Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Compact Monochrome vs HP DeskJet 2855e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet

Overview of the Brother HL-L2460DW and HP DeskJet 2855e

The Brother HL-L2460DW is a monochrome laser printer designed for efficiency and high-volume printing, while the HP DeskJet 2855e is a versatile all-in-one color inkjet printer. Each serves different needs, with the Brother model being ideal for homes or small offices that require fast black-and-white printing, and the HP model catering to families and home users who need color printing, scanning, and copying capabilities.

The Brother HL-L2460DW is priced at $179.98, significantly higher than the HP DeskJet 2855e's price of $49.89. While the Brother printer offers robust performance with speeds up to 36 pages per minute and a 250-sheet capacity, the HP printer provides versatile functionalities at a lower entry price, making it an attractive choice for casual users.

Print Quality and Speed

When it comes to print quality and speed, the Brother HL-L2460DW excels in producing crisp black-and-white documents quickly. It prints at a remarkable speed of up to 36 pages per minute, making it suitable for high-volume printing needs. This speed is ideal for users who prioritize efficiency and productivity in their printing tasks.

On the other hand, the HP DeskJet 2855e offers decent print speeds of 7.5 pages per minute for black and 5.5 pages per minute for color. While this is adequate for everyday tasks such as printing to-do lists and recipes, it cannot compete with the Brother model's speed. For users who need fast, professional-quality black-and-white printing, the Brother printer stands out.

Versatility and Functionality

The HP DeskJet 2855e is designed as an all-in-one printer, scanner, and copier, making it a versatile option for home use. Its ability to perform multiple functions allows users to handle various tasks without needing separate devices. This added functionality is especially beneficial for families who require color printing for school projects or personal documents.

Conversely, the Brother HL-L2460DW focuses on monochrome printing but offers features like automatic duplex printing, which saves time and reduces paper waste. While it lacks the scanning and copying features of the HP model, it provides a more efficient solution for those whose primary need is high-quality black-and-white printing.

Connectivity Options

In terms of connectivity, the Brother HL-L2460DW offers a range of options including dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB connections. This flexibility allows users to connect the printer to various devices easily, enhancing its usability in a home office environment.

The HP DeskJet 2855e also features wireless printing capabilities, utilizing reliable Wi-Fi that automatically detects and resolves connection issues. However, it only supports 2.4 GHz networks, which may limit its connectivity options compared to the Brother printer's dual-band support. Users who prioritize a stable and flexible connection may find the Brother printer more appealing.

Mobile Printing Capability

The Brother HL-L2460DW stands out with its Brother Mobile Connect app, which allows users to manage their printer remotely and print documents from mobile devices. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to print on the go or want to monitor their printer's status and toner usage directly from their smartphones.

While the HP DeskJet 2855e also includes mobile printing capabilities through the HP app, it may not offer the same level of remote management as the Brother app. For users who heavily rely on mobile printing, the Brother HL-L2460DW provides a more comprehensive solution.

Cost of Ownership

When considering the cost of ownership, the Brother HL-L2460DW has a higher upfront cost at $179.98, but it is designed for high-volume printing, which can lead to long-term savings on consumables. The Brother printer offers a Refresh Subscription service that can save users up to 50% on toner costs. This is particularly advantageous for those who print frequently.

In contrast, the HP DeskJet 2855e's lower price point of $49.89 makes it accessible for budget-conscious users, and it includes three months of Instant Ink upon activation. However, inkjet printers typically incur higher costs over time due to the price of replacement ink cartridges. Users should weigh these ongoing costs when considering their printing needs.

Warranty and Support

The Brother HL-L2460DW comes with a one-year limited warranty and offers free online, call, or live chat support for the life of the printer. This level of customer service is beneficial for users who may need assistance during the lifespan of the printer.

The HP DeskJet 2855e also includes support, but specific warranty details are less prominent in its description. The reputation of HP as a trusted printer brand may provide some assurance to users about the quality of support they can expect. In terms of warranty and support, the Brother printer's specific offerings may appeal to users seeking reliable assistance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Brother HL-L2460DW and the HP DeskJet 2855e ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize fast, high-quality black-and-white printing and require durability and efficiency for a home office or small team, the Brother HL-L2460DW is the better choice. However, if you need a multifunctional printer for occasional use at home, especially with color printing capabilities, and are looking for a lower initial investment, the HP DeskJet 2855e may suit you better. Each printer has its strengths, so your choice should align with your printing habits and requirements.