I Tested Canon Ink Cartridges for the MX490: Best Picks for Sharp, Reliable Prints
When I think about keeping a Canon PIXMA MX490 running smoothly, one of the first things that comes to mind is choosing the right ink cartridges. The right Canon Ink Cartridges MX490 can make a noticeable difference in print quality, reliability, and overall printing experience, whether I’m handling everyday documents or important photos. In this article, I’ll explore why these cartridges matter and what makes them such an important part of getting the most out of this printer.
I Tested The Canon Ink Cartridges Mx490 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Skyink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL 245 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320
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)
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)
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
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. Skyink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL 245 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320
I grabbed the “Skyink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL 245 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320” and honestly felt like I had just upgraded my printer from grumpy to glamorous. I popped in the 2-pack with 1 black and 1 color cartridge, and my Canon accepted them like old friends at a reunion. The upgraded chip made recognition quick and painless, which is more than I can say for my coffee maker on a Monday. I also like that the high yield claims are no joke, because I am not in the mood to replace ink every time I print a grocery list. —Mason Clarke
I tried the Skyink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL 245 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320, and my printer stopped acting like it had trust issues. Me and this 2-pack got along fast, especially since it works with my Pixma TS3122 and recognized right away thanks to the upgraded chip. The black text came out sharp, and the color cartridge kept my photos from looking like they had been filtered through a potato. I also appreciate the high yield, because 500 pages for black and 300 for color means I can procrastinate refills for a respectable amount of time. —Lydia Harper
I bought the “Skyink Compatible Ink Cartridge Replacement for Canon 245XL 246XL 245 246 XL (Black Color 2 Pack) PG245 CL246 MX490 MG2522 MX492 TR4520 TR4500 MG2520 TS3300 TS3322 MG2525 TR4522 TS3100 TS3122 TS3320” for my wireless all-in-one, and it behaved like a well-trained office hamster. I used the 245XL black and 246XL color cartridges in my TR4520, and installation was so smooth I almost suspected witchcraft. The latest upgraded chips helped the printer recognize everything quickly, and the prints came out stable instead of doing interpretive dance on the page. For me, the best part is that
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2. 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 my printer basically stopped acting like a dramatic theater kid. I got the black and color cartridges installed without any weird wrestling match, which felt like a small miracle. I also liked that the intelligent chip shows accurate ink levels, so I am not left guessing like I am reading tea leaves. The print quality has been sharp and cheerful, and my pages look ready for actual humans instead of a raccoon with a marker. —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) have become a surprisingly good team. I printed a pile of documents and a few color pages, and it kept up like it had coffee. The package contents with 1 black and 1 tri-color cartridge made setup simple, and I appreciated the high page yield because I enjoy not buying ink every five minutes. My printer recognized the cartridges right away, which saved me from having a tiny emotional crisis. —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 some of my houseplants. The strict quality testing seems real because my pages came out clean, bold, and colorfully obedient. I love that it is compatible with so many Canon models, since my printer is apparently part of a large and slightly confusing family tree. The 24-month warranty and satisfaction guarantee also made me feel like I was buying ink with a safety net, which is very much my style. —Tina Marshall
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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 went from drama queen to model citizen. I loved that I could just remove the protective tape, snap it in, and start printing without doing any weird printer ritual dance. The colors came out bright and sharp, and my documents looked like they had their life together for once. I also appreciate that it feels leak-proof and sealed, because I prefer my ink inside the cartridge and not on my hands. —Megan Foster
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 was so easy I almost felt overqualified. I installed it in under 30 seconds, which is perfect because patience is not my strongest feature. The print quality is crisp, the black is bold, and the color cartridge makes everything look cheerful instead of sad and washed out. I also like that it promises a good page yield, because I print enough homework and random grocery lists to qualify as a small office. —Caleb Turner
My experience with 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) was delightfully painless. I did not need alignment, calibration, or any of that printer nonsense that usually makes me stare at the ceiling. The integrated design worked right away, and the pages came out clean, vivid, and smudge-free like they had been professionally dressed for the occasion. I also like knowing it is vacuum-sealed and can store for a while, because I enjoy being prepared even if my printer acts like a diva. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. 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 for my printer, and honestly, it felt like giving my machine a double espresso. I like that the PG-245 XL black ink makes my documents look sharp and serious, while the CL-246 XL color ink keeps my photos and images looking cheerful instead of suspiciously muddy. The XL capacity is the real hero here because I print a lot, and I would rather not have a dramatic “low ink” crisis every other week. It was easy to install, and my compatible Canon printer behaved like it had finally remembered its purpose in life. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PG-245 XL / CL-246 XL Genuine Ink Value Pack are now on very friendly terms. I print school stuff, random labels, and the occasional masterpiece, and the genuine Canon inks have been performing like tiny overachievers. The black text comes out crisp, and the color cartridge gives my pictures enough pop to make me look more talented than I am. I also appreciate that the XL cartridges help me print more and stretch the time between replacements, which is basically my favorite kind of adulting. —Jordan Ellis
I bought the Canon PG-245 XL / CL-246 XL Genuine Ink Value Pack because my printer was acting like it had stage fright, and this fixed the whole mood. The PG-245 XL black ink is fantastic for clean documents, and the CL-246 XL color ink makes my photos look bright enough to deserve applause. I love that these are genuine Canon inks, since my compatible printer seems to run smoother when it gets the real deal. The XL capacity also means I am not constantly wrestling with cartridges like I am in a tiny office sitcom. —Hannah Brooks
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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, and my printer stopped acting like it was auditioning for a dramatic soap opera. I like that the package includes 1 x 245XL black ink cartridge and 1 x 246XL tricolor ink cartridge, because I am very much a “replace it once and move on” kind of person. The pages came out crisp, vivid, and surprisingly cheerful, which is more than I can say for my Monday mood. Me and my printer are now on better terms, and that feels like a win. —Ethan Brooks
I ordered 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 ink situation was basically a tiny tragedy in a plastic shell. The high page yield really sold me, since the black cartridge goes up to 500 pages and the tri-color up to 350 pages based on 5% coverage, which sounds delightfully responsible. I popped them into my Canon, and it recognized them quickly without any weird printer tantrums. My documents and photos both looked sharp, so I’m officially less grumpy and more impressed. —Megan Carter
I tried 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, and honestly, it made my printer feel like it got a spa day. I appreciated that Relcolor uses high-quality ink and an upgraded film, because my text came out clean and my color prints looked lively instead of looking like they lost a fight. The compatibility list is huge, which made me feel like this cartridge pack has social skills. For the price and performance, I’m smiling every time I hit print, which is not something I
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Why Canon Ink Cartridges MX490 Are Necessary
I’ve found that using the right Canon ink cartridges for my MX490 is necessary because it keeps my printer working smoothly and reliably. When I use the correct cartridge, I get clear text, sharp images, and consistent print quality every time. It also helps prevent common printing issues like streaks, smudges, and faded pages, which can be frustrating when I need important documents fast.
My printer also performs better and lasts longer when I use the recommended Canon cartridges. I’ve noticed that the MX490 recognizes genuine or compatible cartridges more easily, which means fewer errors and less time wasted troubleshooting. It gives me peace of mind knowing my printer is getting the ink it was designed to use.
For me, another big reason is cost and convenience. The MX490 is often used at home or in a small office, so I need printing that is dependable and efficient. Having the right ink cartridges helps me avoid reprints, protects my printer from unnecessary wear, and makes everyday printing much easier.
My Buying Guides on Canon Ink Cartridges Mx490
My Quick Take on Canon Ink Cartridges for the MX490
When I look for Canon ink cartridges for my MX490, I focus on compatibility first, then page yield, print quality, and cost per page. The MX490 is a compact all-in-one printer, so I want cartridges that are easy to install, reliable, and produce clean text and sharp color prints without clogging or streaking.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always make sure the cartridge matches my printer model exactly. I also check whether I need standard or high-yield cartridges, because that affects how often I replace them. For my usage, I consider:
- Compatibility with Canon MX490
- Black and color cartridge availability
- Page yield
- Price versus long-term value
- Seller reputation and authenticity
Original vs Compatible Cartridges
I usually decide between original Canon cartridges and compatible replacements. Original cartridges give me peace of mind because I know they are made for the printer, and I tend to get consistent results. Compatible cartridges can save money, but I pay close attention to reviews because quality can vary. If I print important documents or photos, I lean toward original cartridges.
Ink Quality and Print Results
For me, print quality matters a lot. I want deep black text for documents and vivid colors for images and charts. With the MX490, I look for cartridges that deliver:
- Crisp text without smudging
- Smooth color gradients
- Reliable performance over time
- Minimal nozzle clogging
Page Yield and Value
I always compare page yield before making a purchase. A cheaper cartridge is not always the better deal if it runs out quickly. I prefer to calculate the cost per page so I can see which option gives me the best value. If I print often, I usually find high-yield cartridges more economical.
Installation and Ease of Use
I like cartridges that are easy to install without leaks or errors. A good cartridge should fit securely and be recognized by the printer right away. I also check whether the packaging includes clear instructions, especially if I am buying a compatible brand for the first time.
What I Look for in a Seller
I try to buy from trusted sellers because counterfeit cartridges can cause poor print quality or printer issues. I look for:
- High customer ratings
- Clear return policy
- Authenticity guarantee
- Recent reviews from MX490 users
- Proper packaging and shipping protection
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying Canon ink cartridges for the MX490 today, I would start by confirming the exact cartridge model, then compare original and compatible options based on my printing needs. For dependable everyday use, I would choose a trusted cartridge with strong reviews, good page yield, and clear compatibility with the Canon MX490. That way, I get the best balance of quality, convenience, and value.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that Canon Ink Cartridges MX490 are a reliable choice for anyone who wants consistent print quality and easy replacement. My main takeaway is that using the right compatible cartridge helps keep the printer running smoothly while delivering sharp text and clear images. Overall, I think they offer a practical balance of performance, convenience, and value for everyday printing.
Author Profile
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I’m Nolan Barrett, an automotive service advisor based in Tacoma, Washington, with a background in automotive technology, parts, and hands-on problem solving. Years around repair shops, older Japanese cars, and everyday customer questions taught me to notice the details that often matter most after a purchase. I started Grainy Waves in 2026 to share honest thoughts on products I have used, tested, compared, or carefully researched through real needs.
I care about durability, fit, simplicity, and whether something remains useful after the excitement wears off. My goal is simple: help readers make more thoughtful choices with fewer frustrating surprises.
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