Canon PIXMA MP550 Ink Cartridges
Your Canon PIXMA MP550 uses the Canon PGI-520 and CLI-521 ink cartridge series. Ink Depot has been supplying reliable ink cartridges for this printer since Dec 2009. This versatile all-in-one printer relies on a five-cartridge system separating PGI-520BK pigment black for text from CLI-521 dye inks for photo reproduction. Our 4.8 Google Star rating shows that our customers consistently receive high-quality cartridges backed by reliable performance.
Expected page output and replacement cycles
Page yields for Canon PGI-520 and CLI-521 cartridges are measured using ISO/IEC standard test pages. The PGI-520BK pigment black handles text output, while CLI-521 dye cartridges process photo images and graphics, resulting in distinct consumption rates depending on document type.
| 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
Both genuine Canon cartridges and cost-effective compatible alternatives are available for this printer. Compatible PGI-520BK and CLI-521 cartridges provide reliable printing performance while lowering everyday running costs. Under Australian Consumer Law, using compatible cartridges does not void your printer warranty. Read our genuine vs compatible cartridges comparison guide to explore how compatible cartridges perform.
How to select your ink cartridges
If you print mainly text documents, stock up on extra PGI-520BK pigment black cartridges to keep paperwork moving. If you print photos or colour graphics, multipacks containing CLI-521 colour cartridges offer balanced ink replenishment. Choosing compatible cartridges offers significant savings, backed by a full money-back guarantee. View our complete range of Canon ink cartridges. Orders are dispatched quickly from warehouses in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. Free delivery applies on all orders over $99. For details on guarantees, read our returns policy.
Cartridge Selection Tip
Pay attention to black cartridge types when ordering: the PGI-520BK is a larger pigment black cartridge designed for plain paper text, whereas the CLI-521BK is a slim dye black cartridge intended solely for photo printing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the PIXMA MP550 require two different black ink cartridges?
The PGI-520BK contains pigment-based ink formulated specifically for sharp text on plain paper, whereas the CLI-521BK uses dye-based ink to enhance dark tones and contrast in glossy photo prints. Replacing one with the other is not possible as they use different physical slot sizes.
Can I install individual CLI-521 colour cartridges as they run out?
Yes. The individual ink tank system allows you to replace only the depleted colour (Cyan, Magenta, or Yellow) without wasting remaining ink in other tanks.
What happens if one colour cartridge empties while printing text?
Even during plain text printing, the printer checks all installed cartridges. If any CLI-521 tank is completely empty, printing pauses until a replacement is installed to prevent printhead overheating.
