Looking Beyond the Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Brother DCP-L2640DW wireless compact monochrome printer handles fast black-and-white printing and duplex scanning in a tight footprint. It offers dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity for reliable small office use. You might look beyond this model if you need color output, fax capabilities, or a different physical size. Some users prefer inkjet systems for color work, while others need the added convenience of an automatic fax function. This list explores 6 alternatives that share core specifications with the original device. Each option matches the DCP-L2640DW in key areas like wireless connectivity, scanning features, or duplex printing support. You will find monochrome laser options for teams that prioritize speed and efficiency. You will also see color laser and inkjet choices for those requiring versatile output. The selected products overlap with the original in practical terms, such as mobile printing support and compact designs. These alternatives address specific needs that the base model does not cover, such as higher volume handling or different connectivity requirements. By comparing these specs, you can find a machine that fits your exact workflow without unnecessary compromises.
Our top pick: Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer.
How Alternatives Compare to DCP-L2640DW
Brother Compact Monochrome Multifunction Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2480DW offers similar monochrome performance but stands slightly shorter at 10.7 inches compared to the 12.5-inch DCP-L2640DW. It weighs 22.2 pounds, making it lighter and easier to position in tight spaces. This model retains duplex printing and scanning capabilities, ensuring you do not sacrifice two-sided document handling. It also includes wireless connectivity for flexible placement. You should choose this if you prioritize a lower profile and reduced weight while maintaining essential scanning and copying functions for small office workflows.
Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2710DW adds fax functionality, which the DCP-L2640DW lacks. It shares the same 10.7-inch height and 15.7-inch length but weighs 26 pounds, matching the original's weight. This unit supports duplex scanning and includes an automatic document feeder for efficient multi-page jobs. You gain fax capabilities without increasing the footprint significantly. Pick this alternative if your office requires sending faxes alongside standard printing and scanning tasks. It provides a more comprehensive feature set for busy environments needing direct document transmission capabilities.
Brother Wireless Color Multi-Function Printer
The Brother HL-L3300CDW introduces color laser printing, a significant upgrade from the monochrome DCP-L2640DW. It is larger, measuring 17.5 inches wide and 14 inches high, and weighs 40.8 pounds. This model supports duplex printing and scanning, maintaining core productivity features. You gain the ability to produce vibrant color documents for presentations or marketing materials. Choose this option if color output is essential for your work. The increased size accommodates the additional color toner cartridges, requiring more desk space but delivering versatile printing capabilities.
Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer
The Brother MFC-J4355DW uses inkjet technology rather than laser, offering color output and fax capabilities. It is shorter at 7.1 inches high but weighs 19.6 pounds. This model supports duplex printing and scanning, along with wireless connectivity. You gain a compact vertical footprint suitable for smaller desks. Select this alternative if you need color printing and faxing in a space-saving design. The inkjet system may suit lower-volume color jobs, providing versatility for home offices that require both document management and occasional color prints.
Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2690DW is a monochrome laser printer that includes fax functionality, unlike the DCP-L2640DW. It weighs 19 pounds, making it lighter than the original. This unit supports duplex scanning and printing, along with wireless connectivity. You gain fax capabilities and a more compact weight profile. Choose this model if you need to send faxes regularly but prefer a lighter machine. It retains the essential scanning and copying functions of the original while adding fax features for complete document management in small office settings.
Canon GX3020 Wireless All-in-One Supertank
The Canon MAXIFY GX3020 is a large all-in-one printer measuring 28.4 inches wide and 12 inches high. It weighs 18.2 pounds, significantly lighter than the DCP-L2640DW despite its size. This model supports wireless connectivity and includes scanning and copying functions. You gain a supertank system designed for high-volume printing with low cost per page. Pick this alternative if you require high-yield color output and want to minimize ongoing ink costs. The larger footprint accommodates high-capacity ink tanks, making it ideal for offices with substantial printing demands.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer
Best for: small offices needing fast monochrome duplex printing
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan
- Print Speed
- 36 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Ink/Toner System
- Toner cartridge
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact monochrome laser all-in-one that prints, copies, and scans. It delivers fast output at 36 pages per minute and includes a 50-page auto document feeder for multi-page tasks. You get dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. The unit supports automatic duplex printing and scanning. This model suits small offices needing reliable black-and-white document handling in a small footprint.
Pros
- 36 ppm print speed for quick document output
- 50-page auto document feeder for batch scanning
- Dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Automatic duplex printing and scanning
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- Scanner type listed as portable rather than flatbed
- No mention of a physical control panel display
Good fit if
- You need fast black-and-white printing for a small team
- You frequently scan multi-page documents using the feeder
- You require dual-band wireless connectivity for stable network use
Skip if
- You require color printing capabilities
- You need a flatbed scanner for photos or books
- You prefer a larger control panel with a display
Verdict: Brother DCP-L2640DW Compact Monochrome MFP is a practical choice for small offices that prioritize speed and duplex scanning over color output. It fits users who need reliable wireless connectivity and a compact footprint for daily document management.
Brother Compact Monochrome Multifunction Laser Printer
Best for: Small offices needing monochrome efficiency
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan
- Print Speed
- 36 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Ethernet, USB
- Duplex Printing
- Automatic
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Monochrome Multifunction Laser Printer
The Brother HL-L2480DW is a compact monochrome laser printer with scan and copy functions. It prints at 36 ppm with automatic duplexing. Dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet ensure stable connections. A 2.7-inch touchscreen and 250-sheet tray add convenience. This all-in-one suits small offices needing reliable black-and-white output without color.
Pros
- 36 ppm print speed
- Automatic duplex printing
- 250-sheet paper tray
- Dual-band wireless connectivity
Cons
- Monochrome output only
- No automatic document feeder
- No color printing capability
Good fit if
- You need fast black-and-white printing
- You want automatic double-sided pages
- You require a compact footprint
Skip if
- You need color documents
- You require high-volume scanning
- You prefer inkjet technology
Verdict: Brother HL-L2480DW Compact Monochrome MFP delivers efficient monochrome printing for small teams. It fits users who prioritize speed and automatic duplexing over color features.
Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
Best for: faxing and duplex scanning
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Supported Functions
- Scan, Copy
- Features
- Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
This Brother MFC-L2710DW is a compact wireless monochrome laser all-in-one printer. It handles print, copy, scan, and fax tasks. The unit includes a duplex automatic document feeder for efficient multi-page scanning. You get mobile printing support and automatic two-sided printing. At 16.1 inches wide and 26 pounds, it fits standard office spaces while delivering reliable black-and-white output for your daily documents.
Pros
- Includes fax capability for traditional office needs
- Duplex automatic document feeder for batch scanning
- Supports mobile printing from various devices
- Automatic two-sided printing saves paper
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- Heavier build at 26 pounds
- Scanner type listed as portable rather than flatbed
Good fit if
- You need fax functionality in your workflow
- You print high volumes of black-and-white documents
- You require automatic two-sided scanning for contracts
Skip if
- You need color printing for photos or graphics
- You prefer a lighter, portable device
- You only need basic printing without scanning
Verdict: Brother MFC-L2710DW Monochrome Laser All-in-One suits teams that rely on faxing and duplex scanning. It delivers focused monochrome performance for busy offices.
Brother Wireless Color Multi-Function Printer
Best for: Small offices needing color laser quality
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- Multi-Function
- Supported Functions
- Print, Copy, Scan
- Print Speed
- 19 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, USB, Wi-Fi Direct
View on Amazon: Brother Wireless Color Multi-Function Printer
The Brother HL-L3300CDW is a wireless color laser multifunction printer designed for small offices or home use. It prints up to 19 pages per minute and handles color documents with consistent laser quality. You get print, copy, and scan functions in one compact unit. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi and USB connections. This model suits users who need reliable color output without the bulk of larger machines.
Pros
- Prints up to 19 pages per minute
- Produces color laser-quality output
- Supports dual-band wireless and Wi-Fi Direct
- Includes automatic duplex printing
Cons
- Print speed is slower than many monochrome competitors
- Weighs 40.8 pounds, making it heavier than compact monochrome models
- Flatbed scanner lacks an automatic document feeder
Good fit if
- You need reliable color printing for professional documents
- You want a compact all-in-one for a small office
- You require automatic two-sided printing
Skip if
- You only print black and white text
- You need high-volume fast printing over 20 pages per minute
- You require an automatic document feeder for scanning
Verdict: Brother HL-L3300CDW Color Laser MFP fits users who need color laser quality and duplex printing in a compact footprint. It is a solid choice for small offices that prioritize color output over speed.
Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer
Best for: Color printing with fax and duplex
- Print Technology
- Inkjet
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan, fax
- Print Speed
- Up to 20 ppm black / 19 ppm color
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB
This Brother all-in-one uses inkjet technology to deliver color printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. It offers automatic duplex printing and wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi or USB. With speeds up to 20 ppm for black and 19 ppm for color, it handles home office tasks. The INKvestment tank system aims to reduce running costs. It suits users needing versatile color output in a compact footprint.
Pros
- Automatic two-sided printing saves paper
- Supports fax, copy, and scan functions
- Includes INKvestment Tank cartridges for lower costs
- Prints up to 20 ppm in black
Cons
- Uses inkjet technology instead of laser
- Heavier at 19.6 pounds
- Lacks the compact monochrome form factor of competitors
Good fit if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You require fax functionality
- You want automatic duplex printing
Skip if
- You only need monochrome output
- You prefer laser printer speed
- You want a smaller footprint
Verdict: Brother MFC-J4355DW Color Inkjet AIO fits users who specifically need color output and fax features in a single device. It is a practical option for home offices that require versatile connectivity and automatic two-sided printing.
Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
Best for: busy offices needing monochrome fax and duplex
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- Multifunction (all-in-one)
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan, fax
- Print Speed
- 26 ppm
- Connectivity
- Wireless, USB
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
The Brother MFC-L2690DW is a compact monochrome laser all-in-one printer. It prints up to 26 pages per minute. The 250-sheet paper tray handles letter and legal sizes. It includes print, copy, scan, and fax functions. You get automatic duplex printing and a mobile-ready wireless connection. This model suits busy offices needing fast, reliable text output.
Pros
- Prints up to 26 pages per minute
- 250-sheet adjustable paper tray for letter and legal
- Supports print, copy, scan, and fax
- Automatic duplex printing and scanning
- Wireless and USB connectivity
Cons
- Monochrome output only
- Heavier build at 19 pounds
- No color printing capability
Good fit if
- You need fast monochrome text printing
- You require fax and duplex scanning
- You want a compact wireless all-in-one
Skip if
- You need color printing
- You require a lightweight portable device
- You only need basic printing without scanning
Verdict: Brother MFC-L2690DW Monochrome All-in-One fits users who need a robust, feature-rich monochrome machine with fax and duplex capabilities. It is ideal for offices prioritizing speed and document management over color.
Canon GX3020 Wireless All-in-One Supertank
Best for: High-volume color printing with low cost per page
- Print Output
- Color
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, Copy, Scan
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Duplex Printing
- Auto 2-sided printing
- Ink/Toner System
- Supertank
The Canon MAXIFY GX3020 is a wireless all-in-one printer that uses a supertank ink system. It supports color printing, copying, and scanning with auto two-sided printing. The unit includes up to two years of ink, allowing for up to 6,000 black and white or 14,000 color pages. It features a small 1.35-inch monochrome LCD and connects via wireless. This model suits users who need high-volume color output without frequent cartridge replacements.
Pros
- Supertank ink system for high page yields
- Includes up to two years of ink
- Auto two-sided printing capability
- Supports color print, copy, and scan
Cons
- Small 1.35-inch monochrome LCD display
- Heavier build at 18.2 pounds
- Attributes list print output as monochrome despite key specs showing color
Good fit if
- You need high-volume color printing
- You want to avoid frequent ink purchases
- You require wireless scanning and copying
Skip if
- You prefer a monochrome-only workflow
- You need a large color display
- You require a compact footprint under 12 inches wide
Verdict: The Canon MAXIFY GX3020 Wireless Supertank delivers high-yield color printing with included ink. It fits home offices needing versatile color output and wireless connectivity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome Multifunction Laser Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer | Brother Wireless Color Multi-Function Printer | Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer | Canon GX3020 Wireless All-in-One Supertank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser | Laser | Laser | Inkjet | Laser | not specified |
| Print Output | Monochrome | Monochrome | Monochrome | Color | Color | Monochrome | Color |
| Printer Type | not specified | not specified | All-in-One | Multi-Function | All-in-One | Multifunction (all-in-one) | All-in-One |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan | Print, copy, scan | not specified | Print, Copy, Scan | Print, copy, scan, fax | Print, copy, scan, fax | Print, Copy, Scan |
| Print Speed | 36 ppm | 36 ppm | not specified | 19 ppm | Up to 20 ppm black / 19 ppm color | 26 ppm | not specified |
| Connectivity | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Wireless | Wireless, USB, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, USB | Wireless, USB | Wireless |
| Duplex Printing | not specified | Automatic | not specified | not specified | Automatic | Automatic 2-sided printing | Auto 2-sided printing |
| Ink/Toner System | Toner cartridge | Toner cartridge | not specified | not specified | Tank | not specified | Supertank |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier, Fax | Mobile Printing, Automatic Document Feeder, Scanner, Copier, Fax | Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier |
| Scanner Type | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable | Portable |
| Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning |
| Compatibility | not specified | Alexa | not specified | Alexa | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | Duplex | not specified |
| Auto Document Feeder | not specified | not specified | ADF | not specified | not specified | ADF | not specified |
| Dimensions | 15.7 × 16.1 × 12.5 inches | 15.7 × 16.1 × 10.7 inches | 15.7 × 16.1 × 10.7 inches | 16.1 × 17.5 × 14 inches | 13.5 × 17.1 × 7.1 inches | not specified | 15.8 × 28.4 × 12 inches |
| Weight | 25 pounds | 22.2 pounds | 26 pounds | 40.8 pounds | 19.6 pounds | 19 pounds | 18.2 pounds |
| Size | Standard | Standard | not specified | Standard | 1 | not specified | One Size |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | White | White | Monochrome | MAXIFY GX3020 Print, Copy and Scan |
| Model | DCPL2640DW | HLL2480DW | MFC-L27 10DW | HLL3300CDW | E2BRMFCJ4355DW | MFC-L2690DW | 5777C002 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Brother laser printer is best for small offices needing fast monochrome duplex printing?
The Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer (DCP-L2640DW) is the top pick for small offices prioritizing speed and duplex scanning. It features wireless connectivity and a compact footprint suitable for daily document management. This model supports duplex printing and wireless scanning, making it practical for teams that need reliable black-and-white output without color capabilities.
What is the best budget Brother monochrome laser printer for small teams?
The Brother Compact Monochrome Multifunction Laser Printer (HL-L2480DW) is the best budget option for small offices needing monochrome efficiency. It delivers efficient printing with automatic duplexing and wireless scanning. This model is slightly lighter at 22.2 pounds and stands 10.7 inches tall, offering a streamlined solution for users who prioritize speed and duplexing over color features.
Which Brother all-in-one printer supports faxing and duplex scanning?
The Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer (MFC-L2710DW) is the best premium choice for teams that rely on faxing and duplex scanning. It includes an automatic document feeder and supports wireless scanning. This model weighs 26 pounds and offers focused monochrome performance for busy offices that need robust document management features beyond basic printing and copying.
Is there a Brother laser printer that provides color output in a compact size?
The Brother Wireless Color Multi-Function Printer (HL-L3300CDW) is an excellent choice for small offices needing color laser quality. It fits users who prioritize color output over speed and includes duplex printing. This white model measures 17.5 inches wide and weighs 40.8 pounds, offering a solid compact footprint for teams that require versatile color capabilities alongside wireless connectivity.
Which Brother printer offers color printing with fax and duplex capabilities via USB?
The Brother INKvestment Tank All-in-One Printer (MFC-J4355DW) is the best USB option for color printing with fax and duplex features. It is a practical color inkjet device for home offices requiring versatile connectivity and automatic two-sided printing. This white model weighs 19.6 pounds and supports wireless scanning, making it suitable for users needing both color and fax functions.
What is the best Brother monochrome printer for busy offices needing fax and duplex?
The Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer (MFC-L2690DW) is ideal for busy offices needing monochrome fax and duplex capabilities. It features an automatic document feeder and supports wireless scanning. This robust machine weighs 19 pounds and prioritizes speed and document management, making it a strong choice for teams that need faxing and efficient black-and-white printing.
Which Canon printer is good for high-volume color printing with low cost per page?
The Canon GX3020 Wireless All-in-One Supertank is an also-great option for high-volume color printing with low cost per page. It delivers high-yield color output with included ink and supports wireless connectivity. This model measures 28.4 inches wide and weighs 18.2 pounds, fitting home offices that need versatile color output and mobile printing capabilities in a supertank format.