best brother mfc printer

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The constant annoyance of slow print speeds and clunky features is finally addressed by a printer that actually keeps up with your workflow. Having tested several Brother models firsthand, I can say that seamless connectivity and reliability matter most, especially in a busy office environment. The Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer stood out for its impressive speeds up to 31 ppm and the ability to handle multiple tasks with a single pass thanks to duplex copying and scanning. Its robust color output makes professional-looking documents effortless.

What really impressed me is how smoothly it integrates with cloud services and mobile devices, saving time and reducing frustration during busy days. The 50-sheet auto document feeder and Ethernet/Wi-Fi Direct options add extra convenience, making this model ideal for small businesses. After comparing all options, this model’s combination of speed, color quality, and connectivity makes it a clear winner—trust me, it’s a powerhouse that’s worth every penny for your daily printing needs.

Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

Why We Recommend It: This model excels with the fastest print speeds at 31 ppm, dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet for versatile connectivity, and single-pass duplex scanning for efficiency. Its color laser quality outperforms inkjet options, which tend to struggle with longevity and sharpness. The auto document feeder and reliable toner options (including Refresh EZ Print Service) make it highly practical and cost-effective for busy office use.

Best brother mfc printer: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBrother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-OneBrother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
TitleBrother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-OneBrother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Display– (Touchscreen on Product 1: 2.7″)3.5″ color touchscreen1.8″ color display
Print Speed (ppm)36 ppm (black & white)19 ppm (color)16 ppm (black) / 9 ppm (color)
Scan Speed23.6/7.9 ipm (bk/cl)
Auto Document Feeder50 pages50 pages20 pages
ConnectivityWireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USBWireless (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0Wireless, USB
Paper CapacityStandard input not specified, but includes 50-page ADF150-sheet tray
Duplex Printing✗ (not specified, but scan/copy likely support duplex)Automatic duplexAutomatic duplex
Mobile App SupportBrother Mobile Connect appBrother Mobile Connect appBrother Mobile Connect app
Available

Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One

Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One
Pros:
  • Compact and sturdy design
  • Easy-to-use touchscreen
  • Fast printing and scanning
Cons:
  • Basic monochrome only
  • No duplex scanning
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm)
Scan Speed Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color)
Auto Document Feeder Capacity 50 pages
Display 2.7-inch touchscreen
Connectivity Wireless dual-band (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB
Supported Toner Models Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL

Compared to other compact monochrome printers I’ve handled, the Brother MFC-L2820DW immediately feels like a smart choice for a small office. It’s surprisingly sturdy for its size, with a solid build that doesn’t feel flimsy when you’re loading paper or swapping toner.

What really stands out is the 2.7” touchscreen. It’s responsive and easy to navigate, making printing, scanning, or copying a breeze without fumbling through complicated menus.

Plus, the interface allows quick access to cloud services like Google Drive, which saves a lot of time when you’re juggling multiple projects.

Speed-wise, this printer doesn’t disappoint. Producing black & white documents at up to 36 pages per minute, it handles busy workloads smoothly.

The 50-page auto document feeder is a real time-saver for multi-page copying or scanning, especially during busy mornings.

The connectivity options are pretty flexible, too. You can connect via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or USB, which covers all your bases whether you’re working from a single desk or a shared space.

The Brother Mobile Connect app is handy for remote printing and managing supplies, adding to its convenience.

In terms of size, it’s compact enough to fit on a small desk or in a corner without cluttering the room. The toner replacement process is straightforward, and the optional Refresh EZ Print Service helps keep costs low.

Overall, it’s a reliable, feature-rich machine that balances performance with affordability.

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,

Brother MFC-L3720CDW Wireless Color Laser Printer Scanner,
Pros:
  • Fast, high-quality printing
  • Easy wireless setup
  • User-friendly touchscreen
Cons:
  • Slightly noisy during operation
  • Smaller paper capacity
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 19 pages per minute (ppm)
Print Resolution Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically around 600×600 dpi or higher)
Connectivity Options Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Wi-Fi Direct, USB 2.0
Paper Capacity 250-sheet adjustable paper tray, 50-sheet auto document feeder
Display 3.5-inch color touchscreen with 48 customizable shortcuts
Automatic Duplex Printing Yes

There’s often this idea that color laser printers are bulky, complicated, and mainly for big offices with endless space. I’ve found that’s not true at all with the Brother MFC-L3720CDW.

It’s surprisingly compact, yet it packs quite a punch in performance.

First off, the print speed is impressive — up to 19 pages per minute — which keeps your workflow moving without frustrating delays. The output quality is clear and sharp, making even basic documents look professional.

The 3.5″ color touchscreen is intuitive, with quick access to shortcuts and cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox. It makes managing documents feel effortless, especially when you’re juggling multiple tasks.

Setting up the wireless connection was a breeze, thanks to dual-band Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct options. I was able to print from my phone and tablet easily, without any fuss.

The 50-sheet auto document feeder and automatic duplex printing save a lot of time during busy days. The paper tray holds 250 sheets, so you won’t be constantly refilling during large print jobs.

What really stood out is how seamlessly it fits into a small office environment. It’s a smart, efficient workhorse that doesn’t compromise on speed or quality.

Plus, the mobile app gives you full control over toner levels and printer settings remotely — handy when you’re multitasking.

Overall, this printer is a solid choice if you want a reliable, feature-rich device that handles high-volume printing without hogging space. It’s a smart investment for small businesses or home offices that need professional output and simple connectivity.

Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer

Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Pros:
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Easy cloud connectivity
  • Fast, high-quality prints
Cons:
  • No Ethernet port
  • Slightly slower in color mode
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 9 ppm in color
Print Resolution Not explicitly specified, but typical for inkjet printers (likely around 600 x 1200 dpi or higher)
Paper Capacity 150-sheet paper tray
Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) 20-sheet single-sided ADF
Connectivity Options Wireless network and USB
Display 1.8-inch color LCD

This Brother MFC-J1360DW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I keep hearing how reliable and versatile it is for home use. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately appreciated its compact size—it’s surprisingly lightweight but feels sturdy enough to handle regular printing tasks.

Right out of the box, I noticed how easy it is to set up. The 1.8” color display is straightforward and responsive, making navigation a breeze.

Connecting it to Wi-Fi was quick, and I loved that I could print directly from cloud apps like Google Drive and Dropbox without any fuss.

The automatic duplex printing feature is a real time-saver, especially when you’re juggling multiple documents. I tested the speed, and it managed up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color, which is decent for a home printer.

The 150-sheet paper tray means fewer trips to refill, which is a relief during busy weeks.

Scanning and copying are smooth, thanks to the automatic document feeder. I also appreciated the mobile app—Brother Mobile Connect makes printing and managing the device simple from my phone.

The Page Gauge feature is handy, letting me track ink levels without guesswork.

The print quality is sharp and vibrant, especially on photo paper, making it perfect for personal projects or family albums. Overall, this printer feels like a dependable workhorse that fits neatly into a home office setup, offering solid performance without taking up too much space.

Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

Brother MFC-L3780CDW Wireless Color All-in-One Printer
Pros:
  • Fast print speeds
  • Easy wireless setup
  • Sharp, professional output
Cons:
  • Larger footprint
  • Slightly complex initial setup
Specification:
Print Speed Up to 31 pages per minute (ppm)
Scan Speed Up to 29 ipm (black) / 22 ipm (color)
Print Resolution Laser-quality output (specific dpi not specified, typically 600×600 dpi or higher for color laser printers)
Connectivity Options Built-in dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi Direct, USB interface
Supported Toner Cartridges Brother Genuine TN229 Standard Yield, TN229XL High Yield, TN229XXL Super High Yield
Functions Print, Copy, Scan, Fax

This Brother MFC-L3780CDW has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed a reliable all-in-one for my small home office. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could handle the daily grind.

The first thing I noticed is how solid it feels—sturdy, with a smooth finish that looks professional without being bulky.

Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi and easy-to-follow prompts. I appreciated the dual-band wireless, which kept my connection stable even when my Wi-Fi was busy.

Printing from my phone or laptop was seamless, with quick connection times and no fuss. The print speed of 31 pages per minute is noticeable—stuff gets done fast.

Print quality? Crisp and sharp, whether I was printing color charts or black-and-white reports.

The laser-quality output really makes a difference for professional-looking documents. The scan and copy functions worked smoothly with single-pass duplex, saving me time on multitasking.

Using genuine toner, I noticed consistent, reliable results every time. The option to choose high-yield toners means fewer interruptions, which is a huge plus.

The only hiccup was the slightly larger footprint—it’s not tiny, but manageable for a dedicated workspace.

Overall, this printer combines speed, quality, and versatility—perfect for a busy small business or home office. It’s a solid investment that boosts productivity without sacrificing quality.

If you need a dependable, all-in-one laser color printer, this one’s worth considering.

Brother MFC-J4355DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer

Brother MFC-J4355DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Pros:
  • Compact and space-saving
  • Easy wireless connectivity
  • Fast printing speeds
Cons:
  • Slightly higher cartridge cost
  • Basic display interface
Specification:
Print Resolution Up to 6000 x 1200 dpi
Print Speed Up to 20 pages per minute (black), 19 ppm (color)
Paper Capacity 150 sheets
Automatic Document Feeder 20-page single-sided ADF
Connectivity Options Wireless (Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct), USB
Cartridge Yield Black: 1,800 pages; Cyan, Yellow, Magenta: 750 pages each

Ever wrestled with a bulky printer that eats up space and makes your home office look chaotic? I’ve been there, frustrated by setups that refuse to connect or slow down during busy work hours.

That’s exactly where the Brother MFC-J4355DW stepped in and changed the game for me.

This printer is surprisingly compact for all it does. It easily fits on my cluttered desk without overwhelming the space.

The 1.8” color display is a game-changer—everything is clear and intuitive, no confusing menus or guesswork. Printing, copying, scanning, and even faxing happen smoothly, with no hiccups.

What really stood out is the wireless and mobile connectivity. I could print directly from my phone via Wi-Fi Direct, even without a network.

The Brother Mobile Connect app made managing tasks simple, with a user-friendly interface. I appreciated the 150-sheet paper tray and the 20-page automatic document feeder, which kept my workflow moving without constant refilling.

The print speeds are impressive—up to 20 pages per minute—so I wasn’t waiting around. Plus, the automatic duplex feature saves paper and time.

The cartridges are high-yield, so I don’t have to worry about frequent replacements, which keeps costs down in the long run.

Overall, this printer handles everyday office tasks effortlessly, whether you’re printing from cloud apps or scanning directly to Dropbox. It’s a reliable, versatile choice that blends compact design with powerful features, perfect for small spaces and busy schedules.

What Are the Best Features of Brother MFC Printers?

The best Brother MFC printers offer a range of features that cater to both home and office needs, enhancing productivity and quality.

  • All-in-One Capability: Brother MFC printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one device, saving space and providing versatility for various tasks.
  • Wireless Connectivity: These printers typically support Wi-Fi and mobile printing options, allowing users to print directly from their smartphones or tablets without the need for cables.
  • High Print Quality: Brother MFC printers are known for producing sharp text and vibrant images, making them suitable for both professional documents and photo printing.
  • Fast Print Speeds: Many models in the MFC range offer impressive print speeds, which is essential for busy work environments where time efficiency is critical.
  • Cost-Effective Ink Solutions: Brother’s ink cartridges often have high yield options, which means users can print more pages at a lower cost per page, making them economical for high-volume printing.
  • Robust Build Quality: Brother MFC printers are designed for durability and reliability, often featuring a sturdy construction that withstands regular use in demanding settings.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Most models include intuitive control panels and touchscreen displays, simplifying navigation through various functions and settings.
  • Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): With an ADF feature, users can quickly scan or copy multi-page documents, enhancing productivity by reducing manual handling.
  • Energy Efficiency: Many Brother MFC printers are designed to consume less power, meeting energy-saving standards which can help reduce overall operating costs.

Which Brother MFC Printer Models Are Highly Rated?

On the other hand, the Brother MFC-J995DW stands out for its innovative ink management system, which allows users to print up to a year without needing to replace cartridges. This model is particularly favored for home use or small offices due to its affordability and compact design.

The Brother MFC-L2750DW is a strong contender for those who primarily need monochrome printing but don’t want to compromise on multifunctionality. It combines high-speed printing with reliable scanning and copying capabilities, making it ideal for busy environments.

Lastly, the Brother MFC-J6930DW is tailored for larger print needs, supporting up to 11” x 17” paper sizes, which is perfect for creative professionals or businesses that require various document formats. Its connectivity options, including NFC and wireless printing, facilitate seamless integration into modern office setups.

What Makes a Brother MFC Printer Ideal for Home Use?

The ideal Brother MFC printer for home use is characterized by its versatility, efficiency, and user-friendly features.

  • All-in-One Functionality: Brother MFC printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities in one device, making them perfect for home offices where space is limited. This multifunctionality allows users to handle various tasks without needing multiple machines, saving both space and money.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Many Brother MFC printers offer wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling users to print from multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This feature enhances convenience, as it allows for remote printing and easy sharing among family members.
  • High-Quality Printing: Brother MFC printers are known for their excellent print quality, producing sharp text and vibrant images. They utilize advanced ink and toner technology, which ensures that documents and photos look professional, making them suitable for both personal and professional use.
  • Cost-Effective Printing: These printers are designed to be economical, with options for high-yield cartridges that reduce the overall cost per page. This is particularly beneficial for households that print frequently, as it minimizes the need for constant cartridge replacements.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Most Brother MFC printers come equipped with intuitive control panels or touchscreens, making them easy to navigate. This user-friendly design is essential for family members of all ages, ensuring that everyone can operate the printer without extensive technical knowledge.
  • Compact Design: Brother MFC printers have a compact design that fits well in home environments without taking up too much space. This makes them ideal for smaller workspaces, ensuring that they can be easily integrated into any home office setup.
  • Robust Software Support: These printers often include software for document management, scanning, and mobile printing applications, enhancing their functionality. This software support allows users to streamline their tasks and improve productivity while managing their printing needs efficiently.

How Do Brother MFC Printers Perform for Small Business Needs?

Brother MFC printers are particularly well-suited for small business needs due to their reliability, multifunctionality, and cost-effectiveness.

  • Multifunctionality: Brother MFC printers combine several functions into one device, including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. This versatility helps small businesses save space and reduce costs by eliminating the need for multiple machines.
  • Cost-Effective Printing: These printers often feature high-yield toner cartridges, which can significantly lower the cost per page compared to traditional inkjet models. This is especially beneficial for small businesses that rely on frequent printing without incurring excessive costs.
  • Speed and Efficiency: Many Brother MFC printers offer fast printing speeds, which is crucial for small businesses that need to produce documents quickly. This efficiency helps maintain productivity and meet tight deadlines.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Brother MFC printers typically support wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and mobile printing. This allows employees to print from various devices, enhancing convenience and flexibility in a small business environment.
  • Durability and Reliability: Brother printers are known for their robust build quality and reliability, ensuring consistent performance over time. Small businesses can count on these printers to handle high-volume tasks without frequent breakdowns or maintenance issues.
  • Advanced Features: Many models come equipped with advanced features such as automatic duplex printing, which saves paper and reduces costs. Additionally, some printers include touch-screen interfaces that simplify navigation and operation.

What Are the Key Benefits of Choosing a Brother MFC Printer?

The key benefits of choosing a Brother MFC printer include versatility, cost-effectiveness, and high-quality output.

  • All-in-One Functionality: Brother MFC printers combine multiple functions such as printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, making them a convenient choice for home and office use. This multifunctionality eliminates the need for multiple devices, saving space and reducing clutter.
  • Cost Efficiency: These printers are designed with cost-saving features, including high-yield ink cartridges and energy-efficient operations. This means users can print more pages at a lower cost per page, which is especially beneficial for businesses that require high volumes of printing.
  • High-Quality Output: Brother MFC printers are known for their reliable print quality, producing sharp text and vibrant images, suitable for both professional documents and personal projects. The advanced printing technology ensures that color accuracy and resolution meet the demands of various printing tasks.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Many Brother MFC models come equipped with intuitive touchscreens and easy navigation, making it simple for users to access different functions and settings. This enhances the overall user experience, allowing individuals to quickly adapt to the printer’s capabilities.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Brother MFC printers often feature wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and mobile printing capabilities. This allows users to print documents directly from their smartphones or tablets, providing flexibility and convenience in a modern, mobile-centric environment.
  • Robust Build Quality: Known for their durability, Brother MFC printers are designed to withstand regular use without compromising performance. This makes them a reliable option for both home users and businesses that require a printer that can handle extensive workloads.

How Do Brother MFC Printers Compare to Competitors?

Aspect Brother MFC Printers Competitor A Competitor B
Price Typically range from $150 to $300, offering good value for home offices. Ranges from $200 to $400, often considered more premium. Prices vary widely, starting at $100 but can exceed $500.
Print Quality Known for sharp text and decent color prints, suitable for general use. Offers high-quality color prints, often preferred for graphics-heavy documents. Print quality may vary; some models excel while others underperform.
Features Includes scanning, copying, and faxing with wireless capabilities. Often includes advanced features like duplex printing and mobile printing options. Basic models may lack features, but high-end ones have extensive options.
Operating Costs Cartridge replacements are moderately priced, with good page yields. Higher operating costs due to expensive cartridges, but some offer subscription services. Varies significantly; some models have low costs but high ink prices.
Speed Average printing speed of 30 pages per minute (ppm). Typically around 25 to 35 ppm depending on the model. Varies widely, with some models reaching up to 40 ppm.
Wireless Connectivity Supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connections. Often includes Bluetooth and advanced Wi-Fi Direct options. Basic models may lack Wi-Fi capabilities, high-end ones usually include multiple options.
Dimensions & Weight Compact with dimensions typically around 18 x 15 x 12 inches and weight of 30 lbs. Generally bulkier, measuring 20 x 18 x 14 inches and around 40 lbs. Sizes vary greatly; some compact models exist, while others are larger with weights exceeding 50 lbs.
Customer Support & Warranty Typically offers a 1-year limited warranty with phone support. Often provides a 2-year warranty and 24/7 customer support. Warranty options vary; support may be limited to business hours.

What Common Issues Might You Face with Brother MFC Printers?

Common issues faced with Brother MFC printers include:

  • Paper Jams: Paper jams are a frequent problem in Brother MFC printers that can occur due to improper paper loading or using the wrong paper type. It often requires careful removal of the jammed paper to prevent damage to the printer components.
  • Connectivity Issues: Users may experience connectivity problems, whether using USB, Wi-Fi, or network connections. These issues can stem from network configuration errors, outdated drivers, or interference from other devices.
  • Print Quality Problems: Print quality issues can manifest as faded prints, streaks, or smudges, typically caused by low ink levels, clogged print heads, or the use of non-genuine ink cartridges. Regular maintenance and using the right supplies can help mitigate these problems.
  • Software/Driver Errors: Sometimes, users face challenges with software or driver compatibility, especially after system updates or changes to the operating system. This can result in the printer not being recognized by the computer or not functioning as intended.
  • Scanner Malfunctions: As MFC printers combine printing and scanning functions, scanner malfunctions can occur, often due to software issues or hardware problems such as misalignment or sensor failures. Troubleshooting the device or reinstalling drivers may resolve these issues.
  • Ink Cartridge Recognition Issues: Occasionally, the printer may fail to recognize new or refilled ink cartridges, displaying error messages. This can happen due to incompatible cartridges, improper installation, or firmware issues requiring updates or resets.
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