The Ultimate Showdown: Brother MFC-J5740DW vs MFC-J6940DW – Which One Should You Buy?

Choosing the right all-in-one printer can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. If you’re considering a Brother printer, two popular models often come up – the MFC-J5740DW and the MFC-J6940DW. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one truly reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

The Basics: Similarities and Key Differences

Both the Brother MFC-J5740DW and MFC-J6940DW are inkjet all-in-one printers designed for home and small office use. They share several similarities, including:

• All-in-one functionality: Both models offer print, copy, scan, and fax capabilities.
• Wireless connectivity: Connect to your network wirelessly for easy printing and sharing.
• Automatic document feeder (ADF): Simplify multi-page document scanning and copying.
• Duplex printing: Print on both sides of the paper automatically.
• Mobile printing: Print from your smartphone or tablet using the Brother iPrint&Scan app.

However, there are some crucial differences that set these models apart:

• Print speed: The MFC-J6940DW boasts a faster print speed than the MFC-J5740DW.
• Paper capacity: The MFC-J6940DW has a larger paper tray capacity, accommodating more paper at a time.
• Ink cartridges: The MFC-J6940DW uses XL ink cartridges, offering higher page yields and potentially lower print costs per page.
• Features: The MFC-J6940DW offers additional features like a USB port and an auto document feeder with a higher capacity.

Print Speed: A Tale of Two Printers

Print speed is a crucial consideration for anyone looking for a printer that can keep up with their workload. The MFC-J6940DW takes the lead in this category, offering faster printing speeds for both black and color documents.
While both models are capable of handling everyday printing tasks, the MFC-J6940DW excels when speed is paramount, making it ideal for users who frequently print large volumes of documents or need faster turnaround times.

Paper Capacity: How Much Paper Is Enough?

The paper capacity of a printer is important for users who print frequently or handle large projects. The MFC-J6940DW wins this round, featuring a larger paper tray capacity compared to the MFC-J5740DW. This means you can load more paper at once, reducing the need for frequent refills and minimizing interruptions during printing sessions.
The MFC-J6940DW’s larger capacity makes it a better choice for busy offices or individuals who print a significant volume of documents regularly.

Ink Cartridges: Cost-Effective Printing

Ink cartridges are a significant ongoing expense for printer owners. Both the MFC-J5740DW and MFC-J6940DW offer the option of standard and high-yield ink cartridges. However, the MFC-J6940DW utilizes XL ink cartridges, which provide higher page yields and potentially lower print costs per page.
If you’re looking for a printer that can help you save on ink costs in the long run, the MFC-J6940DW’s XL ink cartridges might be a compelling advantage.

Additional Features: The MFC-J6940DW Takes the Lead

The MFC-J6940DW boasts several additional features that enhance its functionality and convenience. It includes a USB port, allowing you to print directly from a USB drive, eliminating the need for network connectivity in some cases. The MFC-J6940DW’s auto document feeder also has a higher capacity, making it easier to scan and copy multi-page documents without manual intervention.
These additional features make the MFC-J6940DW a more versatile and feature-rich option, especially for users who need a printer that can handle a wider range of tasks.

Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best printer for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the MFC-J5740DW if:

• You’re on a tighter budget: The MFC-J5740DW is generally more affordable than its counterpart.
• You don’t need the fastest print speeds: If print speed isn’t a major concern, the MFC-J5740DW’s speed is still adequate for most home and small office tasks.
• You don’t print large volumes: If you print infrequently or handle smaller print volumes, the MFC-J5740DW’s paper capacity may be sufficient.

Choose the MFC-J6940DW if:

• You prioritize print speed: If you need a printer that can handle large print jobs quickly, the MFC-J6940DW’s faster print speeds are a significant advantage.
• You print frequently: The MFC-J6940DW’s larger paper capacity is ideal for users who print frequently and don’t want to constantly refill the paper tray.
• You want to save on ink costs: The XL ink cartridges in the MFC-J6940DW offer higher page yields, potentially reducing your overall ink expenditure.
• You need additional features: The MFC-J6940DW’s USB port and higher-capacity ADF make it a more versatile and feature-rich option.

The Verdict: A Clear Winner?

While both the MFC-J5740DW and MFC-J6940DW are capable all-in-one printers, the MFC-J6940DW emerges as the clear winner for users who prioritize speed, capacity, and features. Its faster print speeds, larger paper tray, XL ink cartridges, and additional features make it a more powerful and versatile option for busy individuals and small offices.
However, the MFC-J5740DW remains a solid choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly option with adequate performance for everyday printing tasks.

Beyond the Comparison: Other Factors to Consider

While this comparison has focused on the core differences between the MFC-J5740DW and MFC-J6940DW, there are other factors to consider when choosing a printer:

• Print quality: Both models offer good print quality for everyday documents and photos. However, if you require professional-grade prints, you might want to explore higher-end models.
• Connectivity options: Both models offer wireless connectivity, but some users may need additional options like Ethernet or NFC.
• Software and drivers: Ensure the printer’s software and drivers are compatible with your operating system and devices.
• Warranty and support: Check the warranty period and available support options before making a purchase.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What is the difference in print resolution between the two models?
A: Both models offer a print resolution of up to 4800 x 2400 dpi, providing high-quality prints for documents and photos.
Q: Can I use third-party ink cartridges in either model?
A: While using third-party ink cartridges might seem like a cost-saving option, it’s important to note that Brother does not guarantee the quality or compatibility of such cartridges. Using non-genuine cartridges may void your warranty.
Q: What is the difference in the ADF capacity between the two models?
A: The MFC-J5740DW has an ADF capacity of 35 sheets, while the MFC-J6940DW boasts a larger capacity of 50 sheets.
Q: Are there any differences in the scanner resolution?
A: Both models offer a scanner resolution of up to 1200 x 2400 dpi, providing clear and detailed scans.
Q: Which model is better for printing photos?
A: Both models offer good photo print quality, but the MFC-J6940DW’s faster print speeds might be a slight advantage for high-volume photo printing. However, the difference in photo print quality is likely to be negligible for most users.