What To Know
- The T820DW, however, slightly surpasses the T720DW in terms of print resolution, offering a maximum resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi compared to the T720DW’s 4800 x 1200 dpi.
- It boasts a faster print speed of up to 12 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white documents and 6 ppm for color documents, compared to the T720DW’s 10 ppm for black and white and 5 ppm for color.
- If you prioritize a robust build quality, faster print speeds, and additional features like an ADF and fax functionality, the T820DW is the clear winner.
Choosing the right multifunction printer for your home or small office can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders from Brother’s lineup, the DCP-T720DW and the DCP-T820DW, offer impressive features and capabilities. But which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two inkjet printers, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the DCP-T720DW and the T820DW boast a sleek and compact design, making them ideal for space-constrained environments. The T820DW, however, takes the lead in terms of build quality. Its robust construction with a metal chassis exudes durability and longevity, while the T720DW relies on a plastic frame. This difference in materials translates into a more premium feel for the T820DW, although it comes at a higher price point.
Print Quality and Speed
When it comes to print quality, both printers deliver exceptional results. They utilize individual ink cartridges, allowing you to replace only the color you need, minimizing waste. The T820DW, however, slightly surpasses the T720DW in terms of print resolution, offering a maximum resolution of 4800 x 2400 dpi compared to the T720DW’s 4800 x 1200 dpi. This translates to sharper text and more detailed images on the T820DW.
In terms of print speed, the T820DW again takes the lead. It boasts a faster print speed of up to 12 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white documents and 6 ppm for color documents, compared to the T720DW’s 10 ppm for black and white and 5 ppm for color. This difference in speed becomes noticeable when printing large volumes of documents.
Paper Handling and Capacity
Both printers offer a standard paper tray capacity of 150 sheets, sufficient for most home and small office users. The T820DW, however, provides an added advantage with its automatic document feeder (ADF) that can hold up to 35 sheets. This feature proves invaluable for scanning and copying multi-page documents, eliminating the need for manual feeding.
Connectivity and Features
Both the T720DW and the T820DW offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. This allows you to seamlessly print from multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Both printers also support mobile printing using apps like Brother iPrint&Scan.
In terms of additional features, the T820DW stands out with its built-in fax functionality. This feature proves useful for businesses that still rely on faxing for communication. The T820DW also boasts a larger LCD screen, providing a more intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Ink Efficiency and Cost
One of the key selling points of both printers is their high ink efficiency. They utilize high-yield ink cartridges, allowing you to print thousands of pages before needing a replacement. This translates into significant cost savings compared to standard ink cartridges.
While both printers offer impressive ink efficiency, the T820DW slightly edges out the T720DW in terms of cost per page. This is primarily due to the T820DW’s slightly higher print yield for each ink cartridge.
Key Points: Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs
The decision between the Brother DCP-T720DW and the T820DW ultimately boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize a robust build quality, faster print speeds, and additional features like an ADF and fax functionality, the T820DW is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with excellent print quality and ink efficiency, the T720DW remains a compelling choice.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What are the printing costs per page for the T720DW and the T820DW?
A: The exact cost per page will vary depending on the type of documents you print and the ink cartridge yield. However, both printers offer significantly lower printing costs compared to standard ink cartridges. You can find detailed information on ink cartridge yields and printing costs on Brother’s website.
Q: Are the T720DW and T820DW compatible with duplex printing?
A: Yes, both printers support automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper automatically. This feature helps save paper and reduce environmental impact.
Q: Can I use third-party ink cartridges with these printers?
A: While using third-party ink cartridges might seem appealing due to lower costs, it’s important to note that they may not be compatible with your printer’s warranty and could potentially damage the printer. It’s always recommended to use genuine Brother ink cartridges to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Q: Can I connect these printers to a network?
A: Yes, both the T720DW and the T820DW offer network connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet. This allows you to share the printer across multiple devices within your network.
Q: Which printer is better for home use?
A: Both the T720DW and the T820DW are excellent choices for home use. However, if you prioritize a compact design and budget-friendliness, the T720DW is a great option. If you need additional features like an ADF and fax functionality, the T820DW might be a better fit.
