Brother MFC-J1010DW Wireless Color vs Canon PIXMA TS6520 Wireless Color Inkjet

Design and build quality

Both the Brother MFC-J1010DW and the Canon PIXMA TS6520 are designed as compact units suitable for home offices or small workspaces. The Brother model emphasizes a business-level feature set within a small footprint, aiming to provide full functionality without occupying excessive desk space. The Canon unit is marketed as a budget-friendly all-in-one printer perfect for hybrid workers, suggesting a design focused on versatility and ease of integration into home environments. Both devices support automatic two-sided printing, which contributes to a more efficient workflow and reduced physical clutter from paper usage.

Print Speed and Performance

When evaluating documented performance metrics, the Brother MFC-J1010DW provides specific speed ratings that the Canon model does not explicitly list in the provided data. Brother states print speeds of up to 17 ppm for black documents and 9.5 ppm for color pages. These figures allow users to estimate workflow throughput accurately. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 mentions crisp and vibrant prints thanks to a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system but lacks specific pages-per-minute statistics in the available information. For users where speed is a quantifiable priority, the Brother specifications offer clearer expectations for task completion times.

Paper Handling Capabilities

Paper management is a key differentiator between these two models. The Brother MFC-J1010DW features a 150-sheet adjustable paper tray, which reduces the frequency of refilling during larger print jobs. Additionally, it includes a 20-page automatic document feeder (ADF), facilitating multi-page scanning or copying without manual intervention. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 supports diverse media up to 8.5" x 11" with or without borders, catering to creative projects and standard documents. However, the absence of specified tray capacity or ADF details in the provided data suggests the Brother model may handle higher volumes of paper more efficiently.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity features are robust on both devices, though they emphasize different strengths. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 highlights reliable wireless connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi support, operating on either 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequencies. This specification can ensure stable connections in environments with significant wireless traffic. The Brother MFC-J1010DW focuses on mobile and cloud readiness, allowing users to manage printing and scanning via the Brother Mobile Connect App or connect directly to cloud services. It also integrates with Alexa for smart ink management, adding a layer of voice-controlled convenience not explicitly detailed for the Canon unit.

Display and User Interface

Navigation and status monitoring differ slightly between the two printers. The Brother MFC-J1010DW is equipped with a 1.8" color display designed for easy navigation. This screen allows users to control functions, check status, and manage print jobs directly on the device. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 emphasizes effortless setup and use for smartphones or computers, implying a reliance on mobile interfaces or simplified onboard controls. The presence of a specified color display size on the Brother model provides a tangible advantage for users who prefer managing tasks directly at the printer rather than solely through a computer or mobile app.

Ink System and Efficiency

Ink management is critical for long-term ownership costs and maintenance. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 utilizes a 2-cartridge hybrid ink system designed to deliver sharp text and vivid colors. This system is highlighted as a key factor in achieving impressive print quality for both documents and photos. The Brother MFC-J1010DW offers Alexa-enabled smart ink management, which provides ink level alerts and optional automatic reordering. While the Canon system focuses on the physical output quality via cartridge technology, the Brother system focuses on logistical management to prevent interruptions in printing workflow due to empty ink supplies.

Price and Value

Price is a significant factor for budget-conscious buyers. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 is listed at $140.00, making it slightly more affordable than the Brother MFC-J1010DW, which is priced at $145.00. While the price difference is marginal, the Canon model positions itself as offering exceptional value for home users and hybrid workers. The Brother model commands a slightly higher price point but justifies this with additional hardware features such as the automatic document feeder and fax capability. Users must weigh the $5.00 savings against the potential need for the extra functionality provided by the Brother unit.

Which one should you buy?

Choosing between these printers depends on specific workflow requirements. The Brother MFC-J1010DW is the recommended choice for users who need documented print speeds, higher paper capacity, and fax functionality. Its 150-sheet tray and 20-page ADF make it better suited for higher volume tasks. The Canon PIXMA TS6520 is suitable for users prioritizing a lower initial cost and dual-band Wi-Fi stability. If photo quality and basic home printing are the primary goals, the Canon's hybrid ink system and media support are advantageous. However, for comprehensive office features, the Brother model offers more verified specifications.