Main points
- Both the Brother MFC-L3770CDW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW utilize the same toner cartridge system, known as the Brother TN-820.
- Ultimately, the best choice between the Brother MFC-L3770CDW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW depends on your specific needs and preferences.
- However, if you prioritize a dedicated printer with a compact size, limited connectivity options, and a lower price point, the Brother DCP-L3550CDW is a suitable option.
Choosing the right printer for your home or office can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the plethora of options available. Two popular models that have garnered attention are the Brother MFC-L3770CDW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW. This comprehensive comparison aims to provide you with an in-depth analysis of these printers, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Printing Capabilities
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW is a multifunction printer that offers printing, copying, scanning, and faxing capabilities. It boasts a maximum print speed of 30 pages per minute (ppm) for both color and monochrome documents, making it suitable for high-volume printing tasks.
In contrast, the Brother DCP-L3550CDW is a printer-only device, focusing solely on printing functionality. It shares the same maximum print speed of 30 ppm for both color and monochrome, ensuring efficient printing performance.
Connectivity and Features
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW excels in connectivity options. It supports both wired and wireless connections, allowing for easy integration with your home or office network. Additionally, it features a 2.7-inch color touchscreen LCD for intuitive operation and mobile printing capabilities through Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Mopria.
The Brother DCP-L3550CDW offers limited connectivity options compared to its counterpart. It only supports wired connections, restricting its placement and accessibility. However, it does provide manual duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper to save resources.
Paper Handling and Capacity
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW comes with a standard paper capacity of 250 sheets, which can be expanded to 500 sheets with an optional paper tray. It features a multi-purpose tray that can accommodate various paper sizes and types, including envelopes and labels.
The Brother DCP-L3550CDW has a smaller paper capacity of 250 sheets and lacks a multi-purpose tray. This may limit its versatility for printing on different paper sizes and types.
Cartridge System and Toner Costs
Both the Brother MFC-L3770CDW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW utilize the same toner cartridge system, known as the Brother TN-820. This ensures compatibility and ease of toner replacement.
The cost per page (CPP) for both printers is comparable. However, the Brother MFC-L3770CDW may have a slight advantage due to its higher print volume, potentially resulting in lower CPP over time.
Dimensions and Weight
The Brother MFC-L3770CDW has larger dimensions and weight compared to the Brother DCP-L3550CDW. The MFC-L3770CDW measures 16.5″ x 15.4″ x 12.2″ and weighs 33.5 pounds, while the DCP-L3550CDW measures 15.7″ x 14.2″ x 10.4″ and weighs 21.6 pounds.
The larger size and weight of the MFC-L3770CDW may require more space in your home or office. However, it also provides a more robust and feature-rich device.
Warranty and Support
Both the Brother MFC-L3770CDW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW come with a standard one-year limited warranty. Brother offers additional support options, including extended warranties and technical support, at an additional cost.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Printer
Ultimately, the best choice between the Brother MFC-L3770CDW and the Brother DCP-L3550CDW depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you require a multifunction device with comprehensive connectivity options, larger paper capacity, and advanced features, the Brother MFC-L3770CDW is an excellent choice. It offers a versatile and efficient solution for your home or office printing, copying, scanning, and faxing needs.
However, if you prioritize a dedicated printer with a compact size, limited connectivity options, and a lower price point, the Brother DCP-L3550CDW is a suitable option. It provides reliable and efficient printing performance, making it ideal for basic printing tasks.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which printer has better color accuracy?
A: Both printers use the same toner cartridge system, ensuring comparable color accuracy.
Q: Can I print from my smartphone with either printer?
A: Yes, the Brother MFC-L3770CDW supports mobile printing through Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Mopria.
Q: Which printer is more energy-efficient?
A: Both printers feature energy-saving modes to minimize power consumption.
Q: Can I use third-party toner cartridges with these printers?
A: While compatible third-party toner cartridges may be available, it is recommended to use genuine Brother toner cartridges for optimal performance and warranty coverage.
Q: How long does the toner cartridge typically last?
A: The toner cartridge yield varies depending on usage and print settings. The standard TN-820 cartridge has an approximate yield of 3,000 pages for black and 2,300 pages for each color.