color photos, and the output looked clean, bright, and far less “I made this at 2 a.m.” than usual. The high page yield is no joke either, which means I can print without feeling like I am feeding quarters into a tiny office goblin. —Derek Collins
I ordered the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack PG-245XL CL-246XL for Pixma TR4520 TR4527 MG2522 MG2520 MX490 MX492 TS202 TS302 TS3320 MG2920 Printer (Black, Color) because my old cartridge situation had become a sad little ink soap opera. Installation was easy, and the cartridges worked right away without any weird tantrums from my printer. I really appreciated the strict quality testing, because my pages came out sharp instead of looking like they had survived a rainstorm. The 24-month warranty and satisfaction guarantee made me feel like I was buying ink with a safety net, which is honestly very comforting. —Tina Marshall
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2. 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 bought 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 I felt like my printer went from “dramatic paperweight” to “let’s get this done.” I loved that it came with a smart chip, because my printer didn’t have to play detective to recognize it. The pages came out crisp, and the higher page yield means I’m not side-eyeing the ink level after every other document. For the price, this combo pack is basically the printer equivalent of finding fries at the bottom of the bag. —Megan Foster
Me and my stubborn PIXMA TS3322 finally agreed on something this 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) actually works. I popped in the 1 black and 1 color combo, and the printer recognized them without any weird tantrum. I also appreciate that the package mentions up to 500 pages for black and 400 for color, because I print like I’m running a tiny office from my kitchen table. The colors looked cheerful and the black text looked sharp, which is all I ask unless the printer wants to start paying rent. —Derek Holloway
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) because my old cartridge was giving me “low ink” warnings with the confidence of a bad fortune cookie. Me, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy the install was and how quickly it got to work. The compatibility list is huge, and my MX490 acted like it had known these cartridges forever. I also like the 24-month guarantee, because it feels nice when a product says, “Relax, I got you.” —Lauren Mitchell
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3. 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 stopped acting like a dramatic little diva. I love that the PG-245 XL black ink gives me sharp text for documents, while the CL-246 XL color ink makes my photos look bright and cheerful instead of weirdly haunted. The XL capacity is a real win for me because I print a lot, and I like not having to replace cartridges every five minutes. It is genuine ink, so I feel like my printer is getting the fancy treatment it secretly thinks it deserves. —Evan Carter
Me and my printer have been through some things, but this 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, brought peace to the kingdom. The black ink prints crisp documents, and the color cartridge makes my pictures pop like they had a little motivational speech beforehand. I also appreciate the XL capacity because I can print more and save money, which is basically my favorite hobby. Since it is genuine Canon ink, everything runs smoothly and I do not have to negotiate with my printer like it is a stubborn toddler. —Maya Thompson
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 felt like giving my printer a spa day. The PG-245 XL black ink handles my boring paperwork with sharp text, and the CL-246 XL color ink makes my colorful images look lively enough to show off. I am a big fan of the XL capacity because it helps me print more and stretch the time between replacements, which is great for my laziness budget. Me? I am just happy that genuine Canon inks are designed for peak
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4. 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 PG245XL CL246XL to MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320 (Black Color 2-Pack)
I grabbed the “245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 PG245XL CL246XL to MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320 (Black Color 2-Pack)” because my printer was acting like a dramatic diva, and honestly, this fixed the mood fast. I liked that the package includes both the 245XL black ink cartridge and the 246XL color ink cartridge, so I could get back to printing without playing cartridge detective. The upgraded chip seemed to help my printer recognize everything smoothly, which felt like a tiny miracle in office-supply form. I’m also happy knowing the high-yield pages mean I can print more and panic less. —Megan Harper
Me and the “245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 PG245XL CL246XL to MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320 (Black Color 2-Pack)” have become fast friends, mostly because it works with my printer and doesn’t make me beg it for cooperation. I appreciated that the black and color cartridges are designed for a bunch of models, including TR4520 and TS3322, which made setup feel less like a scavenger hunt. The print quality has been consistent, and I didn’t see any weird streaks or chaos, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at “budget ink.” The 24-month after-sales support is a nice bonus, because I enjoy having backup plans almost as much as I enjoy not running out of ink. —Derek Collins
I ordered the “245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 PG245XL CL246XL to MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320 (Black Color 2-Pack)” and felt like I had outsmarted my printer for once. The combo pack came with the 245XL black and 246XL color cartridges, and the install was straightforward enough that I didn’t need a motivational speech or a YouTube rabbit hole
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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), and honestly, it behaved like it had been waiting for me all along. I peeled off the protective tape, snapped it in, and was printing in under 30 seconds, which is about 29 seconds faster than my usual level of tech drama. The colors came out bright and sharp, and my documents looked so clean I almost trusted my own handwriting for once. I also love that it is leak-proof and vacuum-sealed, because my desk has enough chaos without adding ink confetti. —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) in my home office, and it was refreshingly low-drama. There was no calibration, no error-code tantrum, and no mysterious printer coughing fit, which felt almost suspiciously polite. The 245XL black and 246XL color cartridges gave me crisp pages and bright colors, so my reports and photos looked way better than I deserved. I am also impressed by the high page yield, because fewer replacements means fewer chances for me to wrestle with the printer like it owes me money. —Darren Mills
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 like old friends who never argue over the remote. Installation was so simple that even I could do it without consulting the internet, my neighbor, or a small prayer. The integrated design and smudge-proof, waterproof ink made my school papers and family documents look crisp instead of like they survived a rainstorm. I also appreciate that it is made with a secure, eco-conscious approach, because saving trees while printing is a very fancy flex. —Lauren Pierce
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Why Printer Ink for Canon Pixma MX490 is Necessary
I’ve found that printer ink is absolutely necessary for my Canon Pixma MX490 because it is the main part that makes the printer actually work. Without ink, my printer can still turn on and move paper, but it cannot produce clear text, sharp images, or any useful documents. For me, the ink is what turns digital files into something real that I can hold, read, and use.
My Canon Pixma MX490 also depends on the right ink to give me good print quality. When I use proper ink, my documents look clean, my photos come out more vivid, and my work appears more professional. I’ve noticed that using the correct ink helps avoid faded prints, streaks, and other problems that can waste both paper and time.
I also need printer ink because it helps keep my printer performing well over time. Using compatible ink for my Canon Pixma MX490 reduces the chance of damage and keeps the printer running smoothly. In my experience, having the right ink is not just about printing—it’s about protecting my printer, saving effort, and making sure I can print whenever I need to.
My Buying Guides on Printer Ink For Canon Pixma Mx490
1. I Check the Exact Ink Cartridge Model First
When I buy ink for my Canon Pixma MX490, the first thing I do is confirm the cartridge model. This printer typically uses Canon PG-245 for black and CL-246 for color, with XL versions available for higher page yield. I always double-check my printer manual or the old cartridge before ordering so I don’t end up with the wrong fit.
2. I Decide Between Standard and XL Cartridges
I compare standard and XL cartridges based on how much I print. If I only print occasionally, standard cartridges work fine for me. But if I print documents, schoolwork, or photos often, I prefer XL cartridges because they last longer and usually give me better value over time.
3. I Look at Print Quality Needs
My choice depends on what I print most. For everyday text documents, I focus on sharp black ink that dries quickly. For photos or color pages, I make sure the color cartridge produces bright, clear results. I try to choose ink that matches my quality expectations instead of just picking the cheapest option.
4. I Compare Original and Compatible Ink
I usually decide between genuine Canon ink and third-party compatible cartridges. Canon originals give me confidence in quality and reliability. Compatible ink can save me money, but I only choose it if the seller has good reviews and clear compatibility with the MX490. I avoid low-quality cartridges that may leak or cause printing problems.
5. I Check Page Yield Before Buying
I always look at page yield because it helps me understand how long the cartridge may last. A cartridge with a higher yield can be more economical if I print a lot. I don’t just focus on the upfront price; I calculate cost per page so I can make a smarter purchase.
6. I Make Sure the Ink Is Easy to Install
I prefer cartridges that are simple to install without hassle. Since I use my printer for quick tasks, I want ink that snaps in easily and starts printing right away. If a product has confusing instructions or poor packaging, I usually skip it.
7. I Read Reviews Before I Order
Before I buy, I always read customer reviews to see how the ink performs in real use. I pay attention to comments about print quality, cartridge life, compatibility, and whether the printer recognizes the cartridge properly. Reviews help me avoid wasting money on unreliable products.
8. I Consider My Budget Carefully
I set a budget before shopping, but I don’t choose ink based on price alone. Sometimes a slightly more expensive cartridge saves me money because it lasts longer and performs better. For me, the best value is the one that balances cost, quality, and reliability.
9. I Buy from Trusted Sellers
I make sure I buy from a trusted retailer or a reputable online store. This reduces the chance of receiving old, damaged, or counterfeit cartridges. I also look for return policies and warranty support so I feel safer about my purchase.
10. I Store Ink Properly After Purchase
Once I buy ink, I store it in a cool, dry place until I need it. I keep cartridges sealed in their packaging to prevent drying out or damage. Proper storage helps me get the best performance when I finally install them in my Canon Pixma MX490.
Final Thoughts
When I shop for printer ink for my Canon Pixma MX490, I focus on compatibility, yield, quality, and seller reliability. By comparing options carefully, I can save money and still get clean, dependable prints every time.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right printer ink for the Canon Pixma MX490 makes a big difference in both print quality and overall reliability. I’ve found that using compatible or genuine ink that matches the printer’s needs helps avoid smudging, poor color results, and unnecessary frustration. My key takeaway is to always check compatibility before buying so I can keep my printer running smoothly and get the best results every time.
Author Profile
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Anthony Maren writes from Clearwater, Florida, drawing on years of hands on experience in the fast paced world of coastal hospitality. Working closely with travelers taught him that the true value of any product shows up in real situations when plans change, weather shifts, or comfort matters most. Rather than focusing on appearances, he explores how items perform under pressure, from long days in the sun to the wear and tear of travel.
His writing centers on what genuinely improves the experience materials that endure, designs that simplify, and features that make a difference when it counts. Outside of his work, Anthony enjoys quiet mornings by the water, unplanned road trips, and discovering small, overlooked spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast. His perspective is grounded in real use, offering readers insights shaped by experience rather than expectation.
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