When choosing ink cartridges for your Brother inkjet printer, one of the most common questions is whether to go with Brother LC504 or LC504XL ink cartridges. While both options are designed for the same printers and deliver reliable print quality, they differ significantly in ink capacity, cost efficiency, and long-term value. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between LC504 and LC504XL, explain how to choose the right one for your printing needs, and explore why compatible Brother LC504/LC504XL ink cartridges can be a smarter and more economical alternative to genuine cartridges.
1. The Differences Between Brother LC504 and LC504XL
The main difference between Brother LC504 and LC504XL ink cartridges lies in page yield and ink capacity.
Brother LC504 Ink Cartridges
Brother LC504 ink cartridges are standard-yield cartridges designed for light or occasional printing. The LC504BK black ink can print 600 pages, and color ink (LC504C/LC504M/LC504Y) can print 500 pages each. They are suitable for home users or small offices with limited printing needs.
Brother LC504XL Ink Cartridges
Brother LC504XL ink cartridges are high-yield cartridges contain more ink and offer a significantly better cost-per-page. The LC504XLBK black ink can print 1,500 pages, and color ink (LC504XLC/LC504XLM/LC504XLY) can print 1,000 pages each. They are ideal for users who print frequently and want to reduce cartridge replacement frequency and overall printing costs.
Both versions are designed for the same printers, so the decision comes down to how much you print and how much you want to spend over time.
2. Are Brother LC504 and LC504XL Interchangeable?
Yes. Brother LC504 and LC504XL ink cartridges are fully interchangeable and compatible with the same Brother printer models. You can switch between standard and high-yield cartridges at any time without changing printer settings.
- Brother INKvestment MFC-J1355DW
- Brother INKvestment MFC-J1365DW
- Brother INKvestment MFC-J1367DW
This flexibility allows you to choose the cartridge that best fits your current printing needs.
3. Why Are Genuine Brother LC504 Ink Cartridges Expensive?
Original Brother ink cartridges are priced higher for several reasons:
- Brand Premium: You pay for the Brother brand name and reputation.
- R&D Investment: Significant resources are spent on printer and ink development.
- Razor-and-Blades Model: Printers are sold at lower prices, while ink cartridges generate ongoing profit.
Compatible Brother ink cartridges avoid these added costs, which is why they can be sold at a much lower price without sacrificing usability.
4. Genuine Brother LC504 vs Compatible LC504 Ink Cartridges
When comparing genuine Brother LC504/LC504XL cartridges with compatible alternatives, the real difference is not print quality - but pricing structure.
Genuine Brother LC504/XL Ink Cartridges:
Original Brother LC504/XL ink cartridges are manufactured by Brother and designed specifically for their printers. They provide reliable performance and seamless compatibility, making them a safe choice for users who prefer original consumables.
Compatible LC504/XL Ink Cartridges:
High-quality compatible LC504/XL ink cartridges are produced by third-party manufacturers and engineered to match the original cartridges in size, function, and performance. In everyday use, most users experience comparable text sharpness and color accuracy.
The biggest advantage of compatible cartridges is cost savings. They do not include brand premiums, printer R&D recovery costs, or the razor-and-blades pricing model used by original manufacturers. As a result, compatible cartridges are significantly more affordable while still delivering dependable print results.
For home users, students, and small businesses, compatible Brother LC504 ink cartridges often offer the best balance between performance and value.
5. Where to Buy Affordable Brother LC504 Ink Cartridge Replacements
If you’re looking to reduce printing costs, compatible LC504/LC504XL cartridges are widely available:
- Specialized Cartridge Stores: Retailers like Ready Toner focus on printer consumables and provide expert support.
- Online Marketplaces: Platforms such as Amazon and eBay offer many options, but it’s important to choose reputable sellers with proven quality and customer service. Many Chinese sellers are unable to provide timely customer support due to time zone differences.
6. How to Replace a Brother LC504 or LC504XL Ink Cartridge
Replacing an LC504 or LC504XL cartridge is quick and simple:
- Turn on your Brother printer.
- Open the ink cartridge access cover.
- Remove the empty cartridge.
- Unpack the new cartridge and remove protective seals.
- Insert the new cartridge into the correct slot.
- Close the cover and allow the printer to recognize the cartridge automatically.
7. Common Error Messages for LC504/XL Ink Cartridges
If you encounter issues, here are some quick fixes:
- “Cartridge not recognized”: Reinstall the cartridge and ensure it clicks into place.
- “Cartridge not detected”: Clean the cartridge contacts gently with a soft cloth.
- “Low ink warning”: Some warnings appear early; you may still have usable ink remaining.
8. Tips to Save on Printing Costs
To keep your printing budget under control:
- Choose compatible LC504 or LC504XL ink cartridges
- Opt for high-yield XL versions for frequent printing
- Buy cartridges in multipacks
- Use draft mode for everyday documents
- Enable duplex printing to reduce paper usage
By choosing high-quality compatible Brother LC504/LC504XL ink cartridges from trusted suppliers like Ready Toner, you can enjoy reliable print performance while saving significantly on long-term printing costs. It’s a practical, cost-effective solution for both home and business users who want consistent results without overpaying.