If your Canon PIXMA uses the PG-545 and CL-546 range, the main buying decision is whether to stick with the standard cartridges or pay more for the XL versions.
For the right printers, the XL option is usually better value. The bigger issue is making sure your printer actually uses this range in the first place.
Which printers use PG-545 and CL-546?
In this site dataset, common compatible models include:
If you own a Canon PIXMA TS3450 or a Canon PIXMA MG3650S, stop here and check compatibility first. Those models use different Canon cartridge ranges, so this article does not apply to them.
You can also browse the cartridge range pages for Canon PG-545 and Canon CL-546.
What's the difference between PG-545 and PG-545XL?
The standard and XL cartridges fit the same compatible printers. The difference is capacity.
- Canon PG-545 - rated for approximately 180 pages
- Canon PG-545XL - rated for approximately 400 pages
- Canon CL-546 - rated for approximately 180 pages
- Canon CL-546XL - rated for approximately 400 pages in this local dataset
As always, manufacturer page yields are based on controlled test conditions, not heavy real-world use.
How does cost per page compare?
Based on typical UK pricing, the XL cartridges usually offer a lower cost per page than the standard versions.
That matters most if you print regularly for household admin, homework, labels, and mixed colour documents. The standard cartridges are cheaper at the till, but the XL versions usually stretch further and reduce replacement frequency.
If you want to compare the maths against your actual usage, use our print cost calculator.
When does the standard cartridge still make sense?
The standard PG-545 or CL-546 can still be the better choice if:
- You print very lightly
- You only need a short-term replacement
- You are not sure how long you will keep the printer
- You want the lowest possible upfront spend
For most steady home use, the XL versions are usually the smarter long-term buy.
What about the colour cartridge?
The black and colour cartridges do not always run out at the same speed.
If you mostly print documents, black ink is usually the priority. In that case, you may get the best balance by buying XL black first and only upgrading colour to XL if you print colour frequently.
If your printer is used for school sheets, charts, or regular colour work, the XL colour cartridge tends to make more sense.
Are compatible PG-545 and CL-546 cartridges worth buying?
Compatible cartridges can reduce your spend, but they are not all equal.
- Some compatibles print perfectly well for everyday use
- Some vary on yield or print quality
- Very cheap options can be less reliable
If you buy compatibles, stick to a supplier with decent reviews and a returns policy. For more general context, you can compare against our broader cost per page guide.
Summary
If your printer genuinely uses the PG-545 / CL-546 range, the XL versions are usually the better-value choice for regular use. The standard cartridges still make sense for occasional printing, but most households printing consistently will get better long-term value from XL.
FAQ
Q: Can I use PG-545XL in a printer that normally uses PG-545?
A: Yes. The standard and XL versions fit the same compatible printers. The XL simply carries more ink.
Q: Do I need to replace PG-545 and CL-546 together?
A: No. They are separate cartridges and can be replaced independently.
Q: Is the XL version always the best choice?
A: Not always. If you print very rarely, the standard cartridge can still be the more sensible buy because it reduces upfront spend.
Q: Does the TS3450 use PG-545 and CL-546?
A: No. In this repo's printer dataset, the TS3450 uses a different Canon cartridge family, so you should check the model page before buying.
Q: Where can I check compatibility before ordering?
A: Start with the relevant cartridge range pages for PG-545 and CL-546, or look up your printer in the Canon printer directory.
