Tell HN: Brother printers now locking out non-OEM paraphernalia

Article summary

The author recently purchased a Brother color laser printer and discovered that it locks out non-OEM toner after a firmware update. The printer accepts third-party toner but intentionally reduces print quality. This change in policy is seen as a negative development by the author, who had chosen Brother to avoid vendor lock-in. The author is considering returning the printer.

Main themes

• printer vendor lock-in
• third-party toner restrictions
• Epson EcoTank alternative
• proprietary ink systems
• regulatory oversight
• consumer choice and competition
• printer maintenance and repair issues
• ethics of intentional product degradation

What commenters say

• Some commenters recommend avoiding Brother and HP printers due to their restrictive policies on third-party toner.
• Epson's EcoTank line is suggested as a viable alternative that uses refillable ink bottles.
• Others have had negative experiences with Epson printers, including issues with waste ink pads and maintenance programs.
• There is a desire for laws or regulations to prevent companies from restricting the use of third-party ink and toner.
• Some argue that proprietary ink and toner systems are anti-competitive and lead to higher prices.
• A few commenters have had positive experiences with HP and Brother printers, contradicting the negative views expressed by others.
• The practice of intentionally reducing print quality when using third-party toner is seen as unethical and potentially illegal by some.
• The need for user-replaceable parts and more transparent maintenance programs is highlighted by some commenters.