What Ink Does the Canon PIXMA MX452 Use?

Last updated: September 25, 2026.

Quick answer: The Canon PIXMA MX452 uses two cartridges: PG-240 black and CL-241 color, or the high-yield PG-240XL / CL-241XL and extra-high-yield PG-240XXL black. Castle Ink sells a PG-240XL + CL-241XL 2-pack and a PG-240XXL black 2-pack, each $55.95.

What Ink Cartridges Does the Canon PIXMA MX452 Use?

Yields are the manufacturer's ISO estimates at about 5% coverage; photos and heavy graphics use more ink. Castle Ink prices checked September 2026.

Which Printers Use the Same Ink as the MX452?

PG-240/CL-241 cartridges also fit many PIXMA models, including the MG2120, MG3120, MG3220, MG3520, MG3620, MG4120, MG4220, MX372, MX392, MX432, MX439, MX459, MX472, MX479, MX512, MX522 and MX532. Look up any model in our find ink by printer directory.

What Is the Cheapest Ink for the MX452?

Remanufactured high-yield cartridges are the cheapest way to run the MX452. Canon’s original PG-240XL and CL-241XL typically cost around $30–$40 each at retail. Castle Ink’s PG-240XL + CL-241XL 2-pack is $55.95 for both, and because Canon PG/CL cartridges include the print head, each remanufactured cartridge gives you a fresh print head too. If you print mostly black text, the PG-240XXL black 2-pack gives the lowest cost per page.

Should I Buy PG-240, PG-240XL or PG-240XXL?

For black, PG-240XXL holds about three times the ink of the standard PG-240 and gives the lowest cost per page; PG-240XL is a good middle option. For color, choose CL-241XL. All sizes fit the same slots.

How Do I Replace the Ink in the Canon PIXMA MX452?

1. Turn the printer on and open the front cover and the cartridge cover; the holder moves to the replacement position.
2. Push the empty cartridge down and lift it out (on some models, open the lock lever first).
3. Remove the new cartridge from its packaging and peel off the orange protective tape. Don't touch the gold contacts or print head nozzles.
4. Insert the cartridge at a slight angle into its slot (color on the left, black on the right) and push up until it clicks, then close the lock lever if your model has one.
5. Close the covers. If prompted about a non-genuine or refilled cartridge, confirm to continue.

Will Remanufactured Ink Work in the MX452?

Yes. Canon PIXMA printers are generally friendly to third-party cartridges. You may see a message that a non-genuine or refilled cartridge is installed, or that the ink level can't be detected; confirm to continue printing, and keep a spare of the colors you use most since levels may not display. Using third-party ink does not void your warranty (here's why).

Why Does My MX452 Say the Cartridge Isn't Recognized?

Remove the cartridge, make sure all protective tape and caps are off, wipe the chip or copper contacts gently with a dry lint-free cloth, and reinstall until it clicks. Confirm the part number matches this printer, then restart. If the message started right after a firmware update, the update may be blocking third-party chips. Full steps: ink cartridge not recognized.

How Do I Fix Streaky or Faded Prints on the MX452?

From the printer's Setup/Maintenance menu (or the Canon IJ utility on your computer), print a nozzle check, then run one Cleaning cycle and check again; use Deep Cleaning only if needed. See how to clean Canon printer heads.

What Are the Canon PIXMA MX452's Key Features?

The PIXMA MX452 is a wireless 4-in-1 (print, scan, copy, fax) with a 30-sheet automatic document feeder, automatic two-sided printing, Wi-Fi and AirPrint support. For fax, connect a phone line to the LINE jack and set your country/region in the fax settings.

Is the MX452 Still Worth Using in 2026?

Yes, if it prints reliably. The MX452 is discontinued, but PG-240/CL-241 cartridges are widely available, and since the print head is built into each cartridge, a new cartridge often fixes print-quality problems. Compare current models in our printer buying guide, or take the ~60-second PrinterIQ Finder quiz.

For drivers and the manual, visit the Canon PIXMA MX452 support page.

Canon PIXMA MX452 Ink FAQs

What ink does the Canon PIXMA MX452 use?

Canon PG-240 black and CL-241 color cartridges, or the high-yield PG-240XL, PG-240XXL and CL-241XL versions.

Can I use PG-240XXL in the MX452?

Yes. The XXL black fits the same slot and prints about 600 pages.

Can I use PG-245 or CL-246 cartridges in the MX452?

No. PG-245/CL-246 are for other PIXMA models and won’t fit.

Can the MX452 print with only the black cartridge?

Canon printers generally need both cartridges installed. Replace an empty cartridge promptly to protect the print head.

Does the MX452 fax?

Yes. It has a built-in fax and a 30-sheet ADF.

Are remanufactured cartridges safe for the MX452?

Yes, from a reputable seller. See are compatible ink cartridges safe?

Related guides: how to replace the ink in a Canon printer | Canon printer not printing

Need help choosing? Contact us with your printer model. Orders placed by 4 PM ET Monday–Friday ship the same day, with free shipping over $50.

About the Author: William Elward is the founder of Castle Ink and has been writing about printers, ink cartridges and printing technology for over 20 years.

More PG-240/CL-241 printers: the same cartridges fit the PIXMA MG2120, PIXMA MG3120, PIXMA MG3520, PIXMA MX470, PIXMA MX472, and PIXMA TS5120. See those guides for model-specific tips.