Canon PIXMA TS202: Setup, Drivers, Ink and Common Problems

Is the Canon PIXMA TS202 right for you?

The TS202 is Canon's cheapest desktop printer: a USB-only, print-only single-function unit for people who just need occasional documents from one computer. There is no Wi-Fi, scanner or screen, so it is simple but inflexible. Because it uses a two-cartridge FINE system, the tri-color CL-246 must be replaced when any one color runs dry, and the printhead is built into the cartridge so a fresh cartridge also cures most streaking.

Best for: Occasional USB-only document printing on a tight budget

Setting up the Canon PIXMA TS202

Connect the USB cable only when the installer on ij.start.canon asks for it, otherwise Windows may grab a generic driver. Run printhead alignment from the Canon IJ Printer Assistant Tool after installing the first cartridges. Keep the tri-color cartridge in the printer even for black-only jobs, otherwise the printer will refuse to print.

1. Unbox and prepare. Remove every piece of shipping tape and packing material, install the ink cartridges, and load paper in the tray.
2. Join your Wi-Fi. Keep the printer close to the router for setup. Most printers only connect to the 2.4GHz band, so if your router broadcasts one merged network name you may need to split the bands temporarily. See our Wi-Fi guide if it will not join.
3. Install the setup app. Use Canon's official app rather than a driver you found on a search result — third-party driver sites are the most common source of printer malware.
4. Add the printer. On Windows 11: Settings › Bluetooth & devices › Printers & scanners › Add device. On macOS: System Settings › Printers & Scanners › Add Printer.
5. Print a test page and run a scan if this is an all-in-one, so you find any problem now rather than when you are in a hurry.

Ink, toner and supplies

The Canon PIXMA TS202 uses the following consumables. Match the number exactly when you buy: the same printer family often uses several different cartridge numbers by region.

• PG-245 black
• CL-246 color
• PG-245XL / CL-246XL

High-yield (XL) versions almost always cost less per page if you print regularly. On third-party ink and toner, read our honest assessment first, and note that some manufacturers push firmware that rejects non-original chips.

Full specifications