Ink&Toner Finder

What Ink Does the Canon PIXMA MX512 Use?

Quick answer

The Canon PIXMA MX512 uses Canon PG-240 or CL-241 ink cartridges.

Last verified: 2026-08-16

Compatible cartridges for the Canon PIXMA MX512

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Standard Black Canon PG-240 Black
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XL Black Canon PG-240XL Black
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Standard Color Canon CL-241 Color
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XL Color Canon CL-241XL Color
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Standard vs. XL — which should you buy?

Canon PG-240 or CL-241 cartridges come in standard and XL (high-yield) sizes. Standard cartridges cost less upfront; XL cartridges cost more upfront but typically print two to three times as many pages, so they usually work out cheaper per page if you print regularly. If you print only occasionally, a standard cartridge may suit you better, since ink can degrade before you use up an XL cartridge's larger capacity.

Standard and XL Canon PG-240 or CL-241 cartridges are physically and electronically interchangeable in Canon PIXMA MX512 - you can mix a standard black with an XL color cartridge, or switch sizes the next time you reorder, with no printer settings to change. For the full cost-per-page breakdown and when each size makes the most sense, see our guide on standard vs. XL cartridges.

How to check which cartridge is currently installed in the Canon PIXMA MX512

Most Canon home inkjets show installed-cartridge status on their own screen or through the Canon PRINT app (or IJ Status Monitor on a computer): check Settings → About or Ink/Supplies on the printer, or open the printer's status window - it typically lists the installed cartridge part numbers alongside an estimated ink level.

If your Canon PIXMA MX512 doesn't have a screen, remove the cartridge from its carriage - the part number (for example, Canon PG-240 Black) is printed directly on its label. Compare that number to the compatibility table above to confirm whether you have the standard or XL version before buying a replacement. See our guide on finding your printer model number if you're not sure exactly which Canon PIXMA MX512 variant you own.

Canon PIXMA MX512 Ink FAQ

The Canon PIXMA MX512 uses Canon PG-240 or CL-241 ink cartridges: Canon PG-240 Black (standard) or Canon PG-240XL Black (XL) for black, and Canon CL-241 Color (standard) or Canon CL-241XL Color (XL) for color.
Yes. Canon PG-240 Black and Canon PG-240XL Black are physically and electronically identical except for ink capacity - the XL version simply holds more ink and lasts roughly two to three times longer per cartridge. You can install either one in the Canon PIXMA MX512 without changing any printer settings.
Yes, in most cases. Like most Canon inkjets, the Canon PIXMA MX512 generally needs both the black and color cartridges installed to print at all, even for black-and-white jobs, because removing a cartridge leaves an empty carriage slot many printers are designed to refuse to run with. Check your printer's manual to confirm this for your exact model.

Other Canon PG-240 / CL-241 printers

Canon PIXMA MG3220Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MG3222Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MG3520Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MG3522Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MG3620Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MG3622Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MX452Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MX472Canon PG-240 / CL-241Canon PIXMA MX532Canon PG-240 / CL-241

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