The difference between inkjet printers and laser printers doesn’t really come down to a matter of one being better than the other. Rather, it’s a matter of what you plan on using your printer for. Inkjet printers are less expensive than laser printers, and even the most affordable models can typically print color images. Laser printers are more expensive, and if you want a one that can print color, you’ll have to shell out even more. Plus, laser printer toner cartridges cost more than ink cartridges.
So what are the benefits of laser? Laser prints a lot faster than inkjet, and the quality of the text will be cleaner and clearer. Once you get over the sticker shock of a toner cartridge, you’ll realize you’ll likely be saving money in the long run. Toner cartridges last longer than ink, and the options we’ve included below print up to 2,600 pages. If you primarily need a printer to print text, and you want something fast and high quality, laser printers might be the way to go.
If you’ve decided to go all-in on a laser printer, Brother is one of the top names. The next step is to get toner cartridges, and we’ve picked three different options that are produced by Brother (if you’re replacing your empty cartridge, remember to recycle the old one). The guide isn’t meant to say which cartridge is better — that’s because each one is compatible with different models of Brother printers. We’ve included the list of compatible models below for easy reference.
1. Brother Genuine High Yield Toner Cartridge, TN450
This cartridge is designed to print 2,600 pages. It’s compatible with a wide array of Brother devices, including several of its fax machines. Occasionally, a low toner signal will go on well before the toner actually needs to be replaced. The manual recommends pressing the “Go” button seven times to clear this warning and continue printing.
Compatibility: DCP-7060D, DCP-7065DN, IntelliFax-2840, IntelliFAX-2940, HL-2220, HL-2230, HL-2240, HL-2240D, HL-2270DW, HL-2275DW, HL-2280DW, MFC-7240, MFC-7360N, MFC-7365DN, MFC-7460DN, MFC-7860DW
2. Brother High-Yield Toner Cartridge, Black Toner, TN360
This cartridge is a high-yield toner, which means it’s also designed to be able to print up to 2,600 pages on a single cartridge. This cartridge is not OEM (original equipment manufacturer), but rather new and compatible.
Compatibility: DCP-7030, DCP-7040, HL-2140, HL-2170W, MFC-7340, MFC-7345N, MFC-7440N, and MFC-7840W
3. Brother Genuine TN660 High-Yield Black Toner Cartridge
This is an OEM toner cartridge, and it works with 16 different Brother models. Like the other options, it’s high-yield, meaning it can print up to 2,600 pages. Another way to extend the life of this cartridge is as follows: go to “general setup,” then “replace toner” then switch from “stop” to “continue.” This is a way to stop the printer from saying you need a new cartridge before you actually do.
Compatible models: DCP-L2520DW, DCP-L2540DW, HL-L2300D, HL-L2305W, HL-L2315DW, HL-L2320D, HL-L2340DW, HL-L2360DW, HL-L2380DW, MFC-L2680W, MFC-L2685DW, MFC-L2700DW, MFC-L2705DW, MFC-L2707DW, MFC-L2720DW, MFC-L2740DW