Brother MFC-3240C Ink Cartridges

Brother MFC-3240C Printer Review

The Brother MFC-3240C is an entry-level multifunction device, meaning it is among the more simplistic models that bundle print, scan, copy and fax capabilities. One feature that sets the MFC-3240C apart from higher-end inkjet units in its class is slow output speeds, at a maximum of 20 pages per minute for monochrome documents and 15 pages per minute for color. The device also loses points for its low-yielding supplies and limited feature set, but it is still a good bargain considering it offers home offices true 4-in-1 functionality without a high price tag.

The MFC-3240C's simplistic design is characterized more by downsizing rather than omitting features, such as its basic 1-line LCD display rather than a color touchscreen interface for control. The unit also provides only 16 MB of RAM and can support a small total monthly duty cycle of 3,000 pages, making it suitable for low-volume needs.

The front panel comes fully equipped with all-in-one control tools like a number pad for speed dialing popular fax numbers, buttons to select between monochrome and color copying and a 4-way navigation pad. The front of the device also has a slot that supports flash memory like Memory Stick and enables PC-free photo printing. Users that want to print from their PC can connect via its USB cable or remotely through its network interface.

The MFC-3240C is more compact than typical multifunction devices, measuring only 15x20x11 inches and weighing 12 pounds. The unit's small size is partly due to its limited media handling, which includes a single input tray that can store a maximum of 100 pages of plain paper. The scanner is also equipped with its own 20-sheet automatic document feeder that can support larger jobs.

Users have the option to create between 1 and 99 copies from an original document, which will mirror its quality with a crisp resolution of 1200x600 dpi using Brother MFC-3240C printer ink. The device can print text, graphic and photo projects with a sharp maximum resolution of 6000x1200 dpi, which is a satisfactory quality that's suitable for internal documents.

The unit's 4-color print system includes separate cyan, magenta and yellow Brother MFC-3240C ink cartridges that can last 400 pages each, and one black supply with a capacity of 500 pages. Since OEM supplies are more expensive, users can opt to purchase remanufactured Brother MFC-3240C printer ink cartridges to help reduce expenses.

This compact machine is a flexible 4-in-1 device, but its affordable asking price separates it from the more expensive models that are the top picks in its class of inkjet printers. The unit's low cost also means it provides a more limited package of features, but buyers that don't mind it being on the slower and more simplistic end of comparable models should consider this device for their home office.