Canon laser printers use a simple cartridge naming system once you know the rules. The problem is that one number can fit ten or more printer models, while two numbers that look similar can fit completely different machines. This guide breaks down the most searched Canon toner families and shows you how to pick the right cartridge the first time.
How Canon numbers its toner cartridges
Canon uses two main naming styles:
- Cartridge XXX — used on older and many current imageCLASS models (e.g. Cartridge 045, 055, 057, 069, 137)
- CRG-XXX — the same cartridge written in regional part-number format (CRG-045, CRG-055, CRG-057, CRG-069)
When you search for a replacement, "Canon 057" and "Canon CRG-057" are the same product. The important thing is the exact number, because toner cartridges are not interchangeable between series.
Canon 045 / 045H (color, all-in-one cartridge)
Cartridge 045 is Canon's standard-yield color toner for small-office color lasers. The 045H version is the high-yield option with the same physical fit.
- Black: 045 / 045H
- Colors: 045 Cyan, Magenta, Yellow (and 045H high-yield versions)
- Typical printers: Canon imageCLASS MF634Cdw, MF632Cdw, LBP612Cdw, MF642Cdw, MF644Cdw, LBP622Cdw
If your printer accepts 045, it also accepts 045H. The H version costs more upfront but lowers your cost per page for regular color printing.
Canon 055 / 055H (mid-range color)
Cartridge 055 is the step-up color series for faster, higher-volume Canon imageCLASS machines.
- Black: 055 / 055H
- Colors: 055 C/M/Y and 055H C/M/Y
- Typical printers: Canon imageCLASS MF741Cdw, MF743Cdw, MF745Cdw, MF746Cx, LBP663Cdw, LBP664Cx
Do not mix 045 and 055. The shapes and chips are different, and the printer will reject the wrong series.
Canon 057 / 057H (mono workgroup)
Canon 057 is a monochrome toner family for compact black-and-white laser printers. It is one of the most common Canon cartridges in home offices and small workgroups.
- Page yield: 057 standard ~2,400 pages; 057H high-yield ~3,100 pages (ISO/IEC 19752, 5% coverage)
- Typical printers: Canon imageCLASS LBP223dw, LBP226dw, LBP228x, MF443dw, MF445dw, MF446x, MF449x, MF453dw, MF455dw
If your printer is in the LBP220 or MF440 series, 057 is almost certainly the cartridge you need.
Canon 069 / 069H (latest compact color)
Cartridge 069 is Canon's newer color toner for recent compact color laser models.
- Typical printers: Canon imageCLASS MF751Cdw, MF753Cdw, MF756Cx, LBP673Cdw, LBP674Cx
069 is not backward compatible with 045 or 055. Always check the printer manual or the existing cartridge label before ordering.
Canon 137 and other popular mono cartridges
Older but still widely used monochrome cartridges include:
- Canon 137 — imageCLASS D570, MF236n, MF247dw, MF249dw, LBP151dw
- Canon 128 — older imageCLASS D550, MF4450, MF4570dn
- Canon 126 — imageCLASS LBP6200d, LBP6230dw
These are separate from the 057 family. If your printer uses 137, it cannot use 057.
OEM vs compatible Canon toner
Compatible Canon toner cartridges are built to the same dimensions and chip specs as the originals. A well-made compatible prints the same number of pages at a much lower cost per page, which is why resellers and offices often buy them in bulk. For a full breakdown of the trade-offs, see our OEM vs compatible toner guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a high-yield cartridge if my printer came with a standard-yield one?
Yes. If the printer accepts the standard version, it accepts the high-yield (H) version of the same series.
Are Canon drum units separate from toner?
Most Canon imageCLASS models use all-in-one toner cartridges. Some older or larger machines may have a separate drum unit. Check your printer's supplies list before ordering.
Will a compatible Canon toner void my warranty?
No. In most regions, using a compatible cartridge does not void the printer warranty, but a manufacturer may require proof that a cartridge caused damage before denying service.
What is the fastest way to find my Canon cartridge number?
Open the printer door and read the label on the installed cartridge, or check the printer's on-screen supplies menu.