Brother MFC-8370DN Review: Reliable Efficiency for Modern Offices

The Brother MFC-8370DN stands out as a popular choice for small businesses and home offices seeking reliable monochrome printing and comprehensive functionality. In this review, we’ll explore the most common issues users encounter with this model, provide practical solutions to resolve them, and offer concluding thoughts on its overall value in today’s printing landscape.

Common Issues Faced by Brother MFC-8370DN Users

While the Brother MFC-8370DN is recognized for its robust performance and multifunctionality—it prints, scans, copies, and faxes—users may encounter several challenges over time. Understanding these issues is key to ensuring continued productivity and satisfaction.

1. Paper Jams and Misfeeds
   Frequent paper jams are among the most reported issues with the MFC-8370DN. These disruptions often occur due to worn feed rollers, using paper outside the recommended specifications, or loading an overfilled tray. Misfeeds can also result from accumulated dust or debris inside the printer.
2. Toner Recognition Errors
   The printer occasionally fails to recognize new toner cartridges. This often happens if a non-genuine cartridge is used or if the cartridge chip fails to reset properly. In some instances, excessive shaking or improper installation can also lead to recognition errors.
3. Streaks, Smudges, and Print Quality Issues
   Deterioration in print quality, such as streaks, faded prints, or smudges, can frustrate users. These problems may stem from a worn or dirty drum unit, low toner levels, or incorrect print settings, particularly when printing detailed graphics.
4. Network Connectivity Problems
   Since the Brother MFC-8370DN supports network printing, users sometimes experience connectivity issues over Ethernet. Problems may arise due to outdated firmware, IP address conflicts, or inconsistent network settings.
5. Slow Printing or Scanning Speeds
   Some users find print or scan speeds slower than advertised, especially in environments with heavy workloads or when high-resolution scans are required. This could be attributed to overloaded queues, low memory, or bottlenecks in network traffic.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Common Problems

1. Preventing and Clearing Paper Jams
   • Always use paper that meets the recommended weight (16 to 28 lbs) and moisture content.
   • Fan the paper stack before loading to prevent sheets from sticking together.
   • Regularly clean the feed rollers and the interior of the tray with a soft, lint-free cloth.
   • If a jam occurs, follow the printer’s on-screen instructions or use the manual, carefully removing jammed sheets without tearing.
   • Don’t overfill the tray—keep the paper stack below the maximum fill line.
2. Fixing Toner Recognition Errors
   • Use genuine Brother toner cartridges whenever possible to ensure compatibility.
   • Reinstall the toner cartridge: remove it, gently rock it side to side, then reseat it firmly.
   • If the error persists, reset the toner counter. With the front door open, press the "Clear/Back" key, then select the appropriate reset option ("1" for new toner).
   • For persistent issues, gently clean the cartridge chip area with a dry, lint-free cloth before reinserting.
3. Addressing Print Quality Issues
   • Clean the corona wire by sliding the blue tab several times from left to right (be sure to return it to its home position).
   • Replace the drum unit if cleaning doesn’t help and streaks remain.
   • Check toner levels; replace the toner if low.
   • Adjust print density settings in the printer’s control panel for crisper output.
   • Use high-quality paper designed for laser printers, especially for graphics or images.
4. Resolving Network Connectivity Issues
   • Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected and the router is functioning correctly.
   • Print a network configuration report from the printer to review the IP address settings.
   • Assign a static IP address to the printer to prevent conflicts.
   • Update the printer’s firmware and network drivers from the Brother support website.
   • If issues persist, restart the printer, router, and connected devices in this order.
5. Improving Print and Scan Speeds
   • Limit the number of devices sending jobs to the printer simultaneously.
   • Ensure large files or complex graphics are optimized or compressed before printing or scanning.
   • Increase the MFC-8370DN’s memory (where possible) to handle larger jobs more smoothly.
   • For scanning, adjust the scan resolution to a level appropriate for your needs rather than always selecting the maximum.

Conclusion: Is the Brother MFC-8370DN Still Worth Considering?

Despite being an older model, the Brother MFC-8370DN continues to serve as a solid, dependable choice for those seeking all-in-one functionality with a focus on monochrome printing. Its strengths include a fast print speed (up to 28 ppm), duplex capabilities for double-sided printing, and robust connectivity options for networked environments.

However, prospective buyers should be aware of the common pitfalls—such as paper jams, toner recognition issues, and potential network hiccups—and take proactive steps to prevent and mitigate them. Regular maintenance and the use of genuine supplies can considerably extend the printer’s reliability and ensure quality output.

For businesses or users needing basic, high-volume black-and-white printing with occasional scanning, faxing, and copying, the Brother MFC-8370DN presents significant value. Its tank-like durability, straightforward interface, and comprehensive feature set make it a worthwhile investment, even as newer models with wireless capabilities enter the market.

In summary, the MFC-8370DN is not without its quirks, but with appropriate care and troubleshooting, it remains a workhorse in environments that prioritize efficiency and reliability over the latest features. If you can find it at a reasonable price, especially refurbished or well-maintained, it remains a smart choice for traditional office workflows.