What To Know
- Both the MFC-L3710CW and the DCP-L3550CDW boast fast printing speeds, capable of churning out up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white documents and 22 ppm for color prints.
- In contrast, the DCP-L3550CDW has a 250-sheet paper tray and a 50-sheet multipurpose tray, providing a total capacity of 300 sheets.
- Yes, both the MFC-L3710CW and the DCP-L3550CDW offer automatic duplexing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper without manual intervention.
Choosing the right color laser printer for your home or small office can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Two popular contenders in the market are the Brother MFC-L3710CW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW. Both offer impressive features and performance, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two models, helping you make an informed decision.
Printing Speed and Quality
Both the MFC-L3710CW and the DCP-L3550CDW boast fast printing speeds, capable of churning out up to 26 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white documents and 22 ppm for color prints. However, the MFC-L3710CW slightly edges out its counterpart in terms of first-page-out time, delivering black and white documents in just 5.5 seconds compared to the DCP-L3550CDW’s 6.5 seconds.
In terms of print quality, both printers produce sharp and crisp text and graphics. The MFC-L3710CW might have a slight advantage in color accuracy and vibrancy due to its higher resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi compared to the DCP-L3550CDW’s 2400 x 600 dpi. However, the difference is subtle and likely won’t be noticeable for everyday printing needs.
Paper Handling and Capacity
The MFC-L3710CW offers a larger paper capacity than the DCP-L3550CDW. It comes equipped with a standard 250-sheet paper tray and a 100-sheet multipurpose tray, allowing you to load up to 350 sheets at once. In contrast, the DCP-L3550CDW has a 250-sheet paper tray and a 50-sheet multipurpose tray, providing a total capacity of 300 sheets. This difference can be significant for users who frequently print large volumes of documents.
Both printers also offer automatic document feeder (ADF) capabilities for handling multiple-page documents. The MFC-L3710CW boasts a 50-sheet ADF, while the DCP-L3550CDW has a 35-sheet ADF. This difference might be crucial for users who frequently scan or copy multi-page documents.
Connectivity and Features
Both printers offer a wide range of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. This allows you to print from multiple devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. Both models also support mobile printing solutions like Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print.
However, the MFC-L3710CW distinguishes itself by offering a built-in fax machine, making it a more versatile option for businesses that require fax capabilities. The DCP-L3550CDW, on the other hand, lacks this feature.
Cost and Value
The MFC-L3710CW is typically priced slightly higher than the DCP-L3550CDW. However, its greater paper capacity, fax capabilities, and slightly faster print speeds might justify the extra cost for some users.
The DCP-L3550CDW, while lacking some of the features of the MFC-L3710CW, offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing significant performance.
Choosing the Right Printer: A Summary
Brother MFC-L3710CW:
- Pros: Larger paper capacity, fax capabilities, slightly faster print speeds.
- Cons: Higher price point.
Brother DCP-L3550CDW:
- Pros: Budget-friendly, compact design, solid print quality.
- Cons: Smaller paper capacity, no fax capabilities.
Which printer is right for you?
- If you require a large paper capacity, fax capabilities, and slightly faster print speeds, the MFC-L3710CW is the better choice.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with solid print quality and don’t need fax capabilities, the DCP-L3550CDW is a great option.
The Final Verdict: Beyond the Specs
Ultimately, the best printer for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Both the Brother MFC-L3710CW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW are capable color laser printers that offer excellent performance and features.
Consider your printing volume, need for fax capabilities, and budget to make the most informed decision. Don’t hesitate to read reviews and compare prices from different retailers before making your final purchase.
Popular Questions
1. What are the ink/toner costs for these printers?
Both printers use separate toner cartridges for black and color. While the initial cost of the toner cartridges might be higher than inkjet printers, the overall cost per page is typically lower, making them a more cost-effective choice for high-volume printing.
2. Do these printers offer automatic duplexing?
Yes, both the MFC-L3710CW and the DCP-L3550CDW offer automatic duplexing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper without manual intervention.
3. What is the warranty coverage for these printers?
Both printers come with a one-year limited warranty covering parts and labor.
4. Can I use these printers for photo printing?
While these printers are primarily designed for document printing, they can produce decent-quality photos. However, if you require professional-grade photo printing, you might want to consider a dedicated photo printer.
5. Are these printers compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems?
Yes, both printers are compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems. You can easily download the necessary drivers from the Brother website.
