Printer Review Brother MFC-7840CW

Last Updated on June 15, 2020 by Christian Ralph

Based on Brother’s new range of laser engines the MFC-7840W is just about as compact as you can get for a multifunction machine with a built-in A4 Auto Document Feeder (ADF). With a 250-sheet paper tray and a single-sheet, multi-purpose slot just above, the machine also boasts a straight-through paper path, if you open a cover at the back.

Otherwise, paper feeds through onto the top of the laser engine, protruding only a small amount at the front directly underneath the machine’s control panel. There’s no flimsy output tray sticking out to get caught as you walk past.

The control panel comes with a two-line, 16-character, backlit LCD display; three illuminated mode keys for fax, scan and copy; quick-dial buttons; a number pad for fax dialling; and an eight-button navigation pad that isn’t quite as intuitive as it should be. Finally, a set of option buttons at the extreme left-hand end provides for selections like fax resolution, copy enlargement and reduction, and secure print.

The scanner section at the top of the machine lifts up, but not for access to the drum and toner cartridge. The only reason you might want to raise it is if there’s a paper jam. In fact, this multifunction printer’s consumables slide in as a single cartridge from the front of the machine, once you’ve hinged down the front cover.

USB installation is straightforward enough. The wireless installation Wizard offers automated and manual set-ups to connect to your router.