Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome vs Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet

Overview of the Brother MFC-L2820DW and Canon MegaTank G3270

The Brother MFC-L2820DW and Canon MegaTank G3270 are both versatile all-in-one printers, but they cater to different needs and preferences. While the Brother printer is designed for high-volume monochrome printing, the Canon model excels in providing a cost-efficient ink solution for home use. The Brother MFC-L2820DW is priced at $279.99, while the Canon MegaTank G3270 comes in at a more budget-friendly $229.99, making it about 17% cheaper.

Printing Technology Comparison

The Brother MFC-L2820DW utilizes laser technology, which is renowned for producing sharp black and white documents at high speeds, reaching up to 36 pages per minute. In contrast, the Canon MegaTank G3270 employs inkjet technology, which is typically better suited for color printing and photo quality. The Canon's MegaTank system allows for printing up to 6,000 black and white pages or 7,700 color pages using a single set of inks, providing exceptional value for those who print frequently.

Print Speed and Quality

When it comes to print speed, the Brother MFC-L2820DW clearly leads the pack with a remarkable capability of 36 pages per minute. This speed makes it an ideal choice for small offices or environments where efficiency is paramount. On the other hand, the Canon MegaTank G3270 offers single-sided printing but does not specify its print speed, which may suggest a slower rate than laser printers. However, the quality of prints from the Canon can be superior for color documents and images.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a critical factor for modern printers. The Brother MFC-L2820DW offers multiple connection options, including dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, and USB. This flexibility allows users to connect various devices seamlessly. The Canon MegaTank G3270 also supports wireless printing, although it lacks the same variety of connection methods, which may limit its usability in more complex network setups.

User Experience and Interface

The Brother MFC-L2820DW features a 2.7-inch touchscreen that makes navigation intuitive and user-friendly. Users can print from and scan to popular cloud-based services such as Google Drive and Dropbox, enhancing its functionality. The Canon MegaTank G3270, while lacking a touchscreen, includes a 1.35-inch square LCD display for basic operations. The user experience may feel more streamlined with Brother's advanced interface, especially for those who frequently utilize cloud services.

Cost of Ownership

Cost of ownership is an essential consideration when purchasing a printer. The Brother MFC-L2820DW is priced at $279.99 with an average price of $274.76 over 90 days. While the initial cost is higher, it offers the Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service, which can lead to savings on toner. The Canon MegaTank G3270's cost of ownership is significantly lower due to its MegaTank system, which saves users up to $1,000 on ink over time. This price advantage makes the Canon a compelling choice for budget-conscious users who require frequent printing.

Best Use Cases

The Brother MFC-L2820DW is best suited for small offices or workgroups that require fast and high-quality monochrome printing, copying, scanning, and faxing. Its robust features and quick output make it a reliable workhorse. In contrast, the Canon MegaTank G3270 is ideal for home users or small businesses that focus on color printing and expect to print large quantities without incurring high ink costs. With up to two years of ink included, it provides a practical solution for those who print less frequently.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Brother MFC-L2820DW and the Canon MegaTank G3270 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize speed and need a reliable monochrome printer for a busy office environment, the Brother MFC-L2820DW is the better choice despite its higher price. However, if you are looking for a more economical solution for home use with the capability of printing high volumes of color documents, the Canon MegaTank G3270 stands out as the more cost-effective option.