What To Know
- If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient monochrome laser printer, the Brother MFC-L2690DW and HL-L2390DW are two strong contenders.
- The MFC-L2690DW is a multifunction printer, equipped with a scanner, copier, and fax, making it a versatile all-in-one solution.
- This added mobility makes the MFC-L2690DW a more versatile option for users who need to print on the go.
Choosing the right printer for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient monochrome laser printer, the Brother MFC-L2690DW and HL-L2390DW are two strong contenders. Both models offer impressive features and capabilities, but their differences might make one a better fit for your specific requirements. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each printer, helping you make an informed decision.
A Tale of Two Printers: The Core Differences
The Brother MFC-L2690DW and HL-L2390DW are both monochrome laser printers designed for high-volume printing. However, their core functionalities diverge significantly. The MFC-L2690DW is a multifunction printer, equipped with a scanner, copier, and fax, making it a versatile all-in-one solution. The HL-L2390DW, on the other hand, is solely focused on printing, offering exceptional speed and efficiency for high-volume document production.
Print Speed and Performance: A Race Against Time
Both printers boast impressive print speeds, but the HL-L2390DW takes the lead. It can print up to 36 pages per minute (ppm), making it ideal for businesses with heavy printing demands. The MFC-L2690DW, while still fast, prints at a rate of 30 ppm. This difference in speed might seem minor, but it can translate to significant time savings in the long run, especially for large print jobs.
Paper Handling and Capacity: Keeping the Ink Flowing
Both printers offer generous paper capacities, ensuring you can print large volumes without frequent refills. The HL-L2390DW has a standard paper capacity of 250 sheets, expandable to 850 sheets with optional trays. The MFC-L2690DW, on the other hand, comes with a 250-sheet capacity and can be expanded to 1,350 sheets with additional trays. This larger capacity makes the MFC-L2690DW a better choice for offices with high-volume printing needs.
Connectivity and Mobility: Staying Connected
Both printers offer comprehensive connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This enables seamless integration with various devices and networks. The MFC-L2690DW also supports mobile printing through Brother iPrint&Scan app, allowing you to print and scan documents from your smartphone or tablet. This added mobility makes the MFC-L2690DW a more versatile option for users who need to print on the go.
Cost Per Page: The Bottom Line
The cost per page is a crucial factor to consider, especially for high-volume printing. Both printers offer competitive cost per page, but the HL-L2390DW edges out slightly due to its lower toner consumption. This translates to lower running costs in the long run, making it a more cost-effective choice for businesses with substantial printing needs.
Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics
While the HL-L2390DW focuses solely on printing, the MFC-L2690DW offers a range of additional features that enhance its functionality. Its built-in scanner allows you to digitize documents and photos, while the copier provides a convenient way to make copies. The fax functionality adds further versatility, enabling you to send and receive faxes directly from your printer.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Fit
Ultimately, the best printer for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you require a high-speed, dedicated printer for high-volume document production, the Brother HL-L2390DW is a solid choice. Its exceptional speed, generous paper capacity, and low cost per page make it an ideal solution for businesses with heavy printing demands.
However, if you need a versatile multifunction printer that can handle printing, scanning, copying, and faxing, the Brother MFC-L2690DW is the better option. Its added functionality, mobile printing capabilities, and larger paper capacity make it a more comprehensive solution for offices that need a multi-purpose printer.
Beyond the Comparison: Key Considerations
While this comparison highlights the key differences between the Brother MFC-L2690DW and HL-L2390DW, several other factors can influence your decision. Consider these additional points:
- Budget: The MFC-L2690DW is generally more expensive than the HL-L2390DW due to its added features.
- Space: The HL-L2390DW has a smaller footprint, making it a better choice for limited workspace.
- Printing needs: If you primarily print documents, the HL-L2390DW is sufficient. If you need to scan, copy, or fax, the MFC-L2690DW is a better option.
- Toner cost: While both models offer competitive cost per page, the HL-L2390DW offers slightly lower running costs.
Final Thoughts: A Choice for Every Need
Both the Brother MFC-L2690DW and HL-L2390DW are excellent monochrome laser printers, each catering to different needs. The HL-L2390DW is a powerhouse for high-volume printing, while the MFC-L2690DW offers a comprehensive all-in-one solution. By carefully considering your specific requirements and priorities, you can choose the printer that best meets your needs and budget.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which printer is better for a small business with high printing volume?
A: For a small business with high printing volume, the HL-L2390DW is a better choice. Its exceptional speed, large paper capacity, and low cost per page make it ideal for handling heavy printing demands.
Q: Can I print from my phone using the HL-L2390DW?
A: The HL-L2390DW does not support mobile printing. However, you can print from your phone using the MFC-L2690DW through the Brother iPrint&Scan app.
Q: What is the difference between the MFC-L2690DW and the MFC-L2750DW?
A: The MFC-L2750DW is a newer model with a higher print speed (36 ppm), a larger paper capacity (330 sheets standard, expandable to 1,080 sheets), and a more advanced touchscreen interface. It also offers automatic duplex printing, while the MFC-L2690DW requires manual duplexing.
Q: What is the recommended toner cartridge for the HL-L2390DW?
A: The recommended toner cartridge for the HL-L2390DW is the Brother TN2320, which yields approximately 2,600 pages.
Q: How do I connect the MFC-L2690DW to my wireless network?
A: To connect the MFC-L2690DW to your wireless network, follow these steps:
1. Press the “Menu” button on the printer.
2. Use the navigation buttons to select “Network” and then “Wireless LAN Setup.”
3. Choose “Easy WPS Push Button” and press the WPS button on your router.
4. The printer will automatically connect to the network.
