At a Glance
- The Brother DCP-L3550CDW, on the other hand, is a color laser printer designed specifically for color printing needs.
- The TN-760 black toner cartridge has a yield of approximately 1,200 pages, while the TN-730 color toner cartridges have a yield of approximately 1,000 pages.
- The Brother MFC-L3710CW is an excellent choice for small offices and home users who need a multi-function printer with basic color printing capabilities.
In the realm of home and office printing, Brother stands as a formidable name, renowned for its reliable and feature-rich devices. Two of their popular offerings, the Brother MFC-L3710CW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW, have garnered significant attention. Both printers boast impressive capabilities, but they differ in certain key aspects. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each device, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, to help you make an informed decision.
Features and Functionality
The Brother MFC-L3710CW is a multi-function printer that combines printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities. Its compact design makes it ideal for small offices and home use. The Brother DCP-L3550CDW, on the other hand, is a color laser printer designed specifically for color printing needs. It features high-quality color output and a range of connectivity options.
Print Quality and Speed
The Brother MFC-L3710CW produces sharp and clear black-and-white prints with a resolution of up to 600 x 600 dpi. It also offers color printing, but the quality is not as vibrant as the DCP-L3550CDW. The DCP-L3550CDW excels in color printing, delivering vibrant and accurate colors with a resolution of up to 2,400 x 600 dpi. Both printers offer fast print speeds, with the MFC-L3710CW printing up to 30 ppm and the DCP-L3550CDW printing up to 18 ppm.
Connectivity and Paper Handling
The Brother MFC-L3710CW offers a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, and USB. It also supports mobile printing via Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Brother’s own iPrint&Scan app. The Brother DCP-L3550CDW provides similar connectivity options, but it lacks support for Wi-Fi Direct. Both printers have a paper capacity of 250 sheets, with an optional 500-sheet tray available for the MFC-L3710CW.
Toner Costs and Yield
The Brother MFC-L3710CW uses TN-760 black toner cartridges and TN-730 color toner cartridges. The TN-760 black toner cartridge has a yield of approximately 1,200 pages, while the TN-730 color toner cartridges have a yield of approximately 1,000 pages. The Brother DCP-L3550CDW uses TN-730 color toner cartridges, which have a yield of approximately 1,000 pages. The cost per page for both printers is comparable, with the DCP-L3550CDW having a slight edge due to its higher toner yield.
Additional Features and Considerations
The Brother MFC-L3710CW offers a number of additional features, including a built-in flatbed scanner, a 2.7-inch color LCD touchscreen, and a USB host port for direct printing from USB drives. The Brother DCP-L3550CDW lacks these features, but it does have a larger paper capacity and faster color printing speeds.
Which Printer is Right for You?
The Brother MFC-L3710CW is an excellent choice for small offices and home users who need a multi-function printer with basic color printing capabilities. It offers a wide range of connectivity options and a compact design. The Brother DCP-L3550CDW is better suited for users who prioritize high-quality color printing. It delivers vibrant and accurate colors, but it lacks the multi-functionality of the MFC-L3710CW.
Key Points: Making the Best Choice
Both the Brother MFC-L3710CW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW are capable printers with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a multi-function printer with basic color printing capabilities, the MFC-L3710CW is a great option. If you prioritize high-quality color printing, the DCP-L3550CDW is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which printer has a lower cost per page?
A: The Brother DCP-L3550CDW has a slightly lower cost per page due to its higher toner yield.
Q: Can I print from my smartphone with both printers?
A: Yes, both printers support mobile printing via Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Brother’s own iPrint&Scan app.
Q: Does the Brother MFC-L3710CW have a duplex printing feature?
A: Yes, the MFC-L3710CW supports automatic duplex printing.
Q: Which printer is better for home use?
A: The Brother MFC-L3710CW is a better choice for home use due to its compact design and multi-functionality.
Q: Can I use third-party toner cartridges with these printers?
A: Yes, you can use third-party toner cartridges with both printers, but Brother recommends using genuine Brother toner cartridges for optimal performance and warranty coverage.