Canon 240 vs 240XL: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to printing, choosing the right ink cartridge can significantly impact your experience and costs. Among the options available, Canon’s 240 and 240XL ink cartridges stand out as popular choices for users of Canon printers. In this blog post, we will explore these two cartridges in detail, comparing their features, performance, and suitability for different printing needs. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of which cartridge is best for you.
Canon 240 Ink vs 240XL Ink: Quick View
Canon PG-240 | Canon PG-240XL | |
Print Color | Black Ink Cartridge | |
Compatible Printers | PIXMA MG2120, PIXMA MG3120, PIXMA MG4120, PIXMA MX512, PIXMA MX432, PIXMA MX372, PIXMA MX522, PIXMA MX452, PIXMA MX392, PIXMA MG2220, PIXMA MG3220, PIXMA MG4220, PIXMA MG3520, PIXMA MG3620, PIXMA MX472, PIXMA MX532, PIXMA TS5120 | |
Matching Color Ink Cartridge | Canon CL-241 | Canon CL-241XL |
Page Yield | 180 Pages (Standard Yield) | 300 Pages (High Yield) |
OEM Ink Price | $19.99 | $29.99 |
Cost Per Page | 11.11 cents | 10.0 cents |
Replacement Frequency | Replace More Frequently | Less Frequent Replacement |
Best For | Light Printing | Heavy Printing |
The Canon PG-240 black ink cartridge is used with the Canon CL-241 color ink cartridge. The Canon PG-240XL black ink cartridge works with the Canon CL-241XL color ink cartridge. They are designed to work together in the same Canon printer to provide high-quality black and white prints and color prints.
Among them, the Canon 240XL ink cartridge has a higher page yield, so it has a higher price. However, its cost per page is lower than that of the Canon 240, which is more cost-effective in the long run. In addition, the Canon ink 240 prints fewer pages and is less expensive, making it more suitable for users who print lightly.

Canon 240XL Ink – PG-240XL Black – High Yield
- 30-Day Money Back Guarantee.
- Lower than OEM Brand Ink Cartridge Price.
- Same Performance and Compatibility as OEM.
- Fast Delivery within 1-3 Business Days.
- Sale Price: $24.99 (Cost Per Page: 8.33 cents)
Canon 240 vs 240XL: What Is the Difference?

Different Ink Volume
One of the most notable differences between the Canon 240 and 240XL is the amount of ink in each cartridge. Designed for light use, the standard-capacity Canon PG-240 ink cartridge has a smaller 8 ml of ink, so they print less. In contrast, the Canon 240XL ink cartridge has a larger 11 ml of ink, which can effectively handle heavier printing needs.
Different Page Yield
Page yield is another crucial aspect to consider. The Canon PG 240 black ink cartridge is a standard-yield ink cartridge, usually prints about 180 pages. The Canon PG 240XL black ink cartridge is high-yield ink cartirdge and prints more than the former, about 300 pages.
If you find yourself running out of ink frequently, the 240XL Canon ink may be a better choice for your printing needs.
Different Ink Price
There is also a certain price difference between the two printer cartridges. The Canon PG-240 is generally more affordable at $19.99, making it an attractive option for those who don’t print often. The Canon PG 240XL is $10 more expensive at $29.99. Despite this, both are relatively cheap. In addition, their corresponding color ink cartridges, the Canon 241 241XL, is also priced similarly.
Different Cost-Effectiveness
Canon PG-240 | Canon PG-240XL | |
Page Yield | 180 Pages | 300 Pages |
OEM Ink Price | $19.99 | $29.99 |
Cost Per Page | 11.11 cents | 10.0 cents |
When we evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the Canon 240 and Canon 240XL printer cartridges, we are actually comparing the cost per page of these black ink cartridges. The lower the cost per page, the less you spend on each page, and the better value for money.
As you can see from the table, while the Canon printer ink 240 may be cheaper, it has a higher cost per page. Conversely, the Canon printer ink 240XL is more expensive but has a lower cost per page.
In the long run, the higher initial cost of the Canon 240XL printer cartridge is worth it in the long run. It requires fewer replacements than the Canon pg 240 cartridge and costs less per page.
Given these key differences, it is important to consider your specific printing habits to determine which ink cartridge will best suit your needs. Let’s explore the occasions where the Canon 240 240XL ink cartridge is more suitable.

When to Choose Canon 240 Ink?
Canon 240 ink cartridge is best suited for occasional or light-use users. If you only print a few pages a week, such as personal documents, school assignments, or infrequent business reports, the Canon 240 is an affordable choice.
- Students with Limited Printing Needs: For students who need to print jobs occasionally, the standard-yield Canon PG 240 cartridge is sufficient without incurring unnecessary expenses.
- Home Users Who Print Less: For families who print photos or documents lightly, the Canon 240 is a straightforward and economical choice.
- Budget Buyers: If your printing needs are infrequent and you want to save on upfront costs, the lower-priced Canon printer ink 240 is an attractive option.
When to Choose Canon 240XL Ink?
The Canon 240XL ink cartridge is perfect for users with higher printing needs. If you frequently print documents, reports, or photos, the higher page yield and larger ink volume make the 240XL a better choice for you.
- Small Businesses: or small businesses that need to regularly print invoices, marketing materials, or other documents, the Canon PG 240XL can reduce the number of cartridge changes and increase productivity.
- Frequent Home Printing: This 240XL Canon ink cartridge is ideal for families who frequently print school projects, holiday photos, or home office documents. In the long run, the larger ink volume of this high-yield cartridge can save time and money.
- Users Who Seek Long-Term Value: If you print in bulk or have seasonal printing needs such as holiday cards, the Canon ink 240XL black ink cartridge is more cost-effective.
FAQs about Canon PG 240 vs 240XL
1. Can I use a Canon 240 instead of a Canon 240XL?
Yes, you can use a standard-capacity Canon PG-240 ink cartridge in place of the Canon PG-240XL ink cartridge. They work seamlessly in the same printer, so they are interchangeable. But be aware that after the change, you will get fewer pages due to the lower page yield of the Canon ink 240.
2. How Do I Know When My Canon 240 240XL Is Running Low on Ink?
When the ink is low, your Canon PIXMA printer will display low ink warning or error messages on the screen such as blinking ink lamp, ink icon warning and error message “Ink Has Run Out.” At this time, you need to replace your Canon ink cartridges.
3. Can I refill a Canon PG-240 ink cartridge?
We do not recommend refilling Canon PG-240 ink cartridge. Refilling may affect print quality and may void your warranty. Purchasing new ink cartridges is usually the best option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Canon PG-240 and Canon PG-240XL ink cartridges meet different user needs. The Canon 240 is a great choice for those who print occasionally and prioritize saving upfront costs. The Canon 240XL is better suited for those who use their printer frequently and seek long-term value. When choosing between the two, consider your printing habits, budget, and print volume. No matter which one you choose, they both provide reliable printing performance.
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