Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome vs HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet
Updated July 2026 — Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome leads on input tray and price.
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is ideal for high-volume monochrome printing, while the HP DeskJet 2855e is perfect for casual home use with color printing capabilities.
Why Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome is better
Print Speed
Brother prints up to 36 pages per minute.
Functionality
Brother combines printing, scanning, and copying.
Durability
Brother is designed for high-volume business use.
Why HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet is better
Price
HP is significantly cheaper at $49.89.
Color Printing
HP offers color printing capabilities.
User-Friendly
HP has a straightforward app for easy use.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome | HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet |
|---|---|---|
| Print Type | Monochrome Laser | Color Inkjet |
| Scanner Type | Flatbed | Flatbed |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic | Manual |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | Up to 30,000 | Up to 1,000 |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Brother DCP-L2640DW and HP DeskJet 2855e
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a monochrome laser printer designed for productivity, while the HP DeskJet 2855e focuses on color printing for home use. The Brother model is priced at $209.99, making it a more significant investment compared to the HP DeskJet 2855e, which retails for just $49.89—about 76% less. This stark price difference reflects their intended uses and functionalities, appealing to different user needs.
Printing Capabilities
The Brother DCP-L2640DW excels in producing high-quality black and white prints at impressive speeds of up to 36 pages per minute. In contrast, the HP DeskJet 2855e offers color printing at a much slower pace of 5.5 pages per minute for color and 7.5 pages per minute for black. While Brother targets small businesses that require efficient document handling, HP is more suited for home users needing versatile printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. The difference in print quality and speed makes each printer ideal for its specific audience.
Design and Size
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is compact, designed for small business environments where workspace is limited. Its footprint allows it to fit comfortably on a desk, and it integrates multiple functions—printing, scanning, and copying—into one device. The HP DeskJet 2855e, while also designed for home use, is slightly less compact but offers essential features for everyday tasks. The design of both printers reflects their intended usage environments, catering to either business efficiency or home convenience.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity is a strong point for both printers, though they cater to different needs. The Brother DCP-L2640DW features dual-band wireless connectivity (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Ethernet, and a USB interface, making it versatile for various office setups. The HP DeskJet 2855e relies on its reliable Wi-Fi connection, which automatically resolves connectivity issues, ensuring users remain connected. While both printers allow for mobile printing, the Brother's diverse connectivity options may appeal more to users with multiple devices in a professional setting.
Included Features and Subscription Services
The Brother DCP-L2640DW comes equipped with a Refresh Subscription Trial for toner, allowing users to maintain consistent supplies without worrying about running out. This service offers potential savings of up to 50% on Brother Genuine Toner, which is beneficial for high-volume users. Meanwhile, the HP DeskJet 2855e includes a three-month Instant Ink trial with HP+ activation, making it attractive for users who print a variety of documents at home. Each printer's subscription service is tailored to its user base, with Brother focusing on business efficiency and HP appealing to home users.
User Experience and Convenience
The user experience for both printers is shaped by their target audiences. The Brother DCP-L2640DW offers a streamlined operation with features like a 50-page auto document feeder, which is ideal for high-volume scanning and copying tasks. The Brother Mobile Connect App enhances user convenience by allowing remote management of printing tasks. On the other hand, the HP DeskJet 2855e focuses on ease of use with its straightforward app that facilitates printing, scanning, and copying directly from smartphones. This makes it particularly user-friendly for families and casual users.
Sales Rank and Market Position
The Brother DCP-L2640DW holds a sales rank of 335, indicating its solid performance in the market, especially among small business users. The HP DeskJet 2855e, with a significantly better sales rank of 84, suggests it is a popular choice among home users. This difference in rankings may reflect the broader appeal of HP's multifunction capabilities for everyday tasks compared to Brother’s focus on high-volume monochrome printing.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Brother DCP-L2640DW and the HP DeskJet 2855e ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you require a high-speed monochrome printer for business or frequent document handling, the Brother DCP-L2640DW is the better choice at $209.99. However, for casual home users looking for an affordable option for color printing and basic functionalities, the HP DeskJet 2855e at $49.89 is the clear winner, offering excellent value for everyday tasks.