Canon Ink Cartridge Compatibility UK Find Your PIXMA Ink

Canon Ink Cartridge Compatibility UK: Find Your PIXMA Ink

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Canon ink cartridge compatibility UK can be confusing. Some printers use two cartridges—one Black and one Tri-colour—while others need four, five or six separate ink tanks.

Cartridge numbers can also look almost identical. Canon PGI-550/CLI-551, PGI-570/CLI-571 and PGI-580/CLI-581 belong to different printer generations and are not interchangeable.

This Canon PIXMA ink cartridge compatibility chart for UK printers will help you:

  • Find the correct ink using your printer model
  • Understand Canon PG, CL, PGI and CLI cartridge numbers
  • Compare standard and XL cartridges
  • Identify four-, five- and six-cartridge systems
  • Avoid purchasing a similar but incompatible cartridge
  • Check compatibility before buying original or compatible Canon ink
  • Troubleshoot cartridge-recognition problems

Important: Use your printer’s complete model number when checking compatibility. Retailer suffixes, regional variations and later printer generations can require different ink even when the printers look similar.

Quick Answer: Which Ink Does My Canon PIXMA Printer Use?

The safest ways to identify the correct cartridge are:

  1. Check the number printed on the installed cartridge.
  2. Look for an ink label inside the printer.
  3. Find the complete PIXMA model number.
  4. Check the printer’s official Canon UK support page.
  5. Compare the full cartridge number before purchasing.

Do not search using only a broad printer range such as “Canon PIXMA TS ink.”

For example:

  • Canon PIXMA TS3350 uses PG-545 and CL-546
  • Canon PIXMA TS5350 uses PG-560 and CL-561
  • Canon PIXMA TS6050 uses PGI-570 and CLI-571
  • Canon PIXMA TS6150 uses PGI-580 and CLI-581

These models all belong to the PIXMA TS range but require different cartridges.

Canon Ink Cartridge Compatibility Chart UK

The following table provides a quick overview of common Canon ink cartridge families used by UK PIXMA printers.

Canon cartridge familyCartridge systemCommon compatible printer rangesXL available?
PG-510 and CL-511Black and Tri-colourOlder PIXMA MP, MX and iP printersYes
PG-540 and CL-541Black and Tri-colourPIXMA MG, MX and TS5100 rangesYes
PG-545 and CL-546Black and Tri-colourPIXMA MG2500, TS3000 and selected TR modelsYes
PG-560 and CL-561Black and Tri-colourPIXMA TS5300 and TS7400 rangesYes
PG-575 and CL-576Black and Tri-colourSelected newer PIXMA TS and TR printersYes
PGI-525 and CLI-526Five separate inksOlder PIXMA iP, iX, MG and MX printersYes
PGI-550 and CLI-551Five or six separate inksPIXMA iP, iX, MG and MX printersYes
PGI-570 and CLI-571Five or six separate inksPIXMA MG5700–7700 and TS5000–9000 rangesYes
PGI-580 and CLI-581Five or six separate inksPIXMA TR7500/8500 and TS6000–9500 rangesYes
PGI-585 and CLI-586Five separate inksSelected newer PIXMA TS printersYes
PGI-1500Four separate pigment inksSelected MAXIFY MB2000-series printersYes
PGI-2500Four separate pigment inksSelected MAXIFY iB and MB5000-series printersYes

This guide concentrates on standard Canon PIXMA cartridge printers. Canon MegaTank printers use refillable ink bottles and require a separate compatibility check.

Canon PG, CL, PGI and CLI Explained

Canon’s cartridge prefixes indicate the type of ink system being used.

What does PG mean?

PG normally identifies a Black cartridge containing pigment-based black ink.

In a two-cartridge PIXMA printer, a PG cartridge is normally paired with a CL Tri-colour cartridge.

Examples include:

  • PG-510 Black
  • PG-540 Black
  • PG-545 Black
  • PG-560 Black
  • PG-575 Black

What does CL mean?

CL normally identifies a Tri-colour cartridge containing Cyan, Magenta and Yellow ink in one unit.

Examples include:

  • CL-511 Colour
  • CL-541 Colour
  • CL-546 Colour
  • CL-561 Colour
  • CL-576 Colour

When one colour runs out, the complete Tri-colour cartridge may need replacing.

What does PGI mean?

PGI commonly refers to an individual pigment-based ink tank. In many five-cartridge PIXMA printers, the larger PGI Black is primarily used for producing sharp text on plain paper.

Examples include:

  • PGI-525PGBK
  • PGI-550PGBK
  • PGI-570PGBK
  • PGI-580PGBK

What does CLI mean?

CLI generally identifies individual dye-based colour or photo ink tanks.

Depending on the printer, the CLI family may include:

  • Black
  • Cyan
  • Magenta
  • Yellow
  • Grey
  • Photo Blue

A printer using PGI-580 Black, for example, may also require CLI-581 Black, Cyan, Magenta and Yellow. These two Black cartridges perform different roles and should not be confused.

Quick Canon Model-to-Cartridge Lookup

Canon PIXMA printer modelCorrect UK cartridge family
PIXMA iP2700PG-510/CL-511
PIXMA MP250PG-510/CL-511
PIXMA MP280PG-510/CL-511
PIXMA MX320PG-510/CL-511
PIXMA MX420PG-510/CL-511
PIXMA MG3150PG-540/CL-541
PIXMA MG3250PG-540/CL-541
PIXMA MG3550PG-540/CL-541
PIXMA MG3650PG-540/CL-541
PIXMA TS5150PG-540/CL-541
PIXMA MG2550SPG-545/CL-546
PIXMA MX495PG-545/CL-546
PIXMA TS3150PG-545/CL-546
PIXMA TS3350PG-545/CL-546
PIXMA TS3450PG-545/CL-546
PIXMA TS5350PG-560/CL-561
PIXMA TS5350aPG-560/CL-561
PIXMA TS7450PG-560/CL-561
PIXMA TS7451aPG-560/CL-561
PIXMA TS3550iPG-575/CL-576
PIXMA TS3551iPG-575/CL-576
PIXMA TR4755iPG-575/CL-576
PIXMA iP4850PGI-525/CLI-526
PIXMA MG5250PGI-525/CLI-526
PIXMA MG5350PGI-525/CLI-526
PIXMA MG6250PGI-525/CLI-526
PIXMA MX885PGI-525/CLI-526
PIXMA iP7250PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA iP8750PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA iX6850PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA MG5450PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA MG5650PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA MG7550PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA MX725PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA MX925PGI-550/CLI-551
PIXMA MG5750PGI-570/CLI-571
PIXMA MG6850PGI-570/CLI-571
PIXMA MG7750PGI-570/CLI-571
PIXMA TS5050PGI-570/CLI-571
PIXMA TS6050PGI-570/CLI-571
PIXMA TS8050PGI-570/CLI-571
PIXMA TS9050PGI-570/CLI-571
PIXMA TR7550PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TR8550PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TS6150PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TS6250PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TS6350PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TS8150PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TS8350PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TS9150PGI-580/CLI-581
PIXMA TS9550PGI-580/CLI-581

This chart provides a practical starting point. Confirm the cartridge against Canon’s official specifications for your complete printer model before ordering.

Canon PG-510 and CL-511 Compatible Printers

Canon PG-510 Black and CL-511 Colour cartridges are used by selected older PIXMA printers.

The family includes:

  • Canon PG-510 Black
  • Canon PG-512 High-Capacity Black
  • Canon CL-511 Colour
  • Canon CL-513 High-Capacity Colour

Unlike newer ranges, the higher-capacity versions use different final numbers rather than simply adding “XL.”

Compatible Canon printer examples

  • Canon PIXMA iP2700
  • Canon PIXMA iP2702
  • Canon PIXMA MP230
  • Canon PIXMA MP240
  • Canon PIXMA MP250
  • Canon PIXMA MP260
  • Canon PIXMA MP270
  • Canon PIXMA MP272
  • Canon PIXMA MP280
  • Canon PIXMA MP282
  • Canon PIXMA MP480
  • Canon PIXMA MP490
  • Canon PIXMA MP492
  • Canon PIXMA MP495
  • Canon PIXMA MP499
  • Canon PIXMA MX320
  • Canon PIXMA MX330
  • Canon PIXMA MX340
  • Canon PIXMA MX350
  • Canon PIXMA MX360
  • Canon PIXMA MX410
  • Canon PIXMA MX420

Can I use PG-512 instead of PG-510?

Yes, in printers that officially support this family. PG-512 is the higher-capacity Black option.

Similarly, CL-513 is the higher-capacity alternative to CL-511 Colour.

Canon PG-540 and CL-541 Compatible Printers

Canon PG-540 Black and CL-541 Colour cartridges are used by a wide range of PIXMA MG, MX and TS printers.

Available versions can include:

  • PG-540 Black
  • PG-540L Black
  • PG-540XL Black
  • CL-541 Colour
  • CL-541XL Colour

Compatible Canon printer examples

  • Canon PIXMA MG2100 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG2150
  • Canon PIXMA MG2200 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG2250
  • Canon PIXMA MG3100 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG3150
  • Canon PIXMA MG3200 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG3250
  • Canon PIXMA MG3500 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG3550
  • Canon PIXMA MG3600 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG3650
  • Canon PIXMA MG3650S
  • Canon PIXMA MG4100 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG4150
  • Canon PIXMA MG4200 series
  • Canon PIXMA MG4250
  • Canon PIXMA MX370 series
  • Canon PIXMA MX375
  • Canon PIXMA MX390 series
  • Canon PIXMA MX395
  • Canon PIXMA MX430 series
  • Canon PIXMA MX435
  • Canon PIXMA MX450 series
  • Canon PIXMA MX455
  • Canon PIXMA MX470 series
  • Canon PIXMA MX475
  • Canon PIXMA MX510 series
  • Canon PIXMA MX515
  • Canon PIXMA MX520 series
  • Canon PIXMA MX525
  • Canon PIXMA TS5150
  • Canon PIXMA TS5151

Are PG-540 and PG-545 interchangeable?

No. PG-540 and PG-545 cartridges belong to different families.

A PIXMA MG3650 using PG-540/CL-541 cannot use PG-545/CL-546 simply because the cartridge shape looks similar.

Canon PG-545 and CL-546 Compatible Printers

Canon PG-545 Black and CL-546 Colour are among the most widely used cartridges for entry-level UK PIXMA printers.

The family normally includes:

  • PG-545 Black
  • PG-545XL Black
  • CL-546 Colour
  • CL-546XL Colour

Compatible Canon printer examples

  • Canon PIXMA iP2850
  • Canon PIXMA MG2450
  • Canon PIXMA MG2455
  • Canon PIXMA MG2550
  • Canon PIXMA MG2550S
  • Canon PIXMA MG2555
  • Canon PIXMA MG2555S
  • Canon PIXMA MG2950
  • Canon PIXMA MG2950S
  • Canon PIXMA MG3050
  • Canon PIXMA MG3051
  • Canon PIXMA MG3052
  • Canon PIXMA MG3053
  • Canon PIXMA MX495
  • Canon PIXMA TR4550
  • Canon PIXMA TR4551
  • Canon PIXMA TR4650
  • Canon PIXMA TR4651
  • Canon PIXMA TS205
  • Canon PIXMA TS305
  • Canon PIXMA TS3150
  • Canon PIXMA TS3151
  • Canon PIXMA TS3152
  • Canon PIXMA TS3350
  • Canon PIXMA TS3351
  • Canon PIXMA TS3352
  • Canon PIXMA TS3450
  • Canon PIXMA TS3451
  • Canon PIXMA TS3452

Can I use PG-545XL instead of PG-545?

Yes. PG-545XL is the higher-capacity Black cartridge for the same compatible printer family.

The same applies to CL-546 and CL-546XL.

Can I use only PG-545 Black?

Some Canon two-cartridge PIXMA printers can operate temporarily with only one recognised cartridge installed. However, available features and print quality may be restricted.

For normal operation, install both:

  • PG-545 Black
  • CL-546 Colour

Canon PG-560 and CL-561 Compatible Printers

Canon PG-560 and CL-561 cartridges are used by selected PIXMA TS5300 and TS7400-series printers.

The range includes:

  • PG-560 Black
  • PG-560XL Black
  • CL-561 Colour
  • CL-561XL Colour

Compatible Canon printer examples

  • Canon PIXMA TS5350
  • Canon PIXMA TS5350a
  • Canon PIXMA TS5350i
  • Canon PIXMA TS5351
  • Canon PIXMA TS5351a
  • Canon PIXMA TS5351i
  • Canon PIXMA TS5352
  • Canon PIXMA TS5352a
  • Canon PIXMA TS5353
  • Canon PIXMA TS5353a
  • Canon PIXMA TS7450
  • Canon PIXMA TS7450a
  • Canon PIXMA TS7450i
  • Canon PIXMA TS7451
  • Canon PIXMA TS7451a
  • Canon PIXMA TS7451i

Canon’s official specification for the PIXMA TS5350 series lists PG-560 Black and CL-561 Colour as the standard cartridges, with PG-560XL and CL-561XL as the optional higher-capacity versions. Canon lists approximate plain-paper yields of 180 pages for the standard cartridges, 400 pages for PG-560XL Black and 300 pages for CL-561XL Colour. Canon PIXMA TS5350 specifications

Is PG-560 compatible with a Canon TS3350?

No. The PIXMA TS3350 uses PG-545 Black and CL-546 Colour.

PG-560 and CL-561 are intended for a different printer generation.

Canon PG-575 and CL-576 Compatible Printers

Canon PG-575 Black and CL-576 Colour are used by selected newer entry-level PIXMA printers.

Available versions include:

  • PG-575 Black
  • PG-575XL Black
  • CL-576 Colour
  • CL-576XL Colour

Compatible printer examples

Depending on the UK model and retailer version, this family is associated with selected printers including:

  • Canon PIXMA TS3550i
  • Canon PIXMA TS3551i
  • Canon PIXMA TS3750i
  • Canon PIXMA TS3751i
  • Canon PIXMA TR4755i

Because this is a newer family, check the current supplies shown on Canon’s support page for the exact printer before ordering.

Is PG-575 the replacement for PG-545?

PG-575 is used by selected newer printers, but it is not a direct replacement cartridge for PG-545.

A printer designed for PG-545 cannot automatically accept PG-575.

Canon PGI-525 and CLI-526 Compatible Printers

Canon PGI-525 and CLI-526 cartridges are individual ink tanks used by selected older PIXMA photo and office printers.

A typical five-cartridge set contains:

  • PGI-525PGBK Pigment Black
  • CLI-526BK Black
  • CLI-526C Cyan
  • CLI-526M Magenta
  • CLI-526Y Yellow

Selected photo models may also use:

  • CLI-526GY Grey

Compatible Canon printer examples

  • Canon PIXMA iP4850
  • Canon PIXMA iP4950
  • Canon PIXMA iX6550
  • Canon PIXMA MG5150
  • Canon PIXMA MG5250
  • Canon PIXMA MG5350
  • Canon PIXMA MG6150
  • Canon PIXMA MG6250
  • Canon PIXMA MG8150
  • Canon PIXMA MG8250
  • Canon PIXMA MX715
  • Canon PIXMA MX885
  • Canon PIXMA MX895

Does every CLI-526 printer use Grey?

No. Most standard five-cartridge machines use Pigment Black, Photo Black, Cyan, Magenta and Yellow.

Selected six-colour photo printers also require CLI-526 Grey. Check the number of cartridge positions before buying a multipack.

Is PGI-525 the same as CLI-526 Black?

No.

  • PGI-525PGBK is a larger pigment Black tank, primarily used for documents.
  • CLI-526BK is a dye-based Black tank used in photo and colour printing.

Printers designed for both normally require both Black tanks.

Canon PGI-550 and CLI-551 Compatible Printers

PGI-550 and CLI-551 cartridges are used by selected Canon PIXMA printers from the following generation.

A typical five-cartridge set contains:

  • PGI-550PGBK Pigment Black
  • CLI-551BK Black
  • CLI-551C Cyan
  • CLI-551M Magenta
  • CLI-551Y Yellow

Selected photo printers may also require:

  • CLI-551GY Grey

Compatible Canon printer examples

  • Canon PIXMA iP7250
  • Canon PIXMA iP8750
  • Canon PIXMA iX6850
  • Canon PIXMA MG5450
  • Canon PIXMA MG5550
  • Canon PIXMA MG5650
  • Canon PIXMA MG6350
  • Canon PIXMA MG6450
  • Canon PIXMA MG6650
  • Canon PIXMA MG7150
  • Canon PIXMA MG7550
  • Canon PIXMA MX725
  • Canon PIXMA MX925

Does every PGI-550/CLI-551 printer use six inks?

No.

Many models use five inks:

  • PGI-550PGBK
  • CLI-551BK
  • CLI-551C
  • CLI-551M
  • CLI-551Y

Selected photo-focused models add CLI-551GY Grey, creating a six-cartridge system.

Are Canon CLI-526 and CLI-551 interchangeable?

No. Although both families use individual ink tanks and similar colours, they belong to different printer generations.

Canon PGI-570 and CLI-571 Compatible Printers

Canon PGI-570 and CLI-571 cartridges are used by popular PIXMA MG and TS printers.

A standard five-cartridge system normally contains:

  • PGI-570PGBK Pigment Black
  • CLI-571BK Black
  • CLI-571C Cyan
  • CLI-571M Magenta
  • CLI-571Y Yellow

Selected photo printers may also use:

  • CLI-571GY Grey

Canon confirms that a standard multipack contains a 15 ml PGI-570 Pigment Black tank plus 7 ml CLI-571 Black, Cyan, Magenta and Yellow tanks. Canon PGI-570/CLI-571 multipack

Canon MG printers using PGI-570 and CLI-571

  • Canon PIXMA MG5750
  • Canon PIXMA MG5751
  • Canon PIXMA MG5752
  • Canon PIXMA MG5753
  • Canon PIXMA MG6850
  • Canon PIXMA MG6851
  • Canon PIXMA MG6852
  • Canon PIXMA MG6853
  • Canon PIXMA MG7750
  • Canon PIXMA MG7751
  • Canon PIXMA MG7752
  • Canon PIXMA MG7753

Canon TS printers using PGI-570 and CLI-571

  • Canon PIXMA TS5050
  • Canon PIXMA TS5051
  • Canon PIXMA TS5053
  • Canon PIXMA TS5055
  • Canon PIXMA TS6050
  • Canon PIXMA TS6051
  • Canon PIXMA TS6052
  • Canon PIXMA TS8050
  • Canon PIXMA TS8051
  • Canon PIXMA TS8052
  • Canon PIXMA TS8053
  • Canon PIXMA TS9050
  • Canon PIXMA TS9055

Do all CLI-571 printers use Grey?

No. Models such as the PIXMA MG7750 and TS8050 use an additional CLI-571GY Grey cartridge, while many other compatible models use five cartridges.

Check whether your printer has five or six cartridge positions before ordering.

Can I use CLI-571 in a CLI-551 printer?

No. CLI-551 and CLI-571 cartridges are not interchangeable.

Canon PGI-580 and CLI-581 Compatible Printers

Canon PGI-580 and CLI-581 cartridges are used by selected PIXMA TR and TS printers.

A common five-cartridge set includes:

  • PGI-580PGBK Pigment Black
  • CLI-581BK Black
  • CLI-581C Cyan
  • CLI-581M Magenta
  • CLI-581Y Yellow

Depending on the printer, an additional ink may be required:

  • CLI-581PB Photo Blue

Canon TR printers using PGI-580 and CLI-581

  • Canon PIXMA TR7550
  • Canon PIXMA TR8550

Canon TS printers using PGI-580 and CLI-581

  • Canon PIXMA TS6150
  • Canon PIXMA TS6151
  • Canon PIXMA TS6250
  • Canon PIXMA TS6251
  • Canon PIXMA TS6350
  • Canon PIXMA TS6350a
  • Canon PIXMA TS6350i
  • Canon PIXMA TS6351
  • Canon PIXMA TS6351a
  • Canon PIXMA TS705
  • Canon PIXMA TS705a
  • Canon PIXMA TS8150
  • Canon PIXMA TS8151
  • Canon PIXMA TS8152
  • Canon PIXMA TS8250
  • Canon PIXMA TS8251
  • Canon PIXMA TS8252
  • Canon PIXMA TS8350
  • Canon PIXMA TS8350a
  • Canon PIXMA TS8351
  • Canon PIXMA TS8351a
  • Canon PIXMA TS8352
  • Canon PIXMA TS9150
  • Canon PIXMA TS9155
  • Canon PIXMA TS9550
  • Canon PIXMA TS9551C

Which CLI-581 printers use Photo Blue?

Selected photo-focused models use CLI-581PB Photo Blue in addition to the standard ink colours.

Do not assume every PGI-580/CLI-581 printer needs Photo Blue. Check the cartridge positions or official specifications for the exact model.

Canon PGI-580 and CLI-581 capacity options

Depending on the colour and current availability, this family can be offered in:

  • Standard
  • XL
  • XXL

A printer compatible with the standard cartridge will generally accept the corresponding higher-capacity version, but the number and colour must match.

Canon 525, 550, 570 and 580 Families Compared

These families are commonly confused because their cartridges have similar names and use similar colour arrangements.

Canon ink familyTypical generationInterchangeable with another row?
PGI-525/CLI-526Older PIXMA MG, MX and iP modelsNo
PGI-550/CLI-551Later PIXMA MG, MX, iP and iX modelsNo
PGI-570/CLI-571PIXMA MG5700–7700 and TS5000–9000 modelsNo
PGI-580/CLI-581Later PIXMA TR and TS printersNo
PGI-585/CLI-586Selected newer PIXMA TS printersNo

Never order solely by:

  • Cartridge shape
  • Cartridge colour
  • Number of ink tanks
  • Printer appearance
  • A seller’s photograph

Check the complete cartridge family.

Two-Cartridge and Individual-Ink Canon Printers

Canon PIXMA printers generally use one of two cartridge systems.

Black and Tri-colour system

This system uses:

  • One PG Black cartridge
  • One CL Tri-colour cartridge

Examples include:

  • PG-510 and CL-511
  • PG-540 and CL-541
  • PG-545 and CL-546
  • PG-560 and CL-561
  • PG-575 and CL-576

One benefit is simple replacement. However, all three colours are contained in one cartridge, so the complete Colour cartridge may need replacing when one colour becomes depleted.

Individual ink-tank system

This system uses separate Black and colour tanks.

Examples include:

  • PGI-525 and CLI-526
  • PGI-550 and CLI-551
  • PGI-570 and CLI-571
  • PGI-580 and CLI-581

The main benefit is that you replace only the colour that has run out. Some photo printers add Grey or Photo Blue to the normal five-cartridge arrangement.

Standard, XL and XXL Canon Cartridges

Standard cartridges

Standard cartridges usually have the lowest purchase price but also provide the lowest estimated page yield.

They may suit users who print only occasionally.

XL cartridges

XL cartridges contain more ink and normally offer a lower cost per page.

Examples include:

  • PG-545XL
  • CL-546XL
  • PG-560XL
  • CL-561XL
  • PGI-570XL
  • CLI-571XL
  • PGI-580XL
  • CLI-581XL

XL indicates capacity. It does not mean that the cartridge fits an unrelated printer.

XXL cartridges

Some Canon cartridge ranges also offer XXL versions with a still higher capacity.

For example, selected PGI-580/CLI-581 colours may be available in XXL sizes.

Always check availability for the individual colour because not every cartridge family offers identical capacity options across every tank.

Can You Mix Standard and XL Canon Cartridges?

In most cases, cartridges from the same family can be mixed.

For example, a compatible five-cartridge printer might use:

  • PGI-570XL Pigment Black
  • CLI-571 Black
  • CLI-571XL Cyan
  • CLI-571 Magenta
  • CLI-571 Yellow

The capacities do not need to match, but the cartridge family and colour positions must be correct.

You cannot mix separate generations, such as:

  • PGI-550 with CLI-571
  • PGI-570 with CLI-581
  • PG-545 with CL-561

Why Does My Canon Printer Use Two Black Cartridges?

Many Canon PIXMA printers with individual tanks contain two different Black inks:

  • A larger PGI Pigment Black
  • A smaller CLI dye-based Black

The Pigment Black is generally used for clear text on plain paper. The dye-based Black supports photo printing, graphics and certain colour-printing tasks.

Installing only one of these Black cartridges does not make the other unnecessary.

If the printer has positions for both PGI and CLI Black, install both correctly.

Do I Need Grey or Photo Blue?

Only selected Canon photo printers use an additional Grey or Photo Blue tank.

Examples include:

  • CLI-526GY Grey
  • CLI-551GY Grey
  • CLI-571GY Grey
  • CLI-581PB Photo Blue

Before buying a six-cartridge multipack, check:

  • How many ink positions your printer has
  • The number printed on the additional tank
  • Whether the set includes the correct extra colour
  • Whether the multipack is intended for your precise model

A five-cartridge pack may fit a six-ink printer but leave one required colour missing.

Can a Canon Printer Print with Only One Cartridge?

Some two-cartridge Canon PIXMA printers can continue operating with either the Black or Colour cartridge installed.

However:

  • Print quality may be reduced
  • Colour output may be unavailable
  • Black may be created differently
  • Warning messages may continue
  • Maintenance procedures can still consume ink
  • Some functions may be restricted

Printers using separate PGI and CLI tanks usually expect all required cartridges to be installed and recognised.

Original, Compatible and Remanufactured Canon Ink

Original Canon ink

Original cartridges are manufactured or supplied under the Canon brand for a specified printer family.

Compatible Canon ink

Compatible cartridges are manufactured by a third party for use in particular Canon printers.

Check:

  • Full printer model
  • Complete cartridge number
  • Correct colour
  • Standard, XL or XXL size
  • Chip compatibility
  • Supplier warranty
  • Estimated ink volume or yield
  • Return and replacement policy

Remanufactured cartridges

Remanufactured cartridges reuse an original cartridge body that has been cleaned, refilled and prepared for further use.

Remanufactured versions are especially common for Canon cartridges in which the printhead is built into the cartridge, such as PG-545 and CL-546.

Quality and recognition can vary between suppliers.

For a general comparison, read our guide to compatible versus original printer ink.

Why Is My Canon Cartridge Not Recognised?

A compatible cartridge number may still produce an error because of:

  • Protective tape has not been removed
  • The cartridge is not fully seated
  • The wrong cartridge family was purchased
  • The Black and Colour cartridges were reversed
  • The electronic contacts are dirty
  • The chip or cartridge circuitry is damaged
  • The cartridge belongs to another region
  • The cartridge is defective
  • The printer cannot read the ink level
  • A cartridge has previously been reported empty
  • Printer firmware has affected recognition
  • The printhead or carriage contacts are damaged

Common Canon messages and support codes can include:

  • Ink Cartridge Cannot Be Recognised
  • Cartridge Not Installed Properly
  • Ink Cartridge Is Not Installed
  • Ink Has Run Out
  • The Following Ink Cartridge Cannot Be Recognised
  • Support Code 1401
  • Support Code 1403
  • Support Code 1485
  • Support Code 1682
  • Support Code 1684
  • Support Code 1686
  • Support Code 1688

The exact meaning varies by printer, so record the complete message and support code.

Basic Canon Cartridge Troubleshooting

Try these checks in order:

  1. Confirm the complete printer model.
  2. Verify the Black and Colour cartridge numbers.
  3. Check whether the printer uses two cartridges or individual tanks.
  4. Switch on the printer.
  5. Open the cartridge-access cover.
  6. Wait for the carriage to stop moving.
  7. Remove the affected cartridge.
  8. Check that protective tape has been removed.
  9. Inspect the electrical contacts for dirt or damage.
  10. Reinstall the cartridge in the correct position.
  11. Close the cover and allow the printer to check the ink.
  12. Restart the printer if the error remains.

Do not touch the copper or gold electrical contacts unnecessarily, and never force a cartridge into a slot.

Read why your printer is not recognising an ink cartridge if the error continues.

Common Canon Ink Compatibility Mistakes

Avoid these frequent purchasing errors:

  • Searching with an incomplete printer model
  • Buying PG-540 for a PG-545 printer
  • Buying PG-545 for a PG-560 printer
  • Assuming all PIXMA TS printers use the same ink
  • Confusing PGI-550 with PGI-570
  • Confusing CLI-571 with CLI-581
  • Buying a five-cartridge pack for a six-ink printer
  • Forgetting the CLI Black cartridge
  • Treating PGI Black and CLI Black as identical
  • Ordering only by cartridge shape
  • Assuming XL cartridges fit a different printer family
  • Buying an overseas cartridge without checking the region
  • Confusing Canon ink tanks with MegaTank ink bottles
  • Ignoring letters or suffixes in the printer name
  • Buying only Black when the printer requires all colours to be recognised

Canon MegaTank Printers Are Different

Canon PIXMA MegaTank models use refillable tanks and bottled ink rather than ordinary PG, CL, PGI or CLI cartridges.

Common Canon bottle families include:

  • GI-40
  • GI-41
  • GI-43
  • GI-46
  • GI-50
  • GI-51
  • GI-53
  • GI-56

The correct bottle depends on the complete MegaTank printer model.

Do not assume that one Canon GI bottle works in every MegaTank printer. Ink formulations, bottle fittings and colour sets can differ.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find out which ink my Canon printer uses?

Check the number on the existing cartridge, the label inside the printer or the official support page for the complete PIXMA model. Do not rely only on the printer series.

Are all Canon PIXMA cartridges interchangeable?

No. Every cartridge family is intended for particular printers. Similar-looking cartridges may have different fittings, ink formulations or electronic components.

What is the difference between Canon PG and CL cartridges?

PG usually identifies a Black pigment cartridge. CL normally identifies a combined Tri-colour cartridge containing Cyan, Magenta and Yellow.

What is the difference between Canon PGI and CLI ink?

PGI commonly identifies pigment ink, often used for sharp text. CLI usually identifies dye-based ink used for colour, graphics and photo printing.

What ink does a Canon PIXMA MG3650 use?

The Canon PIXMA MG3650 and MG3650S use PG-540 Black and CL-541 Colour cartridges, including supported higher-capacity versions.

What ink does a Canon PIXMA MG2550S use?

The Canon PIXMA MG2550S uses PG-545 Black and CL-546 Colour cartridges. PG-545XL and CL-546XL are the higher-capacity options.

What ink does a Canon PIXMA TS3350 use?

The PIXMA TS3350 uses PG-545 Black and CL-546 Colour.

What ink does a Canon PIXMA TS5350 use?

The PIXMA TS5350 uses PG-560 Black and CL-561 Colour. Standard and XL versions are available.

What ink does a Canon PIXMA MG5750 use?

The PIXMA MG5750 uses PGI-570 Pigment Black plus CLI-571 Black, Cyan, Magenta and Yellow ink tanks.

What ink does a Canon PIXMA TS6150 use?

The PIXMA TS6150 uses the PGI-580 and CLI-581 cartridge family.

Can I use PG-545 instead of PG-540?

No. PG-540 and PG-545 are different cartridge families designed for different printers.

Can I use PG-560 instead of PG-545?

No. They are used by different printer generations and are not interchangeable.

Can I use PGI-570 instead of PGI-550?

No. PGI-550 and PGI-570 cartridges may look similar, but they have different compatibility.

Can I use CLI-571 instead of CLI-551?

No. A printer designed for CLI-551 cannot use CLI-571.

Can I use CLI-581 instead of CLI-571?

No. CLI-571 and CLI-581 belong to different Canon printer generations.

Can I use an XL cartridge instead of a standard Canon cartridge?

Usually, yes, if it is the XL version of the same cartridge family. For example, PG-545XL is the higher-capacity alternative to PG-545.

Can I mix standard and XL Canon cartridges?

Generally, yes, provided the cartridges belong to the same family and are installed in the correct positions.

Why does my Canon printer have two Black cartridges?

One is normally pigment Black for text, while the other is dye-based Black for photos and colour work. Printers designed for both require both cartridges.

Does every Canon five-cartridge set work in a six-ink printer?

A five-cartridge set may provide most of the required tanks, but a six-ink printer will still need its additional Grey or Photo Blue cartridge.

Why does my Canon printer reject the correct cartridge?

Possible causes include protective tape, dirty contacts, incorrect installation, regional incompatibility, a damaged cartridge, electronic recognition problems or printer firmware.

Where can I confirm official Canon compatibility?

Search the complete printer model on the Canon UK support website. The model’s page normally displays compatible ink and downloadable documentation.

Final Canon Compatibility Checklist

Before ordering Canon ink, confirm:

  • The complete PIXMA printer model
  • The Black cartridge number
  • The Colour or individual colour cartridge numbers
  • Whether the printer uses two, four, five or six cartridges
  • Whether PGI Black and CLI Black are both required
  • Whether Grey or Photo Blue is needed
  • Standard, XL or XXL capacity
  • UK or European compatibility
  • The supplier’s complete printer list
  • Chip or electronic-recognition compatibility
  • The returns and replacement policy

A cartridge that looks correct is not necessarily compatible. Match the complete cartridge number to the complete printer model before placing your order.

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