Main points
- The most common and straightforward way to print in black and white is by using the “Print in Grayscale” option.
- Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to print in black and white using a Windows computer.
- If you’re unable to find the “Grayscale” option in your printer settings, you can directly access the Brother printer driver for black and white printing.
Are you tired of your Brother printer using up all your color ink, even when you only need to print black and white documents? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people find themselves in this situation, wondering how to make their Brother printer print black and white only. Fortunately, it’s a simple process that can save you a lot of money on ink cartridges in the long run.
This blog post will guide you through the different methods to achieve this, whether you’re using a Windows, Mac, or mobile device. We’ll also cover some essential tips and tricks to optimize your printing experience.
Understanding the “Print in Grayscale” Option
The most common and straightforward way to print in black and white is by using the “Print in Grayscale” option. This setting instructs your printer to use only black ink, regardless of the original document‘s colors. This option is usually found within your printer’s settings or the printing dialog box of your software.
How to Make Brother Printer Print Black and White Only on Windows
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to print in black and white using a Windows computer:
1. Open the document you want to print.
2. Click on the “File” menu and select “Print.”
3. In the Print dialog box, locate the “Properties” or “Preferences” button. This may vary slightly depending on your printer model.
4. Click on the button to open the printer settings.
5. Find the “Color” or “Print Quality” tab.
6. Select the “Grayscale” or “Black and White” option.
7. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the settings.
8. Print your document.
How to Make Brother Printer Print Black and White Only on Mac
Printing in grayscale on a Mac is similar to Windows:
1. Open the document you want to print.
2. Click on the “File” menu and select “Print.”
3. In the Print dialog box, click on the “Show Details” button.
4. Locate the “Color” or “Print Quality” section.
5. Select the “Grayscale” or “Black and White” option.
6. Click “Print” to start the printing process.
How to Make Brother Printer Print Black and White Only on Mobile Devices
Printing in black and white from your mobile device is just as easy:
1. Open the document you want to print.
2. Tap on the “Share” or “Print” icon.
3. Select your Brother printer from the list of available devices.
4. Look for the “Print Settings” or “Options” button.
5. Find the “Color” or “Print Quality” setting and select “Grayscale” or “Black and White.”
6. Tap on “Print” to start the printing process.
Using the Brother Printer Driver for Black and White Printing
If you’re unable to find the “Grayscale” option in your printer settings, you can directly access the Brother printer driver for black and white printing:
1. Open the “Control Panel” on your Windows computer.
2. Go to “Devices and Printers” or “Hardware and Sound.”
3. Right-click on your Brother printer icon and select “Printing Preferences.”
4. Find the “Color” or “Print Quality” tab.
5. Select the “Grayscale” or “Black and White” option.
6. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the settings.
Tips for Optimizing Black and White Printing
Here are some additional tips to improve your black and white printing experience:
- Use high-quality paper: A good quality paper will enhance the clarity and sharpness of your black and white prints.
- Calibrate your printer: Regular calibration ensures accurate color reproduction, leading to better black and white results.
- Clean your print heads: Regularly cleaning your print heads will prevent clogging and ensure smooth ink flow, improving the overall print quality.
- Check your ink levels: Ensure that your black ink cartridge is full to avoid streaks or faded prints.
Saving Ink and Money with Black and White Printing
Printing in black and white can significantly reduce your ink consumption and save you money on replacement cartridges. By minimizing the use of color ink, you can extend the lifespan of your cartridges and reduce your overall printing costs.
Beyond Saving Money: The Environmental Benefits
Besides saving money, printing in black and white also has environmental benefits. By using less ink, you reduce the amount of waste generated, contributing to a more sustainable printing practice.
Embracing the Simplicity of Black and White
While color printing offers vibrant visuals, black and white printing provides a classic and timeless aesthetic. It can be ideal for documents, reports, or even creative projects where a minimalist approach is desired.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Black and White
While we’ve focused on black and white printing, it’s important to remember that your Brother printer offers a range of printing options. Explore different settings, paper types, and print qualities to discover the best fit for your specific needs.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I print in black and white from my phone using the Brother iPrint&Scan app?
A: Yes, the Brother iPrint&Scan app offers a “Print in Grayscale” option that allows you to print in black and white from your mobile device.
Q: Will printing in grayscale affect the quality of my photos?
A: Yes, printing a color photo in grayscale will remove all color information, resulting in a black and white image. If you want to maintain the original color, you should print in color mode.
Q: Can I print in black and white even if I have a color document?
A: Yes, you can print any document in black and white by selecting the “Grayscale” option in your printer settings. The printer will convert the color information into shades of gray.
Q: What if my Brother printer doesn‘t have a “Grayscale” option?
A: Some older Brother printers may not have a dedicated “Grayscale” setting. In this case, you can try selecting the “Draft” or “Economy” print mode, which often uses only black ink.
Q: How often should I clean my print heads?
A: It’s recommended to clean your print heads every 2-3 months or whenever you notice streaks or faded prints. You can find instructions for cleaning your print heads in your Brother printer’s user manual.