Brother LC38 Ink Cartridges

Expected page output and replacement cycles

Brother tests LC38 ink cartridge yields under ISO/IEC 24711 standards based on 5% page coverage. Actual page counts vary based on print density, image frequency, and maintenance cleaning cycles, with black cartridges typically depleting faster than cyan, magenta, and yellow.

Choosing between genuine and compatible options

Compatible LC38 ink cartridges offer a budget-friendly option with higher page capacities than standard genuine cartridges. Under Australian Consumer Law, using compatible cartridges does not void your printer warranty. Learn more in our genuine vs compatible guide to evaluate performance and value.

Ordering options and fast delivery

If you primarily print text documents, purchasing black ink individually or in multi-packs provides the best workflow. For colour printing, multipacks ensure balanced ink levels. All compatible cartridges are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, allowing complete risk-free testing. View our returns policy for details. Free delivery applies on all orders over $99 across Australia. We dispatch orders fast from our warehouses located in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. Explore our full range of Brother ink cartridges today.

Expert advice for LC38 cartridges

Always keep the printer powered on via the soft power button rather than turning off power at the wall. This allows Brother printers to run micro-maintenance cycles using minimal ink, preventing nozzle clogs without wasting full cartridge charges.

Genuine & Compatible Brother LC38 Ink Cartridge Options

Replace the Complete Colour Set

For a full refresh across every colour, the 4-Pack LC38 Genuine (from $109.36) is the complete-set option and qualifies for free delivery.

Replace Just One Colour

A single Genuine LC38 Cyan cartridge (from $24.48) lets you replace one colour at a time, without buying a full set.

Save with Compatible Cartridges

For a lower upfront cost, compatible cartridges offer options from $7.49 for a single LC38 Cyan cartridge or 5-pack LC38 for $56.14.

Bulk Cartridge Options

For busy print environments, buying a larger pack cuts down on how often you need to reorder - the 8-Pack LC38 Genuine (from $213.31) is the equivalent option if you'd rather stick with official ink. The genuine pack qualifies for free delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the LC38 individual four-cartridge system handle depleted colours?

Unlike single-tri-colour cartridges, the LC38 series uses separate slots for Black, Cyan, Magenta, and Yellow. If one colour empties, you only replace that specific cartridge, eliminating premature waste of remaining inks.

Can I mix genuine and compatible LC38 cartridges in the same printer?

Yes, Brother DCP and MFC printers accept a mix of genuine and compatible LC38 cartridges simultaneously, so you can replace individual colours as they run out without swapping the entire set.

Why do compatible LC38 cartridges show higher yield numbers than genuine cartridges?

Compatible LC38 cartridges are filled to maximum sponge capacity, whereas standard genuine LC38 cartridges contain a specific factory-measured fluid volume, allowing compatibles to yield up to double the page count.

Is LC38BK the same as LC38 Black?

Yes, LC38BK is the official Brother part number for the LC38 Black ink cartridge; "BK" denotes Black, "C" denotes Cyan, "M" denotes Magenta, and "Y" denotes Yellow.