Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome vs Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer,

Overview of the Brother HL-L2405W and Canon PIXMA TR160

The Brother HL-L2405W is priced at $139.99, making it about 36% cheaper than the Canon PIXMA TR160, which retails for $219.99. This price difference could be significant depending on your budget and printing needs. While both printers offer wireless connectivity, they cater to different use cases, with the Brother focusing on home and office efficiency and the Canon emphasizing portability.

Design and Portability

The Canon PIXMA TR160 stands out for its lightweight and portable design, allowing users to easily carry it in a bag or backpack. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need to print on the go. In contrast, the Brother HL-L2405W, while compact, is designed primarily for home and home office use, featuring a larger footprint that is not as travel-friendly. If mobility is your priority, the Canon's design and optional battery feature could be the decisive factor.

Print Quality

Both printers provide high-quality prints, but they achieve this in different ways. The Brother HL-L2405W delivers sharp black and white prints at speeds of up to 30 pages per minute. This efficiency is ideal for businesses or home offices that require quick, reliable monochrome printing. On the other hand, the Canon PIXMA TR160 utilizes a 5-Color Hybrid Ink System, enabling it to produce vibrant color prints as well as sharp black text. For users who need to print photos or colorful documents, the Canon offers more versatility.

Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, both printers offer wireless capabilities, but they cater to different needs. The Brother HL-L2405W features built-in dual-band wireless functionality, allowing users to connect to multiple devices seamlessly. It also supports mobile printing through the Brother Mobile Connect app. In comparison, the Canon PIXMA TR160 makes printing convenient by supporting the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. It even allows for wireless direct mode, enabling connection without a router. If you frequently switch between various devices, the Brother may offer a slight edge in connectivity.

Paper Handling

The Brother HL-L2405W includes a 250-sheet paper tray, which reduces the frequency of paper refills and is beneficial for heavier print workloads. Meanwhile, the Canon PIXMA TR160 has a smaller 50-sheet paper tray, which may require more frequent reloading, especially during larger print jobs. Therefore, if you print in bulk, the Brother's superior paper handling capacity is a significant advantage.

Maintenance and Support

In terms of maintenance, the Brother HL-L2405W is designed with user convenience in mind. It offers a 1-year limited warranty and access to free online support. Additionally, the printer encourages the use of Brother Genuine Supplies, which can lead to cost savings with its Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service. On the other hand, while the Canon PIXMA TR160 does not highlight any specific subscription service, it does provide a straightforward printing experience without the need for complex setups. If ongoing support and maintenance are crucial, the Brother's offerings could be more appealing.

Price Comparison

At $139.99, the Brother HL-L2405W is a more budget-friendly choice compared to the Canon PIXMA TR160, which is priced at $219.99. This represents a difference of $80, or about 36%, making the Brother printer a more economical option. If you are looking for a printer that offers reliable performance without breaking the bank, the Brother HL-L2405W is the clear winner in this category.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, your choice between the Brother HL-L2405W and the Canon PIXMA TR160 boils down to your specific printing needs. If you prioritize cost, fast black-and-white printing, and efficient paper handling, the Brother HL-L2405W is the better option. However, if you require portability, versatility in printing both documents and photos, and do not mind spending a bit more, the Canon PIXMA TR160 could be the ideal fit. Both printers have their merits, but understanding your priorities will guide you to the right decision.