The Brother MFC-J995DW is a popular all-in-one inkjet printer known for its fast printing, robust feature set, and compact design—ideal for home offices and small businesses. However, one of the most common questions potential buyers face when considering this model is: Does the Brother MFC-J995DW come with ink? The answer is yes—but with some important caveats that can affect your purchasing decision and long-term printing costs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the reality behind the ink included with the Brother MFC-J995DW, break down the included cartridge details, compare yields, and help you make a smart, cost-effective decision. Whether you’re printing documents, sending faxes, scanning photos, or creating high-quality color prints, understanding what’s included out of the box is crucial.
Brother MFC-J995DW: An Overview of Key Features
Before diving into the ink situation, it’s important to understand what makes the Brother MFC-J995DW stand out in a crowded market. This device is part of Brother’s INKvestment Tank series, a line designed to deliver low-cost printing over time using high-capacity ink tanks rather than standard cartridges.
Core Features
- Ink Tank System: Unlike traditional printers that rely on small ink cartridges, the MFC-J995DW uses Brother’s INKvestment Tank system, which means larger ink reservoirs are built in, reducing the frequency of refills.
- Wireless Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi, mobile printing (via Brother iPrint&Scan app), AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and NFC for seamless printing from smartphones and tablets.
- All-in-One Functionality: Print, scan, copy, and fax—making it ideal for home offices or small business environments.
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): 20-sheet capacity for scanning and copying multi-page documents without manually feeding each page.
- Automatic Double-Sided Printing: Saves paper and increases efficiency for professional-quality documents.
With such robust features, the MFC-J995DW promises efficiency and cost savings—but how does the included ink play into this equation?
Does the Brother MFC-J995DW Include Ink at Time of Purchase?
Yes, the Brother MFC-J995DW does come with ink when you buy it. However, it’s essential to understand the nature and quantity of that ink. Like many modern inkjet printers, Brother equips the MFC-J995DW with what is commonly referred to as “starter” or “setup” cartridges—in other words, ink that’s meant to get you started, not sustain heavy or long-term printing.
What Ink Is Included?
When you unbox the MFC-J995DW, you’ll find four genuine Brother ink cartridges inside:
- BK (Black)
- C (Cyan)
- M (Magenta)
- Y (Yellow)
Each of these cartridges is pre-filled and ready to use right out of the box. But here’s the key detail: these are not full-yield cartridges. Instead, they’re typically filled to about 30-50% of the standard capacity.
Estimated Ink Yield of Starter Cartridges
Brother does not always publish official page yields for starter cartridges, but based on user experience and third-party testing, here’s an approximate yield for the initial setup ink:
| Ink Color | Estimated Yield (Pages) | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Black (BK) | ~1,000 pages | Starter Ink |
| Cyan (C) | ~600 pages | Starter Ink |
| Magenta (M) | ~600 pages | Starter Ink |
| Yellow (Y) | ~600 pages | Starter Ink |
These yields are based on ISO standards with 5% page coverage (a typical letter-sized page with standard text). If you’re printing photos, full-color graphics, or dense documents, the actual number of pages you get will be far lower.
Why Starter Ink Is Different From Regular Ink
Print manufacturers like Brother include starter ink to reduce the initial cost of the printer and provide an easy setup experience. However, there are some important implications:
Limited Long-Term Value
While getting free ink sounds great, the reality is that starter ink is not meant for long-term use. Many users find that they need to replace cartridges within a few weeks or months—even with moderate printing. This can lead to a misleading sense of low ink costs.
Marketing Strategy Behind Starter Ink
The MFC-J995DW’s design reflects a broader industry strategy: sell the printer at a lower cost and recoup profits through ink purchases over time. By including limited ink, Brother ensures that users will return to purchase full-featured cartridges or refill bottles, which are designed to be cost-effective in the long run.
Licensing and Cartridge Design
The Brother MFC-J995DW uses Brother’s proprietary ink tank system. The included starter cartridges are compatible only with Brother Ink Tank printers and are engineered to work seamlessly with the printer’s refillable tanks. This contributes to reliability but can also limit your ability to use generic or third-party inks without risking compatibility issues.
Understanding the Brother INKvestment Tank System
To truly appreciate the ink strategy behind the MFC-J995DW, it’s helpful to understand the INKvestment Tank system that the printer is built around.
How the INKvestment Tank Works
Instead of disposable cartridges, the MFC-J995DW has a continuous ink supply system (CISS) with individual ink reservoirs. The starter cartridges you receive are used to initially fill these tanks. Once the starter ink runs out, you can refuel using larger, more cost-effective refill bottles.
This system offers several advantages:
- Lower Cost Per Page: Brother claims a cost as low as 0.9 cents per black page and 4.7 cents per color page when using refill bottles.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces plastic waste from frequent cartridge replacements.
- High-Yield Option: Refill bottles (e.g., Brother 5020 series) hold significantly more ink than cartridges, reducing refill frequency.
After Starter Ink Runs Out: What Are Your Options?
Once the initial cartridges are depleted, you’ll need to purchase additional ink. Your main choices are:
1. Brother Genuine Refill Bottles
These are the recommended and safest option. Brother sells refill bottles under the LC-541 and LC-543 series for the MFC-J995DW. They are designed to be easy to use, mess-free, and are guaranteed to maintain print quality.
Pros:
– High ink capacity (up to 6,000 pages for black)
– Consistent color accuracy and print performance
– Manufacturer warranty support
Cons:
– Higher upfront cost per bottle
– Must be purchased from authorized vendors
2. Compatible or Third-Party Inks
Third-party ink bottles are often cheaper and widely available. However, using them can potentially void your printer’s warranty and may result in issues such as:
- Clogged print heads
- Color inconsistency
- Ink leakage
- Printer error messages
While many users successfully use compatible inks, Brother advises against it and does not support print quality or mechanical issues arising from third-party consumables.
Setting Up the Brother MFC-J995DW and Using the Included Ink
The setup process is straightforward, but using the included starter ink properly is essential to avoid premature ink wastage.
Step-by-Step Setup with Starter Ink
- Unbox and Prepare: Remove all protective tapes and packaging materials. The printer should be placed on a flat, stable surface near a power outlet and within Wi-Fi range.
- Install Starter Cartridges: Open the front cover and insert each pre-filled cartridge into its respective slot (black, cyan, magenta, yellow). The printer will automatically recognize them.
- Initial Priming Process: After installation, the printer will run an automatic priming cycle to prepare the ink system. This process uses a small amount of ink to fill internal channels and ensure smooth printing.
- Run Alignment and Calibration: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete alignment, which helps maintain print quality.
- Start Printing: Once setup is complete, you can begin printing immediately via computer, smartphone, or the built-in touchscreen.
Important Tips to Maximize Initial Ink Life
To get the most out of your included starter ink, consider the following:
- Avoid test or calibration prints unless necessary. The printer may prompt you to print alignment pages—only do this if required.
- Print in Draft Mode for internal documents to reduce ink usage.
- Turn off periodic print head cleaning cycles if your printer supports it, as these use ink even when you’re not printing.
- Store ink cartridges in a cool, dry place if replacing mid-process to prevent drying.
Cost Analysis: Is the Brother MFC-J995DW a Good Value?
One of the biggest factors in deciding whether to buy the MFC-J995DW is its long-term cost-effectiveness. Let’s take a closer look at the real ink costs.
Starter Ink vs. Lifetime Printing
While the included ink gets you started, you’ll likely need to purchase refills within a year. Calculating the true cost involves comparing:
- Initial printer price
- Starter ink yield
- Ongoing ink refill cost
- Frequency of use
For example:
- Printer Cost: $299 (approx.)
- Starter Ink Yield: ~1,000 black pages
- Refill Bottles (LC-543): ~$15–$20 per color
- Refill Yield: ~6,000 black pages
This means after the starter ink, you can refill for just a few cents per page—far cheaper than traditional cartridge-based printers.
Print Cost Comparison: MFC-J995DW vs. Traditional Inkjet
| Printer Type | Cost Per Black Page | Cost Per Color Page | Refill Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brother MFC-J995DW (with refill bottles) | ~$0.009 (0.9¢) | ~$0.047 (4.7¢) | Every 6,000 pages |
| Standard Cartridge Inkjet Printer | ~$0.10–$0.25 | ~$0.20–$0.50 | Every 150–300 pages |
As the table illustrates, the MFC-J995DW significantly reduces printing costs over time, despite requiring an initial investment.
Common Misconceptions About Starter Ink
There are several myths and misunderstandings surrounding the included ink in the MFC-J995DW. Let’s clear them up.
Myth 1: “The included ink is full and will last a long time.”
Reality: Starter cartridges are not full. While they may look similar to regular cartridges, they contain less ink. Heavy usage—especially photo printing—can deplete them in just a few weeks.
Myth 2: “If I don’t use color, I can skip buying color refills.”
Reality: The printer requires all ink colors to function properly, even if you only print in black. This is because the printhead alignment and cleaning cycles use small amounts of color ink. Running out of one color might disable printing entirely.
Myth 3: “I can use any ink bottle I find online.”
Reality: While third-party inks may work, they increase the risk of clogs, damage, and loss of warranty. Always check compatibility with the MFC-J995DW (LC-541 or LC-543 series) and prioritize reputable brands.
How to Monitor and Replace Ink in the MFC-J995DW
Effective ink management ensures you never run out unexpectedly. The MFC-J995DW offers built-in tools and features to help.
Using the Control Panel and Software
The printer’s color touchscreen displays ink levels graphically. You can also use the Brother iPrint&Scan app and Web-Based Management to monitor ink remotely.
To check ink levels:
1. Press the “Ink” button on the control panel.
2. Select “Ink Info” – a visual chart will appear showing each tank’s status.
Refilling the Tanks: A Simple Process
When the ink runs low, follow these steps to refill using genuine bottles:
- Open the front cover and locate the ink tanks.
- Remove the cap from the corresponding ink bottle (color-coded).
- Insert the bottle nozzle into the tank inlet.
- Squeeze gently until the tank is full (do not overfill).
- Replace the cap and close the cover.
Pro Tip: Brother bottles have special nozzles that prevent cross-contamination and overfilling. Don’t force the bottle in—if it doesn’t fit, double-check the color match.
Final Thoughts: Is the Brother MFC-J995DW Worth It?
In short, yes—the Brother MFC-J995DW is a solid investment for users who value low printing costs, wireless functionality, and reliable all-in-one performance.
While the included ink gets you started, it’s important to approach it as a setup tool, not a long-term supply. The real value of the MFC-J995DW shines after the initial ink is used and you begin refilling with high-capacity ink bottles. The ongoing cost per page is among the lowest in its class, making it ideal for high-volume printing environments.
Who Should Buy This Printer?
- Home offices with frequent printing needs
- Small businesses looking to cut printing expenses
- Remote workers who need mobile and wireless printing
- Students or families who print reports, photos, and school projects
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
- Users who print only occasionally and don’t want to deal with ink refills
- Those on a tight budget with minimal printing needs (consider a laser printer instead)
- Anyone uncomfortable with managing liquid ink (refilling can be messy if not done carefully)
Conclusion: Yes, It Comes with Ink—But Plan Ahead
To answer the original question directly: Yes, the Brother MFC-J995DW comes with ink, but it’s starter ink—limited in quantity and designed to get your printer operational. It’s not intended to last for months of heavy use.
By understanding the nature of this included ink and the printer’s long-term refill strategy, you can make an informed decision. The MFC-J995DW is not just a printer; it’s part of an ink-efficient ecosystem that rewards consistent use with remarkably low printing costs.
Before you buy, read the product specifications carefully and factor in the need for future ink purchases. When used correctly, the Brother MFC-J995DW delivers professional-quality output, impressive functionality, and true value—making it a smart choice for cost-conscious users who print regularly.
Does the Brother MFC-J995DW come with ink out of the box?
Yes, the Brother MFC-J995DW does come with ink when purchased new. Brother includes four initial ink cartridges—black, cyan, magenta, and yellow—designed to get users started right out of the box. These are full-color, starter cartridges intended to allow immediate setup and printing without the need to purchase additional supplies upfront. However, it’s important to note that these starter cartridges typically contain less ink than standard replacement cartridges.
While the included ink allows for initial setup and testing, users should expect lower page yields compared to regular replacement cartridges. This means that while you can begin printing immediately, the ink will deplete faster than expected during regular use. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep replacement cartridges on hand, especially if you anticipate heavy printing, scanning, or copying tasks. The printer uses Brother’s INKvestment Tank system, which is known for high-yield ink bottles, but the starter ink is not part of that bottle system.
What type of ink does the Brother MFC-J995DW use?
The Brother MFC-J995DW uses Brother’s INKvestment Tank system, which relies on high-capacity ink bottles rather than cartridges for refills. However, the printer ships with standard ink cartridges as starter supplies. Once these initial cartridges are depleted, users can either purchase replacement cartridges or transition to using genuine Brother ink bottles, depending on availability and regional models. This hybrid approach offers flexibility while ensuring consistent ink quality and reliability.
Brother recommends using genuine ink bottles or cartridges to maintain print quality and prevent potential damage to the printer. The INKvestment Tank system is designed to reduce the frequency of ink replacements and lower the cost per page, particularly beneficial for home offices or small businesses. Each color—black, cyan, magenta, and yellow—has its own refillable tank, making it easy to monitor ink levels via the machine’s display or Brother iPrint&Scan app. Using third-party or non-genuine ink may void the printer’s warranty and lead to inconsistent printing results.
How long does the starter ink last in the Brother MFC-J995DW?
The starter ink included with the Brother MFC-J995DW is designed to support initial setup and limited printing use, typically yielding around 1,200 pages for black and 1,200 pages combined for color (based on ISO standards). However, actual page yield can vary significantly depending on print content—documents with heavy graphics or photos will deplete ink faster. These estimates are based on 5% page coverage, which is standard for most ink yield measurements.
Because the starter ink has lower capacity than standard replacements, users who print frequently may find themselves needing to refill or replace ink within weeks. For light users, the starter ink might last several months. The printer features an ink level monitoring system that alerts you when ink is running low, so you can plan refills accordingly. To get the most value, consider purchasing high-yield Brother ink bottles after the starter ink runs out, as they offer a significantly lower cost per page.
Can I use ink bottles instead of cartridges with the MFC-J995DW?
Yes, the Brother MFC-J995DW is designed to use ink bottles for refilling after the initial cartridges are exhausted. While it comes with cartridges for startup, the printer features refillable ink tanks that are compatible with Brother’s high-capacity INKvestment Tank bottles. This system allows you to add ink directly into the internal tanks, reducing long-term printing costs and minimizing waste from disposable cartridges.
Switching to ink bottles requires opening the printer’s ink compartment and carefully inserting the nozzle of each color bottle into the corresponding tank. Brother includes guides to help prevent misfiring or cross-contamination. Once the tanks are filled, the printer automatically resets ink levels. This refill method supports thousands of pages per bottle, especially useful for users with high print volumes. Always use genuine Brother ink bottles to maintain print quality and avoid damaging the system.
Are replacement ink cartridges expensive for the MFC-J995DW?
Replacement ink cartridges for the Brother MFC-J995DW can be moderately priced, but they are generally less cost-effective than using the INKvestment Tank ink bottles. Cartridges are convenient for occasional refills, but over time, their cost per page is higher. Genuine Brother cartridges ensure optimal performance but may not be the best value for users with frequent printing needs.
For cost savings, Brother recommends switching to genuine INKvestment Tank ink bottles once the starter cartridges are used up. These bottles yield significantly more pages—up to 2,000 for black and 2,000 combined for color—resulting in a much lower cost per printed page. While the upfront cost of bottles is higher, the long-term savings are substantial, especially for home offices or families. Using original Brother supplies also helps preserve the printer’s warranty and ensures consistent color accuracy and reliability.
Does using third-party ink affect the Brother MFC-J995DW’s performance?
Using third-party or aftermarket ink in the Brother MFC-J995DW can lead to inconsistent print quality, including faded colors, smudging, or streaking. These inks may not match the chemical composition of genuine Brother ink, which can result in clogged print heads or poor absorption on paper. Additionally, non-genuine ink may not be properly recognized by the printer’s ink monitoring system, leading to inaccurate ink level reporting.
More importantly, using third-party ink could potentially void your Brother printer’s warranty. Brother advises customers to use only genuine INKvestment Tank ink bottles or cartridges to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The printer is engineered to work best with authentic Brother supplies, which undergo rigorous testing to maintain reliability. For uninterrupted service and high-quality output, sticking with original ink is highly recommended despite the slightly higher initial cost.
How do I know when to replace or refill ink in the MFC-J995DW?
The Brother MFC-J995DW features an advanced ink level monitoring system accessible via the LCD display on the front panel. It provides real-time updates on the status of each ink color, alerting you when levels are low or critically low. You can also monitor ink levels remotely using the Brother iPrint&Scan mobile app, which syncs with your printer over Wi-Fi and sends notifications when ink needs refilling.
When the printer detects low ink, it will display a warning message prompting you to replace or refill the tanks. It’s best to refill ink before it completely runs out to avoid print quality issues or interruptions. The printer allows you to continue printing temporarily with low ink, but performance may degrade. Refill promptly with genuine Brother ink bottles to maintain optimal operation. Keep spare ink on hand if you rely on the printer daily for work or school tasks.