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★★★★☆

Brother MFC-J1170DW Wireless Inkjet All-in-One Printer

Category: Home Use

Key Features

  • Connectivity Technology: USB, Ethernet

  • Printing Technology: Inkjet

  • Special Feature: Auto-Duplex, Network-Ready, Display Screen, Touch Screen, Auto Document Feeder

  • Color: Black

  • Model Name: MFCJ1170DW

  • Printer Output: Color, Monochrome

  • Maximum Print Speed (Color): 16.5 ppm

  • Max Printspeed Monochrome: 17

  • Item Weight: 16.4 Pounds

Overview & First Impressions

The Brother MFCJ1170DW is a compact all-in-one inkjet printer designed for home and small office use. Its sleek black design and relatively lightweight construction make it easy to fit on a desk or shelf. The addition of a 2.7-inch color touchscreen adds a modern touch and promises user-friendliness.

Setup & Ease of Use

Setting up the MFCJ1170DW is straightforward thanks to clear instructions and intuitive menus. The touchscreen makes navigation a breeze, and connecting via USB or Ethernet is simple. The Brother Mobile Connect app enhances usability, allowing for printing, copying, scanning, and printer management from mobile devices.

Print Quality & Performance

Print quality is generally good for an inkjet printer in this price range. Text documents are sharp and legible, while color graphics and photos produce decent results. The 16.5 ppm print speed for color documents is respectable, though monochrome printing is slightly faster at 17 ppm.

Ink/Toner Efficiency & Cost

Brother offers both standard and high-yield ink cartridges for the MFCJ1170DW, allowing users to choose based on their printing volume. The Page Gauge feature in the Brother Mobile Connect app helps track ink levels and avoid unexpected replacements. While initial ink costs are reasonable, long-term running costs depend on your printing habits.

Features & Functionality

The MFCJ1170DW is a feature-rich all-in-one printer. It includes auto duplexing for double-sided printing, a network-ready function for sharing across multiple devices, and a 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) for efficient scanning and copying of multi-page documents.

Noise & Power Consumption

The MFCJ1170DW operates at a relatively quiet level during printing and scanning. Power consumption is moderate, though specific energy usage figures are not provided by the manufacturer.

Durability & Maintenance

Brother printers generally have a good reputation for durability. The MFCJ1170DW's compact design and lack of moving parts contribute to its reliability. Regular maintenance tasks like cleaning print heads and replacing ink cartridges as needed will help ensure optimal performance.

Pros & Cons

Pros:
  • Compact and stylish design

  • Easy-to-use touchscreen interface

  • Fast printing speeds for both color and monochrome documents

  • Versatile paper handling with auto duplexing and ADF

  • Mobile printing capabilities via the Brother Mobile Connect app

  • Cons:
    • Ink costs can add up over time

    • Limited paper capacity

    • No wireless printing capability (requires wired connection)

    Pricing & Value for Money

    The Brother MFCJ1170DW is competitively priced in its category. Considering its features, performance, and ease of use, it offers good value for money, especially for home and small office users who require a reliable all-in-one printer.

    Final Verdict & Recommendation

    The Brother MFCJ1170DW is a solid choice for individuals or small businesses seeking a compact, feature-rich all-in-one inkjet printer. Its user-friendly interface, decent print quality, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment. While ink costs can be a consideration, the overall performance and value proposition make this printer a recommended option.

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