Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer: Ultimate All-in-One – Worth It

The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer stands out as a highly versatile and efficient all-in-one wireless color inkjet solution, particularly appealing to home users and small offices.

This comprehensive review delves into its capabilities, performance, and overall value, especially when considering it as an Amazon Renewed product.

Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer Overview

The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer is engineered to meet the diverse demands of modern home offices and small business environments.

As an all-in-one device, it seamlessly integrates printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, providing a comprehensive solution in a single, compact footprint.

This model is particularly noted for its robust wireless connectivity, making it an ideal choice for households and workplaces that rely on mobile devices and cloud-based workflows.

The “DW” in its name signifies its duplex printing capability, a feature that automatically prints on both sides of the paper, significantly reducing paper consumption and promoting eco-friendliness.

Its design is sleek and functional, intended to fit comfortably on a desk without occupying excessive space.

The intuitive 2.7-inch color touchscreen simplifies navigation through its various functions, making it accessible even for users who are not tech-savvy.

For those considering the Amazon Renewed version, this offers an excellent opportunity to acquire a high-quality, fully functional printer at a more attractive price point.

Amazon Renewed products undergo a thorough inspection, testing, and cleaning process by qualified suppliers to ensure they work and look like new.

This commitment to quality means buyers can enjoy the benefits of the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer without the typical concerns associated with purchasing used electronics.

The EPEAT certification further highlights Brother’s commitment to environmental responsibility, indicating the product meets stringent criteria for energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

For more information on the EPEAT standard and its significance, you can visit the EPEAT official website.

From a market perspective, the MFC-J1170DW positions itself as a strong contender in the budget-friendly all-in-one segment, offering features often found in more expensive models.

Its blend of functionality, connectivity, and user-friendly design makes it a compelling option for a wide array of users.

Whether you need to print documents, scan receipts, copy important papers, or send faxes, this device is built to handle it all with efficiency.

The inclusion of NFC one-touch print, cloud print, and mobile app control ensures that printing from various sources is both convenient and quick.

This printer is designed for consistent performance, delivering crisp text and vibrant color graphics for both professional and personal use.

Understanding the full scope of its features and how they translate into real-world benefits is crucial for making an informed purchasing decision.

The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer aims to simplify your daily printing tasks while offering advanced connectivity solutions.

Its robust construction and reliable operation are hallmarks of the Brother brand, known for producing durable office equipment.

The value proposition of a renewed model is particularly strong for this device, allowing access to premium features without the premium price tag.

This makes the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer an excellent investment for anyone seeking a dependable, feature-rich printing solution for their home or small office.

Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer Key Features & Specs

The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer boasts a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance productivity and user convenience in various settings.

At its core, it’s a wireless color inkjet all-in-one printer, meaning it handles printing, scanning, copying, and faxing with ease, all while connecting seamlessly to your network without cables.

One of its most significant advantages is its extensive wireless connectivity options.

It supports standard Wi-Fi, allowing multiple devices to connect and print from anywhere within your network.

Furthermore, it includes NFC One-Touch Print, enabling users with NFC-enabled smartphones or tablets to simply tap their device to the printer for instant printing, removing the need for network configuration.

For modern workflows, the MFC-J1170DW offers robust cloud print and scan capabilities.

Users can print from popular cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and more, or scan documents directly to these platforms, facilitating remote work and document sharing.

The dedicated Brother Mobile Connect app provides full control over the printer from your smartphone or tablet, allowing you to print, scan, copy, and manage printer settings on the go.

This app enhances flexibility, especially for those who frequently work away from their main computer.

A crucial feature for efficiency and cost-saving is automatic duplex printing.

This allows the printer to automatically print on both sides of a page, cutting paper usage in half and making it an environmentally conscious choice.

The printer is equipped with a clear and responsive 2.7-inch color touchscreen display.

This intuitive interface simplifies navigation through menus, making it easy to select functions, adjust settings, and monitor ink levels without needing a computer.

Compatibility with smart home ecosystems is also a highlight, as the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer works with Alexa.

This integration allows for voice-activated printing commands, adding a layer of convenience to daily tasks.

Regarding environmental responsibility, the printer holds an EPEAT certification.

This signifies its compliance with strict environmental performance criteria across its lifecycle, from design and manufacturing to energy efficiency and end-of-life management.

Under the hood, the inkjet technology delivers sharp text and vivid color graphics, suitable for everything from professional reports to family photos.

While specific print speeds can vary, Brother printers are generally known for a good balance of speed and quality for typical home and small office volumes.

Paper handling is managed by a front-loading paper tray, typically holding around 100-150 sheets, accommodating various paper sizes and types, including plain paper, photo paper, and envelopes.

The automatic document feeder (ADF) for scanning and copying multiple pages streamlines tasks, though its capacity might vary.

The physical dimensions are designed to be relatively compact, ensuring it doesn’t dominate your workspace, which is a significant plus for smaller home offices.

Understanding these specifications helps users appreciate the comprehensive functionality packed into the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer.

Its ability to integrate with various devices and platforms ensures a smooth and efficient printing experience for diverse user needs.

The combination of hardware and software features makes it a truly versatile tool for any modern digital environment.

For more detailed specifications, users can always refer to the official Brother support page, which offers in-depth technical documentation. Brother MFC-J1170DW Official Product Page

Pros & Cons

Evaluating the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer requires a balanced look at its strengths and weaknesses, especially for those considering an Amazon Renewed unit.

Understanding these points helps potential buyers align the printer’s capabilities with their specific needs.

Pros of the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer:

• Versatile All-in-One Functionality: This printer truly lives up to its “all-in-one” designation by seamlessly handling printing, scanning, copying, and faxing tasks. This consolidation saves space and the need for multiple devices, making it perfect for home offices.
• Extensive Wireless and Mobile Connectivity: With Wi-Fi, NFC One-Touch Print, and compatibility with the Brother Mobile Connect app, printing from smartphones, tablets, and cloud services is incredibly easy and intuitive. This flexibility is crucial in today’s mobile-first world.
• Automatic Duplex Printing: The ability to automatically print on both sides of a page is a significant advantage. It not only conserves paper, leading to cost savings and environmental benefits, but also makes producing professional-looking documents effortless.
• User-Friendly 2.7″ Touchscreen: The color touchscreen simplifies navigation and operation, allowing users to access functions, adjust settings, and perform maintenance tasks directly from the printer without a computer. Its clear interface enhances the overall user experience.
• Cloud Print & Scan Capabilities: Direct integration with popular cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive means you can print documents stored in the cloud or scan physical documents directly to your cloud storage. This feature greatly enhances workflow efficiency.
• Compact and Space-Saving Design: Despite its multi-functionality, the MFC-J1170DW maintains a relatively compact footprint, making it suitable for smaller desks or home office setups where space is at a premium.
• Works with Alexa: Voice control integration with Amazon Alexa adds a layer of modern convenience, allowing users to initiate printing commands hands-free, which can be particularly useful in a busy environment.
• EPEAT Certified: This environmental certification assures users that the printer meets high standards for energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact throughout its lifecycle, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
• Value from Amazon Renewed: Opting for an Amazon Renewed Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer provides access to these premium features at a lower price point. Renewed products are professionally inspected and tested to function like new, often backed by a guarantee.
• Reliable Brother Brand: Brother has a reputation for producing durable and dependable office equipment. This model generally lives up to that standard, offering consistent performance for everyday tasks.

Cons of the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer:

• Ink Cartridge Replacement Costs: Like many inkjet printers, the ongoing cost of replacing ink cartridges can accumulate over time. While the initial printer price might be attractive, users should factor in the expense of genuine Brother ink, which can be considerable for frequent printing.
• Print Speed for High-Volume Use: While adequate for typical home and small office use, the print speed of the MFC-J1170DW might not be sufficient for environments requiring very high-volume printing. Businesses with constant, large print jobs might find it slower than dedicated laser printers.
• Initial Setup Complexity: Some users, particularly those less familiar with network configurations, might find the initial wireless setup slightly complex. While Brother provides guides, troubleshooting connectivity issues can sometimes be a challenge.
• Limited Paper Capacity: The standard paper tray capacity (typically around 100-150 sheets) is fine for occasional use but can be limiting for users who print large documents frequently. This necessitates more frequent paper refills compared to printers with larger trays.
• ADF Duplex Scanning Limitation: While the printer features an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) for multi-page scanning and copying, some models might not support automatic duplex scanning. This means you may need to manually flip pages to scan both sides of a document, which can be less efficient for two-sided originals.
• Potential for Renewed Product Concerns: While Amazon Renewed products are rigorously tested, some users might still have reservations about purchasing a non-new item. Although a warranty is provided, the perception of buying a “used” item can be a deterrent for some.

Weighing these pros and cons is essential for determining if the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer is the right fit for your specific printing needs and budget.

For most home and small office users, its numerous advantages often outweigh the minor drawbacks, especially given the value offered by a renewed unit.

Who Should Buy the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer?

The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer is a versatile machine, making it suitable for a diverse range of users and environments.

Identifying who stands to benefit most from its features can help potential buyers determine if this all-in-one is the right investment for their specific circumstances.

Home Office Professionals:

Individuals running a home office will find the MFC-J1170DW to be an indispensable tool.

Its all-in-one functionality means they can print reports, scan documents for digital archiving, copy important papers, and even send faxes, all from a single device.

The wireless capabilities are particularly beneficial, allowing seamless integration with laptops, desktops, and mobile devices without cluttering the workspace with cables.

Automatic duplex printing helps save on paper costs, a significant advantage for small businesses and independent contractors.

Small Business Owners:

For small businesses that require a reliable and efficient printer without breaking the bank, especially considering the Amazon Renewed option, the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer is an excellent choice.

It handles moderate print volumes, offers professional-quality output, and its cloud connectivity facilitates document management and collaboration.

The compact size is also a plus for businesses operating in limited office spaces.

Students and Educators:

Students can greatly benefit from the MFC-J1170DW’s ability to print assignments, scan research materials, and copy notes.

Its mobile printing features mean they can easily print from their phones or tablets, which is often more convenient than transferring files to a computer.

Educators working from home or in small school offices will appreciate its versatility for preparing lesson plans, grading materials, and managing administrative tasks.

Families Needing a Centralized Printing Solution:

Families with multiple users and varied printing needs will find the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer to be a central hub for all their document tasks.

Whether it’s printing school projects, concert tickets, family photos, or scanning household bills, its ease of use and diverse connectivity options make it accessible for everyone.

The ability to print wirelessly from multiple devices prevents arguments over who gets to use the computer connected to the printer.

Users Prioritizing Wireless and Mobile Connectivity:

If seamless wireless printing from various devices (laptops, smartphones, tablets) and cloud services is a top priority, then this printer is an ideal candidate.

Its NFC, Wi-Fi, and app-based controls are designed for maximum convenience and flexibility in a modern, connected home or office.

Budget-Conscious Buyers Seeking Value:

The Amazon Renewed option for the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer makes it an exceptionally attractive choice for those looking for premium features without the new product price tag.

Renewed products offer significant savings while still providing the reliability and functionality of a new unit, backed by Amazon’s quality assurance.

Environmentally Aware Consumers:

With its EPEAT certification and automatic duplex printing, the MFC-J1170DW appeals to users who are conscious about their environmental footprint.

These features help reduce energy consumption and paper waste, aligning with sustainable practices.

Anyone Needing a Compact, Feature-Rich All-in-One:

Ultimately, if you need a printer that does it all – print, scan, copy, fax – in a compact form factor, and offers robust wireless capabilities, the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer is an excellent fit.

Its versatility and user-friendly design cater to a broad audience, ensuring that daily document tasks are handled efficiently and effectively.

Considering the robust feature set and the value offered by the renewed program, the MFC-J1170DW is a strong contender for anyone looking to upgrade or acquire a reliable all-in-one printer.

It balances performance, convenience, and cost, making it a smart choice for many.

FAQ about Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer

Q1: What does “Amazon Renewed” mean for the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer?

A1: “Amazon Renewed” indicates that the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer has been professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned by qualified suppliers to work and look like new.

These products are typically pre-owned or open-box items that have been refurbished to a high standard.

They come with the Amazon Renewed Guarantee, which provides a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.

This program allows consumers to purchase high-quality products at a reduced price, contributing to a more sustainable consumption model.

Q2: How is the print quality of the Brother MFC-J1170DW?

A2: The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer, being a color inkjet, delivers crisp black text and vibrant, accurate colors.

It is well-suited for printing a wide range of documents, including professional reports, school assignments, and color graphics.

While not a dedicated photo printer, it can produce good quality photos for casual use, especially on appropriate photo paper.

Its print resolution ensures that details are clear and legible for most home and small office applications.

Q3: Is the Brother MFC-J1170DW easy to set up for wireless printing?

A3: Brother aims for user-friendly setup, and the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer generally offers straightforward wireless setup options.

It supports standard Wi-Fi setup via its touchscreen, and for even easier connection, features like Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) and NFC One-Touch Print simplify the process significantly.

Step-by-step instructions are provided in the manual and on Brother’s support website.

However, like any network device, occasional network configuration challenges can arise, but Brother’s customer support is usually responsive.

Q4: What are the running costs for ink with this printer?

A4: The running costs for the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer primarily depend on the frequency and type of printing (color vs. black-and-white).

It uses individual ink cartridges, meaning you only replace the color that runs out, which can be more economical than printers with combined color cartridges.

Brother offers standard and high-yield ink cartridges, with high-yield options typically providing a lower cost per page for more frequent users.

It’s always advisable to compare the cost of genuine Brother ink cartridges when estimating long-term expenses.

Q5: Can the MFC-J1170DW scan multiple pages automatically?

A5: Yes, the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer is equipped with an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF).

This feature allows you to load multiple pages into the feeder, and the printer will automatically scan or copy them one after another, saving significant time and effort for multi-page documents.

While it supports multi-page scanning, confirm if the ADF also supports duplex (two-sided) scanning for truly hands-free two-sided document processing, as some ADFs only handle single-sided scanning automatically.

Q6: Is the Brother MFC-J1170DW compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems?

A6: The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer offers broad compatibility across major operating systems.

It is fully compatible with both Windows and macOS, with drivers typically available for download from the Brother support website or often detected automatically by the OS.

For Linux users, Brother generally provides drivers and support, though installation might require a bit more technical knowledge.

Its mobile app ensures compatibility with iOS and Android devices as well.

Q7: What kind of warranty comes with an Amazon Renewed Brother MFC-J1170DW?

A7: An Amazon Renewed Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer comes with the Amazon Renewed Guarantee.

This guarantee provides a replacement or a full refund within 90 days of receipt if the product does not work as expected.

This offers peace of mind similar to a manufacturer’s warranty for a new product, ensuring that you receive a fully functional device.

It’s important to check the specific terms and conditions of the Amazon Renewed Guarantee at the time of purchase.

Q8: How does NFC one-touch printing work on this printer?

A8: NFC (Near Field Communication) one-touch printing on the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer offers a super convenient way to print from compatible mobile devices.

If your smartphone or tablet has NFC enabled, you simply need to open the document or image you want to print, then tap your device against the NFC logo on the printer.

The printer and your device will establish a connection and initiate the print job automatically, without needing to open an app or configure network settings.

This feature is a testament to the printer’s focus on modern, hassle-free connectivity.

Final Verdict

The Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer emerges as a highly capable and exceptionally versatile all-in-one color inkjet printer, perfectly suited for the demands of contemporary home offices, small businesses, and busy family environments.

Its robust suite of features, including comprehensive wireless connectivity, automatic duplex printing, and intuitive touchscreen controls, positions it as a strong contender in its class.

The ability to print, scan, copy, and fax from a single, compact device streamlines workflows and saves valuable desk space, a critical consideration for many users.

Its integration with cloud services and mobile apps further enhances its utility, allowing for flexible document management and remote printing capabilities that cater to today’s dynamic work styles.

The addition of NFC one-touch printing and Alexa compatibility underscores its commitment to modern convenience and ease of use, making daily tasks more efficient and enjoyable.

While potential ink costs and print speeds for extremely high volumes are considerations, for the vast majority of users in its target demographic, these are minor trade-offs for the extensive functionality provided.

The EPEAT certification also adds a layer of environmental appeal, aligning with the values of eco-conscious consumers who seek energy-efficient and responsibly manufactured products.

Crucially, opting for an Amazon Renewed Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer represents a truly outstanding value proposition.

This allows consumers to access a top-tier, feature-rich device at a significantly reduced price, without compromising on quality or functionality, thanks to Amazon’s rigorous refurbishment process and guarantee.

It’s an intelligent way to acquire a high-performance printer that feels and operates like new, but at a more accessible cost.

For anyone seeking a reliable, multi-functional, and highly connected printing solution that offers excellent value, especially when purchased through the Amazon Renewed program, the Brother MFC-J1170DW Printer is an investment that is truly worth it.

It delivers on its promises, providing a dependable and efficient hub for all your document needs.