Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome vs HP Smart Tank Plus 651 Wireless All-in-One

Pricing Comparison

The Brother HL-L2405W is priced at $139.99, making it significantly cheaper than the HP Smart Tank Plus 651, which retails at $329.89. This price difference of $189.90 means that the Brother printer is about 57% less expensive than its HP counterpart. For users primarily focused on budget, the Brother printer presents a more cost-effective option, especially for those who require a reliable monochrome printer for home or office use.

Print Quality

The Brother HL-L2405W delivers sharp, crisp black and white prints at speeds of up to 30 pages per minute. This makes it ideal for users who need high-quality documents quickly. On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651, while offering color printing, focuses on a refillable ink tank system that provides up to 8,000 color pages or 6,000 black pages with included ink. The HP printer is designed for those who need versatility in printing, including color documents. However, if monochrome print quality is your priority, the Brother model excels in delivering consistent results.

Features and Functions

The Brother HL-L2405W emphasizes wireless connectivity and mobile printing, along with a capacity of 250 sheets in its paper tray. It also features the Brother Mobile Connect app for remote management. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 is an all-in-one solution that includes printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. This makes the HP printer a more versatile option for users who need a multifunctional device. However, the additional features of the HP printer come at a higher price point.

Maintenance and Ease of Use

Ease of use is a strong point for both printers, but they differ in maintenance. The Brother HL-L2405W requires Brother Genuine Toner for optimal performance and offers a Refresh Subscription Service to help manage toner replacement. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 promotes a mess-free refill system for its ink tanks, allowing users to easily replenish ink without the hassle of cartridges. This makes the HP model more convenient for those who prefer a low-maintenance printing experience.

Connectivity Options

The Brother HL-L2405W provides dual-band wireless connectivity, allowing for stable connections across multiple devices. This flexibility is ideal for home offices where multiple users may need access to the printer. Meanwhile, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 also supports mobile and wireless printing, making it easy to print from smartphones and tablets. Both printers offer robust connectivity options, but the Brother model’s dual-band system may provide a slight edge in performance and reliability.

Long-Term Costs

When considering long-term costs, the Brother HL-L2405W is advantageous due to its lower initial price and the ability to manage toner costs through the Refresh Subscription Service. This service offers savings of up to 50% on Brother Genuine Toner, which can significantly reduce ongoing expenses. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 includes two years of ink, but its higher price point means that users may find themselves spending more upfront. For those looking at total cost of ownership, the Brother printer may offer a better value over time.

User Experience and Support

Both printers come with solid customer support options. The Brother HL-L2405W is backed by a one-year limited warranty and provides free online, call, or live chat support. This can be beneficial for users who might need assistance during setup or troubleshooting. On the other hand, HP's reputation for innovation and reliability is well-established, which can instill confidence among users regarding long-term performance and support. However, the availability of support may vary based on user location and specific needs.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Brother HL-L2405W and the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 depends on your specific printing needs and budget. If you require high-quality monochrome printing at a lower price and appreciate the efficiency of a compact printer, the Brother HL-L2405W is the clear winner. However, if you need a multifunctional device that can handle a variety of tasks, including color printing, and you’re willing to invest more upfront for those capabilities, the HP Smart Tank Plus 651 may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your priorities regarding print quality, multifunctionality, and long-term costs.