Main points
- If you need a printer that can be connected to your network using a wired connection, the Brother DCP T520W is the only option.
- In addition to the key differences mentioned above, there are a few other features and considerations to keep in mind when choosing between the Brother DCP T420W and T520W.
- However, if you are on a budget or do not need these additional features, the Brother DCP T420W is a great value for the price.
In the world of home and office printing, Brother is a renowned brand that offers a wide range of inkjet printers. Two popular models from Brother are the DCP T420W and T520W. Both printers share several features, but they also have some key differences. In this blog post, we will compare the Brother DCP T420W vs T520W to help you make an informed decision about which printer is right for you.
Features Comparison: Brother DCP T420W vs T520W
| Feature | Brother DCP T420W | Brother DCP T520W |
| — | — | — |
| Print Technology | Inkjet | Inkjet |
| Print Speed (Black/Color) | Up to 12 ppm / 6 ppm | Up to 17 ppm / 9.5 ppm |
| Resolution | Up to 6000 x 1200 dpi | Up to 6000 x 1200 dpi |
| Paper Capacity | 150 sheets | 150 sheets |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
| Duplex Printing | Automatic | Automatic |
| ADF | No | Yes, 20-sheet |
| Scanner | Flatbed | Flatbed |
| Copier | Yes | Yes |
| Fax | No | Yes |
Key Differences between Brother DCP T420W and T520W
Print Speed
The Brother DCP T520W offers faster print speeds compared to the T420W. It can print up to 17 ppm in black and 9.5 ppm in color, while the T420W prints at speeds of up to 12 ppm in black and 6 ppm in color. This makes the T520W a better choice for users who require faster printing.
Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)
The Brother DCP T520W features an automatic document feeder (ADF) with a capacity of 20 sheets. This allows you to scan, copy, or fax multiple documents without having to manually feed them one at a time. The T420W does not have an ADF, so you will need to manually feed each document.
Ethernet Connectivity
The Brother DCP T520W offers Ethernet connectivity in addition to Wi-Fi and USB. This allows you to connect the printer to your network using a wired connection, which can provide a more stable and reliable connection compared to Wi-Fi. The T420W does not have an Ethernet port.
Fax Capabilities
The Brother DCP T520W includes fax capabilities, while the T420W does not. This makes the T520W a more versatile choice for users who need to send and receive faxes.
Which Printer is Right for You?
The Brother DCP T420W and T520W are both excellent inkjet printers, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a summary of the key factors to consider when choosing between the two:
- Print Speed: If you need a printer that can handle high-volume printing tasks quickly, the Brother DCP T520W is the better choice.
- ADF: If you frequently scan, copy, or fax multiple documents, the Brother DCP T520W’s ADF will save you time and effort.
- Ethernet Connectivity: If you need a printer that can be connected to your network using a wired connection, the Brother DCP T520W is the only option.
- Fax Capabilities: If you need to send and receive faxes, the Brother DCP T520W is the only choice.
Other Features and Considerations
In addition to the key differences mentioned above, there are a few other features and considerations to keep in mind when choosing between the Brother DCP T420W and T520W:
- Ink Costs: Both printers use the same ink cartridges, so the ink costs will be similar. However, the Brother DCP T520W has a higher page yield for black ink, which means you will need to replace the black ink cartridge less often.
- LCD Display: The Brother DCP T520W has a larger LCD display compared to the T420W, which makes it easier to navigate the printer’s settings and options.
- Mobile Printing: Both printers support mobile printing through the Brother Mobile Connect app, which allows you to print from your smartphone or tablet.
- Warranty: Both printers come with a one-year limited warranty.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the best printer for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a fast, versatile printer with an ADF, Ethernet connectivity, and fax capabilities, the Brother DCP T520W is the clear choice. However, if you are on a budget or do not need these additional features, the Brother DCP T420W is a great value for the price.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which printer has better print quality?
A: Both the Brother DCP T420W and T520W offer excellent print quality with resolutions of up to 6000 x 1200 dpi.
Q: Can I print photos on these printers?
A: Yes, you can print photos on both printers. However, the Brother DCP T520W has a higher print speed for photos.
Q: Which printer is more energy-efficient?
A: Both printers have Energy Star certification, indicating that they meet certain energy efficiency standards. However, the Brother DCP T420W has a slightly lower energy consumption rating than the T520W.