Canon PIXMA MX870 Ink Cartridges
Shop ink cartridges for your Canon PIXMA MX870, which uses the Canon PGI-520 and CLI-521 ink cartridge series. Ink Depot has been supplying reliable consumables for this printer since Sep 2010. Our 4.8 Google Star rating shows that our customers consistently receive high-quality cartridges backed by reliable performance. This wireless desktop printer uses a 5-ink system where PGI-520BK pigment black prints crisp text documents while CLI-521 dye inks produce smooth colour photos.
Expected Page Output and Ink Consumption
Page yields for PGI-520 and CLI-521 cartridges are calculated using standard ISO/IEC 24711 testing standards. Text-heavy document printing depletes the larger PGI-520BK pigment cartridge, whereas photo prints consume CLI-521 dye inks evenly across cyan, magenta, and yellow.
| 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 Options
Selecting compatible CLI-521 and PGI-520 cartridges provides a budget-friendly way to maintain high output without sacrificing print clarity. Under Australian Consumer Law, using compatible cartridges does not void your printer warranty. Read our genuine vs compatible cartridges guide to learn more about how aftermarket options lower ongoing printing expenses.
Selecting the Best Ink Setup for Your Needs
If you print mainly text documents, purchasing individual PGI-520BK pigment cartridges ensures sharp black text at a lower cost per page. If you print photos or colour graphics, choosing CLI-521 multi-packs prevents individual dye colours from running out mid-job. Compatible cartridges offer substantial savings and include a money-back guarantee if they do not perform to expectations. Check our returns policy for total confidence. Order your Canon ink cartridges today. Free delivery applies on all orders over $99, dispatched quickly from our Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide warehouses.
Pro Tip
When replacing inks, avoid opening new CLI-521 colour tanks until the printer signals a complete depletion. The Canon PIXMA MX870 tracks ink levels per cartridge, so replacing only the depleted colour prevents ink loss from unnecessary initialization cycles across active tanks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Canon PIXMA MX870 use two distinct black cartridges?
The PGI-520BK contains pigment-based black ink formulated specifically for sharp, smudge-resistant text on plain document paper. In contrast, the CLI-521BK contains dye-based black ink designed for smooth tonal transitions and deep contrast when printing photos on glossy paper.
Can I print if one CLI-521 colour cartridge runs out of ink?
No, the printer requires all five ink cartridges (PGI-520BK, CLI-521BK, CLI-521C, CLI-521M, and CLI-521Y) to have recognized ink levels to operate. Replacing the empty colour cartridge promptly ensures normal printing resumes without printhead drying issues.
Are CLI-521 and PGI-520 cartridges interchangeable in the printhead?
No, each cartridge series has a unique shape and keying slot inside the printhead assembly. The larger PGI-520BK pigment cartridge fits only into its designated wider slot, while CLI-521 dye cartridges fit their respective colour-coded narrow slots.
