Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome vs HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank
Updated August 2026 — Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome wins on print speed and features, HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank wins on user control and print quality.
The Brother MFC-L2820DW excels in monochrome printing speed and quality, while the HP Smart Tank 5000 offers lower ongoing costs and color printing capabilities.
Why Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome is better
Print Speed
Brother prints up to 36 pages per minute.
Monochrome Quality
Brother delivers sharp black and white prints.
Office Features
Brother includes faxing and a document feeder.
Why HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank is better
Cost of Ownership
HP includes 2 years of ink, reducing long-term costs.
Color Printing
HP provides vibrant color outputs.
Ease of Use
HP features a mess-free refill system.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Brother MFC-L2820DW Wireless Compact Monochrome | HP Smart Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Laser | Inkjet |
| Monthly Duty | 3000 pages | 6000 pages |
| Auto Document Feeder | Yes | No |
| Touchscreen | 2.7 inch | No |
| Included Ink | No | 2 years |
Dimension comparison
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Brother MFC-L2820DW and the HP Smart Tank 5000, price and functionality are key considerations. The Brother MFC-L2820DW is priced at $279.99, while the HP Smart Tank 5000 is more budget-friendly at $179.99, making it about 36% cheaper than its competitor. Both printers offer a range of features aimed at fulfilling various printing needs, but their designs and functionalities cater to different user preferences.
Printing Technology
The Brother MFC-L2820DW utilizes laser technology, delivering high-quality monochrome prints at speeds up to 36 pages per minute. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank 5000 employs inkjet technology, which excels in color printing and offers a cartridge-free system. This distinction is crucial for users who prioritize speed and text quality versus those who need vibrant color outputs. The Brother model is ideal for high-volume black and white printing, while the HP printer is designed for versatile home use with its 2 years of ink included, allowing for thousands of pages without the hassle of replacing cartridges frequently.
Features and Functionality
The Brother MFC-L2820DW stands out with its multifunction capabilities, including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. It also features a 50-page auto document feeder, which is beneficial for users who need to handle multiple pages quickly. On the other hand, the HP Smart Tank 5000 is designed for ease of use and maintenance, boasting a mess-free refill system and AI-enabled features that optimize printing layouts. While both printers offer all-in-one functionality, the Brother model leans towards office environments, whereas the HP model caters to families and home users looking for convenience and efficiency.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity is another area where these printers differ. The Brother MFC-L2820DW provides multiple connection options, including dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB, ensuring compatibility with various devices. The HP Smart Tank 5000 also offers wireless connectivity but focuses on seamless integration with smart devices and security features that keep your printer updated. Users who frequently connect to multiple devices may prefer the Brother printer's flexibility, while those looking for straightforward, smart connectivity might lean toward the HP model.
Print Quality
In terms of print quality, the Brother MFC-L2820DW is engineered for sharp black and white documents, consistently producing easy-to-read prints. The HP Smart Tank 5000, however, offers vibrant color outputs and sharper text, making it suitable for a wider variety of printing tasks. This difference is important for users who need high-quality color prints alongside standard black and white documents. Therefore, if print quality is paramount, especially for color documents, the HP Smart Tank 5000 could be the better choice.
User Experience
User experience varies significantly between the two models. The Brother MFC-L2820DW features a 2.7-inch touchscreen that simplifies navigation and allows for direct printing from cloud-based applications. In contrast, the HP Smart Tank 5000 emphasizes a hassle-free experience, with a focus on easy setup and maintenance. The HP printer's design aims to reduce user intervention, while the Brother model offers more control and options for users who prefer to manage their print settings actively.
Cost of Ownership
The cost of ownership is a critical aspect to consider. The Brother MFC-L2820DW has a higher upfront cost of $279.99, but its efficient toner usage and the Refresh Subscription service can lead to savings over time. Alternatively, the HP Smart Tank 5000, priced at $179.99, comes with 2 years of ink included, which significantly reduces the cost per page for users who print frequently. When analyzing long-term costs, the HP model offers substantial savings on ink, making it more economical for high-volume users.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Brother MFC-L2820DW and the HP Smart Tank 5000 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs. If you require fast, high-quality monochrome printing in a small office setting, the Brother printer is a solid choice. However, for users looking for a more affordable option with versatile color printing capabilities and lower ongoing ink costs, the HP Smart Tank 5000 is the better fit. Each printer excels in its domain, making the decision a matter of personal preference and intended use.