Canon PIXMA MP540 Ink Cartridges
Shop ink cartridges for your Canon PIXMA MP540, which uses the Canon PGI-520 and CLI-521 ink cartridge series. Ink Depot has been supplying reliable consumables for this printer since Aug 2026. The PIXMA MP540 uses a dual-black 5-ink system where routine text printing depletes the PGI-520BK pigment cartridge while photos consume CLI-521 dye inks. Our 4.8 Google rating reflects a long-standing track record of premium cartridge performance.
Expected Page Output and Replacement Cycles
Standard page yield measurements for these cartridges follow ISO/IEC 24711 testing standards for A4 document printing. Heavy graphic coverage or photo printing will deplete CLI-521 dye colours faster than plain document text printing.
| Cartridge Number | Type | Colour | Page Yield | Cost Per Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CLI-521BK | Standard | Black | 1,875 | $0.012 |
| PGI-520BK | Standard | Black | 350 | $0.067 |
| CLI-521C | Standard | Cyan | 505 | $0.046 |
| CLI-521M | Standard | Magenta | 471 | $0.049 |
| CLI-521Y | Standard | Yellow | 505 | $0.046 |
Cost Per Page = Total Cartridge Price ÷ Page Yield (at 5% coverage). Prices based on Genuine cartridges.
Choosing Between Genuine and Compatible Cartridges
Replacing original tanks with compatible PGI-520BK and CLI-521 cartridges offers substantial savings without compromising document legibility or image sharpness. Under Australian Consumer Law, using compatible cartridges does not void your printer warranty. Learn more about the differences in our genuine vs compatible cartridge guide.
How to Stock and Manage Replacement Inks
If your everyday output is mostly black text reports, keep extra PGI-520BK cartridges on hand. For photo printing or colour graphics, multi-packs containing CLI-521BK, CLI-521C, CLI-521M, and CLI-521Y ensure balanced replacement. Compatible options include a money-back guarantee for complete peace of mind. Review our returns policy for details. Free delivery applies on all orders over $99. We dispatch quickly from regional warehouses in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Browse our complete range of Canon ink cartridges today.
Pro Tip for 5-Tank Printing
The Canon PIXMA MP540 uses two distinct black inks: PGI-520BK pigment black for sharp text on plain paper, and CLI-521BK dye black for photo paper shading. Purchasing a pack containing both black types prevents unexpected print halts when switching between document and photo print jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the PIXMA MP540 require two different black ink cartridges?
The PGI-520BK cartridge contains pigment-based ink designed specifically for crisp, smudge-resistant text on plain paper. The CLI-521BK cartridge contains dye-based ink used exclusively for contrast and depth in photo printing on glossy media.
Can I print black text documents if one of the CLI-521 colour cartridges is empty?
Canon PIXMA printers require all installed cartridges to contain a minimum ink level to prevent printhead drying and damage. Even if you are printing plain black text, the printer will pause operation until the empty CLI-521 colour tank is replaced.
Are CLI-521 colour cartridges interchangeable across all slots?
No, each CLI-521 cartridge is keyed to fit its specific colour slot (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, or Black) and features an individual optical microchip that communicates ink levels directly to the printer.
