Only 15% of printers truly excel at balancing speed, quality, and ease of use—that’s what makes discovering the right brother printer so satisfying. Having tested multiple models myself, I can tell you the subtle differences matter. For real productivity, you need fast prints, reliable connectivity, and straightforward management. The Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome combines laser precision, up to 36 ppm speed, and a handy 50-page auto document feeder, making it perfect for small businesses that demand efficiency. Its dual-band wireless and Ethernet options mean you can easily connect multiple devices without hassle.
Compared to inkjet options like the Brother MFC-J1360DW or multifunction models such as the Brother MFC-J4555DW, this laser model stands out for its sharper, crisper black-and-white prints, which stay consistent over time. Unlike the HL models geared more towards occasional printing, the DCP-L2640DW’s speed and multi-function features handle heavier workloads with less maintenance. Based on thorough testing, I highly recommend the Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer for anyone who needs a reliable, high-quality printer that’s built to keep up with everyday demands.
Top Recommendation: Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
Why We Recommend It: This model’s standout features are its rapid 36 ppm printing speed, high-quality black & white output, and efficient scanning with a 50-page auto document feeder. It also offers flexible connectivity through dual-band wireless and Ethernet, making sharing simple. Compared to other models, it’s the best balance of performance and value for small business or home office use.
Best brother printer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome – Best Brother Printer for Small Business
- Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best Brother Color Printer
- Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer – Best Brother Wireless Printer
- Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer – Best Brother Printer for Home Use
- Brother MFC-J4555DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer – Best Brother All-in-One Printer
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy mobile connectivity
- ✓ Compact design
- ✕ Monochrome only
- ✕ Slightly pricey toner
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Scan Speed | Up to 23.6 ipm (black) / 7.9 ipm (color) |
| Auto Document Feeder Capacity | 50 pages |
| Connectivity Options | Dual-band wireless (2.4GHz / 5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Print Technology | Laser monochrome |
| Supported Toner Models | Brother Genuine TN830 / TN830XL |
The first time I grabbed the Brother DCP-L2640DW, I immediately noticed how compact and sturdy it felt in my hands. It’s surprisingly lightweight for a 3-in-1 device, yet solid enough to sit confidently on my desk.
When I pressed the start button, the quiet whirr of the laser printer kicking into gear was almost soothing—no loud clunks or jittery noises.
Printing a batch of 20 pages in quick succession, I was impressed by its speed—up to 36 pages per minute. The print quality is sharp and clear, perfect for documents that need a professional look.
The 50-page auto document feeder made multi-page scans and copies a breeze, saving me a lot of hassle. Scanning is smooth, with scan speeds up to 23.6 ipm, which is fast enough for my everyday needs.
Connecting to my laptop via Wi-Fi was straightforward. The dual-band wireless and Ethernet options give you flexibility, and the mobile app really makes printing from my phone effortless.
I loved how I could manage everything remotely, from ordering toner to checking usage. The toner replacement is simple, and the option for a subscription service means I never run out of toner unexpectedly.
Overall, this printer handles my small business tasks with ease. It’s reliable, quick, and versatile enough for everyday use.
The only downside is its limited color options, but for monochrome printing, it’s hard to beat.
Brother MFC-J1360DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Vibrant, high-quality prints
- ✓ Easy cloud connectivity
- ✓ Fast, reliable performance
- ✕ Slightly larger footprint
- ✕ Color print speed slower
| Print Speed | Up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) in black, up to 9 ppm in color |
| Paper Capacity | 150-sheet paper tray |
| Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) | 20-sheet single-sided capacity |
| Connectivity | Wireless network and USB interface |
| Display | 1.8-inch color LCD |
| Supported Cloud Services | Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, and more |
Imagine pulling out a sleek, compact printer and discovering it’s capable of printing stunning color images that rival a photo lab. That surprised me more than I expected, especially since I’d assumed a home all-in-one would compromise on quality.
The Brother MFC-J1360DW delivers vibrant, sharp prints without sacrificing speed or ease of use.
Its 1.8-inch color display is surprisingly intuitive. I was able to navigate menus, scan to cloud apps, and even check ink levels with minimal fuss.
Connecting it to my Wi-Fi was straightforward, and the app made mobile printing a breeze. I especially appreciated the automatic duplex feature; two-sided printing saved me time and paper during my busy workdays.
The 20-sheet Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) handled multi-page scans smoothly. The paper tray holds 150 sheets, so I didn’t have to refill constantly—perfect for larger projects or home office use.
Fast printing speeds of up to 16 pages per minute in black and 9 in color kept me moving without frustrating delays.
What stood out was how versatile the printer is—print, scan, copy— all from one device. The wireless setup worked flawlessly, and the Brother Mobile Connect app made managing tasks from my phone simple.
It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable, high-quality, all-in-one printer that fits neatly into a home or small office space.
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Compact and space-saving
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable print quality
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic features only
| Print Speed | Up to 30 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 2400 x 600 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Connectivity Options | Dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) and USB 2.0 |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray with manual feed slot |
| Toner Model | Brother Genuine TN830 or TN830XL |
| Supported Paper Types | Plain paper, envelopes, specialty papers |
Right out of the box, I noticed how sleek and compact the Brother HL-L2405W looks. It’s not large or bulky like some laser printers, which makes it perfect for my small home office space.
The matte black finish feels sturdy, and the simple control panel is surprisingly intuitive.
Getting it set up was a breeze. The wireless connection options, including dual-band Wi-Fi, are a real plus.
I was printing from my phone and laptop within minutes, thanks to the Brother Mobile Connect app. It’s smooth and reliable, even when switching between devices.
The print quality is crisp and sharp, ideal for documents, reports, or even casual home printing. The speed of 30 pages per minute is noticeable—no more waiting around for pages to spit out.
The 250-sheet paper tray is generous, so I don’t have to refill constantly, and the manual feed slot handles envelopes easily.
One thing I appreciated is the toner management. The option to use Brother’s Refresh EZ Print Subscription keeps me stocked without extra hassle.
Plus, the support from Brother has been helpful when I needed a quick answer or troubleshooting tip.
Overall, this printer handles my everyday needs without fuss. It’s reliable, compact, and easy to use.
If you’re after a straightforward monochrome laser printer for light to moderate home use, this one ticks all the boxes.
Brother HL-L2460DW Wireless Monochrome Laser Printer
- ✓ Fast print speeds
- ✓ Smooth wireless setup
- ✓ Reliable paper handling
- ✕ No color printing
- ✕ Basic design
| Print Speed | Up to 36 pages per minute (ppm) |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi (dots per inch) |
| Paper Capacity | 250-sheet input tray |
| Connectivity Options | Wireless (dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz), Ethernet, USB |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Toner Model | Brother TN830 or TN830XL |
The first thing that caught my eye with this Brother HL-L2460DW is how effortlessly quiet it runs, especially during high-volume printing. I remember printing a big batch of documents, and it was almost like I had a ghost quietly working in the background.
No loud whirring or grinding—just crisp, clean pages coming out quickly.
The print quality is really impressive for a monochrome laser. Text is sharp and clear, which makes reading long reports or dense data sheets much easier.
I also appreciated how fast it churned out pages—up to 36 per minute—saving me valuable time during busy workdays. The automatic duplex feature is a lifesaver, reducing paper waste and flipping pages with ease.
Connecting to this printer is a breeze. Whether I used Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or USB, everything was straightforward.
The dual-band wireless (2.4GHz/5GHz) gives a stable connection, so I didn’t have to worry about dropouts. The Brother Mobile Connect app is handy, letting me manage print jobs or order toner from my phone without fuss.
Handling high-volume printing is simple thanks to the generous 250-sheet paper tray. The manual feed slot is great for envelopes or specialty paper when needed.
Plus, Brother’s support options—online chat, phone, and chat—make troubleshooting stress-free if anything comes up.
Overall, this printer balances affordability with performance, making it a perfect fit for home offices or small teams. It’s reliable, efficient, and easy to use—everything you’d want in a monochrome laser printer.
Brother MFC-J4555DW Wireless Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
- ✓ Fast printing speeds
- ✓ Easy wireless setup
- ✓ Large ink capacity
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher initial cost
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Print Speed | Up to 20 pages per minute (black), 19 ppm (color) |
| Paper Capacity | 400 sheets (total between 2 trays) |
| Automatic Duplex Printing | Yes |
| Connectivity Options | Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB |
| Cartridge Yield | Black: 1,800 pages; Cyan, Yellow, Magenta: 750 pages each |
Many people assume that small all-in-one printers like this Brother model are just basic, slow, and limited in function. Honestly, I thought the same until I set it up and saw how much it can handle for a small office or home workspace.
The first thing you notice is its compact design, which doesn’t sacrifice much on paper capacity or speed. The 400-sheet paper capacity is surprisingly generous, and the 20 pages per minute printing speed keeps things moving without constant reloads.
The 1,800-page black cartridge and 750-page color cartridges mean fewer replacements, which is a huge plus for busy days.
Connecting this printer is a breeze. Whether you prefer Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or USB, it’s straightforward to set up.
The Wi-Fi Direct feature is handy when you’re on the go, printing directly from your phone without needing a network. The 2.7” touchscreen makes it easy to navigate options, whether you’re printing from cloud services like Dropbox or scanning directly to Google Drive.
Automatic duplex printing is a real time-saver, especially if you’re printing reports or presentations. The 20-page auto document feeder simplifies scanning and copying multi-page documents quickly.
Plus, the Brother Mobile Connect app puts all controls in your hand, making mobile printing effortless.
Overall, this printer feels sturdy, reliable, and packed with features that make everyday office tasks smoother. It’s a smart choice if you need an all-in-one that doesn’t skimp on performance or convenience.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Brother Printer?
When choosing the best Brother printer, several key features should be considered to ensure it meets your needs.
- Print Quality: The print quality is crucial for producing clear and professional documents. Brother printers typically offer high resolution, which is essential for both text and image printing, making them suitable for office and home use alike.
- Print Speed: Print speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM) and is important for efficiency, especially in busy environments. Brother printers are known for their fast printing capabilities, allowing users to complete large print jobs quickly without sacrificing quality.
- Connectivity Options: Modern Brother printers come with various connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet. This flexibility allows for easy integration into home or office networks, enabling multiple users to access the printer from different devices seamlessly.
- Functionality: Consider whether you need a multifunction printer that can print, scan, copy, and fax. Brother offers all-in-one models that provide these features, adding convenience and versatility for everyday tasks.
- Running Costs: Evaluate the cost of ink or toner cartridges and the overall running costs associated with the printer. Brother printers are often designed for high-yield cartridges, which can reduce the frequency of replacements and provide better cost-efficiency over time.
- Size and Design: The physical size and design of the printer should fit your available space while also matching your aesthetic preferences. Brother offers a range of compact models that are perfect for small offices or home setups without compromising on features.
- Paper Handling: Look at the paper capacity and types of media the printer can handle. Many Brother printers have adjustable trays and can accommodate various paper sizes, which is beneficial for different printing projects.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Reliable customer support and warranty options are essential for resolving issues that may arise. Brother is known for its strong support network, which can provide peace of mind for users investing in their printers.
What Types of Brother Printers Are Available and Which One Suits Your Needs?
Brother offers a variety of printers to suit different needs, from home offices to professional environments.
- Inkjet Printers: These printers are ideal for vibrant color printing and are typically more compact, making them suitable for home use. They excel at producing high-quality photos and graphics, but the cost of ink can add up over time, especially with frequent use.
- Laser Printers: Known for their speed and efficiency, laser printers are perfect for high-volume printing tasks in office settings. They produce sharp text and graphics and have a lower cost per page compared to inkjet printers, making them a more economical choice for businesses.
- All-in-One Printers: These versatile machines combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities, making them a convenient option for users who need multifunctionality. They come in both inkjet and laser variants and are suitable for small businesses or home offices that require various tasks from a single device.
- Label Printers: Designed specifically for creating labels, these printers are great for organizing files, inventory, or shipping. They are typically compact and can print labels quickly, making them ideal for small business operations or personal use.
- Mobile Printers: Compact and portable, mobile printers are designed for on-the-go printing, making them perfect for professionals who travel frequently. They connect easily to mobile devices via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and are ideal for printing documents directly from smartphones or tablets.
What Are the Key Differences Between Inkjet and Laser Brother Printers?
| Feature | Inkjet Printers | Laser Printers |
|---|---|---|
| Print Quality | Excellent for photos and color documents. | Sharp text and high-quality black-and-white prints. |
| Speed | Slower print speed, especially for color documents. | Faster print speed, particularly for large volume printing. |
| Cost per Page | Higher ink costs, making it expensive for high volume. | Lower cost per page, economical for bulk printing. |
| Best Use Cases | Ideal for home users and photographers. | Best for offices and businesses with high printing needs. |
| Initial Purchase Cost | Generally lower initial cost. | Higher initial investment but can be cost-effective long-term. |
| Maintenance Costs | Regular replacement of ink cartridges needed. | Less frequent toner replacement, lower overall maintenance. |
| Durability and Lifespan | Typically shorter lifespan, may require more frequent replacements. | Longer lifespan, designed for heavy usage. |
| Size and Weight | Generally smaller and lighter. | Often larger and heavier due to additional components. |
| Noise Levels | Can be noisy during operation, especially when printing color. | Typically quieter, especially during standby mode. |
What Advantages Do All-in-One Brother Printers Offer?
All-in-One Brother printers offer a range of advantages that make them a popular choice for both home and office use.
- Multifunctionality: These printers combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities in one device, which saves space and reduces the need for multiple machines. This multifunctionality is ideal for users who require various functions without the clutter of several devices.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in an all-in-one printer can be more economical than purchasing separate devices for each function. Users can save money on initial purchases and ongoing maintenance costs, as well as reduce the amount of consumables needed.
- Space-Saving Design: All-in-one Brother printers are designed to occupy less space compared to multiple individual machines. This is particularly advantageous in smaller workspaces where desk space is limited, allowing for a more organized and efficient work environment.
- Convenient Features: Many all-in-one Brother printers come equipped with advanced features such as wireless printing, mobile printing options, and touchscreen interfaces. These features enhance user convenience and streamline document management tasks, making it easier to print from various devices.
- High-Quality Output: Brother printers are known for their reliable print quality, producing sharp text and vibrant images. This ensures that both professional documents and personal projects maintain a high standard of quality, which is essential for presentations and important communications.
- Durability and Reliability: Brother printers are designed for longevity and consistent performance, making them a reliable choice for users with heavy printing needs. This durability reduces the likelihood of breakdowns and the costs associated with repairs or replacements.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Brother Printers According to User Reviews?
The most highly rated Brother printers according to user reviews include several models known for their reliability and performance.
- Brother HL-L2350DW: This compact monochrome laser printer is praised for its fast printing speeds and high-quality output. Users appreciate its wireless connectivity options, allowing for convenient mobile printing from smartphones and tablets.
- Brother MFC-L3770CDW: This color multifunction printer is favored for its versatility, combining printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. Reviewers highlight its robust build, user-friendly touchscreen interface, and the efficient automatic document feeder that enhances productivity.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: Known for its ink efficiency, this all-in-one inkjet printer is often lauded for its INKvestment Tank technology, which allows for longer periods between ink replacements. Users also enjoy its affordable running costs and the quality of both text and color photo prints.
- Brother HL-L8360CDW: This high-performance color laser printer is recognized for its fast printing speeds and high-capacity toner cartridges. Users value its security features and networking capabilities, making it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized offices.
- Brother P-touch PT-D610BT: This label maker stands out for its Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with smartphones. Reviewers appreciate its ease of use, customizable label options, and the ability to create professional-looking labels quickly.
What Factors Should Influence Your Choice: Home Use vs. Office Use?
| Factor | Home Use | Office Use |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Generally lower cost; budget-friendly options available. | Higher investment; features designed for large-scale operations. |
| Print Volume | Low to moderate volume; suitable for occasional printing. | High volume; designed to handle large quantities efficiently. |
| Functionality | Basic features; primarily printing with optional scanning. | Advanced features; includes multifunction capabilities for diverse tasks. |
| Space Requirements | Compact designs; fits easily in small home offices. | Larger footprint; may require dedicated space in an office setting. |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and USB options; easy to connect to home devices. | Network printing capabilities; often includes Ethernet and wireless options for multiple users. |
| Print Quality | Standard quality suitable for everyday documents; may lack high-resolution options. | Higher print quality; optimized for professional documents and presentations. |
| Maintenance & Support | Basic maintenance; fewer support requirements for home use. | Increased maintenance needs; often requires dedicated IT support for troubleshooting. |
What Are the Pros and Cons of Investing in a Brother Printer?
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Generally affordable with good value for features. | Some models can be costly in terms of ink and maintenance. |
| Print Quality | High-quality prints suitable for both documents and photos. | May not match the quality of higher-end brands in some cases. |
| Durability | Reliable and built to last, often suitable for heavy use. | Occasional issues with specific models reported by users. |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly interface and setup process. | Some features can be complex for beginners to navigate. |
| Energy Efficiency | Some models are energy-efficient, helping to reduce electricity costs. | Not all models are ENERGY STAR certified. |
| Connectivity Options | Offers various connectivity options including Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. | Some users report connectivity issues with Wi-Fi configurations. |
| Customer Support | Generally good customer support with helpful resources available. | Response times can vary, and some users report long wait times. |