Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome or Brother MFC-L2900DW Wireless Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer? Which Brother Model to Buy
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The brother dcp l2640dw wireless compact monochrome vs mfc l2900dw comparison focuses on two compact laser printers from Brother. Both models share identical print speeds, duplex capabilities, and connectivity options. They both support mobile printing and dual-band wireless. The main difference lies in their function sets. The DCP-L2640DW handles printing, scanning, and copying. The MFC-L2900DW adds faxing and a touchscreen interface. You need to decide if extra features justify the choice.
Key differences
| Aspect | Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Supported Functions | Print, Copy, Scan | Print, Copy, Scan, Fax |
| Display | not listed | 3.5-inch touchscreen |
| Print Speed | 36 ppm | 36 ppm |
| Connectivity | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Dual-band wireless, Ethernet, USB |
| Dimensions | 16.1 x 15.7 x 12.5 inches | 12.5 x 16.1 x 16.6 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer if
- You only need print, copy, and scan functions without faxing.
- You prefer a printer with a slightly smaller footprint for tight spaces.
- You want a simpler interface without a touchscreen.
Choose Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer if
- You require fax capabilities for your business operations.
- You want to use a touchscreen for easier navigation and cloud access.
- You value the energy-efficient fuser design and EPEAT Silver rating.
Verdict: The MFC-L2900DW offers more functionality with its fax feature and touchscreen, making it better for offices needing those tools. The DCP-L2640DW is a solid choice if you strictly need printing, scanning, and copying in a compact form. Your decision should depend on whether faxing and a display are essential for your workflow.
Functionality and Connectivity Comparison
Supported functions
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a three-in-one device that handles printing, scanning, and copying. It lacks fax capability, which limits its utility for offices that still rely on physical fax transmission. The Brother MFC-L2900DW includes a built-in fax modem in addition to print, copy, and scan functions. This four-in-one design allows you to send and receive faxes directly from the device without needing a separate machine. If your workflow requires faxing, the MFC-L2900DW is the necessary choice. If you never use fax, the DCP-L2640DW covers the essential bases without extra complexity.
Print speed
Both printers deliver identical monochrome print speeds of up to 36 pages per minute. This speed is consistent across both models, meaning neither holds an advantage in raw output velocity for standard text documents. Scan speeds are also matched, with both units achieving up to 23.6 images per minute for black and white scans. You will experience the same throughput whether you choose the DCP-L2640DW or the MFC-L2900DW. For high-volume printing tasks, both machines perform equally well. The speed specification does not help you differentiate between these two compact laser printers.
Connectivity
Both models offer robust connectivity options suitable for modern offices. You can connect via built-in dual-band wireless (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Ethernet, or a local USB interface. This allows flexible placement and multi-device access. Both support the Brother Mobile Connect app for printing and scanning from mobile devices. The connectivity specifications are identical, providing secure multi-device access and local wired options. You will not find any difference in network performance or interface options between the DCP-L2640DW and the MFC-L2900DW. Both ensure reliable integration into your existing network infrastructure.
Scanner capabilities
Both printers feature a 50-page auto document feeder for efficient multi-page scanning and copying. They both support duplex scanning, allowing you to scan both sides of a document in a single pass. This is ideal for double-sided contracts or reports. The scan speeds and feeder capacity are the same for both models. You get the same convenience and time savings when handling multi-page jobs. The scanning performance does not distinguish one model from the other. Both provide the same automated document handling features for your scanning needs.
Build and dimensions
The Brother DCP-L2640DW measures 16.1 inches wide, 12.5 inches high, and 15.7 inches long, weighing 25 pounds. The Brother MFC-L2900DW measures 12.5 inches wide, 16.6 inches high, and 16.1 inches long, weighing 26 pounds. The DCP-L2640DW has a wider but shorter footprint, while the MFC-L2900DW is taller and narrower. Both are classified as compact printers. The weight difference is minimal at one pound. You should check your available space carefully, as the orientation of the footprint differs. The build quality and size specifications provide different spatial requirements for your desk or office area.
Which Brother Model Fits Your Needs
Users needing fax functionality
The MFC-L2900DW includes a built-in fax modem, a feature the DCP-L2640DW lacks. If your office still relies on physical fax transmission for contracts or official documents, this model provides that essential capability alongside its print, copy, and scan functions. The 50-page auto document feeder supports single-pass duplex scanning for efficient multi-page double-sided jobs.
Budget-conscious small offices
The DCP-L2640DW offers core printing, scanning, and copying in a compact footprint without the added complexity of fax hardware. It matches the MFC-L2900DW in print speed at 36 ppm and supports dual-band wireless connectivity. This makes it a practical choice for teams that do not require fax services but still need reliable, high-volume monochrome output.
Users wanting intuitive controls
The MFC-L2900DW features a 3.5-inch touchscreen for effortless navigation. This interface allows you to print from and scan to popular cloud apps like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneNote directly from the device. The DCP-L2640DW does not list a touchscreen in its specifications, making the MFC model superior for direct cloud integration and visual menu control.
Eco-focused buyers
The MFC-L2900DW is ENERGY STAR compliant and EPEAT Silver rated. It features an enhanced fuser design that reduces electricity consumption by 22% compared to its predecessor. While both models support Toner Save Mode, the MFC-L2900DW provides verified environmental certifications and improved energy efficiency metrics that align with sustainable office practices.
The products compared
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
View on Amazon: Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother DCP-L2640DW is a compact monochrome laser printer that prints, copies, and scans. It delivers fast print speeds of 36 ppm and includes a 50-page auto document feeder for multi-page tasks. You get dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. The unit measures 16.1 x 15.7 x 12.5 inches and weighs 25 pounds. It suits small offices needing reliable black-and-white output without color capabilities.
Pros
- Prints up to 36 pages per minute
- Includes 50-page auto document feeder
- Dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity
- Supports automatic duplex printing
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color printing
- No built-in touchscreen display mentioned
- Heavier build at 25 pounds
Good fit if
- You need fast black-and-white document printing
- You require automatic two-sided printing
- You want a compact footprint for small spaces
Skip if
- You need color printing capabilities
- You require a flatbed scanner without an ADF
- You prefer a lightweight portable device
Verdict: Brother DCP-L2640DW Compact Monochrome Printer is a practical choice for users who prioritize speed and compact design for monochrome tasks. It fits small offices needing reliable duplex printing and wireless connectivity.
Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer
Best for: small businesses needing fax and duplex scanning
- Print Technology
- Laser
- Print Output
- Monochrome
- Printer Type
- All-in-One
- Supported Functions
- Print, copy, scan, fax
- Print Speed
- 36 ppm
- Connectivity
- Dual-band wireless, Ethernet, USB
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer Affiliate link
The Brother MFC-L2900DW is a compact monochrome laser all-in-one printer. It prints up to 36 pages per minute and scans at 23.6 images per minute. The unit includes a 50-page auto document feeder for single-pass duplex scanning. It supports print, copy, scan, and fax functions. You get dual-band wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity. A 3.5-inch touchscreen controls cloud apps like Google Drive.
Pros
- Prints up to 36 ppm for efficient high-volume output
- Single-pass duplex scanning via 50-page auto document feeder
- Supports print, copy, scan, and fax functions
- Dual-band wireless and Ethernet connectivity options
- 3.5-inch touchscreen for cloud app integration
Cons
- Monochrome output only, no color printing capability
- Heavier build at 26 pounds compared to basic models
- No native mobile app mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need fax functionality for business correspondence
- You require single-pass duplex scanning for double-sided documents
- You want cloud printing from Google Drive or Dropbox
Skip if
- You need color printing for graphics or photos
- You prefer a lighter, more portable device
- You do not require fax capabilities
Verdict: The Brother MFC-L2900DW All-in-One suits small offices needing fax and duplex scanning. It delivers fast monochrome printing and reliable cloud connectivity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Brother All-in-One Monochrome Laser Printer | Brother Compact Monochrome All-in-One Laser Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Laser | Laser |
| Print Output | Monochrome | Monochrome |
| Printer Type | not stated | All-in-One |
| Supported Functions | Print, copy, scan | Print, copy, scan, fax |
| Print Speed | 36 ppm | 36 ppm |
| Connectivity | Wireless, Ethernet, USB | Dual-band wireless, Ethernet, USB |
| Duplex Printing | not stated | Automatic duplex printing |
| Ink/Toner System | Toner cartridge | Toner |
| Features | Duplex Printing, Mobile Printing, Scanner, Copier | Duplex Printing, Scanner, Copier, Fax |
| Scanner Type | Portable | not stated |
| Scanning | Wireless Scanning | Wireless Scanning |
| Duplex Scanning | Duplex | Duplex |
| Dimensions | 15.7 × 16.1 × 12.5 inches | 16.1 × 12.5 × 16.6 inches |
| Weight | 25 pounds | 26 pounds |
| Size | Standard | Standard |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | DCPL2640DW | MFCL2900DW |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Brother DCP-L2640DW support duplex printing?
Yes, the DCP-L2640DW supports automatic duplex printing. This feature allows you to print on both sides of the paper without manual intervention. It helps reduce paper usage and is useful for creating professional-looking documents. The printer handles this process internally to save time.
Can the Brother MFC-L2900DW send faxes?
Yes, the MFC-L2900DW includes a built-in fax modem. This allows you to send and receive faxes directly from the device. The DCP-L2640DW lacks this feature. If your office requires physical fax transmission for contracts, the MFC model provides this essential capability alongside printing and scanning.
Do both printers support wireless scanning?
Yes, both the DCP-L2640DW and MFC-L2900DW support wireless scanning. You can scan documents and send them directly to your computer or mobile device over a wireless network. This connectivity option allows for flexible document management without needing to connect via USB cables for every scan job.
Which model is heavier?
The Brother MFC-L2900DW is slightly heavier. It weighs 26 pounds, while the DCP-L2640DW weighs 25 pounds. The difference is minimal, but the MFC model includes additional internal components for fax functionality. Both units are designed for standard office desks and do not require special mounting.
Do these printers support mobile printing?
Yes, both models support mobile printing. You can print documents directly from smartphones or tablets using compatible Brother apps or standard mobile printing protocols. This feature allows you to send print jobs from anywhere within your wireless network range, making it convenient for users working on the go.
Is the scanner on the DCP-L2640DW duplex capable?
Yes, the DCP-L2640DW supports duplex scanning. It can automatically scan both sides of a document in a single pass. This feature is useful for digitizing double-sided papers quickly. The MFC-L2900DW also offers duplex scanning, so both models handle two-sided document conversion efficiently.
What are the dimensions of the Brother DCP-L2640DW?
The DCP-L2640DW measures 16.1 inches in width, 12.5 inches in height, and 15.7 inches in length. These dimensions classify it as a standard size unit. It is designed to fit comfortably on most office desks while providing ample space for paper trays and output bins.
Does the MFC-L2900DW have a color display?
The provided data does not specify the display type or color capabilities for the MFC-L2900DW. It confirms the model is black and supports monochrome output. For details on the control panel interface, you should check the manufacturer's official specifications sheet or the user manual for visual confirmation.