Brother MFC-5890CN Ink Cartridges

Brother MFC-5890CN Printer Review

The Brother MFC-5890CN is an all-in-one inkjet printer designed to fit the needs of small workgroups. The device can print at maximum speeds of 35 pages per minute for monochrome projects and 28 pages per minute for color, but expert tests showed a lack of consistency and overall slower averages. The unit's design received some negative expert feedback, with the main consolation being its inexpensive Brother MFC-5890CN printer ink that helps to lower running costs.

The device is large, measuring at a bulky 9x19x16 inches that will take up an unnecessary amount of desktop space. The design is further worsened by the confusing control panel that adds to the overall bulk of the machine and has buttons that are occasionally unresponsive. It includes many useful elements like the iPrint&Scan application for mobile printing and a 50-sheet automatic document feeder that can help users work through stacks of papers in no time.

The main cause for concern with this device is its output quality. Tests show that text characters are often hard to read and lack dense black coloration. Photos didn't fare much better, lacking vivid color detail and smooth transitions.

The unit comes with standard connectivity like ethernet for networking, a front USB port for flash drives, and slots for plugging in memory cards. Media handling is somewhat limited for workgroups, with a total capacity of 150 pages that can only support low volumes.

One positive to owning this device is its low cost per page. Each of the individual cyan, magenta, yellow and black Brother MFC-5890CN printer ink cartridges can be replaced with affordable compatible versions. The black Brother MFC-5890CN ink cartridge has a maximum capacity of 900 pages and each color can last approximately 750 pages.

The MFC-5890CN provided mixed results in expert tests, particularly for its disappointing output and dated design. Workgroups in need of a multifunction inkjet printer can probably find a more capable unit for their money, though some home users might find it to be a good bargain for the price.