Brother MFC-J470DW Printer Review

When it comes to choosing an all-in-one printer for home or small office use, the Brother MFC-J470DW often comes up as a budget-friendly and versatile option. Since its release, it has attracted attention for its low price point, wireless capabilities, and compact design. However, like many entry-level printers, it has its share of user-reported issues and limitations. In this review, we will delve into the common problems users may encounter, provide detailed troubleshooting and usage instructions, and offer an overall assessment to help you determine if this printer meets your needs.

Common User Issues with the Brother MFC-J470DW

The Brother MFC-J470DW promises convenience with its wireless connectivity, automatic document feeder (ADF), and duplex (double-sided) printing. Still, no device is without shortcomings. The most frequently cited problems among users include connectivity challenges, print quality inconsistencies, paper jams, and concerns about ink usage.

• Connectivity Problems
  One of the main selling points of the MFC-J470DW is its wireless printing ability via Wi-Fi and compatibility with mobile devices. However, some users struggle to connect their printer to a wireless network, especially when their Wi-Fi signal is weak or they use complex network security settings. In addition, the initial setup can sometimes be confusing due to the interface and the number of steps involved.
• Print Quality Issues
  Users have reported occasional streaky prints, faded colors, and smudging, particularly after long periods of inactivity. This can be annoying for those needing reliable output for presentations or photographs. Additionally, the default settings may not always provide the best quality, leading to dissatisfaction among users expecting crisp prints out of the box.
• Paper Jams and Feeder Troubles
  While the MFC-J470DW is generally reliable, paper jams can occur, especially when using lower-quality or incorrectly loaded paper. The automatic document feeder, although highly convenient, sometimes struggles with multi-page documents, causing jams or misfeeds.
• High Ink Consumption and Cartridge Warnings
  Budget inkjet printers are notorious for their cost per page, and the MFC-J470DW is no exception. Users sometimes find that ink levels drop quickly or the printer reports low ink even when cartridges still have usable ink. This can prompt premature cartridge replacement—and in turn—increase long-term ownership costs.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Resolve Common Problems

While the Brother MFC-J470DW has its quirks, many issues can be resolved with a few straightforward steps. Here are methods to overcome the most common challenges users face:

Improving Wi-Fi Connectivity

1. Place the Printer Near the Router
   Physical proximity to your Wi-Fi router can dramatically improve signal strength and stability. Ensure the printer is within the router's effective range and not blocked by thick walls or electronic interference.
2. Use the Correct Network and Password
   Double-check that you are connecting to the right network and entering the password correctly. On the printer, navigate through the wireless setup menus to manually select your network.
3. Update the Firmware
   Outdated printer firmware can cause compatibility issues. Visit Brother’s official support website to download and install firmware updates specific to the MFC-J470DW.
4. Restart Devices
   If connectivity fails, restart the printer, router, and your computer or mobile device.

Enhancing Print Quality

1. Run a Print Head Cleaning Cycle
   Access the printer’s maintenance settings and run the print head cleaning tool. This resolves most streaking or missing color issues by clearing minor clogs.
2. Adjust Print Settings
   Switch to a higher quality print mode from the driver settings, especially for photos or graphics. Use genuine Brother ink and recommended paper to ensure the best results.
3. Update or Reinstall Drivers
   If prints are still subpar, visit Brother’s site for the latest driver updates. Sometimes, reinstalling the printer’s software can fix unexplained print quality problems.

Preventing and Clearing Paper Jams

1. Use High-Quality Paper
   Always load paper according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Avoid wrinkled, folded, or irregularly sized sheets.
2. Properly Load the ADF
   Align all pages neatly and avoid overfilling the automatic feeder. Clean the feeder rollers occasionally to prevent slips and misfeeds.
3. Remove Jams Carefully
   If a jam occurs, open the designated covers per the user manual, gently remove jammed paper, and ensure no scraps remain inside the machine.

Managing Ink Consumption

1. Select Draft or Economy Mode
   For everyday printing, use the draft or ink-saving mode. Reserve high-quality modes for important documents or images.
2. Use Genuine Cartridges
   Though third-party cartridges can save money, they may not always sync reliably with the printer’s ink monitoring. Genuine Brother cartridges often yield more consistent performance and accurate ink level readings.
3. Ignore Early Cartridge Warnings
   If the printer warns of low ink but prints appear normal, you can continue to print until the quality drops or the printer refuses to print.
4. Store and Use Cartridges Properly
   Avoid leaving the printer unused for long periods, as ink can dry and clog the print heads. Print a test page occasionally to maintain ink flow.

Conclusion

The Brother MFC-J470DW strikes a balance between affordability and a generous set of features, making it a popular choice for home users, students, and small offices. Wireless printing, automatic duplex, and a space-saving footprint are its strong suits. However, like many entry-level inkjet units, it is not immune to challenges such as intermittent Wi-Fi connections, maintenance-related print quality issues, occasional paper jams, and high ink consumption.

The good news is that with proper setup and regular maintenance, many of these issues are easily navigable, ensuring the printer delivers dependable performance for everyday needs. Its comprehensive feature set remains ahead of many comparably priced competitors, especially given its compact design and user-friendly controls.

Ultimately, the Brother MFC-J470DW is best suited for users who need basic all-in-one functionality, don’t mind occasional tinkering, and are aware of the ongoing costs associated with inkjet printing. If you prioritize price, convenience, and versatility and are prepared to follow some simple maintenance habits, this printer could be a solid addition to your tech arsenal.