Brother Work Smart 1360 Wireless Color Inkjet vs HP DeskJet 4255e Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet

Price Comparison

The HP DeskJet 4255e is significantly more affordable than the Brother Work Smart 1360, priced at $49.99 compared to $109.98. This makes the HP DeskJet about 54% cheaper than its counterpart. While the Brother printer offers a broader range of features, the price difference may attract budget-conscious consumers who primarily need basic printing, scanning, and copying capabilities. The HP DeskJet's lower price point does not compromise its essential functions, making it a viable option for home users who don't require advanced printing features.

Features and Functionality

The Brother Work Smart 1360 boasts advanced features like automatic duplex printing and a 20-sheet automatic document feeder, which enhance productivity significantly. In contrast, the HP DeskJet 4255e has a more straightforward design, offering essential functions without the bells and whistles. While the Brother printer supports a 150-sheet paper tray, the HP model has a smaller 60-sheet capacity. Therefore, if you intend to handle larger print jobs regularly, the Brother printer might serve you better, whereas the HP model is more suited for lighter, everyday use.

Print Quality

When it comes to print quality, the Brother Work Smart 1360 is engineered to deliver vibrant colors and rich blacks at impressive speeds of up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black and 9 ppm in color. The HP DeskJet 4255e, while still capable of producing decent color prints, does not specify its print speeds, which may indicate that it is designed more for casual use rather than high-volume printing. Therefore, if print quality and speed are your priorities, the Brother model is the superior choice.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another area where the Brother Work Smart 1360 excels, offering multiple options including wireless, USB, Wi-Fi Direct, AirPrint®, and Mopria® compatibility. This allows for versatile printing from various devices and platforms. The HP DeskJet 4255e also provides wireless printing capabilities but limits its connectivity mainly to a reliable Wi-Fi connection. For users who value flexibility and multiple connectivity options, the Brother printer stands out as the better option.

Smart Features

The Brother Work Smart 1360 includes the Brother Mobile Connect app, which allows for easy navigation and management of printing tasks directly from a mobile device. This app also features a Page Gauge to monitor ink usage, preventing unexpected shortages. On the other hand, the HP DeskJet 4255e is AI-enabled, adapting intuitively to user workflows, but lacks the extensive mobile management features found in the Brother app. If smart features and mobile functionality are essential for your needs, the Brother printer offers a more comprehensive solution.

Subscription Services

One of the attractive aspects of both printers is the inclusion of subscription services for ink. The Brother Work Smart 1360 comes with a 2-month free Refresh EZ Print Subscription Trial, which provides automatic ink delivery before you run out, potentially saving you money in the long run. Meanwhile, the HP DeskJet 4255e includes a 3-month Instant Ink trial with HP+ activation, which offers similar convenience. However, the Brother's subscription may provide longer-term savings due to its higher-capacity ink cartridges. Depending on your printing habits, the choice between these subscription services could influence your buying decision.

User Ratings and Popularity

The Brother Work Smart 1360 ranks at 548 in sales, while the HP DeskJet 4255e has a better bestseller rank of 156. This indicates that the HP model is more popular among consumers, possibly due to its lower price point and simpler functionality. Despite the Brother printer's advanced features, the sales rank suggests that many users prioritize affordability and straightforward use. If popularity and user ratings significantly influence your decision, the HP DeskJet may hold more appeal.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Brother Work Smart 1360 and the HP DeskJet 4255e ultimately depends on your specific printing needs and budget. The Brother printer is an excellent choice for users who require advanced features, high print quality, and flexibility in connectivity, all for $109.98. Conversely, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that still covers essential printing tasks, the HP DeskJet 4255e at $49.99 is an excellent option, especially for casual home use. Your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize features and performance or affordability and simplicity.