When businesses consider adding or upgrading a multifunction print device, they often face a wide array of models and brands. The Brother MFC‑L8690CDW is one such device, marketed as a colour laser all‑in‑one that handles printing, copying, scanning and faxing. This review examines its strengths, limitations and real-world suitability, with the goal of helping decision makers decide whether it fits their workflows and budgets.
We will explore its specifications, performance, operational costs, usability, reliability and common user feedback. At the end, we will assess whether it represents value for money and in what contexts it makes sense to buy it.
Overview and Specification Highlights
The Brother MFC‑L8690CDW is an A4 colour laser multifunction printer designed for small to medium size offices. Its key specifications include a printing speed of up to 31 pages per minute in both mono and colour modes. It supports automatic duplex printing and scanning and comes with a 50‑sheet automatic document feeder.
It includes a 9.3 cm touchscreen user interface, wired Ethernet, WiFi and mobile printing options. The standard paper input capacity is 300 sheets. It supports mobile and tablet connectivity, AirPrint and WiFi Direct. According to reports, it offers a mix of speed and versatility, and has been described as “a versatile A4 colour laser all‑in‑one printer designed for small to medium-sized offices.”
In reviews, its print quality for plain text is considered strong, and in colour it is decent for business graphics, though not ideal for professional photo output. Many users praise it as offering good value, noting that “fast performance, good colour reproduction, and cheaper cartridges” are among its appealing traits.
Performance under mixed workloads such as scanning, duplex copying and heavier media use is an area where real-world results matter, and reviewers note it generally handles these competently.
Strengths of the MFC‑L8690CDW
One of the principal advantages is the versatility of features in a single device. The ability to print, copy, scan and fax in one unit helps reduce the need for multiple machines. In office contexts where space is at a premium or simplicity of support is valued, that consolidation is beneficial.
Connectivity options are strong. With both wired and wireless interfaces, mobile printing support and network integration, the machine adapts well to hybrid work environments. It facilitates printing or scanning from remote or mobile devices without requiring complex configuration.
User feedback suggests setup is straightforward. One supplier advertises that setup “took seconds” and that the device exceeded expectations. The touchscreen interface is also often described as intuitive, which reduces training time for staff.
Speed is another key benefit. The rated 31 ppm (mono and colour) gives the device capability for moderate office throughput. In practice it performs well with daily office tasks, which makes it appropriate for departments or small offices with moderate load.
Many users appreciate the availability of high-yield toner cartridges. That reduces the frequency of supply replacement, which aids in operational continuity. Some users in forums mention that while genuine consumables are recommended, third‑party or compatible toners might be used carefully though compatibility is sometimes finicky and prone to issues.
Limitations and Caveats
While strong in many regards, the MFC‑L8690CDW also has limitations that any buyer should consider thoughtfully.
Colour output is serviceable but not exceptional. For business graphics and charts it performs adequately, but for image-rich materials, photos or high-fidelity colour reproduction, it may fall short. Reviewers note that it does “reasonably well with colour documents” but is better in monochrome text.
Running costs are a critical factor. As with many colour laser devices, the cost per page in colour tends to be significantly higher than monochrome. For organisations with heavy colour printing, this may erode expected savings. Choosing the right toner configuration and usage profile is essential for cost control.
The device is relatively large compared to compact office printers. It may occupy significant footprint or require careful planning for placement, especially in cramped offices or shared spaces.
Reliability under very heavy load may be uncertain. While the machine performs well under moderate daily demands, if the workload increases significantly it may begin to approach its limits. In very high-volume environments, more robust or production-grade devices may be preferable.
In user forums, some report caution with firmware updates. One user mentions that compatible toners for colour laser printers can be “very finicky” and suggests avoiding cheap compatibles, especially after firmware upgrades. That indicates there may be sensitivity or restrictions imposed at firmware level that affect third‑party consumables.
Practical Suitability Scenarios
The MFC‑L8690CDW is likely a good match for small to medium sized departments or businesses that require:
- Moderate to frequent printing, scanning and copying tasks
- Occasional colour use rather than heavy colour jobs
- A desire to consolidate multiple devices into one
- Support for mobile printing and network connectivity
- A balance between features and operational cost
It is less well suited for:
- Work environments with constant high-volume printing or heavy colour demands
- Users needing very high-fidelity colour or photo output
- Scenarios where floor space is extremely constrained
- Offices relying heavily on third‑party consumables, unless compatibility is assured
Common Questions and Misconceptions
One common question is whether the machine is too complex for non-technical users. In practice, many buyers report that once set up the unit is user-friendly, thanks to its touchscreen and simple menus.
Another concern is whether non-genuine toners are supported. Some users warn that compatibles can cause issues or be blocked by firmware updates. Caution and compatibility checks are recommended before using third-party supplies.
Some assume that because it is a colour machine, the cost is always high. While colour print costs do tend to be higher, judicious use (e.g. restricting colour printing to necessary tasks) can mitigate this. For mostly monochrome output, the machine remains efficient.
Finally, potential buyers ask whether it is reliable long term. Based on reviews and user commentary, it appears sufficiently robust for moderate office use, but it is not a substitute for heavy-duty or production net devices when the workload is extreme.
Verdict: Is It Worth the Investment?
For many small to medium offices, the Brother MFC‑L8690CDW offers a well-rounded balance of features, connectivity and functionality. It is particularly attractive where consolidation of print, copy, scan and fax is desired, and where colour printing is occasional.
If your workload is moderate, and budget and space considerations are important, it likely delivers good value. The strengths in versatility and user interface help offset some of the limitations in colour fidelity or running cost.
However, for environments with very heavy usage or demanding colour workflows, more specialised devices may deliver better cost efficiency or output quality over time. The key is matching the device to expected demand, policy on colour usage and support for consumables.
In summary, the MFC‑L8690CDW is a solid choice for offices needing a capable all‑in‑one device. It is not perfect in all respects, but for many use cases it is more than adequate and can be considered a worthwhile investment when the requirements align.