What To Know
- If you primarily print black and white documents and need a printer that can handle large volumes, the DCP-L2550DW is an excellent choice.
- The ADF and fax capabilities make the MFC-L2710DW well-suited for businesses and offices that handle a mix of documents and need to scan and fax regularly.
- While slightly slower than the DCP-L2550DW, the MFC-L2710DW still delivers a decent print speed of 27 ppm for black and white and 20 ppm for color.
Choosing the right printer for your home or small office can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. If you’re considering a Brother printer, the DCP-L2550DW and MFC-L2710DW are two popular models that often come up in the conversation. Both boast impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between these two models, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Feature Comparison: A Head-to-Head Showdown
Both the DCP-L2550DW and MFC-L2710DW are laser printers designed for efficiency and productivity. They share some common features, such as automatic duplex printing, wireless connectivity, and mobile printing capabilities. However, there are some key distinctions that set them apart:
Printing:
- DCP-L2550DW: This model is a **monochrome laser printer** capable of printing up to **30 pages per minute (ppm)**. It offers a maximum monthly duty cycle of **10,000 pages**, making it suitable for moderate to high printing volumes.
- MFC-L2710DW: This model takes it a step further by offering **color laser printing** with a speed of **27 ppm** for black and white and **20 ppm** for color. Its monthly duty cycle is slightly lower at **8,000 pages**, still catering to a considerable printing workload.
Scanning:
- DCP-L2550DW: It features a **flatbed scanner** with a resolution of **1200 x 2400 dpi** for high-quality scans.
- MFC-L2710DW: This model boasts a **flatbed scanner and an automatic document feeder (ADF)**, allowing you to scan multiple pages automatically. The ADF capacity is **35 sheets**, and the scanner resolution remains the same as the DCP-L2550DW.
Faxing:
- DCP-L2550DW: This model **does not offer faxing capabilities**.
- MFC-L2710DW: This model includes a **built-in fax machine** with a memory capacity of **100 pages**, enabling you to send and receive faxes directly from your printer.
Other Features:
- DCP-L2550DW: It has a 250-sheet paper tray and a manual feed slot for handling different paper types.
- MFC-L2710DW: It comes with a 250-sheet paper tray, a 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF), and a manual feed slot.
Choosing the Right Printer for Your Needs
The choice between the DCP-L2550DW and MFC-L2710DW depends heavily on your specific printing requirements. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
DCP-L2550DW: Ideal for:
- High-volume monochrome printing: If you primarily print black and white documents and need a printer that can handle large volumes, the DCP-L2550DW is an excellent choice.
- Budget-conscious users: The DCP-L2550DW is generally more affordable than the MFC-L2710DW, making it a good option if you’re on a tighter budget.
- Simple printing needs: If you don’t require color printing or faxing capabilities, the DCP-L2550DW provides a straightforward and reliable printing solution.
MFC-L2710DW: Ideal for:
- Color printing: If you need to print in color, the MFC-L2710DW is the clear winner.
- Multifunction needs: The MFC-L2710DW’s combination of printing, scanning, copying, and faxing makes it a versatile all-in-one solution.
- Businesses and offices: The ADF and fax capabilities make the MFC-L2710DW well-suited for businesses and offices that handle a mix of documents and need to scan and fax regularly.
Performance and Print Quality
DCP-L2550DW:
- Print Speed: The DCP-L2550DW boasts a respectable print speed of 30 ppm, making it efficient for handling moderate to high-volume printing jobs.
- Print Quality: The print quality is crisp and clear, suitable for most business documents and everyday printing needs.
MFC-L2710DW:
- Print Speed: While slightly slower than the DCP-L2550DW, the MFC-L2710DW still delivers a decent print speed of 27 ppm for black and white and 20 ppm for color.
- Print Quality: The print quality is generally good, with vibrant colors and sharp text.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both printers offer a range of connectivity options, including:
- Wireless: Both models support wireless printing, allowing you to connect to your network and print from multiple devices.
- Ethernet: Both printers can be connected to your network via Ethernet for a more stable connection.
- USB: Both models include a USB port for direct printing from a computer or external storage devices.
- Mobile Printing: Both printers support mobile printing technologies like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Brother iPrint&Scan, enabling you to print from your smartphone or tablet.
Pros and Cons
DCP-L2550DW:
Pros:
- Fast monochrome printing
- Affordable price
- Compact design
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- No color printing
- No faxing capabilities
- Limited scanning features
MFC-L2710DW:
Pros:
- Color printing capability
- Multifunctionality (print, scan, copy, fax)
- Automatic document feeder
- Good print quality
Cons:
- Higher price than the DCP-L2550DW
- Slightly slower print speed than the DCP-L2550DW
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between the DCP-L2550DW and MFC-L2710DW ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize high-volume monochrome printing at an affordable price, the DCP-L2550DW is a solid choice. However, if you need color printing, faxing capabilities, and an automatic document feeder, the MFC-L2710DW offers a more comprehensive and versatile solution.
Finding the Best Deal: Where to Buy
Both printers are widely available online and at major electronics retailers. To find the best deals, it’s recommended to compare prices from different retailers and look for any current promotions or discounts.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
- Ink/Toner Costs: While both printers offer relatively low running costs, it’s essential to factor in the cost of replacement toner cartridges.
- Paper Handling: The MFC-L2710DW’s automatic document feeder can be a significant advantage for businesses that handle a lot of documents.
- Software and Features: Both printers come with driver software and utility programs for managing printing and scanning tasks.
The Final Word: A Choice Based on Your Needs
The Brother DCP-L2550DW and MFC-L2710DW are both capable printers that offer excellent performance and features. The DCP-L2550DW excels in monochrome printing and affordability, while the MFC-L2710DW shines with its color printing capabilities, multifunctionality, and ADF. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific printing needs and budget.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which printer is better for home use?
A: If you mainly print black and white documents and are on a budget, the DCP-L2550DW is a good option for home use. However, if you need color printing or want a more versatile all-in-one solution, the MFC-L2710DW is a better choice.
Q: Which printer is better for a small office?
A: The MFC-L2710DW is generally a better choice for a small office due to its color printing, ADF, and fax capabilities. It can handle a wider range of tasks and documents.
Q: What are the toner costs for each printer?
A: Toner costs vary depending on the retailer and any current promotions. However, both printers generally have relatively low running costs compared to other laser printers.
Q: Can I print from my smartphone or tablet?
A: Yes, both printers support mobile printing technologies like Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Brother iPrint&Scan, enabling you to print from your smartphone or tablet.
