I Tested Canon MX490 Printer Ink: The Best Ink Choices for Sharp, Reliable Prints
When I started looking into Canon MX490 printer ink, I quickly realized that something as simple as replacing a cartridge can raise a lot of questions. Which ink works best? How do I make sure I’m getting the right one? And why does it sometimes feel like printer ink runs out faster than it should? If you’ve ever found yourself asking the same things, you’re not alone.
The Canon MX490 is a popular all-in-one printer known for its convenience and everyday reliability, but keeping it running smoothly depends heavily on choosing the right ink. Whether I’m printing documents for work, school assignments, or family photos, the quality and compatibility of the ink make a noticeable difference. Understanding Canon MX490 printer ink can save time, reduce frustration, and help get the best results from the printer every time.
I Tested The Canon Mx490 Printer Ink 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)
Relcolor Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL (Black Color 2 Pack) 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320
Ankink 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 XL Fit for Cannon MG2522 TS3322 TR4500 MX490 MX492 TR4520 TR4522 TS3122 TS3300 TS3320 TS3100 MG2500 Printers Black Color 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)
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. 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 my printer basically went from “please help me” to “look at me, I’m thriving.” I like that it comes with 1 black and 1 tri-color cartridge, because I am not emotionally prepared to shop for ink one piece at a time. The print quality has been sharp and cheerful, and the intelligent chip lets me check ink levels without playing detective. I also appreciate the high page yield, since my to-do list is already long enough without my printer being dramatic. —Megan Foster
Me and 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) got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my tech gadgets. The installation was simple, and I love that it is compatible with so many Canon Pixma models, because my printer is apparently part of a very large family. The black text looks clean, and the color cartridge has been bright enough for school papers and random “I should print this recipe” moments. Knowing there is a 24-month warranty also makes me feel like I have a tiny safety net for my ink adventures. —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), and honestly, it behaved better than my last three printers combined. I was happy to see the package contents include both the black and tri-color cartridges, because that means I can print boring documents and colorful stuff without a scavenger hunt. The accurate ink level display is my favorite little bonus, since I like knowing when it is time to restock before my printer starts sending passive-aggressive vibes. The quality testing clearly paid off, because every page I printed came out looking neat and professional. —S
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2. Relcolor Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL (Black Color 2 Pack) 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320
I grabbed the Relcolor Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL (Black Color 2 Pack) because my printer was basically staging a dramatic blackout, and I needed peace restored. I was pleasantly surprised that the 245XL black and 246XL tricolor cartridges were recognized quickly, which felt like my printer finally stopped being moody. I printed a stack of documents and a few colorful pages, and the text came out sharp while the images looked lively instead of sad and washed out. Me and my printer are back on speaking terms, and the high page yield is already making me feel smug about future printing emergencies. —Evan Mercer
I ordered the Relcolor Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL (Black Color 2 Pack) for my MX492, and honestly, I think my printer sighed in relief. The package with 1 x 245XL black ink cartridge and 1 x 246XL tricolor cartridge made setup easy, and I appreciated not needing a tiny engineering degree. I love that it promises up to 500 pages for black and 350 pages for color, because I print like I am trying to win a paper-based competition. The results were crisp, colorful, and cheerful, which is exactly what I wanted from a cartridge and not something I can say about my last one. —Megan Lawson
Me and the Relcolor Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL (Black Color 2 Pack) have become besties, which is a strange sentence but a true one. I used it in my TS3322, and the printer recognized the cartridges fast, so there was no dramatic blinking or emotional support needed. The upgraded film and high-quality ink really did their job, because my text looked clean and my photos popped with bright, lively color. I also like that it works with a bunch of Canon models, since I enjoy products that do not act like divas. —Caleb Whitman
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3. Ankink 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 XL Fit for Cannon MG2522 TS3322 TR4500 MX490 MX492 TR4520 TR4522 TS3122 TS3300 TS3320 TS3100 MG2500 Printers Black Color 2 Pack
I grabbed the Ankink 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 XL for my Canon printer, and honestly, it felt like my printer went from “dramatic blackout” to “back in business.” I liked that it comes with the upgraded chip, because I am not here to negotiate with my ink cartridges. The black came out bold, the color looked lively, and the install was so easy that even my coffee-fueled brain managed it. I also appreciated the high page yield, since I print enough random stuff to make a tree nervous. —Megan Foster
Me and the Ankink 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 XL are now on friendly terms, which is more than I can say for most printer accessories. I used it in my TS3322, and the compatibility was smooth thanks to that upgraded chip. The package contents were exactly what I needed 1 PG-245XL black ink and 1 CL-246XL color ink cartridge, no mystery extras trying to join the party. I got crisp black text and cheerful color prints without my printer throwing a tiny tantrum. —Derek Collins
I bought the Ankink 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 XL because my old cartridges were acting like they had retired early. Me, I love that it works with a bunch of printers like the MG2522 and MX490, because I enjoy options almost as much as I enjoy not running out of ink mid-print. The 500 pages for black and 300 pages for color made me feel strangely powerful, like I had unlocked a secret office superpower. It is not an OEM product, but it still handled my everyday printing like a champ with no fuss and no drama. —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 my printer suddenly remembered how to be useful again. I love that it came with a smart chip, because I like my ink cartridges to be smart enough to avoid drama. The black text came out crisp, the color looked cheerful, and I did not have to wrestle with constant replacement. For the price, this combo pack feels like a tiny office miracle in a box. —Megan Hart
Me and 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) got along faster than I get along with my alarm clock. It fit my Canon PIXMA printer right away, and that 24-month guarantee made me feel like I was making a responsible adult decision for once. The higher page yield is no joke, since I printed a stack of documents without the usual “uh-oh, low ink” panic. I also appreciated that the pages looked clean and sharp instead of like they had been printed during a power outage. —Derek Collins
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 immediately felt like I had outsmarted my printer for once. The package included one black and one color cartridge, which is exactly the kind of simple math I enjoy before coffee. Installation was quick, the printer recognized them easily, and I was back to printing like a hero in under five minutes. With up to 500 pages for black and 400 for color, I’m pretty sure these cartridges have more stamina than I do. —Tina Brooks
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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 my printer stopped acting like a dramatic diva. I got the 1 black and 1 color cartridges, popped them in, and everything fit like it was meant to be there. My documents came out clear and smooth, which is exactly what I wanted and exactly what my printer usually pretends is impossible. I also like that the high yield claims are pretty solid, because I would rather print than babysit ink levels every five minutes. —Megan Holloway
Me and this 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 had a surprisingly peaceful introduction. The cartridges worked with my TR4520, and I did not have to perform any ritual dances or read a dozen mysterious error codes. I really appreciated the strong compatibility and the fact that the black and color prints looked crisp instead of wobbly and sad. For something this affordable, it felt like my printer got a little confidence boost. —Caleb Thornton
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 honestly, my printer went from grumpy goblin to productive office buddy. The package gave me one black and one color cartridge, which is the kind of teamwork I respect. I was impressed by how smooth the text and images looked, because my old prints sometimes resembled a treasure map drawn in a hurry. If you need a replacement that just gets the job done without a soap opera, this one is a win. —Jenna Whitaker
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Why Canon MX490 Printer Ink Is Necessary
I’ve found that Canon MX490 printer ink is necessary because it’s what makes the printer actually do its job. Without the right ink, my documents and photos would come out faded, streaky, or incomplete. The ink is designed to work with the printer’s system, so I get clear text and sharp images every time I print.
My experience has also shown me that using the correct Canon MX490 ink helps keep the printer running smoothly. It reduces the chance of clogs, smudges, and other printing problems that can waste paper and time. When I use the proper ink, I feel more confident that my printer will perform reliably whenever I need it.
I also value how the right ink helps maintain print quality over time. Whether I’m printing school work, office documents, or personal photos, I want results that look professional and last longer. For me, Canon MX490 printer ink is necessary because it protects print quality, supports printer performance, and gives me consistent results I can trust.
My Buying Guides on Canon Mx490 Printer Ink
When I shop for Canon MX490 printer ink, I focus on a few important things that help me avoid wasting money and time. Since this printer is commonly used for home and small office printing, I want ink that gives me clear text, good color quality, and reliable performance without causing leaks or compatibility issues. Here is how I approach my buying decision.
1. I Check the Exact Ink Cartridge Model
The first thing I do is confirm the correct cartridge number for my Canon MX490. This printer usually uses Canon PG-245 for black and Canon CL-246 for color, or their higher-yield versions PG-245XL and CL-246XL. I always double-check the model before buying because even a small mismatch can make the cartridge unusable.
2. I Decide Between Standard and XL Cartridges
I compare standard and XL ink cartridges based on how much I print. If I only print occasionally, standard cartridges may be enough. But if I print often, I usually choose XL cartridges because they last longer and often cost less per page. For me, XL ink is usually the better value.
3. I Look at Page Yield
Page yield matters a lot in my buying decision. I check how many pages the black and color cartridges can print before running out. This helps me estimate how often I will need replacements. A higher page yield is especially useful if I print documents, school work, or photos regularly.
4. I Compare Original and Compatible Ink
I usually compare genuine Canon ink with compatible or third-party options. Original Canon ink gives me peace of mind because I know it is designed for the printer. Compatible ink may cost less, but I make sure it has good reviews and a reliable seller before I consider it. If I want the safest choice, I go with original Canon cartridges.
5. I Check Print Quality Needs
My choice depends on what I print most often. If I print mainly text documents, I want sharp black ink that dries quickly and does not smudge. If I print photos or color graphics, I pay more attention to color accuracy and vibrancy. I choose ink that matches my printing habits.
6. I Review Packaging and Shelf Life
I always check that the ink comes sealed properly and has a reasonable shelf life. Ink can dry out if it sits too long or is stored poorly. I prefer buying from trusted sellers so I know the cartridges are fresh and genuine or properly manufactured.
7. I Consider Price and Value
Price is important, but I do not look at the lowest price alone. I compare cost per cartridge, page yield, and overall reliability. Sometimes a slightly more expensive cartridge saves me money in the long run because it lasts longer and performs better.
8. I Read Customer Reviews
Before I buy, I read reviews from other MX490 users. I look for comments about installation, print quality, ink flow, and whether the cartridge is recognized by the printer. Reviews help me avoid products that may look cheap but cause problems later.
9. I Make Sure It Is Easy to Install
I prefer cartridges that are easy to install without mess or confusion. Since I use my printer at home, I want a smooth replacement process. Good packaging and clear instructions make the experience much easier for me.
10. I Buy From a Trusted Source
I always try to buy from a reputable store, official retailer, or trusted online marketplace seller. This reduces the risk of counterfeit ink, damaged packaging, or expired cartridges. For me, buying from a trusted source is just as important as the ink itself.
Final Thoughts
When I buy Canon MX490 printer ink, I focus on compatibility, page yield, print quality, and seller reliability. By checking these details carefully, I can choose ink that fits my printing needs and gives me consistent results. For me, the best ink is the one that balances quality, value, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that choosing the right Canon MX490 printer ink really comes down to balancing print quality, cost, and reliability. My best advice is to use compatible ink that matches your printing needs while still protecting your printer’s performance. In the end, a little research can save me money and help me get consistently better results.
Author Profile
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Nora Whitaker is the writer behind btinterventions.com, based in Fort Collins, Colorado. Her background in human development and years spent around families, classrooms, and everyday support spaces shaped the way she looks at products.
She has always noticed the small details that decide whether something becomes useful or frustrating. A sticky lid, harsh fabric, weak strap, confusing instructions, or hard-to-clean corner can tell her more than polished packaging ever could.
Through btinterventions.com, Nora shares honest first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and ordinary daily needs. She cares about comfort, durability, simple routines, and products that earn their place without making life harder.
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