Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome vs HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless All-in-One

Overview of the Brother DCP-L2640DW and HP Smart Tank Plus 651

The Brother DCP-L2640DW is priced at $209.99, while the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is more expensive at $329.89, making it about 57% more costly. Both printers cater to different user needs, with the Brother focusing on high-volume black and white printing and the HP offering a more versatile color printing solution with significant ink savings.

The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a monochrome laser printer that combines printing, scanning, and copying in a compact design. It’s engineered for productivity, ideal for small businesses that require fast and reliable black and white output. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is an ink tank printer designed for home use, featuring cartridge-free printing and a substantial ink supply that lasts up to two years.

Print Quality

When it comes to print quality, the Brother DCP-L2640DW excels with its high-quality black and white prints. It can produce documents quickly with print speeds of up to 36 pages per minute. This efficiency makes it suitable for settings where time and quality are critical. However, it lacks color printing capabilities, which limits its functionality for those requiring vibrant color documents.

On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 offers a different kind of versatility. While specific print speeds are not detailed, it is designed for high-volume color printing with thousands of pages of cartridge-free printing. Users can expect rich colors and sharp text, thanks to the innovative tank system that eliminates the hassle of traditional cartridges. This makes it an excellent option for home users needing both color and black and white prints.

Connectivity Options

The Brother DCP-L2640DW provides flexible connectivity options, supporting dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, and USB connections. This variety allows users to connect multiple devices seamlessly, catering well to small businesses with different operational needs.

In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 also offers wireless connectivity, enabling easy mobile printing and scanning. While both printers support essential connection options, the Brother’s additional features like Ethernet and USB connectivity may appeal more to business users who require stable network connections for multiple devices.

Functionality and Features

The Brother DCP-L2640DW stands out with its multifunction capabilities, combining a printer, scanner, and copier in one unit. It features a 50-page auto document feeder, which greatly enhances productivity for multi-page tasks. With ENERGY STAR compliance and EPEAT Silver rating, it also promotes eco-friendly printing practices.

The HP Smart Tank Plus 651, while also a multifunction printer, emphasizes low-cost printing with its two years of included ink. This model is designed for convenience with mess-free ink refills and a focus on maintaining a reliable printing experience without complicated maintenance. Users looking for a printer that can handle various tasks while providing substantial savings on ink will find the HP appealing.

Price and Value

The Brother DCP-L2640DW is priced at $209.99, making it a cost-effective choice for those who primarily need black and white printing. With an average price of around $209.96 over the past 90 days, it offers steady pricing, ensuring users know what to expect.

Conversely, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is priced at $329.89, which is significantly higher. However, it includes two years of ink, which can translate to significant savings in the long run for users who print frequently. The initial investment may be higher, but the ability to print thousands of pages without immediate ink replacement could justify the cost for many home users.

Best Uses

The Brother DCP-L2640DW is best suited for small businesses or home offices that require high-volume black and white printing. Its fast print speeds and multifunction capabilities ensure that it meets the demands of busy work environments effectively, making it a reliable choice for professionals.

The HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is ideal for home users who need versatility in printing. Whether for school projects, family photos, or everyday documents, its capability for color printing and the substantial ink supply makes it a great choice for households seeking a dependable and economical printing solution.

Maintenance and Reliability

The Brother DCP-L2640DW is designed for reliability, with features that minimize downtime, such as a 250-sheet paper tray and robust build quality. Its ENERGY STAR compliance also indicates a focus on energy-efficient operation, making it a practical option for those concerned about ongoing costs.

In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 emphasizes a hassle-free experience with its cartridge-free system. Users benefit from less maintenance and fewer interruptions, as it is built to last without the complexity of traditional ink cartridges. This printer aims to provide a worry-free printing experience, which can be particularly appealing for families or individuals who print regularly.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Brother DCP-L2640DW and the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you require a reliable, fast monochrome printer for business use, the Brother DCP-L2640DW is the better option, priced at $209.99. However, if your printing needs include high-quality color documents and you appreciate the convenience of long-lasting ink supplies, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651, priced at $329.89, may offer better value in the long run. Assess your priorities—whether speed and reliability or versatility and ink savings—to make the best choice.