Battle of the Budget Printers: Brother DCP-T520W vs. Canon G3000
What To Know
- In contrast, the G3000 boasts faster color printing speeds of up to 13 ppm, making it a better choice for vibrant graphics and photos.
- However, the G3000 has a slight edge in this area, as it features a rear paper tray that can accommodate up to 100 sheets.
- On the other hand, if you need faster color printing, built-in ADF, and a wider range of connectivity options, the Canon G3000 is a better fit.
In the realm of home and small office printing, budget-friendly options abound. Among the most popular contenders are the Brother DCP-T520W and the Canon G3000. Both printers offer a compelling combination of affordability, versatility, and ease of use. But how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Printing Capabilities
Both the Brother DCP-T520W and Canon G3000 are inkjet printers capable of producing high-quality prints at a resolution of up to 4800 x 1200 dpi. However, there are some key differences in their printing capabilities.
The DCP-T520W excels in monochrome printing, delivering crisp and professional-looking documents at speeds of up to 30 pages per minute (ppm). In contrast, the G3000 boasts faster color printing speeds of up to 13 ppm, making it a better choice for vibrant graphics and photos.
Ink System
One of the most notable features of both printers is their innovative ink systems. The DCP-T520W employs a tank-based system, where users fill up large ink tanks instead of replacing cartridges. This system offers significant cost savings over time, as ink tanks are typically cheaper than cartridges.
The G3000, on the other hand, features a built-in ink tank system. This system provides convenience and eliminates the need for frequent cartridge replacements. The ink tanks are also visible, allowing users to easily monitor ink levels and refill as needed.
Connectivity Options
Both the DCP-T520W and G3000 offer a range of connectivity options, ensuring seamless integration with your devices. The DCP-T520W supports Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB connectivity, while the G3000 adds Ethernet connectivity to the mix.
The wireless capabilities of both printers enable you to print from anywhere within their range, using a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The Ethernet connection on the G3000 provides wired stability for reliable printing in office environments.
Paper Handling
The DCP-T520W and G3000 have similar paper handling capabilities, with a standard input capacity of 150 sheets and a maximum input capacity of 250 sheets. However, the G3000 has a slight edge in this area, as it features a rear paper tray that can accommodate up to 100 sheets.
Both printers also support automatic duplex printing, which allows you to print on both sides of the paper, saving paper and time.
Other Features
In addition to their core printing capabilities, the DCP-T520W and G3000 offer a few additional features that enhance their functionality.
- The DCP-T520W has a flatbed scanner, allowing you to scan documents and photos directly to your computer or cloud storage.
- The G3000 features a built-in ADF (Automatic Document Feeder), which enables you to scan or copy multiple pages automatically.
- Both printers support mobile printing via the Brother Mobile Connect and Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY apps, respectively.
Verdict: Which Printer is Right for You?
The choice between the Brother DCP-T520W and Canon G3000 ultimately depends on your specific printing needs and preferences. If you prioritize monochrome printing, cost savings, and durability, the DCP-T520W is an excellent choice.
On the other hand, if you need faster color printing, built-in ADF, and a wider range of connectivity options, the Canon G3000 is a better fit.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Which printer has lower running costs?
- The Brother DCP-T520W has lower running costs due to its tank-based ink system.
2. Does the Canon G3000 support borderless printing?
- No, the Canon G3000 does not support borderless printing.
3. Can I use third-party ink with either printer?
- Using third-party ink may void the printer’s warranty and could affect print quality.
4. Which printer is better for small businesses?
- The Canon G3000 is better suited for small businesses due to its faster color printing speeds and built-in ADF.
5. Can I print directly from a USB drive using either printer?
- No, neither printer supports direct printing from a USB drive.