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Does Brother Sabotage Print Quality with Updates? A Look at Consumer Concerns
Brother printers have recently faced scrutiny over claims that firmware updates may block third-party toner or ink cartridges. Some users worry these updates intentionally degrade print quality when using non-OEM supplies. Let’s break this down.
Claims and Concerns
- Firmware Blocking Third-Party Supplies: Reports suggest Brother firmware updates restrict third-party toner cartridges, forcing users to buy expensive OEM products.
- Removal of Older Firmware: Allegedly, Brother has removed older firmware versions from its support portal, making downgrades impossible.
- Consumer Hostility: Louis Rossmann, a prominent advocate for the “right to repair,” criticized Brother for allegedly becoming a consumer-unfriendly brand like HP, which actively blocks third-party ink use.
Mixed Reporting
Confusion exists between the terms “ink cartridges” and “toner cartridges.” While the accusations focus on toner, some headlines mention ink instead. This inconsistency adds to the uncertainty surrounding the issue.
Personal Experience with Third-Party Toner
I’ve used third-party toner in my Brother printer and noticed streaks and haze in printouts. Switching back to OEM toner resolved the issue immediately. While this could support claims of firmware sabotage, I attribute it to lower-quality third-party supplies rather than deliberate manufacturer interference.
A supplier once offered me an alternative toner product claiming it was OEM-produced but cheaper. Initially, it worked well, but occasional gray haze appeared on printouts. Cleaning the corona wire fixed the problem. This anecdote highlights how third-party consumables can vary in quality.
Brother’s Response
Brother firmly denies accusations of blocking third-party supplies or degrading print quality intentionally. Their statement emphasizes:
- Firmware updates do not restrict third-party ink or toner usage.
- Print quality issues with non-OEM supplies stem from varying quality standards, not deliberate sabotage.
- Troubleshooting often involves testing with OEM consumables to ensure optimal performance.
Brother encourages using genuine supplies but clarifies their updates don’t impact compatibility or features.
What You Can Do
Stick to OEM Supplies
If consistent print quality matters most, OEM toner is a safer bet despite higher costs.
Research Third-Party Brands
Look for reputable suppliers with proven compatibility for your printer model.
Maintain Your Printer
Regularly clean components like the corona wire to prevent issues unrelated to toner quality.
What’s your experience with third-party ink or toner? Have you faced similar challenges?