Finding the right ink cartridge for your printer should be simple — but with dozens of cartridge numbers across HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother, it's easy to end up unsure whether you've got the right one. Here's a straightforward guide to getting it right every time, without having to second-guess yourself at the checkout.
Step 1: Find Your Printer Model Number
Everything starts with your exact printer model. The model number is almost always printed on the printer itself — usually on the front, top, or inside the cartridge access area. It will look something like one of these:
- HP ENVY 6020e
- Canon PIXMA TS5350i
- Epson Expression Home XP-2200
- Brother DCP-J1050DW
If you can't find it on the printer, check the original packaging, the printer's settings menu, or the label on the underside of the machine. Getting the full model number — not just the series name — matters because different models in the same range can use different cartridges.
Step 2: Match Your Printer to the Right Cartridge
Once you have your printer model, you need to match it to the correct cartridge number. There are a few ways to do this:
Use our ink finder tool
The quickest option is to use the ink finder on our ink cartridges page. Select your brand, then your printer series, then your model — and it'll show you exactly which cartridges are compatible. No guesswork, no cross-referencing required.
Browse by ink family
Each of our ink family collection pages lists the compatible printer models clearly at the top of the page, so you can verify compatibility before adding anything to your basket. For example:
- Canon 545 & 546 inks — lists every Canon printer model that takes these cartridges
- HP 302/304 inks — lists every HP printer model compatible with this cartridge range
This is a useful double-check if you already have a cartridge number in mind and want to confirm it's right for your printer.
Check the old cartridge
If you're replacing a cartridge that's already run out, the cartridge number is usually printed on the side of the empty one. It will be a number like 305, 545, or LC421 — make a note of it before disposing of the empty and you'll know exactly what to reorder.
Check your printer manual or manufacturer website
Your printer manual will list compatible cartridges, as will the support section of the manufacturer's website if you search by your printer model number.
Common Cartridge Numbers by Printer Model
To give you a sense of how this works in practice, here are some common pairings:
- HP ENVY 6020e — uses HP 305 or 305XL
- HP DeskJet 2710e — uses HP 305 or 305XL
- Canon PIXMA TS5350i — uses Canon 560/561 or 560XL/561XL
- Canon PIXMA MG2551S — uses Canon 545/546 or 545XL/546XL
- Epson Expression Home XP-2200 — uses Epson 604 or 604XL
- Brother J5340DW — uses Brother LC422
These are examples only — always verify against your specific model before ordering.
Standard vs XL Cartridges — Which Should You Choose?
Most cartridge ranges come in a standard version and an XL version. The XL cartridge contains more ink and costs more upfront, but the cost per page is lower — meaning it works out better value if you print regularly. Standard cartridges are a reasonable choice if you print infrequently and don't want a large upfront cost.
As a general rule: if you print more than a few pages a week, XL is almost always the more economical option over time.
Always Use Genuine Cartridges
At Crazy Kangaroo, we only stock genuine cartridges from HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother — no compatible, refilled, or remanufactured alternatives. Genuine cartridges are formulated specifically for your printer model, which means better print quality, accurate ink level readings, and no risk of voiding your warranty.
Each product page includes full compatibility information, ink capacity, and page yield figures so you know exactly what you're getting before you order. Browse by brand below:
- Genuine HP ink cartridges
- Genuine Canon ink cartridges
- Genuine Epson ink cartridges
- Genuine Brother ink cartridges
All orders include free UK delivery, and HP and Canon orders include a free prepaid recycling bag for your empty cartridges.
Still Not Sure? We Can Help
If you've checked and you're still not certain which cartridge is right for your printer, get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction. It's a quick question and we'd rather you get the right one first time than have to return something.
