The Brother MFC-J995DW is a popular all-in-one inkjet printer known for its reliability, affordability, and excellent print quality. A crucial aspect of owning any printer is understanding its ink requirements. Using the correct ink cartridges ensures optimal performance, prevents damage to the printer, and delivers the best possible results. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the ink cartridges compatible with the Brother MFC-J995DW, including genuine Brother cartridges, compatible alternatives, ink yields, and tips for saving money on ink.
Understanding Brother MFC-J995DW Ink Cartridges
The Brother MFC-J995DW utilizes four individual ink cartridges: black, cyan, magenta, and yellow. This means that you only need to replace the color that runs out, which can be more economical than printers that use a single multi-color cartridge. The cartridges are designed specifically for this printer and others in the Brother INKvestment Tank series.
Genuine Brother Ink Cartridges
Brother manufactures its own line of ink cartridges specifically designed for its printers. These cartridges are engineered to work seamlessly with the MFC-J995DW, ensuring optimal print quality and printer performance. Genuine Brother ink cartridges, often referred to as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) cartridges, are the most reliable option, though they tend to be more expensive.
The Brother MFC-J995DW uses the following genuine Brother ink cartridges:
- LC3033 Black: This is the standard yield black ink cartridge.
- LC3033 Cyan: This is the standard yield cyan ink cartridge.
- LC3033 Magenta: This is the standard yield magenta ink cartridge.
- LC3033 Yellow: This is the standard yield yellow ink cartridge.
- LC3035 Black: This is the high yield black ink cartridge.
- LC3035 Cyan: This is the high yield cyan ink cartridge.
- LC3035 Magenta: This is the high yield magenta ink cartridge.
- LC3035 Yellow: This is the high yield yellow ink cartridge.
The “LC” stands for liquid cartridge and the numbers refer to the specific model and yield. The “3033” series are the standard yield cartridges, while the “3035” series are the high-yield cartridges. Choosing high-yield cartridges offers a lower cost per page and reduces the frequency of replacements.
Compatible and Remanufactured Ink Cartridges
Besides genuine Brother cartridges, you can also find compatible and remanufactured ink cartridges for the MFC-J995DW. These are typically less expensive than the OEM cartridges.
Compatible cartridges are brand-new cartridges manufactured by a third-party company. They are designed to be compatible with the Brother MFC-J995DW and offer a lower-cost alternative to genuine cartridges. However, the quality and reliability of compatible cartridges can vary.
Remanufactured cartridges are recycled genuine Brother cartridges that have been cleaned, refilled with ink, and tested. They are also a lower-cost alternative to genuine cartridges and are generally considered to be a more environmentally friendly option. As with compatible cartridges, the quality and reliability of remanufactured cartridges can vary.
It’s important to research and choose reputable brands when considering compatible or remanufactured cartridges to ensure good print quality and prevent potential issues with your printer. Reading customer reviews and checking warranty information can help you make an informed decision.
Ink Yield and Page Capacity
Ink yield refers to the number of pages you can print with a single ink cartridge. This is an important factor to consider when choosing ink cartridges, as it directly impacts the cost per page. Brother provides approximate page yields for its ink cartridges based on ISO/IEC 24711 standards, which involve printing a standardized set of pages.
The approximate page yields for the Brother MFC-J995DW ink cartridges are as follows:
- LC3033 Black: Approximately 400 pages
- LC3033 Cyan: Approximately 400 pages
- LC3033 Magenta: Approximately 400 pages
- LC3033 Yellow: Approximately 400 pages
- LC3035 Black: Approximately 3,000 pages
- LC3035 Cyan: Approximately 1,500 pages
- LC3035 Magenta: Approximately 1,500 pages
- LC3035 Yellow: Approximately 1,500 pages
It’s crucial to remember that these are just approximate yields. Actual page yield can vary depending on several factors, including the content of the pages you are printing (e.g., text vs. images), the print settings you use (e.g., draft mode vs. best quality), and the frequency of printer usage. Printing graphics-heavy documents will consume more ink than printing text-based documents. Using the printer infrequently can also lead to ink drying out, reducing the overall yield.
Factors Affecting Ink Consumption
Several factors can impact how quickly your ink cartridges run out. Understanding these factors can help you optimize your printing habits and save money on ink.
- Print Quality Settings: Higher print quality settings, such as “Best” or “Photo,” consume more ink than lower quality settings, such as “Draft” or “Normal.” For everyday printing, using a lower quality setting can significantly extend the life of your ink cartridges.
- Type of Documents Printed: Printing documents with a lot of images, graphics, or large areas of solid color will consume more ink than printing text-based documents.
- Frequency of Printing: Infrequent printer usage can cause ink to dry out in the cartridges, leading to wasted ink and reduced yield. Regularly printing a few pages, even if it’s just a test page, can help prevent this.
- Printer Maintenance: Performing regular printer maintenance, such as cleaning the print head, can help ensure optimal print quality and prevent ink from clogging the nozzles. This can improve ink efficiency and extend the life of your cartridges.
- Color vs. Black and White Printing: Printing in color consumes significantly more ink than printing in black and white. When possible, switch to black and white printing for documents that don’t require color.
Tips for Saving Money on Ink
Ink costs can add up quickly, especially if you print frequently. Here are some tips for saving money on ink when using your Brother MFC-J995DW:
- Use High-Yield Cartridges: High-yield cartridges may cost more upfront, but they offer a lower cost per page compared to standard yield cartridges. Over the long run, using high-yield cartridges can save you money.
- Print in Draft Mode: When printing documents for internal use or drafts, select the “Draft” or “Economy” print quality setting. This will use less ink and extend the life of your cartridges.
- Print Only What You Need: Avoid printing unnecessary documents or web pages. Preview documents before printing to ensure you are only printing the pages you need.
- Use Black and White Printing: When possible, print documents in black and white instead of color. This is especially useful for documents that primarily contain text.
- Consider Compatible or Remanufactured Cartridges: If you are comfortable using compatible or remanufactured cartridges, they can be a lower-cost alternative to genuine Brother cartridges. However, be sure to research and choose reputable brands to ensure good print quality and prevent potential issues.
- Take Advantage of Printer Features: The Brother MFC-J995DW may have features such as automatic duplex printing (printing on both sides of the page), which can help you save paper and reduce your overall printing costs.
- Buy Ink in Bulk: Consider purchasing ink cartridges in bulk, especially if you print frequently. This can often result in a lower cost per cartridge.
- Enroll in an Ink Subscription Program: Some retailers offer ink subscription programs that automatically ship ink cartridges to your door when you are running low. These programs can often save you money and ensure you always have ink on hand.
- Properly Store Ink Cartridges: Store unopened ink cartridges in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This can help prevent the ink from drying out and extend the shelf life of the cartridges.
Troubleshooting Ink Cartridge Issues
Occasionally, you may encounter issues with your ink cartridges, such as error messages or poor print quality. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
- Check Ink Levels: Ensure that the ink cartridges are not empty or low. The Brother MFC-J995DW should display ink levels on its control panel or in the printer software.
- Clean the Print Head: If you are experiencing poor print quality, such as streaky or faded prints, try cleaning the print head. The Brother MFC-J995DW should have a print head cleaning function in its maintenance menu.
- Align the Print Head: If your prints are misaligned or blurry, try aligning the print head. The Brother MFC-J995DW should have a print head alignment function in its maintenance menu.
- Remove and Reinstall the Cartridges: Try removing and reinstalling the ink cartridges. Make sure they are properly seated in their slots.
- Update Printer Drivers: Ensure that you have the latest printer drivers installed on your computer. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause issues with ink cartridge recognition.
- Contact Brother Support: If you have tried all of the above troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing problems, contact Brother support for assistance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ink for your Brother MFC-J995DW is essential for optimal performance, print quality, and cost-effectiveness. Understanding the different types of cartridges available, their page yields, and factors that affect ink consumption can help you make informed decisions and save money on ink. Whether you choose genuine Brother cartridges or compatible alternatives, following the tips outlined in this guide will ensure you get the most out of your printer and achieve the best possible results. Remember to prioritize reputable brands, monitor ink levels regularly, and perform routine printer maintenance to keep your Brother MFC-J995DW running smoothly. By taking a proactive approach to ink management, you can enjoy hassle-free printing and minimize your overall printing costs.
What type of ink cartridges does the Brother MFC-J995DW printer use?
The Brother MFC-J995DW printer uses the Brother LC3033 series of ink cartridges. This series includes individual cartridges for black, cyan, magenta, and yellow. These are high-yield cartridges designed for users with higher printing needs, offering more prints per cartridge compared to standard yield options.
You can also use the Brother LC3035 series extra-high-yield cartridges. These offer an even greater page yield, making them ideal for users who print frequently and want to minimize the need for replacements. Using these cartridges helps lower the cost per page over time, making them a cost-effective choice for both home and office environments.
Where can I buy ink cartridges for my Brother MFC-J995DW printer?
Brother LC3033 and LC3035 ink cartridges are widely available from various retailers. You can find them at most major office supply stores, both in brick-and-mortar locations and online. Popular online retailers like Amazon, Staples, Office Depot, and directly from the Brother website are reliable sources.
When purchasing, ensure you are buying genuine Brother ink cartridges or reputable third-party compatible cartridges. Using genuine Brother ink guarantees optimal performance and prevents potential damage to your printer. While compatible cartridges can be cheaper, it’s crucial to read reviews and choose a trusted brand to avoid issues such as poor print quality or printer malfunctions.
How many pages can I expect to print with each ink cartridge for the Brother MFC-J995DW?
The Brother LC3033 standard yield cartridges provide a decent page yield for regular printing needs. The black cartridge typically yields around 550 pages, while each color cartridge (cyan, magenta, and yellow) yields approximately 550 pages as well. This makes them suitable for home users and small offices with moderate printing demands.
For users who print frequently, the LC3035 extra-high-yield cartridges offer significantly higher page yields. The black cartridge yields around 3,000 pages, while each color cartridge yields approximately 1,500 pages. These extra-high-yield cartridges are a more economical choice for those who want to reduce the frequency of cartridge replacements.
Are there any generic or compatible ink cartridges available for the Brother MFC-J995DW?
Yes, there are indeed generic or compatible ink cartridges available for the Brother MFC-J995DW. Many third-party manufacturers offer cartridges designed to work with this printer model. These cartridges are often significantly cheaper than genuine Brother ink cartridges.
However, it’s important to exercise caution when purchasing compatible cartridges. While they can save you money upfront, the quality and reliability can vary greatly. Look for reputable brands with positive customer reviews to minimize the risk of poor print quality, cartridge malfunctions, or even printer damage. Genuine Brother ink ensures the best possible performance and longevity for your MFC-J995DW.
How do I replace the ink cartridges in my Brother MFC-J995DW printer?
Replacing the ink cartridges in the Brother MFC-J995DW is a straightforward process. First, ensure that the printer is powered on. Then, open the ink cartridge cover, which is usually located on the front of the printer. The print head carriage will move to the replacement position.
Next, gently push down on the empty ink cartridge to release it from its slot. Then, remove the new ink cartridge from its packaging. Remove the protective cap or seal, and carefully insert the new cartridge into the corresponding slot, ensuring it clicks into place. Close the ink cartridge cover, and the printer will automatically start the initialization process.
What should I do if my Brother MFC-J995DW printer is not recognizing the ink cartridge?
If your Brother MFC-J995DW printer is not recognizing the ink cartridge, first ensure that you are using a compatible cartridge. Check the cartridge model number to confirm it’s either an LC3033 or LC3035 series cartridge. Also, ensure the cartridge is correctly installed, fully seated in its slot, and that the protective seal has been removed.
If the cartridge is compatible and properly installed, try cleaning the contacts on both the cartridge and the printer. Use a lint-free cloth to gently wipe the contacts. You can also try turning the printer off and then on again to reset the system. If the problem persists, the cartridge may be defective and need to be replaced. In rare cases, the printer’s sensor may be faulty, requiring professional repair.
Can I recycle the used ink cartridges from my Brother MFC-J995DW printer?
Yes, you can and should recycle the used ink cartridges from your Brother MFC-J995DW printer. Recycling helps reduce waste and prevents harmful materials from ending up in landfills. Brother offers a recycling program for their ink cartridges, allowing you to return them for proper disposal and recycling.
You can find information about Brother’s recycling program on their website, often including prepaid shipping labels for easy returns. Many office supply stores also offer ink cartridge recycling programs, sometimes providing store credit or other incentives for participating. By recycling your used ink cartridges, you contribute to a more sustainable environment.