Does the Canon Pixma MG3620 Come with Ink? Find Out Here!

The Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a popular all-in-one printer known for its affordability and versatility. But one question that often arises is: does the Canon PIXMA MG3620 come with ink? This is a crucial question, as it directly affects the overall cost of ownership and your printing experience.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the details, answering this question and providing insights into the ink setup process. We’ll also explore the various ink options available for the MG3620, empowering you to make informed decisions about your printing needs.

The Truth About Ink Cartridges: What Comes in the Box?

The short answer is no, the Canon PIXMA MG3620 does not come with ink cartridges. This is a common practice among printer manufacturers, aiming to keep the initial purchase price lower. However, this means you’ll need to buy ink separately before you can start printing.

Understanding the Ink Cartridge System

The Canon PIXMA MG3620 uses a standard ink cartridge system. It utilizes two separate cartridges: a black ink cartridge and a color ink cartridge (containing cyan, magenta, and yellow). These cartridges are readily available online and at most electronics retailers.

Initial Setup: Getting Ready to Print

When you first unpack your Canon PIXMA MG3620, you’ll need to install the ink cartridges before you can print. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Open the printer cover: Locate the cover on the top of the printer and gently lift it open.
2. Locate the ink cartridge slots: You’ll find two slots, one for the black cartridge and one for the color cartridge.
3. Insert the cartridges: Carefully remove the cartridges from their packaging and align them with the corresponding slots. Gently push them into place until they click securely.
4. Close the cover: Once both cartridges are installed, close the printer cover.
5. Run an alignment test: The printer will automatically initiate an alignment procedure to ensure optimal print quality.

Choosing the Right Ink: A Guide to Options

The Canon PIXMA MG3620 offers a range of ink cartridges to suit different printing needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

• Standard Ink Cartridges: These are the most affordable option and provide good quality prints for everyday use.
• High-Yield Ink Cartridges: These cartridges offer more ink per cartridge, making them ideal for high-volume printing. While they have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run if you print frequently.
• XL Ink Cartridges: These offer an even higher ink yield than high-yield cartridges, making them the most economical option for heavy printing users.

The Importance of Genuine Canon Ink

While it might be tempting to opt for cheaper, non-genuine ink cartridges, it’s important to understand the potential drawbacks. Using non-genuine ink can lead to:

• Print quality issues: Non-genuine ink may not produce the same vibrant colors and sharp details as genuine Canon ink.
• Printer damage: Using incompatible ink can clog the printer’s nozzles and cause damage to its internal components.
• Voiding your warranty: Canon’s warranty may be voided if you use non-genuine ink cartridges.

Maximizing Your Ink Investment: Tips for Efficiency

To make the most of your ink cartridges and reduce printing costs, consider these tips:

• Print in draft mode: For everyday documents, choose “draft mode” in your printer settings to use less ink.
• Print double-sided: Printing on both sides of the paper significantly reduces paper consumption and ink usage.
• Use black and white for non-essential documents: If you don’t need color prints, opt for black and white for documents like drafts or notes.
• Regular maintenance: Clean your printer regularly to prevent ink clogging and ensure optimal print quality.

Beyond Ink: Additional Considerations

While ink is a significant expense, there are other factors to consider when using the Canon PIXMA MG3620:

• Paper type: The quality of the paper you use can affect the final print quality. Invest in high-quality paper for important documents and photos.
• Printer settings: Experiment with different printer settings like resolution and color saturation to find the optimal settings for your specific printing needs.
• Environmental impact: Consider using recycled paper and reducing printing whenever possible to minimize your environmental footprint.

The Final Verdict: Making Informed Decisions

The Canon PIXMA MG3620 is a reliable and affordable printer, but it’s important to understand the ink-related costs before making a purchase. While the initial price might be attractive, remember that you’ll need to invest in ink cartridges separately.
By understanding the ink cartridge system, exploring the available options, and implementing ink-saving strategies, you can make informed decisions about your printing needs and maximize your investment.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How long do Canon PIXMA MG3620 ink cartridges last?
A: The lifespan of the ink cartridges depends on your printing frequency and the type of ink cartridges used. Standard cartridges typically last for around 150-200 pages, while high-yield cartridges can yield up to 400-500 pages.
Q: Where can I buy Canon PIXMA MG3620 ink cartridges?
A: Canon PIXMA MG3620 ink cartridges are widely available online and at major electronics retailers. You can find them at online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, as well as at brick-and-mortar stores like Best Buy and Staples.
Q: Are there any compatible ink cartridges for the Canon PIXMA MG3620?
A: While compatible ink cartridges are available, it’s generally recommended to stick with genuine Canon ink cartridges to ensure optimal print quality and prevent potential printer damage.
Q: Can I refill the Canon PIXMA MG3620 ink cartridges?
A: While some users refill their ink cartridges, it’s not recommended as it can lead to printer issues and void your warranty. It’s generally more cost-effective to replace the cartridges with new ones.
Q: How do I know when my ink cartridges are running low?
A: The Canon PIXMA MG3620 has a built-in ink level indicator that displays the remaining ink levels for both black and color cartridges. When the ink level gets low, the printer will notify you with a message on the display screen.