Key points
- It has a slightly faster print speed of 18ppm for black-and-white documents but lags behind in color printing with a speed of 8.
- The ink tank system in the Epson L4260 offers a much lower cost per page compared to the Brother DCP-T720DW.
- The Brother DCP-T720DW offers automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of a page without manually flipping it.
When searching for a reliable and cost-effective printer, the Brother DCP-T720DW and Epson L4260 stand out as top contenders. Both offer impressive features, but which one is the better choice for your specific requirements? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two printers to help you make an informed decision.
Features and Functionality
The Brother DCP-T720DW is a versatile 3-in-1 printer that excels in printing, scanning, and copying. It boasts a print speed of up to 17ppm for black-and-white documents and 9.5ppm for color prints. The Epson L4260, on the other hand, is a dedicated printer that focuses on providing exceptional print quality. It has a slightly faster print speed of 18ppm for black-and-white documents but lags behind in color printing with a speed of 8.5ppm.
Ink System and Cost
One of the most significant differences between these printers lies in their ink systems. The Brother DCP-T720DW utilizes ink cartridges, while the Epson L4260 employs a revolutionary ink tank system. The ink tank system in the Epson L4260 offers a much lower cost per page compared to the Brother DCP-T720DW. This is because the ink tanks can be refilled with affordable third-party ink, reducing your overall printing expenses.
Connectivity and Usability
Both the Brother DCP-T720DW and Epson L4260 offer a range of connectivity options. They both support Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB connectivity, allowing you to print wirelessly from your computer or mobile devices. The Brother DCP-T720DW has an additional advantage with its Ethernet port, providing a stable and secure wired connection.
In terms of usability, both printers feature user-friendly control panels and intuitive software. However, the Brother DCP-T720DW has a larger color LCD screen, making it easier to navigate the menus and monitor print jobs.
Print Quality
The Epson L4260 excels in print quality, delivering sharp and vibrant prints. It uses PrecisionCore technology to produce fine details and accurate colors. The Brother DCP-T720DW also produces high-quality prints, but it may not match the level of detail and color accuracy offered by the Epson L4260.
Paper Handling and Capacity
The Brother DCP-T720DW has a slightly larger paper capacity than the Epson L4260. It can hold up to 150 sheets in its main paper tray, while the Epson L4260 has a capacity of 100 sheets. Both printers support a variety of paper sizes, including A4, legal, and letter.
Additional Features
The Brother DCP-T720DW offers a few additional features that the Epson L4260 lacks. These include automatic duplex printing, which allows you to print on both sides of a page without manually flipping it. The Brother DCP-T720DW also has a built-in ADF (Automatic Document Feeder), enabling you to scan or copy multiple pages at once.
Which Printer is Right for You?
The Brother DCP-T720DW and Epson L4260 are both excellent printers with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize versatility, connectivity, and additional features, the Brother DCP-T720DW is a great choice. However, if you are primarily concerned with print quality and cost per page, the Epson L4260 is the better option.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best printer for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both the Brother DCP-T720DW and Epson L4260 offer exceptional value, but they differ in key areas such as ink system, print quality, and additional features. By carefully considering the information presented in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that will meet your printing requirements and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which printer has a lower cost per page?
A: The Epson L4260 has a lower cost per page due to its ink tank system, which can be refilled with affordable third-party ink.
Q: Which printer offers better print quality?
A: The Epson L4260 produces sharper and more vibrant prints thanks to its PrecisionCore technology.
Q: Which printer has a larger paper capacity?
A: The Brother DCP-T720DW has a larger paper capacity of 150 sheets compared to the Epson L4260’s capacity of 100 sheets.
Q: Which printer has automatic duplex printing?
A: The Brother DCP-T720DW offers automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of a page without manually flipping it.
Q: Which printer has a built-in ADF?
A: The Brother DCP-T720DW has a built-in ADF (Automatic Document Feeder), enabling you to scan or copy multiple pages at once.