Brother HL-L3270CDW vs HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW: Which Printer Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right color laser printer can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Brother HL-L3270CDW and the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW. Both printers offer impressive features and performance, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each printer, helping you make an informed decision.

Print Quality and Resolution

Both the Brother HL-L3270CDW and HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW deliver excellent print quality, but with subtle differences. The Brother boasts a higher resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi, which translates to sharper text and more detailed graphics. However, the HP M255DW, with its 600 x 600 dpi resolution, still produces vibrant colors and crisp text, making it suitable for everyday printing needs.

Speed and Performance

Speed is crucial for busy offices and individuals who need quick turnaround times. The Brother HL-L3270CDW shines in this area, printing up to 22 pages per minute (ppm) in color and black and white. The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW, on the other hand, prints at a slightly slower rate of 18 ppm for both color and monochrome. While the difference may seem small, it can add up considerably when printing large volumes.

Paper Handling and Capacity

Both printers offer ample paper handling capabilities, but the Brother HL-L3270CDW takes the lead. It features a standard paper capacity of 250 sheets, expandable to 550 sheets with optional trays. This makes it ideal for high-volume printing environments. The HP M255DW, with its standard capacity of 250 sheets, can be expanded to 550 sheets with an optional tray as well. However, the Brother’s larger standard capacity gives it an edge in this regard.

Connectivity and Features

Both printers offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. However, the Brother HL-L3270CDW goes a step further by including NFC (Near Field Communication) for easy mobile printing. Both printers also support mobile printing solutions like Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print.

Toner Cost and Yield

Toner cost and yield are crucial factors to consider, as they can significantly impact the overall cost of printing. The Brother HL-L3270CDW boasts a high toner yield, with the standard cartridges offering up to 2,500 pages in black and white and 2,100 pages in color. The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW, while offering a respectable yield, falls slightly behind with a capacity of 1,400 pages for both color and black and white.

Size and Design

Both printers are compact and stylish, making them suitable for various office environments. The Brother HL-L3270CDW measures 16.5 x 15.4 x 11.4 inches, while the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW is slightly smaller at 15.9 x 13.6 x 10.1 inches. Both printers offer a user-friendly interface, with easy-to-navigate control panels.

Energy Efficiency

Both the Brother HL-L3270CDW and HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Both printers meet Energy Star standards, reducing energy consumption and contributing to a greener environment.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Printer for You

Choosing between the Brother HL-L3270CDW and HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW boils down to your specific needs and priorities.
Choose the Brother HL-L3270CDW if:

• You prioritize high-speed printing.
• You require a larger paper capacity for high-volume printing.
• You value a high toner yield for cost-effective printing.

Choose the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW if:

• You prioritize a compact and stylish design.
• You need a printer with a user-friendly interface.
• You are looking for a printer with a lower upfront cost.

Beyond the Specs: Additional Considerations

While the technical specifications provide a good starting point, several other factors can influence your decision.

• Printing Needs: Consider the type of documents you typically print, whether it’s text-heavy documents, graphics, or photos.
• Budget: Determine your budget for the printer and its consumables.
• Features: Identify the features that are most important to you, such as mobile printing, duplex printing, or automatic document feeder.
• User Reviews: Read reviews from other users to gain insights into the real-world performance and reliability of each printer.

The Final Word: A Powerful Duet

Ultimately, both the Brother HL-L3270CDW and HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW are excellent color laser printers that offer impressive features and performance. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, you can select the printer that best meets your requirements and enhances your printing experience.

What People Want to Know

Q: What is the difference between the Brother HL-L3270CDW and the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW in terms of printing speed?
A: The Brother HL-L3270CDW prints at a faster rate of 22 ppm for both color and black and white, while the HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW prints at 18 ppm.
Q: Which printer has a higher toner yield?
A: The Brother HL-L3270CDW boasts a higher toner yield with standard cartridges offering up to 2,500 pages in black and white and 2,100 pages in color. The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW has a yield of 1,400 pages for both color and black and white.
Q: Are both printers compatible with mobile printing?
A: Yes, both printers support mobile printing solutions like Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print. The Brother HL-L3270CDW also includes NFC for easy mobile printing.
Q: Which printer is more compact and suitable for a small office?
A: The HP Color LaserJet Pro M255DW is slightly smaller than the Brother HL-L3270CDW, making it a better option for small offices with limited space.
Q: Can I connect both printers to a network?
A: Yes, both printers offer Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity for network printing.