The number one question we’re asked at InkOwl is which printer models we recommend for low-cost compatible cartridges or easy refilling. For large-format printing, whether it be archival-quality photo and art prints, architectural plans and drawings, or anything in between, we invariably recommend CANON imagePROGRAF printers over the competition! CANON imagePROGRAF printers offer several key advantages for compatible cartridge users and for refillers:

• CANON cartridges are easy to refill with our ink refill kits, requiring no resetters, refillable cartridges, or other costly accessories.


• For those who prefer not to refill, or who wish to solely try our ink, low-cost compatible cartridges are available for most models.

• Replacement printheads can be purchased affordably from CANON in case of failure, which greatly extends the printer’s useful life.


• Finally, CANON printers are very reasonably priced when compared to similarly featured printers from other manufacturers.

CANON’s wide-format cartridge design is incredibly simple to refill. See our video on YouTube: How to Refill Canon iPF Cartridges! It is possible to refill original CANON-brand cartridges, including the starter cartridges included with the purchase of a new printer. There is no need to purchase special refillable cartridges separately. If you currently struggle with the hassle of refillable cartridges and single-use chips on your wide-format printer, you should definitely consider a CANON printer for that reason alone!

As usual with InkOwl, all our inks are made in the USA allowing us to ensure a consistent product with every re-order. Our inks are color-matched to the original inks which ensures high-fidelity printing for any application, and are formulated to be able to mix with the original inks already in the cartridges and printer.

For those who prefer not to refill, our InkOwl Compatible Cartridges for CANON imagePROGRAF printers are available for all but the most recent models. These affordably priced cartridges plug-and-play into the printer just like originals, preserving ink level monitoring and all other printer functionality.

Most CANON printers use pigment-based inks for maximum longevity and archival performance when printed on acid-free archival paper. Most notably, the PRO-1000, PRO-2000, PRO-4000, and PRO-6000 series are optimized for photography and fine art printing, with up to 12 colors including the unique chroma optimizer clear coat which greatly improves the look of glossy and semi-glossy prints. Other models, like the new TM- and TX- series, with 5 colors, are marketed towards technical drawings and maps, but can also certainly be used for other non-photographic applications as well as indoor signage.

In terms of quality and reliability, we at InkOwl can definitely endorse the CANON imagePROGRAF series. The quality of the prints is certainly up to our standards, whether using CANON inks or ours, especially on printers that include the chroma optimizer. Printer faults or failures are very rare on CANON printers, and in the rare event of a printhead failure or clog, the replaceable printhead is a major advantage.

All in all, whether you refill or use compatible cartridges, if you don’t already use CANON wide-format printers, you should definitely consider one for your next printer purchase! Aftermarket solutions for CANON printers are affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use. As usual, we always invite our customers to contact us by phone or by email for personalized recommendations and advice according to their printing needs.