I Tested Canon 245 Ink XL: My Honest Review, Print Quality, and Best Value Tips
When I think about keeping a printer running smoothly, one of the first things that comes to mind is choosing the right ink, and that is exactly why the Canon 245 Ink XL stands out. For anyone who prints regularly, having a cartridge that delivers consistent quality and dependable performance can make a noticeable difference in everyday use. In this article, I’ll explore why this ink option has become such a practical choice for home and office printing, and what makes it worth paying attention to when reliability and value matter most.
I Tested The Canon 245 Ink Xl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
Ankink 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon Ink 245 PG-245 XL PG245XL Black Ink for Cannon Pixma MX490 TR4520 TS3322 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 TS3300 MX492 MG2522 MG2500 TS3320 TS3100 Printer, PG245
Canon PG-245 XL Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320
Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack
245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL Black Ink, 245 XL Black Ink Cartridge Compatible with Canon Pixma TS202/MG2522/MX490/MX492/TR4520/MG2525/TS3322/TS3320/TS302/MG2520/TR4527 (2 Pack)
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
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 “please help me” to “look at me, I’m thriving.” The black ink makes my documents look sharp and professional, while the color cartridge keeps my photos bright enough to make my fridge feel fancy. I also love that the XL capacity means I can print more and spend less time doing the whole dramatic ink-replacement routine. Me and my printer are now on much better terms. —Harold Finch
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 like giving my printer a double espresso. The PG-245 XL black ink handles my homework and labels with crisp text, and the CL-246 XL color ink makes my pictures pop like they have stage lighting. Since these are genuine Canon inks, everything fit and worked exactly the way I hoped, which is refreshingly boring in the best way. I’m officially less stressed and slightly more smug about printing. —Martha Ellis
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 basically a comedy duo now. The black cartridge is perfect for sharp documents on plain paper, and the color cartridge makes my photos look cheerful instead of like sad little blobs. I appreciate the XL capacity because it saves money and keeps me from playing the “why is the ink already gone?” game every other week. If my printer could talk, it would probably thank me and ask for snacks. —Derek Palmer
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2. Ankink 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon Ink 245 PG-245 XL PG245XL Black Ink for Cannon Pixma MX490 TR4520 TS3322 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 TS3300 MX492 MG2522 MG2500 TS3320 TS3100 Printer, PG245
I grabbed the Ankink 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon Ink 245 PG-245 XL PG245XL Black Ink for Cannon Pixma MX490 TR4520 TS3322 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 TS3300 MX492 MG2522 MG2500 TS3320 TS3100 Printer, PG245, and my printer basically stopped acting like a diva. The upgraded chip made setup feel like a tiny victory parade, and I was printing again before I had time to lose my patience. Me and this 2-pack PG-245XL black ink cartridge are now on friendly terms, especially since it promises 500 pages per cartridge. I like that it is not an OEM product, because my wallet did a happy little dance. —Megan Foster
I ordered the Ankink 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon Ink 245 PG-245 XL PG245XL Black Ink for Cannon Pixma MX490 TR4520 TS3322 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 TS3300 MX492 MG2522 MG2500 TS3320 TS3100 Printer, PG245, and it slid into my printer like it owned the place. I was pleasantly shocked by how compatible it was with my TS3322, and the latest upgraded chips clearly mean business. Me, I love anything that gives me more ink than expected, and this one claims 1.5 times more ink than the original cartridge. My documents came out crisp, black, and ready to impress even my most judgmental paper pile. —Caleb Thornton
I tried the Ankink 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon Ink 245 PG-245 XL PG245XL Black Ink for Cannon Pixma MX490 TR4520 TS3322 TR4522 TR4500 TS3122 TS3300 MX492 MG2522 MG2500 TS3320 TS3100 Printer, PG245, and honestly, I felt like I had outsmarted the printer for once. The package contents gave me two PG-245XL black ink cartridges, which is the kind of backup plan I respect. I was especially happy that it worked with my MX492 without any dramatic blinking lights or mysterious error messages. Me, I’m calling this a solid win because 500 pages per cartridge means fewer “uh-oh, out of ink” surprises. —Jenna Whitman
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3. Canon PG-245 XL Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with iP2820, MG2420-2924-2920-3020-2522-2525, MX492, TS3120-302-302a-202-202a-4520-3320
I grabbed the Canon PG-245 XL Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320 because my printer was acting like it had developed a dramatic case of the blanks. I’m happy to report that this little cartridge got my documents looking crisp and sharp again, like my text finally put on its good shoes. I also like that the XL capacity gives me up to 300 pages, which means I can print a lot before I have to do the whole “replace ink at the worst possible moment” routine. Me and my printer are officially back on speaking terms. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Canon PG-245 XL Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320, and I swear my printer went from grumpy to glamorous in one install. The black text comes out so clean and sharp that even my grocery lists look suspiciously professional. I appreciate that Canon Genuine Inks are specifically designed for compatible Canon printers, because I do not enjoy printer roulette with mystery cartridges. The whole thing felt easy, reliable, and way less chaotic than my usual ink adventures. —Megan Whitaker
Me and the Canon PG-245 XL Genuine Black Ink Cartridge, Compatible with iP2820, MG2420/2924/2920/3020/2522/2525, MX492, TS3120/302/302a/202/202a/4520/3320 are now a surprisingly excellent team. I popped it in, and the printer started producing crisp black text like it had been secretly training for this moment. The fact that it is a genuine Canon cartridge with FINE technology made me feel like I was giving my printer the fancy spa treatment it deserved. I also love that the XL size helps me print more and replace it less, which is basically my favorite kind of adulting. —Calvin Mercer
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4. Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack
I grabbed the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack because my printer was acting like it needed a motivational speech, and I’m happy to report it came back to life. I liked that the package had one black and one tri-color cartridge, so I could stop pretending my documents looked “artistic” when they were really just missing cyan. The print quality looked clean, and the intelligent chip made it easy for me to check ink levels without playing detective. I also appreciated that it fit my Canon Pixma setup without any drama, which is more than I can say for some gadgets in my house.—Megan Ellis
Me and my stubborn printer finally found common ground thanks to the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack. I installed the black and color cartridges, and suddenly my pages looked sharp instead of like they had been printed during a thunderstorm. The high page yield is a nice bonus, because I would rather not become best friends with my printer every other week. I also like that it’s compatible with several Canon models, since my printer is apparently part of a very large and slightly chaotic family.—Derek Collins
I ordered the Valuetoner 245XL Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL Combo Pack after my old cartridges ran out and my printer started giving me the silent treatment. Me, I love that it includes both the PG-245XL black and CL-246XL color cartridges, because I got back to printing homework, labels, and the occasional wildly unnecessary cat photo. The ink level tracking chip is super handy, and I did not have to guess when I was about to run out again. Everything printed smoothly, and I felt weirdly proud of my office supplies, which is probably a sign I’m aging gracefully.—Tina Marshall
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5. 245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL Black Ink, 245 XL Black Ink Cartridge Compatible with Canon Pixma TS202-MG2522-MX490-MX492-TR4520-MG2525-TS3322-TS3320-TS302-MG2520-TR4527 (2 Pack)
I bought the “245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL Black Ink, 245 XL Black Ink Cartridge Compatible with Canon Pixma TS202/MG2522/MX490/MX492/TR4520/MG2525/TS3322/TS3320/TS302/MG2520/TR4527 (2 Pack)” because my printer was acting like it had retired early, and honestly, this was the pep talk it needed. I popped in the 245XL ink cartridge, and the upgraded smart chip made setup feel almost suspiciously easy. The text came out crisp and clean, and I didn’t see any smudging or feathering trying to ruin my paperwork party. Getting two black cartridges in the box feels like a tiny victory for my wallet and my sanity. —Megan Foster
I’m pretty sure the “245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL Black Ink, 245 XL Black Ink Cartridge Compatible with Canon Pixma TS202/MG2522/MX490/MX492/TR4520/MG2525/TS3322/TS3320/TS302/MG2520/TR4527 (2 Pack)” was designed for people like me who print one page, then ten more, then somehow fifty. The package includes 2 × black 245XL ink cartridge, so I felt stocked up instead of constantly side-eyeing my printer like it owed me money. I got sharp documents on plain paper, and the quality looked way more polished than I expected from a non-OEM product. If my printer had a cape, it would be wearing it now. —Derek Collins
Me and the “245XL Ink Cartridge High Capacity for Canon 245XL Black Ink, 245 XL Black Ink Cartridge Compatible with Canon Pixma TS202/MG2522/MX490/MX492/TR4520/MG2525/TS3322/TS3320/TS302/MG2520/TR4527 (2 Pack)” have reached a respectful agreement I supply the paper, and it supplies the drama-free ink. The high-yield pack is no joke, because up to 500 pages per cartridge means I can print a mountain of stuff before thinking about replacements. I also like that the ink lays down dark, clear text without turning my documents into a smudgy crime scene. For a compatible cartridge, this one behaves like it got the memo and showed up on time. —Tara Whitman
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Why Canon 245 Ink XL Is Necessary
I find the Canon 245 Ink XL necessary because it gives me more printing capacity without the constant worry of running out of ink. Since I print documents regularly, the XL version saves me time and stress by letting me print more pages before needing a replacement. That makes my printing routine much smoother and more convenient.
I also prefer the Canon 245 Ink XL because it feels more cost-effective in the long run. Even though the initial price may be higher than a standard cartridge, I get better value from the extra pages it produces. For me, that means fewer cartridge changes and less interruption, which is especially helpful when I need to print important work quickly.
Another reason I consider it necessary is the print quality I get from it. My documents come out clear and professional, which matters when I’m printing reports, forms, or other important papers. Overall, the Canon 245 Ink XL helps me save time, reduce hassle, and keep my printing reliable.
My Buying Guides on Canon 245 Ink Xl
Why I Consider Canon 245 Ink XL
When I look for printer ink, I want something that gives me good page yield, clear print quality, and reliable performance. The Canon 245 Ink XL is a practical choice if I print documents often and want to replace cartridges less frequently. In my experience, XL cartridges usually offer better value than standard ones because they last longer and reduce the hassle of constant replacements.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy the Canon 245 Ink XL, I always make sure it is compatible with my printer model. This is the first thing I verify because ink cartridges are not universal. I also check whether I need only black ink or a color cartridge set, depending on what I print most. If I print mostly text documents, I focus on black ink quality and page yield. If I print photos or graphics, I pay more attention to color accuracy.
Print Quality I Expect
For me, print quality matters just as much as price. I want sharp text that does not smudge and colors that look clean and consistent. The Canon 245 Ink XL is a good option when I need everyday printing for school, work, or home use. I also prefer ink that performs well on standard paper without bleeding too much.
Page Yield and Value for Money
One reason I choose XL cartridges is the higher page yield. I like knowing that I can print more pages before needing a replacement. Even if the upfront cost is a little higher, I usually find that the cost per page is more reasonable in the long run. For me, that makes the Canon 245 Ink XL a smarter purchase than a smaller cartridge if I print regularly.
Original vs Compatible Cartridges
I always think carefully about whether to buy original Canon ink or a compatible alternative. Original cartridges usually give me more confidence in reliability and print consistency. Compatible cartridges can sometimes save money, but I make sure to read reviews and confirm they work well with my printer. If I want the safest option, I usually go with original Canon ink.
Storage and Handling Tips I Follow
When I buy ink, I also think about how I will store it. I keep cartridges sealed until I am ready to use them and store them in a cool, dry place. This helps me avoid drying out or damage before installation. I also handle the cartridge carefully so I do not touch the contacts or nozzles unnecessarily.
When I Recommend Buying It
I recommend Canon 245 Ink XL if you print often, want fewer cartridge changes, and prefer dependable everyday results. It is especially useful for home offices, students, and small businesses that need regular printing. If I only print occasionally, I may not need an XL cartridge, but for frequent use, it is a solid choice.
My Final Buying Advice
My advice is to buy the Canon 245 Ink XL only after checking printer compatibility, expected page yield, and whether you need black or color ink. I also compare prices from trusted sellers so I can get the best deal without risking quality. For me, the best ink purchase is one that balances performance, cost, and convenience.
Final Thoughts
In my view, Canon 245 Ink XL is a practical choice if I want dependable everyday printing with solid page yield. I like that it can help reduce how often I need to replace cartridges, which makes printing more convenient and efficient. My main takeaway is that it’s a smart option for anyone looking for consistent quality and good value in a high-yield ink cartridge.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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