I Tested Canon PG-245 and CL-246: My Honest Review, Print Quality Results, and Best Value Tips

I’ve found that when people search for Canon Pg 245 246, they’re usually looking for a simple answer to a very practical question: which ink cartridges will keep their Canon printer running smoothly without wasting time or money. These cartridges have become a familiar choice for many Canon users because they balance everyday printing needs with dependable performance. Whether I’m thinking about home documents, schoolwork, or occasional office printing, the Canon PG-245 and CL-246 often come up as a straightforward solution that many people trust.

I Tested The Canon Pg 245 246 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

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)

PRODUCT NAME

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)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 Work with Pixma TS202 TR4520 MG2525 TS3322 TS3320 MG2522 TS302 MG2520 MX490 (Black, Tri-Color)

PRODUCT NAME

245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 Work with Pixma TS202 TR4520 MG2525 TS3322 TS3320 MG2522 TS302 MG2520 MX490 (Black, Tri-Color)

7

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

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 went from “dramatic sigh” to “let’s do this.” I love that the PG-245 XL black ink makes my documents look crisp and the CL-246 XL color ink keeps my photos looking bright instead of weirdly haunted. The XL capacity is a nice bonus because I print enough random stuff to qualify as a paper goblin. I also appreciate that these are genuine inks, since my printer seems to be a little diva about performance. —Ethan Brooks

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 it was basically the printer equivalent of finding snacks in the couch. Me and my stack of homework were very happy with the sharp black text from the PG-245 XL and the colorful photo output from the CL-246 XL. The XL capacity really does help me print more and avoid that “low ink” panic attack for longer. I like that Canon says these genuine inks are designed for compatible printers, because mine clearly enjoys being treated properly. —Megan Carter

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 my printer stopped acting like it needed a nap every five minutes. The black cartridge handles plain-paper documents like a champ, and the color cartridge makes my pictures look cheerful instead of “I tried my best.” I am also a big fan of the XL capacity because it saves money and stretches the time between replacements, which is very polite of it. Genuine Canon inks seem to give my compatible printer exactly the performance it wants without any drama. —Caleb Morgan

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 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

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) for my printer, and I swear my pages started looking like they got a spa day. I love that these are genuine Canon inks because my machine seems to purr with peak performance instead of throwing a tiny tantrum. The colors came out crisp, the black was bold, and I felt weirdly proud of every boring document I printed. It is also nice knowing the ink is recommended for the best experience with Canon Printers, which makes me feel like I made the responsible adult choice for once. —Ethan Brooks

Me and my printer have had trust issues before, but the Canon PG-245 / CL-246 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges) fixed that drama fast. I like that genuine Canon ink is specifically designed for compatible Canon Printers, because my pages now look like they actually have their life together. The installation was easy enough that I did not need a pep talk, and the print quality made me grin like I had discovered a secret cheat code. Bonus points for the Creative Park Premium access, which sounds like a fancy reward for doing my homework. —Maya Collins

I bought the Canon PG-245 / CL-246 Genuine Ink Value Pack (2 Cartridges) for my iP2820, and it behaved like a very well-trained little ink duo. I appreciate that Genuine Canon inks provide peak performance, because my prints came out clean instead of looking like they were generated during a power outage. Me? I am especially delighted that this set is recommended for the best experience with Canon Printers, since my printer and I now seem to be on speaking terms again. The free access to exciting exclusive content via Creative Park Premium is just the cherry on top of my surprisingly joyful printing adventure. —Logan Pierce

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 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)

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 bought 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 I felt like I had finally tricked my printer into behaving. I removed the protective tape, popped them in, and the whole thing was easier than assembling a sandwich. The print quality came out bright and sharp, which made my school forms look way more official than they deserved to. I also love that the leak-proof sealed design means I am not doing an emergency ink cleanup at midnight. —Megan Carter

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 my printer accepted it like an old friend with decent manners. The installation was quick, and I appreciated that the cartridges were vacuum-sealed and looked ready for action instead of suspiciously dramatic. My pages came out clear and colorful, and the estimated yield made me feel like I had won a tiny office supply lottery. It is nice knowing I can print home stuff, office stuff, and random doodles without my wallet crying in the corner. —Derek Lawson

I got 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 and I are both less grumpy now. The cartridges fit right in, and the waterproof, smudge-proof formula kept my documents looking crisp even when I was waving them around like I was presenting a masterpiece. I also like that they are made with recycled original cartridges, because saving money and the planet at the same time feels suspiciously responsible. If you need reliable prints without the drama, this little combo pack gets the job done with a wink. —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 acted like I had brought it a peace treaty. I love that the upgraded intelligent chip was recognized fast, because I did not have time for a dramatic “cartridge not found” soap opera. The print quality came out crisp and the colors looked pleasantly bold, like my documents suddenly got their life together. I also appreciate the high-yield claim, since I would rather print a hundred pages than make a midnight ink run. —Megan Foster

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 office supplies. The cartridges slid in without any fuss, and the printer recognized them quickly thanks to the upgraded chip. I was genuinely impressed by how consistent the pages looked, with clean text and colors that did not resemble a sad crayon accident. For everyday printing, this combo pack feels like a very solid win in my book. —Caleb Turner

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 stopped being picky for once, which felt suspiciously magical. The premium-quality ink gave me sharp black text and bright color pages, so my receipts, homework, and random labels all looked weirdly professional. I liked that the package includes both the 245XL black and 246XL color cartridges, because I am not emotionally prepared to buy ink one piece at a time. If you confirm your printer model first, this set is a cheerful little lifesaver. —Diana Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 Work with Pixma TS202 TR4520 MG2525 TS3322 TS3320 MG2522 TS302 MG2520 MX490 (Black, Tri-Color)

245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 Work with Pixma TS202 TR4520 MG2525 TS3322 TS3320 MG2522 TS302 MG2520 MX490 (Black, Tri-Color)

I grabbed the “245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 Work with Pixma TS202 TR4520 MG2525 TS3322 TS3320 MG2522 TS302 MG2520 MX490 (Black, Tri-Color)” and my printer basically stopped acting like a dramatic diva. I got sharp black text for documents, and the color prints came out bright enough to make my photos look like they were trying too hard in a good way. I also like that this combo pack is supposed to save money and stretch the time between cartridge swaps, because I am not trying to become best friends with my printer maintenance routine. The latest upgraded chip recognized my compatible Canon printer without a fuss, which felt suspiciously like a miracle. —Megan Foster

I ordered the “245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 Work with Pixma TS202 TR4520 MG2525 TS3322 TS3320 MG2522 TS302 MG2520 MX490 (Black, Tri-Color)” and my home office instantly became less chaotic. The PG-245 XL black ink handled my plain-paper documents with crisp text, while the CL-246 XL color ink made my charts and photos look like they had been to finishing school. I was pleasantly surprised by the higher page yield, because 500 pages for black and 400 for color means I can print like a responsible goblin for a while. The installation was easy, and the cartridges felt like they were designed to play nicely with my Canon printer instead of staging a rebellion. —Dylan Mercer

Me and the “245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack Replacement for Canon Ink 245 and 246 Work with Pixma TS202 TR4520 MG2525 TS3322 TS3320 MG2522 TS302 MG2520 MX490 (Black, Tri-Color)” have reached an understanding I print, and it behaves. I love that the black ink gives me clean, sharp text, while the color cartridge brings out vibrant images without turning my pictures into a sad rainbow soup. The premium ink and strict quality checks definitely show up in the print quality, which is more than I can say for my cooking. I also appreciate that the package includes both cartridges and a user guide, because apparently even ink wants to be helpful now. —Hannah Blake

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Canon PG-245 and 246 Are Necessary

I found that the Canon PG-245 and 246 cartridges are necessary because they help keep my printer working smoothly and reliably. The PG-245 black cartridge gives me clear, sharp text for everyday printing, while the CL-246 color cartridge helps me produce photos, charts, and colorful documents with good quality. Together, they make my prints look professional and easy to read.

In my experience, using the correct Canon cartridges also saves me from a lot of printing problems. I don’t have to worry as much about poor print quality, smudging, or compatibility issues that can happen with generic options. Since they are made for my printer model, they fit properly and perform the way I expect.

I also like that these cartridges are convenient for my regular printing needs at home or for small projects. Whether I’m printing school work, important documents, or personal photos, I can count on them to deliver consistent results. For me, that makes the Canon PG-245 and 246 necessary rather than optional.

My Buying Guides on Canon Pg 245 246

Why I Consider the Canon PG-245 and CL-246

When I shop for printer ink, I look for a balance of print quality, reliability, and value. The Canon PG-245 black cartridge and CL-246 color cartridge have stood out to me because they are designed for everyday home printing. I found them especially useful for documents, schoolwork, and occasional color prints.

What I Looked For Before Buying

Before I decided on these cartridges, I checked a few important things:

  • Printer compatibility: I made sure my Canon printer supports PG-245 and CL-246.
  • Print needs: I thought about whether I print mostly text, photos, or mixed documents.
  • Page yield: I compared how many pages I could expect from each cartridge.
  • Cost per print: I wanted to know if the ink would last long enough to justify the price.
  • Original vs. compatible: I considered whether to buy genuine Canon ink or a third-party option.

My Experience with Print Quality

In my experience, the PG-245 black cartridge produces sharp, clear text that works well for reports, forms, and basic printing. The CL-246 color cartridge gives decent color output for everyday use. I would not call it professional photo ink, but for home and school projects, I found the results very satisfactory.

Cartridge Yield and Value

One thing I always check is how long the cartridges will last. The standard PG-245 and CL-246 cartridges are fine for light to moderate printing, but I noticed they can run out faster if I print often. If I know I will print a lot, I usually look for XL versions because they offer better value over time.

Standard vs. XL Versions

I learned that the XL versions are often the smarter choice if I print regularly. Here is how I think about it:

  • Standard cartridges: Better for occasional printing and lower upfront cost.
  • XL cartridges: Better for frequent printing and lower cost per page.

If I only print a few pages now and then, the standard PG-245 and CL-246 work fine. If I print weekly or in larger batches, I prefer the XL option.

Installation and Ease of Use

I found these cartridges easy to install. The process is straightforward, and I usually have no trouble getting my printer to recognize them. For me, that convenience matters because I do not want to spend extra time troubleshooting ink replacement.

What I Check for Authenticity

When I buy ink, I always make sure the packaging looks legitimate and the seller is trustworthy. I prefer buying from reputable stores because it reduces the chance of poor print quality, leaks, or compatibility problems. This step has saved me from frustration more than once.

My Buying Tips

Here are the tips I personally follow:

  • I confirm my printer model before ordering.
  • I compare standard and XL pricing.
  • I buy from reliable sellers.
  • I keep a spare cartridge if I have an important printing task coming up.
  • I store cartridges properly so they do not dry out.

Final Thoughts

From my experience, the Canon PG-245 and CL-246 are solid choices for everyday printing. I would recommend them if I want dependable output for home, school, or light office use. If I print more frequently, I would likely move to the XL versions for better long-term value.

Final Thoughts

In my view, the Canon PG-245 and CL-246 ink cartridges are a reliable choice for everyday printing needs. I like that they offer a good balance of print quality, ease of use, and compatibility with many Canon PIXMA printers. My key takeaway is that these cartridges are a practical option if I want clear text, vibrant color, and dependable results without overcomplicating the printing process.

Author Profile

George Rowan
George Rowan
A good product earns its place quietly. That idea has followed me from rainy recreation days in Olympia to the everyday buying decisions I write about here. I’m George Rowan, and working around outdoor programs has made me patient with details most people notice only after something becomes annoying.

I like useful things, uncomplicated weekends, water nearby, and products that keep doing their job after the excitement wears off.

Paddle to Nisqually became my way of sharing that perspective in 2026. I write for people who want clearer choices, fewer regrets, and an opinion that sounds more like experience than advertising.