Skyink 243XL ink cartridges

If you print black text regularly, a two-cartridge pack can be more practical than replacing one cartridge at a time. If your printer model is not on the compatibility list, though, matching the cartridge number alone is not enough reason to assume it will fit.

This Skyink pack contains two black 243XL cartridges and a user manual. Each cartridge is listed for up to 400 pages at 5% coverage, so that figure is a reference point rather than a promise for every mix of documents.

What to know

The cartridges are listed for a range of Canon PIXMA models. The compatibility list includes MG2420, MG2450, MG2500, MG2520, MG2522, MG2525, MG2550, MG2555, MG2920, MG2922, MG2924, MG2950, MG3020, MG3022, and MG3029, MX490, MX492, MX495, and MX498, TR4520, TR4522, and TR4550, TS202, TS302, TS3100, TS3120, TS3122, TS3129, TS3300, TS3320, and TS3322, plus IP2820 and IP2850. Check your printer’s full model number against that list before buying.

Skyink says the PG-243XL has the same appearance, size, and printer compatibility as the PG-245XL, and that the latest chips are installed and checked for compatibility. That is the maker’s claim, not a guarantee for a printer model outside the stated list. Keep in mind that the 400-page estimate is based on 5% coverage, pages with heavier graphics or more filled-in text can use ink differently.

How to use it

Use the model list as your first check, then compare the cartridge designation on your existing supply or printer documentation. The package includes a user manual, but the product details here do not specify installation steps or printer alerts. If you rely on a particular replacement number, verify that the printer is listed for this cartridge before opening the pack.

Practical tips

A useful way to judge the stated yield is to picture a run of mostly plain-text pages, such as homework drafts or household forms. A page with a large dark image is a different workload from the 5%-coverage basis, so frequent graphics printing may mean the quoted page count is less representative of your routine.

The two-pack format suits someone who wants a second black cartridge on hand rather than making another purchase as soon as the first runs out. For occasional printing, buying just one replacement—if available—may be a better fit than keeping a spare. No color cartridge is included in this package.

Questions before you buy

How many cartridges are included? Two black 243XL cartridges, plus one user manual.

What yield is listed for each cartridge? Up to 400 pages at 5% coverage. Actual results depend on the content being printed, so treat this as a stated reference, not a guaranteed count.

Does it fit every Canon printer? No universal compatibility is stated. The listed models are specific MG, MX, TR, TS, and IP series printers, match your exact model to the list.

When it makes sense

It makes sense if your printer appears on the compatibility list, you mainly need black ink, and having two cartridges together suits your printing routine. It might not be a great match if your model is absent, you need color ink in the same pack, or your workload is dominated by dense graphics and you are counting on the 400-page estimate. For straightforward document printing on a listed printer, the pack’s clearest benefit is having a replacement ready without buying black cartridges one at a time.