Brother MFC-J5620DW Review

Introduction

The Brother MFC-J5620DW is a multifunction color inkjet printer designed for small offices and home users who need a reliable, versatile, and cost-effective all-in-one solution. With robust printing, scanning, copying, and faxing functions, the MFC-J5620DW offers wireless connectivity, duplex printing, and support for a range of paper sizes up to A3. As with any device, users may encounter specific issues that could hinder productivity or cause frustration. In this review, we will explore common reasons why users may experience problems with the Brother MFC-J5620DW, provide a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting and resolving these issues, and summarize the strengths and weaknesses of this device.

1. Common User Problems and Their Causes

The Brother MFC-J5620DW is a highly-rated device, but users sometimes report problems affecting the printer’s performance or operation. Some of the most frequent issues include:

• Paper Jams and Misfeeds
  One of the most common complaints among printer users is paper jams. With the MFC-J5620DW's capability to handle different media sizes—including up to A3—incorrect paper loading, use of wrinkled or damp paper, or overfilling the tray can cause frequent jams or misfeeds.
• Print Quality Issues
  Users may observe streaks, faded prints, or colors not appearing correctly. This often results from clogged print heads, low ink levels, or using non-genuine ink cartridges that do not meet Brother's quality standards.
• Connectivity Problems
  Wireless printers like the MFC-J5620DW can sometimes lose connection to Wi-Fi networks or experience slow printing speeds over a network. Incorrect network settings, interference, or outdated firmware may contribute to these connectivity issues.
• Error Messages and Codes
  The printer may display error codes or messages such as “Ink Absorber Full,” “Paper Tray Empty,” or “Cannot Detect Ink Cartridge.” These are typically caused by improper installation of consumables, mechanical issues, or sensor faults.
• Slow Printing Performance
  For users with high-volume printing needs, the speed at which the MFC-J5620DW operates—especially when printing large photos or documents—can become a concern. This may be due to high-resolution settings, outdated drivers, or heavy network load.

Understanding these potential problems and their root causes is essential for extending your printer’s lifespan and ensuring consistent, high-quality output.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Problems

While the Brother MFC-J5620DW is designed for ease of use, resolving issues promptly requires some basic troubleshooting steps. Here’s a practical guide to help users address the most common problems:

• Resolving Paper Jams and Misfeeds
  • Always use paper that meets the recommended specifications for the device.
  • Avoid overfilling the paper tray and ensure the guides are set to the correct paper size.
  • In the event of a jam, open the scanner unit, remove the paper tray, and gently pull out any stuck paper. Check for small scraps that may remain lodged inside.
  • Clean the rollers periodically to prevent dust buildup, which can hinder paper feeding.
• Improving Print Quality
  • Run the built-in print head cleaning utility from the device menu or Brother’s software suite. This will help clear blocked nozzles.
  • Replace any ink cartridges that are low or empty. Using genuine Brother ink is recommended for the best quality.
  • Align the print heads using the printer’s maintenance settings, and run a test print to confirm improvement.
  • If quality issues persist, check for firmware updates on Brother’s website, as updates may address print anomalies.
• Restoring Wireless and Network Connections
  • Ensure the printer and the router are within reasonable range and free from physical obstructions or sources of interference (such as microwaves, cordless phones).
  • Restart both the printer and your router to refresh the connection.
  • If problems continue, reconnect the printer to the Wi-Fi network using the setup wizard on the control panel.
  • Confirm your computer or mobile device is on the same network as the printer. Reinstall the printer drivers if necessary.
• Addressing Error Messages
  • If the printer reports “Cannot Detect Ink Cartridge,” remove and reinstall the cartridges, ensuring they are seated correctly.
  • For “Ink Absorber Full,” consult Brother service for maintenance or follow guidance for resetting the ink absorber counter.
  • If a sensor or mechanical fault is indicated, examine the affected part for dust, debris, or obstructions, and gently clean or reposition as warranted.
• Enhancing Printing Speed
  • Lower the print quality settings for draft documents to improve print speed.
  • Close unnecessary network applications or reduce network traffic if printing over Wi-Fi.
  • Ensure the latest drivers and firmware are installed for optimal compatibility and performance.
  • For large or complex documents, consider connecting the printer via USB for the fastest transfer speeds.

3. Conclusion

The Brother MFC-J5620DW continues to stand out in the crowded field of all-in-one inkjet printers thanks to its flexible media handling (up to A3 size), rich feature set, and impressive print quality for both black-and-white and color output. Its wireless connectivity, automatic duplexing, and the ability to scan, copy, and fax make it a formidable choice for small offices or busy home users.

However, as with any advanced technology, occasional issues may arise—from paper jams and connectivity hiccups to print quality concerns. The key to minimizing downtime and maintaining professional results lies in understanding the fundamental causes of these problems and applying systematic troubleshooting steps. Regular maintenance, the use of quality supplies, and keeping software up to date will further boost the longevity and efficiency of your printer.

For those seeking a cost-effective, multi-functional device with the versatility to handle a variety of paper types and sizes, the Brother MFC-J5620DW remains a compelling option. With the right care and prompt attention to issues, this printer can be a valuable hub of productivity for years to come.