Brother DCP-T420W vs T520W: Unlocking the Ink Tank Printer Showdown
What To Know
- The T420W prints at a speed of up to 17ppm (pages per minute) for both black and color documents, while the T520W boosts it to 20ppm.
- If you need a basic and cost-effective printer for home use or low-volume printing, the T420W is an excellent option.
- However, if you require additional features such as an ADF, duplex printing, and a larger LCD display, the T520W is the better choice.
The world of printing has evolved significantly with the introduction of ink tank printers, offering cost-effective and efficient printing solutions. Among the leading brands in this segment, Brother stands out with its DCP-T420W and DCP-T520W models. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features, similarities, and differences between these two printers to help you make an informed decision based on your printing needs.
Design and Build
Both the Brother DCP-T420W and T520W boast sleek and compact designs that blend seamlessly into any home or office environment. The T520W, however, has a slightly larger footprint due to its additional features, such as an automatic document feeder (ADF).
Connectivity and Compatibility
Connectivity is crucial for modern printers, and both models offer a wide range of options. They support Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB connectivity, allowing for easy printing from various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. The T520W takes it a step further with Bluetooth connectivity, providing additional flexibility.
Printing Performance
The DCP-T420W and T520W deliver impressive printing speeds, with the T520W slightly edging out its counterpart. The T420W prints at a speed of up to 17ppm (pages per minute) for both black and color documents, while the T520W boosts it to 20ppm.
Ink System and Cost
One of the key advantages of ink tank printers is their cost efficiency. Both the DCP-T420W and T520W utilize high-yield ink tanks that can print thousands of pages before requiring a refill. The cost per page is significantly lower compared to traditional cartridge-based printers, making them ideal for high-volume printing scenarios.
Additional Features
The Brother DCP-T520W comes with a few additional features that set it apart from the T420W. These include:
- Automatic Document Feeder (ADF): Allows for effortless scanning, copying, and faxing of multi-page documents.
- LCD Display: A larger and more intuitive LCD display for easy navigation and status updates.
- Duplex Printing: Enables automatic double-sided printing, saving paper and time.
Similarities
Despite their differences, the Brother DCP-T420W and T520W share several similarities:
- Print Resolution: Both printers offer a print resolution of up to 1200 x 2400 dpi, delivering sharp and detailed prints.
- Paper Capacity: They both have a paper tray capacity of up to 150 sheets, suitable for most home and small office printing needs.
- Scanner: Both models feature a flatbed scanner with a resolution of up to 1200 x 2400 dpi, enabling high-quality scans.
Which Printer is Right for You?
The choice between the Brother DCP-T420W and T520W ultimately depends on your specific printing requirements. If you need a basic and cost-effective printer for home use or low-volume printing, the T420W is an excellent option. However, if you require additional features such as an ADF, duplex printing, and a larger LCD display, the T520W is the better choice.
The Verdict: Unlocking Printing Versatility
Both the Brother DCP-T420W and T520W offer exceptional value for money in the ink tank printer segment. The T420W provides a cost-effective solution for basic printing needs, while the T520W caters to users who demand additional features and functionality. By carefully considering your printing requirements and budget, you can choose the ideal printer to enhance your productivity and printing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which printer has a faster printing speed?
The Brother DCP-T520W has a slightly faster printing speed of 20ppm compared to the T420W’s 17ppm.
2. Does the T520W support automatic double-sided printing?
Yes, the Brother DCP-T520W features automatic duplex printing, allowing you to print on both sides of the paper automatically.
3. Which printer offers better connectivity options?
The Brother DCP-T520W has more connectivity options, including Bluetooth, in addition to Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB.
4. Is the ink cost per page similar for both printers?
Yes, the ink cost per page is comparable for both the Brother DCP-T420W and T520W, making them both cost-efficient printing solutions.
5. Which printer is suitable for high-volume printing?
The Brother DCP-T520W is better suited for high-volume printing due to its faster printing speed and larger paper capacity.
