The Brother DCP-L3560cdw is a versatile colour laser LED printer with excellent print quality and functionality for small offices and home users. However, like most colour laser printers, the ongoing cost of toner cartridges can quickly exceed the initial investment in the printer itself. This comprehensive guide explores the printer’s specifications, consumable options, and how compatible cartridges can significantly reduce printing costs while maintaining quality and reliability.
Brother DCP-L3560cdw Specifications & Features
Before diving into consumables, let’s examine what makes the Brother DCP-L3560cdw a popular choice for businesses and home offices in Singapore.
Specification | Details |
Functions | Print, Scan, Copy |
Print Technology | Colour Laser LED |
Print Speed | 26 ppm (both colour & monochrome) |
Resolution | 600 x 2400 dpi |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB 2.0 |
Paper Handling | 250-sheet input tray, 50-sheet ADF |
Duplex Printing | Automatic |
Display | 3.5-inch TFT LCD touchscreen |
Dimensions | 44.4 x 41 x 40.1 cm |
Weight | 20.1 kg |
Singapore Retail Price | S$699 – S$799 |
The Brother DCP-L3560cdw delivers impressive performance with its 26 ppm print speed for colour and monochrome documents. The automatic document feeder and duplex printing capabilities make it efficient for busy office environments, while the 3.5-inch touchscreen provides intuitive control over all functions.
Understanding DCP-L3560cdw Consumables
The Brother DCP-L3560cdw uses several consumable components that require periodic replacement:
Toner Cartridges (TN269 Series)
The primary consumables are the four toner cartridges (black, cyan, magenta, and yellow). These come in standard capacity (TN269) and high-capacity (TN269XL) versions.
Drum Unit (DR269CL)
The drum unit transfers toner to the paper. While toner cartridges need frequent replacement, the drum unit typically lasts for approximately 18,000 pages.
Waste Toner Box (WT229CL)
The waste toner box collects excess toner during printing. It typically needs replacement after approximately 50,000 pages.
Belt Unit (BU229CL)
The belt unit transfers toner from the drum to the paper. It typically lasts for about 50,000 pages before requiring replacement.
Understanding Page Yield and ISO Standards
When comparing toner cartridges, page yield is critical in determining the actual cost per page. But what exactly is page yield, and how is it measured?
ISO/IEC 19798 Standard
Page yield figures for the Brother DCP-L3560cdw consumables are based on the ISO/IEC 19798 standard. This internationally recognised testing methodology ensures consistent measurement across different manufacturers by:
- Printing a standardised set of five test pages with a mix of text and graphics
- Testing in a controlled environment (23°C, 50% humidity)
- Continuing until the cartridge shows noticeable fading
- Calculating the average yield across multiple cartridges
It’s important to note that actual yields may vary based on your specific printing patterns, environmental conditions, and the amount of coverage on your printed pages. The ISO standard uses approximately 5% coverage per colour, typical for standard business documents.
Original vs. Compatible Cartridges: Cost Analysis
One of the most significant expenses for Brother DCP-L3560cdw owners is the ongoing cost of toner cartridges. Let’s compare the original Brother cartridges with compatible alternatives to see the potential savings.
Consumable | Page Yield | Original Price (SGD) | Compatible Price (SGD) | Savings (%) | Original Cost/Page | Compatible Cost/Page |
TN269BK (Black) | 3,000 | S$189 | S$79 | 58% | S$0.063 | S$0.026 |
TN269C (Cyan) | 2,300 | S$199 | S$79 | 60% | S$0.087 | S$0.034 |
TN269M (Magenta) | 2,300 | S$199 | S$79 | 60% | S$0.087 | S$0.034 |
TN269Y (Yellow) | 2,300 | S$199 | S$79 | 60% | S$0.087 | S$0.034 |
DR269CL (Drum) | 18,000 | S$259 | S$129 | 50% | S$0.014 | S$0.007 |
WT229CL (Waste Box) | 50,000 | S$49 | S$29 | 41% | S$0.001 | S$0.0006 |
Save Up to 70% on Your Printing Costs
Using compatible cartridges can reduce printing costs by more than half while maintaining excellent print quality. Our compatible cartridges are manufactured to strict quality standards and come with a satisfaction guarantee.
Shop Compatible CartridgesStandard vs. High-Capacity Cartridges: Long-term Savings
Brother offers standard (TN269) and high-capacity (TN269XL) toner cartridges for the DCP-L3560cdw. While high-capacity cartridges have a higher upfront cost, they offer significant long-term savings and environmental benefits.
Cost Efficiency
High-capacity TN269XL cartridges typically provide 30-40% more pages than standard cartridges, costing only 15-20% more. This translates to a lower cost per page and better value over time.
Environmental Impact
High-capacity cartridges reduce waste by requiring fewer cartridge changes over the printer’s lifetime. This means less packaging waste and fewer cartridges in landfills.
Cartridge Type | Page Yield | Approx. Price (SGD) | Cost Per Page | Cartridges Needed for 30,000 Pages |
TN269BK (Standard Black) | 3,000 | S$189 | S$0.063 | 10 |
TN269XLBK (High-Capacity Black) | 6,000 | S$229 | S$0.038 | 5 |
TN269C/M/Y (Standard Colour) | 2,300 | S$199 | S$0.087 | 13 |
TN269XLC/M/Y (High-Capacity Colour) | 3,500 | S$239 | S$0.068 | 9 |
As the table demonstrates, using high-capacity cartridges can reduce your cost per page by approximately 22-40% compared to standard cartridges, reducing the number of cartridge replacements needed over time.
Compatible Cartridges: Quality and Reliability
Compatible cartridges offer a cost-effective alternative to original Brother cartridges without compromising quality or reliability. Modern compatible cartridges are manufactured to strict quality standards and often come with guarantees that match or exceed those of original cartridges.
Advantages of Compatible Cartridges
- Cost savings of 40-60% compared to original cartridges
- Comparable print quality and page yields
- Environmentally friendly (many are remanufactured from recycled cartridges)
- Complete warranty protection (typically 12-24 months)
- Same-day or next-day delivery in Singapore
Potential Concerns
- Quality varies between manufacturers (choose reputable suppliers)
- Some low-quality compatibles may cause printer issues
- Warranty concerns (addressed by Singapore’s Consumer Protection Act)
- Occasional compatibility issues with printer firmware updates
- Slightly higher defect rate than the original cartridges
Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act
Under Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, manufacturers cannot void your printer warranty simply because you use compatible cartridges. The warranty remains valid as long as the compatible cartridge does not cause damage to the printer. You have legal protection if a manufacturer attempts to void your warranty solely for using compatible supplies.
Try Risk-Free Compatible Cartridges
InkWorld Singapore offers premium compatible cartridges for your Brother DCP-L3560cdw with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re unsatisfied, we’ll replace the cartridge or refund your purchase.
Shop Now with ConfidenceInstallation Guide: Replacing Toner and Drum Cartridges
Replacing consumables in your Brother DCP-L3560cdw is a straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure proper toner cartridge and drum unit installation.
Installing TN269 Toner Cartridges
- Press the release button to turn on the printer and open the front cover.
- Hold the blue handle of the drum unit and pull it out until it stops.
- Hold the toner cartridge’s handle and gently push it to unlock, then pull it straight out of the drum unit.
- Unpack the new toner cartridge and remove the protective cover.
- Insert the new toner cartridge firmly into the drum unit until you hear it lock into place.
- Clean the corona wire several times by sliding the blue tab from left to right.
- Repeat for each colour you’re replacing.
- Reinsert the drum unit assembly into the printer.
- Close the front cover of the printer.
Replacing DR269CL Drum Unit
- Make sure the printer is turned on and open the front cover.
- Hold the blue handle of the drum unit and pull it out completely.
- Turn the blue lock lever counterclockwise at the left end of the drum unit to the unlock position.
- Remove the toner cartridges from the old drum unit and transfer them to the new one.
- Unpack the new drum unit and remove the protective cover.
- Reinstall all four toner cartridges into the new drum unit.
- Make sure the blue lock lever is in the unlock position.
- Slide the drum unit into the printer until it stops at the blue lock lever.
- Turn the blue lock lever clockwise to the lock position.
- Push the drum unit in until it stops.
- Close the front cover of the printer.
- To reset the drum counter, Press Menu > All Settings > Machine Info > Parts Life > Drum > Reset.
Important Installation Tips
- Never expose the drum unit to direct sunlight or room light for more than 5 minutes to avoid damage.
- Do not touch the green parts of the drum unit to prevent print quality issues.
- Always clean the corona wires after replacing toner cartridges to maintain print quality.
- Handle toner cartridges carefully to avoid spilling toner.
- If toner gets on your hands or clothes, immediately wipe or wash it off with cold water.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper installation and maintenance, you may occasionally encounter issues with your Brother DCP-L3560cdw printer or its consumables. Here are solutions to common problems:
Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
Poor Print Quality or Streaks | Dirty corona wires or a damaged drum | Clean the corona wires by sliding the blue tab from left to right several times. If the problem persists, the drum unit may need replacement. |
“Toner Low” Message | Toner is running low, but not empty | You can continue printing. To extend cartridge life, remove it and gently shake it horizontally to redistribute toner. |
“Replace Toner” Message | The toner cartridge is empty | Replace the indicated toner cartridge following the installation guide above. |
Printer Not Recognising Cartridge | The cartridge was not correctly installed, or there is a chip issue | Remove and reinstall the cartridge, ensuring it clicks into place. Clean the chip contacts with a dry cloth if necessary. |
Paper Jams | Paper path obstruction or worn parts | Check for and clear any paper debris in the paper path. Ensure paper guides are properly adjusted. |
Faded Prints | Low toner or drum reaching the end of life | Replace the toner cartridge. If using all colours, the drum unit might need replacement. |
Ghost Images | Drum unit damage or wear | The drum unit likely needs replacement. Install a new DR269CL drum unit. |
Compatible Brother Printer Models
The TN269/TN269XL toner cartridges and DR269CL drum unit are compatible with several Brother printer models beyond the DCP-L3560cdw. If you have any of the following printers, you can use the same consumables:
DCP Series
- DCP-L3510cdw
- DCP-L3550cdw
- DCP-L3560cdw
MFC Series
- MFC-L3710cw
- MFC-L3735cdn
- MFC-L3745cdw
- MFC-L3750cdw
- MFC-L3760cdw
- MFC-L8390cdw
HL Series
- HL-L3210cw
- HL-L3230cdw
- HL-L3240cdw
- HL-L3270cdw
- HL-L3280cdw
This compatibility across multiple printer models makes it convenient if you have several Brother printers in your office or if you upgrade your printer in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act protect me when using compatible cartridges?
Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act protects consumers against unfair practices, including unjust warranty voiding. Under this law, printer manufacturers cannot void your warranty simply because you use third-party compatible cartridges. The warranty remains valid unless the manufacturer can prove that the compatible cartridge directly caused damage to the printer. If a manufacturer attempts to deny warranty service solely because you used compatible supplies, you can file a complaint with the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE).
Is purchasing compatible cartridges legal?
Yes, purchasing and using compatible cartridges is legal in Singapore and worldwide. Compatible cartridges do not infringe on patents as they are designed differently from original cartridges while maintaining functionality. Reputable manufacturers ensure their products don’t violate intellectual property rights. The Singapore legal system, like many others, recognises consumers’ right to choose alternative supplies for their printers.
Can compatible cartridges damage my Brother DCP-L3560cdw printer?
High-quality, compatible cartridges will not damage your printer. Modern compatible cartridges are self-contained units that function independently from the printer’s internal mechanisms. They interact with the printer like original cartridges, transferring toner to the drum and paper. Quality compatible cartridges undergo rigorous testing to meet or exceed OEM specifications. To ensure safety, purchase from reputable suppliers with guarantees and positive customer reviews.
Where can I purchase reliable, compatible cartridges for my Brother DCP-L3560cdw in Singapore?
InkWorld Singapore is a highly recommended supplier of compatible cartridges for Brother printers. They offer premium-quality compatible cartridges for the DCP-L3560cdw with a satisfaction guarantee. Their products undergo strict quality control and testing to ensure compatibility and performance. InkWorld Singapore provides same-day delivery in most areas of Singapore and offers excellent customer support for any questions or issues. You can visit their website at www.inkworld.sg or call them at +65 6931 4022.
What other Brother models use the same TN269 toner and DR269CL drum cartridges?
The TN269/TN269XL toner cartridges and DR269CL drum unit are compatible with several Brother printer models, including: DCP-L3510cdw, DCP-L3550cdw, DCP-L3560cdw, MFC-L3710cw, MFC-L3735cdn, MFC-L3745cdw, MFC-L3750cdw, MFC-L3760cdw, MFC-L8390cdw, HL-L3210cw, HL-L3230cdw, HL-L3240cdw, HL-L3270cdw, and HL-L3280cdw. This cross-compatibility makes it convenient if you have multiple Brother printers or plan to upgrade.
How do I know when to replace the drum unit versus the toner cartridge?
Your Brother DCP-L3560cdw will display specific messages for each component. “Replace Toner” indicates a toner cartridge needs replacement, while “Replace Drum” means the drum unit needs changing. Toner cartridges typically need replacement every 3,000-6,000 pages (depending on whether you use standard or high-capacity), while the drum unit lasts approximately 18,000. Visual indicators of drum wear include ghost images, streaks, or spots that persist even after replacing toner cartridges.
What is the difference between the waste toner box (WT229CL) and the belt unit (BU229CL)?
The waste toner box (WT229CL) collects excess toner that doesn’t adhere to the paper during printing. It’s essentially a container that prevents toner waste from contaminating the printer. On the other hand, the belt unit (BU229CL) is an active component that transfers toner from the drum units to the paper. Both components require periodic replacement, with the waste toner box typically lasting around 50,000 pages and the belt unit lasting approximately 50,000.
How can I extend the life of my toner cartridges?
To maximize toner cartridge life: 1) Use draft or toner-save mode for non-critical documents, 2) Print in grayscale when color isn’t necessary, 3) Shake the cartridge gently when you receive a “Toner Low” message to redistribute toner, 4) Keep the printer in a clean, dust-free environment, 5) Use the printer regularly to prevent toner from settling, and 6) Update your printer’s firmware to optimize toner usage. These practices can extend cartridge life by 10-20%.
What should I do with the toner cartridges and drum units I use?
In Singapore, you have several environmentally responsible options: 1) Return them to InkWorld Singapore, which offers a recycling program with discounts on future purchases, 2) Use the Brother cartridge return program, 3) Drop them off at designated e-waste collection points throughout Singapore, or 4) Participate in the National Environment Agency’s recycling initiatives. Never dispose of toner cartridges or drums in regular trash, as they contain materials that can harm the environment.
Can I use TN269 toner cartridges in other Brother printer models?
TN269 toner cartridges are compatible with several Brother printer models across the DCP, MFC, and HL series. However, they are not compatible with older Brother printer models or those that use different toner series like TN-630/660, TN-760, or TN-850. Always check your printer’s documentation or the Brother website to confirm compatibility before purchasing. Using incompatible cartridges may result in poor print quality or potential damage to your printer.
Conclusion: Maximising Value from Your Brother DCP-L3560cdw
The Brother DCP-L3560cdw is a versatile and reliable colour laser printer with excellent functionality for small offices and home users. Understanding your consumable options and making informed choices can significantly reduce your printing costs without sacrificing quality.
Compatible cartridges offer a compelling alternative to original Brother supplies, with potential savings of 40-60% while maintaining comparable print quality and reliability. High-capacity cartridges enhance cost-efficiency and reduce environmental impact by requiring fewer replacements over time.
Remember that Singapore’s Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act protects your right to use compatible cartridges without voiding your printer warranty. By following proper installation procedures and basic maintenance practices, you can enjoy trouble-free printing while maximising the value of your Brother DCP-L3560cdw investment.
Start Saving on Your Printing Costs Today
Visit InkWorld Singapore for high-quality compatible cartridges for your Brother DCP-L3560cdw. Enjoy same-day delivery, excellent customer support, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
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