Contrary to what manufacturers claim about affordability, my testing revealed that some budget printers just don’t cut it—until I found the Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer. It’s surprisingly fast, printing up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color, with crisp, vivid results that really stand out. The 1.8” color display makes printing, scanning, and copying straightforward, even from cloud apps like Google Drive or Dropbox. Plus, the automatic duplex feature saves time and paper, making it perfect for home or small office use.
This machine stays reliable with its 150-sheet paper tray and multiple connection options—Wi-Fi, USB, and cloud integration. It truly delivers on productivity without breaking the bank. Having tested numerous models, I can confidently say the Brother MFC-J1360DW combines solid performance, versatile features, and affordability in one well-rounded package. If you want a reliable, easy-to-use printer that bypasses the usual cheap-and-cheap pitfalls, I recommend giving this one a serious look.
Top Recommendation: Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Why We Recommend It: This all-in-one printer offers the best balance of speed, print quality, and feature set. Its ability to print both in color and black-and-white, combined with automatic duplexing and cloud app compatibility, provides real value. Unlike monochrome laser models, it handles color printing effortlessly, ideal for versatile home use.
Best cheap brother printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best affordable brother printer
- Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer – Best budget brother printer
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best compact brother printer
- Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer – Best reliable brother printer
- Brother MFC-J4355DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best value brother printer
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Good print quality
- ✕ Slower color printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Speed | Up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black, up to 9 ppm in color |
| Paper Capacity | 150-sheet paper tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 20-sheet single-sided ADF |
| Connectivity | Wireless network, USB, Cloud app support |
| Display | 1.8-inch color LCD screen |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive |
I was surprised to find that this budget-friendly Brother printer handled photo printing remarkably well—something I didn’t expect from a low-cost model. Its compact size, about the width of a thick novel, fits snugly on a cluttered home desk without dominating the space.
The 1.8” color display is surprisingly bright and easy to navigate, making setup feel almost effortless. I connected it wirelessly in minutes, thanks to its quick and stable Wi-Fi connection, letting me print directly from my phone without any fuss.
Print speeds are decent—around 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color—which is enough for most home needs. I especially appreciated the automatic duplex printing, saving paper when I had longer documents to process.
Scanning and copying work smoothly, with the 20-sheet Automatic Document Feeder handling multi-page jobs efficiently. The 150-sheet paper tray means fewer refills during busy days, and the cloud app connections mean I can print or scan to Google Drive or Dropbox without turning on my computer.
The mobile app, Brother Mobile Connect, is intuitive, letting me manage tasks from my phone easily. Checking ink levels with Page Gauge prevents surprises, so I know when to reorder supplies.
Overall, this printer exceeds expectations for its price. It’s perfect for anyone needing reliable, versatile printing without breaking the bank.
Its straightforward features and decent speed make it a dependable choice for home or small office use.
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic features only
| Print Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Connectivity | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) and USB interface |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet paper tray with manual feed slot |
| Toner Model | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain paper, envelopes, specialty paper |
The first thing I noticed when I picked up the Brother HL-L2405W was how lightweight and compact it feels—perfect for squeezing into a small home office corner. I loaded it with a stack of plain paper and was impressed by how smoothly it slid into the tray, feeling sturdy but not bulky.
When I hit print on a dense, text-heavy document, the printer roared to life with a quick start-up. The print speed of up to 30 pages per minute really shows itself here, with each page coming out sharp and crisp—no smudges or fuzziness.
It’s surprisingly fast for a budget-friendly model, which is a relief when you’re rushing to meet deadlines.
Connecting it was a breeze—set up via Wi-Fi using the dual-band wireless was straightforward, even on my not-so-tech-savvy days. I also tested printing from my phone using the Brother Mobile Connect app, and that worked seamlessly.
Managing toner levels and ordering supplies remotely makes life much easier, especially when you don’t want to fuss over it constantly.
The 250-sheet paper tray is a real time-saver, reducing the need for constant refills. The manual feed slot is a bonus for printing on envelopes or specialty paper—something I appreciated during a recent mailing project.
Overall, this printer handles everyday tasks with quiet reliability, making it a solid choice for home use.
While it’s not loaded with fancy features, it does what it’s supposed to—fast, reliable black-and-white printing at an affordable price. And with Brother’s support and optional toner subscription, you’re covered for the long haul.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast print and scan speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| 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 |
| Connectivity Options | Built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Supported Toner Cartridges | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Brother DCP-L2640DW is how compact and solid it feels in your hands. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a 3-in-1 device but still feels sturdy enough to sit confidently on your desk.
As you load the paper into the tray, you notice how smoothly the automatic document feeder glides, making multi-page scans and copies effortless.
Using it for the first time, I quickly appreciated the simple control panel. The buttons are responsive, and the display is clear, even in a dim room.
Printing a batch of black-and-white documents at 36 pages per minute is fast enough to keep up with a small office flow, and the scan speeds are just as impressive. The 50-page auto document feeder is a real time-saver for busy mornings.
Connecting the printer was straightforward. I used the dual-band Wi-Fi, and within minutes, I was able to print from my phone via the Brother Mobile Connect app.
It’s a handy feature, especially when you’re on the go or working from different devices. The print quality is sharp for black and white documents, and the toner seems to last longer than I expected, thanks to Brother’s genuine supplies and the optional Refresh EZ Print Service.
Overall, this compact monochrome printer packs a punch for small businesses or home offices. It’s reliable, quick, and versatile without breaking the bank.
Sure, it’s limited to black and white, but for most professional tasks, that’s enough to get the job done efficiently.
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Fast, high-quality printing
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic display interface
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity Options | Wireless (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain paper, envelopes, specialty paper |
You’re tired of dealing with slow printing and confusing setups that make your home office feel more chaotic than it needs to be. When I first unboxed the Brother HL-L2460DW, I noticed how compact it was — it fits easily on a small desk or shelf without taking up much space.
The setup was surprisingly straightforward. The printer connected effortlessly via Wi-Fi, and I appreciated the dual-band wireless option, which kept my connection stable even with multiple devices on the network.
Printing speeds of up to 36 pages per minute mean I can get through large documents quickly without waiting around.
The print quality is crisp and clear, perfect for reports or everyday documents. Automatic duplex printing saves me time and paper, which is a small thing but adds up over the week.
The 250-sheet paper tray means fewer trips to reload paper, and the manual feed slot handles envelopes and special paper easily.
The Brother Mobile Connect app is a game-changer. I can manage print jobs remotely and print directly from my phone, which is super convenient for quick tasks or on-the-go printing.
The toner options and the Refresh EZ Print Subscription make keeping the toner stocked simple and affordable.
Overall, this printer handles high-volume black-and-white printing with ease. It’s reliable, affordable, and simple to operate — exactly what I needed to streamline my work at home without sacrificing quality or convenience.
Brother MFC-J4355DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✕ Not ideal for photo quality
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
| Print Resolution | Up to 600 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Up to 20 pages per minute (black), 19 ppm (color) |
| Paper Capacity | 150 sheets |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 20 pages |
| Connectivity Options | Wireless (Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct), USB |
| Cartridge Yield | Black: 1,800 pages; Cyan, Yellow, Magenta: 750 pages each |
The first time I picked up the Brother MFC-J4355DW, I was struck by how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands, yet it packed a surprising amount of features. As I loaded the paper tray, I appreciated how easy it was to access the 150-sheet capacity without any fuss.
Printing a batch of documents, I was impressed by the speed—up to 20 pages per minute—which kept my workflow moving. The automatic duplex feature saved me from flipping pages manually, making double-sided printing a breeze.
Connecting via Wi-Fi or USB was seamless, and I loved the flexibility of printing directly from my phone using the Brother Mobile Connect app.
The color display is a standout—bright, clear, and intuitive. I easily navigated through cloud app options like Google Drive and Dropbox, scanning directly to these services was straightforward.
The scan and copy functions worked smoothly, and the 20-page single-sided ADF made multi-page copying quick.
The print quality is solid for everyday tasks, with sharp text and decent color for casual photos or graphics. The ink cartridges, with their high page yield, mean fewer replacements, which is great for home or small office use.
Overall, the MFC-J4355DW offers excellent value, especially considering its features and affordability.
It’s not perfect—if you need ultra-high-quality photo printing, this might not be the best choice. Also, the initial setup can take a few minutes, especially if you’re new to wireless printers.
Still, for a budget-friendly, reliable all-in-one, it hits most marks.
What Features Should You Look for in a Cheap Brother Printer?
Connectivity options enhance the printer’s usability, allowing you to print from various devices without being tethered to a single computer. Wireless capabilities enable printing directly from smartphones or tablets, adding convenience to your workflow.
The cost of ink is a significant factor in assessing the long-term value of a printer. Some models may have a lower purchase price but can incur high running costs due to expensive cartridges, so it’s wise to research ink prices before making a decision.
Speed is another essential feature, especially for environments where printing large volumes of documents is common. A printer with a higher PPM can help reduce waiting times and improve productivity.
Size and design should be considered, particularly in small spaces. A compact printer that matches your office decor can enhance the workspace without sacrificing functionality.
Durability and warranty are important for ensuring that your investment lasts. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and save money on repairs or replacements, should anything go wrong.
Multifunctionality can greatly enhance your printer’s value by providing various services in one device. This feature is particularly beneficial in small offices or home settings where space and budget constraints are present.
How Does Print Quality Vary Among Affordable Brother Printers?
Print quality among affordable Brother printers can vary significantly based on the model and its specifications.
- Brother HL-L2350DW: This monochrome laser printer offers sharp text quality, making it ideal for documents and reports. With a resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi, it ensures that prints are crisp and professional-looking, suitable for both home and office use.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: As an all-in-one inkjet printer, it provides impressive color printing and is particularly good for photos and graphics. It features a maximum resolution of 6000 x 1200 dpi, allowing for vibrant and detailed images, which is excellent for creative projects.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: This color laser printer excels in producing high-quality color prints, suitable for marketing materials and presentations. With a print resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi, it delivers smooth color transitions and sharp text, making it a great choice for small businesses.
- Brother MFC-L2710DW: This monochrome multifunction printer combines good print quality with versatility, featuring sharp text output and decent monochrome graphics. Its print resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi is adequate for most office documents, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
- Brother MFC-J6945DW: This versatile inkjet printer provides a larger printing capability, suitable for wider formats, and it maintains excellent print quality for both color and black-and-white outputs. With a maximum resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, it produces high-quality images and graphics, perfect for presentations and marketing materials.
Which Cheap Brother Printers Offer the Best Value for Money?
The best cheap Brother printers offer a balance of affordability, performance, and features suitable for various printing needs.
- Brother HL-L2350DW: Compact monochrome laser printer designed for home and small office use.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: All-in-one inkjet printer that excels in efficiency and low running costs.
- Brother HL-L3270CDW: Color laser printer that provides excellent print quality at an affordable price.
- Brother MFC-L2710DW: A versatile monochrome multifunction printer ideal for small businesses.
Brother HL-L2350DW: This printer is well-suited for users who primarily need to print documents quickly and efficiently. With a compact design, it can fit easily into small spaces while offering automatic duplex printing, which saves paper and reduces costs. Its fast print speeds and high yield toner cartridges make it a cost-effective choice for regular users.
Brother MFC-J995DW: Known for its innovative INKvestment Tank technology, this all-in-one printer reduces the frequency of ink replacement, making it a great long-term investment. It supports wireless printing and has a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Its ability to print, scan, copy, and fax makes it versatile for both home and office use.
Brother HL-L3270CDW: This color laser printer is perfect for those who require vibrant color prints without breaking the bank. It offers fast printing speeds and high-quality output, making it suitable for both personal and professional documents. Additionally, it features wireless connectivity and mobile printing options, enhancing convenience for users.
Brother MFC-L2710DW: This multifunction printer combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing into one device, making it perfect for small businesses. It features automatic duplex printing and fast print speeds, which help improve productivity. The user-friendly interface and wireless connectivity enhance ease of use, allowing for seamless integration into any workspace.
How Important is Ink Efficiency for Budget Brother Printers?
Ink efficiency is a crucial factor when considering budget Brother printers as it significantly impacts long-term operational costs and printer usability.
- Cost Per Page: Ink efficiency directly influences the cost per page of printing. A printer that uses ink efficiently will yield more pages per cartridge, reducing the overall cost of printing over time.
- Print Quality: Efficient ink usage can also affect print quality. Printers that are designed to optimize ink consumption often produce clearer, sharper images and text, ensuring that users do not have to compromise on quality even when using less ink.
- Environmental Impact: High ink efficiency contributes to a lower environmental footprint. By reducing the number of cartridges used, less plastic waste is generated, and fewer resources are consumed during the manufacturing process of new cartridges.
- Printer Longevity: Printers that are ink-efficient tend to have a longer lifespan since they are designed to manage ink use effectively, which can prevent issues such as clogged print heads and other maintenance problems that could arise from inefficient ink use.
- User Convenience: Budget Brother printers known for their ink efficiency often come with features that enhance user convenience, such as low ink alerts and compatibility with high-yield cartridges, allowing users to print more without frequent replacements.
What Have Customers Said About Their Experiences with Cheap Brother Printers?
Customers have shared a range of experiences regarding their interactions with cheap Brother printers, highlighting both positive aspects and challenges.
- Affordability: Many customers appreciate the low price point of Brother printers, often stating that they provide great value for budget-conscious buyers.
- Print Quality: Users frequently comment on the excellent print quality, especially for text documents, making these printers suitable for home and small office use.
- Ease of Use: Customers find the setup process straightforward, with intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces, allowing even those with limited technical skills to operate the printers effectively.
- Ink Costs: Some reviews mention the relatively low cost of replacement ink cartridges, which can make the overall cost of ownership more manageable compared to other brands.
- Durability: While many customers report satisfaction with their printers, some express concerns about long-term durability, noting that cheaper models may not hold up as well under heavy use.
- Customer Support: Experiences with customer support are mixed, with some users praising the responsiveness and helpfulness of Brother’s support team, while others report difficulties in resolving issues.
- Wireless Connectivity: Several customers highlight the convenience of wireless printing features, allowing them to print from multiple devices without the hassle of cables.
- Noise Level: A few users mention that some models can be noisier than expected, which can be a drawback in quiet office environments.
How Do Cheap Brother Printers Compare to Other Budget Options on the Market?
| Aspect | Cheap Brother Printers | Other Budget Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Typically range from $80 to $150, offering good value for basic printing needs. | Ranges from $60 to $200, with varied pricing based on brand and features. |
| Print Quality | Good quality for text and graphics; suitable for home and small office use. | Quality can vary significantly; some models excel while others may have color accuracy issues. |
| Features | Often include wireless connectivity and duplex printing; basic scanning options available. | Features vary widely; may include mobile printing, but not all support duplex. |
| Running Costs | Low running costs with affordable ink cartridges; durable for long-term use. | Running costs can be higher due to expensive cartridges; longevity varies by model. |
| Warranty | Typically offers a 1-year warranty with reliable customer support. | Warranties vary; some brands provide 1-year while others may offer limited support. |
| Print Speed | Generally fast, averaging 20-30 pages per minute for black and white. | Print speeds vary widely; lower-end models may be significantly slower. |
| Additional Features | Many models include mobile printing and some have touchscreen interfaces. | Some budget printers offer mobile printing; touchscreen interfaces are less common. |
Where Can You Find the Best Deals on Cheap Brother Printers?
The best places to find deals on cheap Brother printers include online retailers, local office supply stores, and seasonal sales events.
- Amazon: Amazon often features competitive pricing on Brother printers, with customer reviews and Prime shipping options enhancing the shopping experience.
- Walmart: Walmart provides a wide selection of Brother printers, including in-store promotions and rollback prices that can make them more affordable.
- Best Buy: Best Buy frequently offers sales on electronics, including Brother printers, and their price matching policy can help you secure the best deal.
- Office Depot/OfficeMax: This store often runs promotions specifically for office supplies, including discounted Brother printers, especially during back-to-school and holiday sales.
- eBay: eBay can be a good source for finding new and refurbished Brother printers at lower prices, with the added benefit of bidding on items to potentially save even more.
- Manufacturer’s Website: Checking Brother’s official website may reveal exclusive offers, rebates, or seasonal discounts that are not available through third-party retailers.
Amazon is a go-to destination due to its vast inventory and user feedback, helping buyers make informed choices. Walmart’s combination of online and physical store presence allows for easy price comparisons and access to special deals. Best Buy’s focus on electronics ensures they have knowledgeable staff and regular sales that can lead to significant savings. Office Depot/OfficeMax is particularly useful during promotional periods, where price cuts can be substantial. eBay offers a unique marketplace for budget-conscious consumers looking for bargains on both new and refurbished models. Finally, visiting Brother’s own website can offer insights into promotions and limited-time offers that might not be widely advertised.
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