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Canon PG-275 vs PG-275XL: Is the XL Worth the Extra Cost?

The Canon PG-275 is a common black ink cartridge used in many of Canon’s popular PIXMA inkjet printers. But you’ve likely noticed there are two versions: the standard PG-275 and the higher-capacity PG-275XL. The “XL” designation generally indicates a larger ink reservoir, implying more prints and a lower cost per page. But does that implication hold true in the real world?

In this article, we’ll break down the Canon PG-275 vs PG-275XL debate, looking at the initial cost, page yield, cost per page, and ultimately, whether upgrading to the XL version is the smart financial move for your printing needs. We’ll also explore third-party alternatives and refill options to maximize your savings. Because, as we’ve documented extensively, OEM ink costs more than it should.

Understanding Page Yield and How Manufacturers Calculate It

Before diving into the numbers, it’s crucial to understand how manufacturers, including Canon, determine page yield. They use a standardized testing methodology (typically ISO/IEC 24711) to estimate the number of pages a cartridge can print based on 5% coverage – meaning only 5% of the page is covered with ink.

This 5% coverage is roughly equivalent to a standard business letter with minimal graphics. If you print photos, graphics-heavy documents, or use a larger font, your actual page yield will be significantly lower. Keep this in mind when comparing the advertised page yields with your typical printing habits. It’s a best-case scenario number.

The Cold, Hard Numbers: PG-275 vs. PG-275XL

Let’s get down to brass tacks. To make a fair comparison, we need to look at the typical retail price and the advertised page yield for both cartridges. Prices can fluctuate, so always check multiple retailers before making a purchase.

• Canon PG-275 (Standard):
  • Typical Retail Price: $21 - $25
  • Advertised Page Yield: Approximately 100 pages
• Canon PG-275XL (High Yield):
  • Typical Retail Price: $32 - $40
  • Advertised Page Yield: Approximately 300 pages

These are Canon’s official numbers. Third-party cartridges may vary, and we’ll touch upon them later.

Calculating Cost Per Page: The Real Story

The most important metric is the cost per page (CPP). This tells you how much you’re paying for each printed page. Here’s how to calculate it:

• Cost Per Page = Cartridge Price / Page Yield

Let’s apply this to the Canon PG-275 cartridges:

• PG-275 (Standard): Using a mid-range price of $23: $23 / 100 pages = $0.23 per page
• PG-275XL (High Yield): Using a mid-range price of $36: $36 / 300 pages = $0.12 per page

Based purely on Canon’s advertised numbers, the PG-275XL offers a significant cost savings of approximately 11 cents per page. Over time, this can add up significantly, especially if you print frequently.

Real-World Considerations: Your Printing Habits Matter

While the cost-per-page calculation heavily favors the XL cartridge, remember that your actual printing habits will influence the real savings. Ask yourself:

• How Often Do You Print? If you print only a few pages per month, the initial cost difference between the standard and XL cartridges may take a long time to recoup.
• What Do You Print? If you primarily print photos or graphics-intensive documents, your page yield will be lower for both cartridges, potentially diminishing the savings from the XL version.
• Do Your Cartridges Dry Out? Inkjet cartridges are prone to drying out, especially if not used regularly. If a standard cartridge dries out before you use all the ink, you’ve essentially wasted money. The higher capacity of the XL cartridge could exacerbate this problem if your print volume is low. See our guide to storing unused cartridges for tips on extending their life: /pillars/mvp-pillar-3-storing-unused-cartridges-the-vacuum-sealing-trick/

If you’re a light printer, the standard cartridge might be a better choice to avoid wasted ink due to drying.

Exploring Third-Party Alternatives and Refill Options

OEM cartridges (Original Equipment Manufacturer, i.e., Canon-branded) are almost always the most expensive option. Fortunately, there are alternatives to consider:

Compatible Cartridges: A Budget-Friendly Option

Compatible cartridges are manufactured by third-party companies and designed to work with your Canon printer. They are typically significantly cheaper than OEM cartridges. However, quality can vary widely.

• Pros: Lower cost, potential for significant savings.
• Cons: Inconsistent quality, potential compatibility issues, may not deliver the same page yield as OEM cartridges.

Before purchasing compatible cartridges, read reviews carefully and choose a reputable brand. We also investigated whether using compatible cartridges voids your warranty; the answer might surprise you.

Ink Refill Kits: The Ultimate Cost Saver (But Requires Effort)

Ink refill kits allow you to refill your empty Canon cartridges with bottled ink. This is the most cost-effective option, but it requires more effort and can be messy.

• Pros: Lowest cost per page, significant savings over OEM cartridges.
• Cons: Requires more effort, can be messy, potential for print quality issues if not done correctly.

If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, ink refill kits can save you a substantial amount of money. We have a detailed guide on how to refill ink cartridges properly. A good starting point is: /products/b00mfg54b6-inkjet-refill-kit-pro-hp-canon/Check on Amazon →

Comparing the Cost of Alternatives

Let’s compare the cost per page of these alternatives, assuming a price of $15 for a compatible XL cartridge with an advertised yield of 300 pages and $25 for a refill kit that yields 1000 pages:

• Compatible XL Cartridge: $15 / 300 pages = $0.05 per page
• Refill Kit: $25 / 1000 pages = $0.025 per page

As you can see, both compatible cartridges and refill kits offer substantial savings compared to OEM cartridges.

Making the Right Choice for You

So, is the Canon PG-275XL worth the extra cost? Here’s a summary to help you decide:

• If you print frequently (more than a few pages per week): The PG-275XL is likely the better choice due to its lower cost per page.
• If you print infrequently: The standard PG-275 might be a better option to avoid wasted ink due to drying.
• If you’re on a tight budget: Consider compatible cartridges or ink refill kits for even greater savings.
• If print quality is paramount: OEM cartridges generally offer the best print quality, but high-quality compatible cartridges can often provide acceptable results.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual printing needs and budget. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and avoid overpaying for printer ink. The PG-275XL typically wins on pure cost-per-page if you use it, but that “if” is the crucial factor to consider.