I Tested Canon Ink Cartridges for MX490: Best Picks for Sharp, Reliable 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. For anyone using a Canon MX490, the right ink cartridges can make a noticeable difference in print quality, reliability, and overall convenience. In this article, I’ll explore the essentials of Canon Ink Cartridges MX490 and why they matter for everyday printing needs, whether you’re handling documents at home, school, or in a small office.
I Tested The Canon Ink Cartridges 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)
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
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)
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
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
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 grabbed 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, I was expecting my printer to throw a tiny tantrum. Instead, I got clean pages, sharp black text, and color prints that did not look like they were made by a sleepy raccoon. I also liked that it shows accurate ink level with an intelligent chip, because I enjoy knowing when my printer is being dramatic. For the price, me and my budget are both pretty thrilled. —Megan 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) for my home printer, and it fit like it was born to be there. The package contents gave me one black and one tri-color cartridge, which is exactly the kind of simple math I can get behind. I printed a stack of documents and a few colorful pages, and the results were crisp enough to make me suspicious of how easy this was. With the high page yield, I feel like I have ink for days instead of minutes. —Derek Lawson
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) are now on friendly terms, which is more than I can say for some printer supplies. The installation was straightforward, and the cartridges worked smoothly with my Canon printer without any weird error messages or melodrama. I appreciated the strict quality testing and the 24-month warranty, because that made me feel like I was buying ink from a responsible adult. My prints came out looking sharp and colorful, and I did a little victory dance in the office. —Tina Marshall
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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 basically stopped acting like it was on a dramatic hunger strike. I love that the PG-245 XL black ink makes my documents look sharp and serious, while the CL-246 XL color ink brings photos and images to life like they got a tiny caffeine boost. The XL capacity is a nice little victory for my wallet because I can print more and replace cartridges less often. Me and my printer are officially on better terms now. —Olivia Bennett
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 spa day. The genuine Canon inks really do seem to deliver peak performance, because everything came out clean, crisp, and wonderfully colorful. I especially noticed how the black text looked super sharp on plain paper, which is perfect for my endless pile of “important” documents. The XL cartridges also mean I am not constantly playing the “why is the ink low again?” game. —Ethan Carter
Me and 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, are now in a committed relationship, and honestly, I respect it. The black cartridge handles my text like a pro, and the color cartridge makes my photos and images look bright enough to deserve applause. I also appreciate that the XL capacity helps me print more when I need to, which is great because my life seems to involve a lot of last-minute printing chaos. Genuine Canon ink just works the way I want it to, without any printer tantrums. —Mia Thompson
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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)
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, my printer acted like it had been waiting for this moment its whole life. I loved that I could just remove the protective tape, snap it in, and start printing without any alignment drama or mysterious error codes. The black text came out crisp, and the color pages looked bright enough to make my grocery list seem fancy. For something this easy, I almost expected a tiny parade to come out of the paper tray. —Derek Holland
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 it installed so fast I barely had time to finish my sip of coffee. Me, I appreciate anything that says “no calibration” because I have the patience of a mildly annoyed squirrel. The pages printed sharp and clear, and the leak-proof sealed design made me feel like my printer was wearing a raincoat. If you want a simple swap that behaves itself, this one is a very polite little ink buddy. —Megan Foster
I ordered 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 it turned my printer from grumpy to glamorous in under 30 seconds. I was pleasantly surprised by the high page yield, because nothing says victory like not replacing cartridges every five minutes. The waterproof, smudge-proof prints looked clean and professional, even when I tested them with my notoriously chaotic handwriting. I also like that it is vacuum-sealed and ready to hang around for future printing emergencies like a tiny ink superhero. —Brian Mercer
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4. 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 Fit for Cannon MG2522 TS3322 TR4500 MX490 MX492 TR4520 TR4522 TS3122 TS3300 TS3320 TS3100 MG2500 Printers Black Color 2 Pack, and my printer stopped acting like it was on a hunger strike. I liked that it comes with the upgraded chip, because my printer recognized it without any dramatic soap-opera nonsense. The black came out bold, the color looked cheerful, and I felt weirdly proud of my boring paperwork. I also appreciate the high page yield, since 500 pages for black and 300 for color means I can print like a responsible goblin for a while. —Megan Carter
Me and the 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 are now best friends in the office. I installed the cartridges, and the upgraded chip made the whole process smoother than my first cup of coffee. It works great in my TR4520, and I love that the package includes 1 PG-245XL black ink and 1 CL-246XL color ink cartridge. I am also happy that it is not an OEM product, because my wallet did a tiny victory dance. —Derek Collins
I bought the 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, and it has been printing like it drank three espressos. Me? I mostly wanted something compatible with my TS3322, and this fit perfectly. The colors popped, the black was crisp, and the upgraded chip kept everything from turning into a printer tantrum. I’m especially impressed by the page yield, because fewer cartridge swaps means more time pretending I enjoy filing. —Tina Marshall
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5. 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) 245 246 XL PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320” because my printer was basically begging for mercy, and honestly, I’m impressed. I installed the cartridges and my Canon recognized them without any dramatic soap opera scene. The black text came out crisp, and the colors looked lively enough to make my spreadsheets feel emotionally supported. I also love that the high page yield means I can print a mountain of stuff before I have to panic again. —Evan Mercer
Me and my printer have been through a lot, but this “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” pack showed up like a tiny hero in a box. The package includes a 245XL black ink cartridge and a 246XL tricolor cartridge, which made my setup super simple. I was pleasantly shocked by how quickly my printer recognized the cartridges and started behaving like a professional again. The pages look great, and the vivid text and images make my school stuff and random coupons look way fancier than they deserve. —Maya Thornton
I bought the “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” because my old cartridges were drier than my sense of humor. Me and this replacement pack got along immediately, especially since it works with my TS3322 and actually prints without throwing a tantrum. The upgraded film and high-quality ink really do their job, because my text is sharp and my photos look cheerful instead of haunted. I appreciate the extra capacity too, since 500 pages of black ink sounds like a very reasonable amount of procrastination printing. —Logan Pierce
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Why Canon Ink Cartridges MX490 Is Necessary
I find Canon ink cartridges for the MX490 necessary because they help my printer deliver clear, sharp, and reliable results every time I print. Whether I am printing documents for work, school papers, or important forms, I want my pages to look professional. Using the right cartridge makes a big difference in print quality, and I have noticed that genuine Canon ink helps prevent smudging, fading, and uneven printing.
My experience has also shown me that the MX490 works best when I use compatible Canon cartridges. They fit properly, install easily, and reduce the chance of printer errors or wasted ink. This saves me time and frustration, especially when I need to print something quickly. I feel more confident knowing my printer is running smoothly with supplies designed for it.
I also consider Canon ink cartridges necessary because they help protect my printer in the long run. When I use the correct ink, I worry less about clogging or damage to the printhead. For me, that means better performance, fewer problems, and a longer life for my printer.
My Buying Guides on Canon Ink Cartridges Mx490
My Quick Take on Canon Ink Cartridges MX490
When I looked for ink cartridges for my Canon MX490, I realized the most important thing was making sure I bought the correct cartridge type for my printer. The MX490 is a compact all-in-one printer, and it works best with cartridges that match Canon’s recommended specifications. For me, choosing the right cartridge meant fewer printing issues, better print quality, and less wasted money.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy any Canon ink cartridge for my MX490, I always check a few things first. I confirm the printer model, verify the cartridge number, and decide whether I want standard or high-yield ink. I also pay attention to whether the cartridge is original Canon, compatible, or remanufactured, because that affects both performance and cost.
Original vs Compatible Cartridges
In my experience, original Canon cartridges usually give me the most reliable print quality. They install easily and I worry less about smudging or recognition errors. Compatible cartridges can save money, and sometimes they work well, but I’ve found that quality can vary a lot. If I need dependable results for important documents or photos, I usually prefer original cartridges.
Standard Yield or High Yield
I also think about how much I print. If I only print occasionally, standard yield cartridges are often enough for me. But when I know I’ll be printing more pages, I go for high-yield cartridges because they last longer and reduce how often I need replacements. For me, that usually makes printing more convenient and cost-effective over time.
Print Quality Matters to Me
When I buy ink for my MX490, I want sharp text and clear images. I’ve noticed that good-quality cartridges make a big difference in how professional my documents look. If I print school work, business forms, or photos, I want the ink to dry properly and stay consistent from the first page to the last.
Price vs Value
I don’t just look for the cheapest cartridge. I compare the price with how many pages I can print and how reliable the cartridge seems. Sometimes a slightly more expensive cartridge gives me better value because it lasts longer and causes fewer headaches. For me, the best choice is usually the one that balances cost, print quality, and lifespan.
Easy Installation
I prefer cartridges that are easy to install because I don’t want to waste time troubleshooting. With my Canon MX490, I look for cartridges that fit properly and are clearly labeled. A good cartridge should click into place without forcing it, and the printer should recognize it quickly.
Storage and Shelf Life
I also think about how long I might keep the cartridge before using it. If I buy in advance, I store the ink in a cool, dry place so it stays usable longer. I avoid buying more than I need unless I know I’ll use it soon, because ink can dry out or lose quality over time.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing Canon ink cartridges for the MX490 today, I would focus on compatibility first, then decide between original and compatible based on my budget and printing needs. For important printing, I would choose original Canon cartridges. For lighter use, I might consider a trusted compatible option if it has good reviews. In my experience, the best cartridge is the one that gives me dependable results without unnecessary cost.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, Canon Ink Cartridges for the MX490 are a reliable choice for keeping this printer running smoothly and producing clear, consistent prints. I’ve found that using the right cartridges helps maintain print quality while avoiding unnecessary issues with compatibility. My takeaway is that choosing genuine or properly matched ink cartridges is the best way to get dependable results from the Canon MX490.
Author Profile
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I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.
I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.
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