Canon PIXMA iP4700 Ink Cartridges
Your PIXMA iP4700 uses the CLI-521 / PGI-520 cartridge series, a separate five-ink tank setup incorporating both pigment black and dye-based colour inks. We have been supplying these consumables to Australian home office users since Dec 2009. Because this system separates text-based printing from photo production, users observe that the large document black runs down independently from the colour illustration tanks. Our 4.8 Google rating is built on dependable cartridge performance and uncompromising product quality.
Expected page output and replacement cycles
Each cartridge in the five-ink system contributes differently depending on your daily document style. Canon calculates page outputs for the PGI-520 text black and the individual CLI-521 colour tanks under strict testing parameters outlined by the ISO/IEC 24711 standard for inkjet items. When managing standard printing tasks, text-heavy documents draw heavily from the larger pigment black, whereas graphics or layout templates pull heavily from the cyan, magenta, and yellow reservoirs.
| 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
Australian users can select between genuine Canon supplies or cost-effective premium compatible alternatives. Under Australian Consumer Law, using compatible cartridges does not void your printer warranty, providing full consumer security. These compatible alternatives match the performance layout of original cartridges, offering a direct path to lowering running costs without sacrificing text crispness. To review how alternative options stack up against original equipment, read our complete guide on genuine vs compatible cartridges.
How most users manage replacements
If your document production mostly features standard plain-paper letters and forms, your PGI-520BK text black will deplete rapidly while your colour reservoirs remain stable. If your printing tasks shift toward color-heavy layouts, selecting bundled multi-packs offers an effective replenishment strategy. Our premium compatible cartridges include a complete money-back guarantee, ensuring zero risk if you choose to transition to aftermarket options. Every order is dispatched swiftly from our logistics centres located across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. Free delivery applies on all orders over $99 (conditions apply). You can browse our full range of Canon ink cartridges or read our transparent Returns policy.
Pro Tip
The PIXMA iP4700 relies on two separate black inks: the wide PGI-520 pigment black for standard office text and the thin CLI-521 photo black for graphics. To preserve your photo ink from being consumed on everyday printouts, make sure your print preferences panel is set to "Plain Paper" rather than a photo media option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there two distinct black ink cartridges inside this printer?
The system deploys separate inks for optimal results on different media types. The large PGI-520 text black relies on a pigment formulation to deliver sharp, smear-resistant office text on plain paper, while the CLI-521 black uses a dye-based ink to achieve smooth gradations on glossy photo paper.
Will the printer allow me to continue printing text if one colour cartridge runs completely dry?
No, all five ink tanks must contain a valid ink supply and an active microchip for the printer to cycle through normal operations. If any ink tank registers as entirely exhausted, print operations will halt to protect the permanent printhead from thermal stress.
Are the microchips on compatible CLI-521 cartridges fully operational?
Yes, our premium compatible alternatives come equipped with pre-installed, up-to-date microchips. They interact seamlessly with the internal print carriage sensors, allowing you to monitor ink levels accurately through your desktop maintenance utility.
