Canon MP490 Ink
PIXMA MP490 Ink Cartridges

Canon MP490 Printer Review

The Canon PIXMA MP490 is a versatile photo inkjet printer that has additional functionality with its scan and copy features. While ISO print speeds of approximately 9 pages per minute for monochrome documents and 5 pages per minute for color seem slow, the ISO system is a more accurate measurement of real-world performance. With simple controls and high-quality ChromaLife 100+ PIXMA MP490 printer ink, the device can print photos that can last for decades without fading.

The machine uses Full-lithography inkjet Nozzle Engineering technology and is able to print a precise minimum PIXMA MP490 printer ink droplet as small as 2 picoliters. Projects using both color and black Canon MP490 ink have a satisfactory output, printing photos with a resolution of 4800x1200 dpi and monochrome text with a resolution of 600x600 dpi. Professional reviews do mention that skin tones can be a little off, however. With its 1.8-inch LCD and front panel, users are supplied with basic management options for projects, as well as the support for direct image printing from memory cards like CompactFlash and Memory Stick Pro.

With an ultra-compact design of 17x13x6 inches, the unit is the perfect solution for multifunction desktop use. The device incorporates a single rear input tray that can store 100 pages at a time and support home users with low volumes.

The unit operates with two individual Canon MP490 ink cartridges: a tricolor that includes cyan, magenta and yellow, and a single black supply. Standard tricolor replacements can yield around 244 pages and the standard black replacement can last for around 220 pages. Users can also purchase high-capacity 349-sheet tricolor Canon MP490 ink cartridges, as well as a 401-sheet high-capacity black supply.

With its robust all-in-one capabilities in addition to the impressive photo printing function, this device is a flexible option for home users who need copying and scanning. For professional photos, easy-to-use controls and direct image printing, the MP490 is a nice choice among the personal models in its class.