Welcome to our ultimate shopping guide for Canon ink cartridges 245 and 246! Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a home office warrior, finding the right ink is essential for crisp, vibrant prints. In this guide, we’ll explore the best options available, tips for choosing the right cartridges, and how to save money while ensuring top-quality performance. Get ready to enhance your printing experience!
Comprehensive Shopping Guide for Canon Ink Cartridges PG-245 and CL-246
When it comes to printing documents and photos, choosing the right ink cartridge is crucial. Canon’s PG-245 and CL-246 ink cartridges are popular choices for users of Canon PIXMA printers, known for their reliable performance and high-quality output. This guide will help you understand the differences between these cartridges, their compatibility, installation tips, maintenance advice, and practical tips for choosing and using them effectively.
Comparison Table of Canon Ink Cartridges PG-245 and CL-246
| Cartridge Model | Type | Ink Yield | Page Yield | Compatible Printers | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG-245 | Standard Yield Black | 8.0 ml | Approx. 180 pages | PIXMA MG2420, MG2520, MG2525, MG2920, MX492, TS3120, TR4520, and more | $20.99 |
| PG-245XL | High Yield Black | 12.0 ml | Approx. 300 pages | Same as PG-245, plus some newer models like TS3320 | $29.99 |
| CL-246 | Standard Yield Color | 8.0 ml | Approx. 180 pages | Same as PG-245, including color printing models | $25.99 |
| CL-246XL | High Yield Color | 12.0 ml | Approx. 300 pages | Same as CL-246, offering better value for high volume color printing | $33.99 |
Compatibility of Canon Ink Cartridges PG-245 and CL-246
Supported Printer Models
The PG-245 and CL-246 cartridges are compatible with a wide range of Canon PIXMA printers. Here are some of the popular models:
- PIXMA iP Series: iP2820, iP2850
- PIXMA MG Series: MG2420, MG2520, MG2522, MG2525, MG2920, MG2922, MG2924
- PIXMA MX Series: MX490, MX492, MX495
- PIXMA TR Series: TR4500, TR4520
- PIXMA TS Series: TS202, TS205, TS302, TS3120, TS3320, and more.
Functionality
- PG-245 is a black ink cartridge that produces sharp, crisp text suitable for documents.
- CL-246 is a tri-color ink cartridge that combines cyan, magenta, and yellow inks to produce vibrant color prints.
Installation Tips
- Prepare Your Printer: Ensure your printer is on and not in the middle of a print job.
- Open the Printer Lid: Access the cartridge compartment by lifting the printer lid.
- Remove Old Cartridges: Gently press down on the old cartridges to release them and pull them out.
- Unpack New Cartridges: Take the new cartridges out of their packaging and remove any protective tape.
- Insert New Cartridges: Align the cartridges with their respective slots and push them in until they click into place.
- Close the Printer Lid: Once the new cartridges are installed, close the lid and run a test print.
Maintenance Advice for Canon Ink Cartridges
Storage
- Store cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.
Regular Use
- To maintain print quality, use your printer regularly. Infrequent use can lead to dried ink and clogged nozzles.
Clean Print Head
- If you notice streaks or missing colors, run a print head cleaning cycle through your printer’s maintenance menu.
Check Ink Levels
- Monitor your ink levels through your printer’s interface or software. Replace cartridges before they run completely dry to avoid damaging the printer.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Using Canon Ink Cartridges
- Consider Your Printing Volume: If you print frequently, opt for the high-yield cartridges (PG-245XL and CL-246XL) to save money in the long run.
- Check Compatibility: Always verify that the cartridges are compatible with your specific printer model.
- Purchase in Packs: Buying cartridges in multi-packs can often save you money compared to buying them individually.
- Recycle Used Cartridges: Participate in recycling programs offered by Canon or your local retailers to minimize environmental impact.
- Avoid Third-Party Cartridges: While they may be cheaper, third-party cartridges can void your printer warranty and may not provide the same quality.
Technical Specifications of Canon Ink Cartridges
| Cartridge Model | Ink Type | Dimensions (inches) | Weight (grams) | Page Yield | Cost per Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PG-245 | Pigment Black Ink | 3.30 x 2.10 x 3.90 | 0.05 | 180 | $0.12 |
| PG-245XL | Pigment Black Ink | 3.30 x 2.10 x 3.90 | 0.06 | 300 | $0.10 |
| CL-246 | Dye-based Color Ink | 3.30 x 2.10 x 3.90 | 0.05 | 180 | $0.14 |
| CL-246XL | Dye-based Color Ink | 3.30 x 2.10 x 3.90 | 0.06 | 300 | $0.11 |
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Conclusion
Choosing the right ink cartridges for your Canon printer can significantly impact your printing experience. The PG-245 and CL-246 cartridges offer reliable performance, with options for standard and high yields to suit different printing needs. By understanding their compatibility, installation tips, and maintenance advice, you can ensure optimal performance and longevity of your cartridges. Consider your printing habits and choose the right cartridges to save money and produce high-quality prints.
FAQ
What is the difference between PG-245 and PG-245XL?
The PG-245 is a standard yield cartridge with a page yield of approximately 180 pages, while the PG-245XL is a high-yield cartridge that can print around 300 pages.
Can I use PG-245 with CL-246?
Yes, the PG-245 (black) and CL-246 (color) cartridges are designed to work together in compatible Canon printers.
How do I know when to replace my ink cartridges?
Most printers have a built-in ink level indicator. You can also check for print quality issues, such as streaks or faded prints.
Are high-yield cartridges worth the extra cost?
If you print frequently, high-yield cartridges generally offer better value due to a lower cost per page, making them more economical in the long run.
Can I refill my Canon cartridges?
While refilling is possible, it is not recommended as it can lead to print quality issues and may void your warranty.
What should I do if my printer is not recognizing the new cartridge?
Make sure the cartridge is correctly installed and that all protective tape has been removed. If issues persist, restart the printer.
How do I clean the print head?
Most Canon printers have a maintenance option in their settings to clean the print head. You can also manually clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Can I mix standard and high-yield cartridges?
Yes, you can mix standard and high-yield cartridges, but it is recommended to use the same type for optimal performance.
What is the shelf life of ink cartridges?
Ink cartridges typically have a shelf life of about 2 years if stored properly, but always check the expiration date on the packaging.
Where can I recycle used ink cartridges?
Many retailers, including Canon, offer recycling programs for used cartridges. Check with your local store for details.