Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome vs HP Envy 6555e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet

Overview of the Brother MFC-L2820DW and HP Envy 6555e

In this comparison, we examine the Brother MFC-L2820DW and the HP Envy 6555e, two all-in-one printers that cater to different user needs. The Brother MFC-L2820DW, priced at $279.99, is designed for small offices requiring high-volume monochrome printing, while the HP Envy 6555e is more suitable for home users who need versatile color printing at a lower price of $179.89.

The Brother MFC-L2820DW features a robust build aimed at efficiency in printing, scanning, copying, and faxing with a speed of up to 36 pages per minute. In contrast, the HP Envy 6555e focuses on delivering quality color prints, like photos and documents, at speeds of up to 10 pages per minute for black and 7 pages per minute for color. Each product targets distinct markets, making it essential to evaluate their features and performance.

Print Quality and Performance

The Brother MFC-L2820DW excels in monochrome print quality, ideal for businesses that generate documents requiring sharp, clean text. This printer can produce up to 36 pages per minute, making it efficient for heavy workloads. Its laser technology ensures that prints are smudge-free and durable, suitable for professional settings.

On the other hand, the HP Envy 6555e prioritizes color accuracy and vibrant prints. It utilizes inkjet technology to deliver true-to-screen prints that look as vivid as they do on a monitor. While it offers decent print speeds, the Envy 6555e is better suited for producing everyday documents and photos rather than high-volume text documents.

Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, the Brother MFC-L2820DW offers a variety of options, including dual-band wireless (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Ethernet, and USB connections. This flexibility is advantageous for small office environments where multiple devices may need to connect simultaneously.

The HP Envy 6555e also supports wireless printing, featuring dual-band Wi-Fi that automatically resolves connection issues. It includes mobile app support, allowing users to print directly from smartphones and tablets. Both printers provide solid connectivity options, but the Brother MFC-L2820DW caters more to office settings requiring diverse network configurations.

User Interface and Usability

The Brother MFC-L2820DW includes a 2.7-inch touchscreen for easy navigation, enhancing user experience with an intuitive interface. It allows users to print from and scan to popular cloud-based applications, making it a convenient choice for tech-savvy users.

In comparison, the HP Envy 6555e features a slightly smaller 2.4-inch touchscreen with user-friendly navigation. The printer's AI capabilities help format prints efficiently, ensuring less waste. While both interfaces are designed for ease of use, the Brother’s larger screen may offer a more comfortable experience for office tasks.

Document Handling and Capacity

The Brother MFC-L2820DW is equipped with a 250-sheet paper tray and a 50-page auto document feeder, allowing for efficient handling of multi-page documents. This feature is especially beneficial in office environments where time-saving capabilities are crucial.

Conversely, the HP Envy 6555e has a 100-sheet input tray and a 35-sheet auto document feeder. While it is adequate for home use, it may not meet the demands of high-volume printing that the Brother model handles effortlessly. Users who require extensive document handling will find the Brother MFC-L2820DW more accommodating.

Ink and Toner Management

The Brother MFC-L2820DW operates with Brother Genuine Toner, which can be more economical in long-term use, especially with its Refresh Subscription Service that saves up to 50% on toner costs. This feature ensures that users are less likely to run out of toner unexpectedly.

In contrast, the HP Envy 6555e comes with a 3-month trial of the Instant Ink service, which automatically delivers ink before it runs out. While this subscription model provides convenience, users must consider the ongoing monthly fees once the trial period ends. For those looking to minimize printing costs, the Brother’s toner management may be a better long-term investment.

Size and Design

The Brother MFC-L2820DW is compact and designed for small office spaces, making it easy to fit on a desk without taking up too much room. Its robust build is intended for frequent use, offering durability that can withstand the demands of a busy office.

The HP Envy 6555e, while also compact, features a more modern design with a focus on aesthetics suitable for home environments. It is made with at least 60% recycled plastic, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers. Both models prioritize space-saving designs but serve different environments.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Brother MFC-L2820DW and the HP Envy 6555e ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you require a high-volume monochrome printer for a small office environment, the Brother MFC-L2820DW is the clear winner with its superior speed, document handling capabilities, and cost-effective toner management. At $279.99, it offers robust performance suitable for professional use.

Conversely, for home users looking for a reliable, versatile color printer that can handle everyday printing tasks, the HP Envy 6555e is a more affordable option at $179.89. It excels in producing vibrant color prints and offers convenient mobile printing features, making it ideal for casual use.

In summary, your choice should be guided by the primary functions you require—monochrome efficiency for office tasks or versatile color printing for home needs.