★★★★☆

Brother DCP-L2640DW Monochrome Laser Printer - Wireless

Category: Small Business

Published: March 24, 2025

Key Features

Multi-Functionality:Combines laser printer, scanner, copier in one compact footprint.
Fast Printing and Scanning:Offers print speeds up to 36 ppm and scan speeds up to 23.6/7.9 ipm (black/color).
Dual-Band Wireless Connectivity:Supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz for secure multi-device connectivity.
Mobile Access:Utilizes the Brother Mobile Connect app for remote printing, scanning, and management.
Refresh Subscription:Includes a free trial of the Refresh subscription to ensure toner availability and savings on genuine Brother toners.

Overview & First Impressions

The Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer is an excellent choice for small businesses looking for a reliable, multifunctional printer that offers both speed and convenience. Its compact design makes it ideal for offices with limited space, while its advanced features ensure high-quality output. Upon first use, I was impressed by the user-friendly interface and the ease of setup.

Setup & Ease of Use

Setting up the Brother DCP-L2640DW was straightforward and intuitive. The included Quick Setup Guide provided clear instructions for connecting to a Wi-Fi network and installing drivers on both Windows and macOS systems. Additionally, the printer supports direct USB connection, making it easy to set up without the need for an additional computer. The Brother Mobile Connect app also facilitated setup and connectivity, allowing me to control the printer from my smartphone or tablet.

Print Quality & Performance

The print quality on the DCP-L2640DW was excellent, especially for a monochrome printer. The maximum black and white print resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi resulted in crisp and clear output. I tested various documents, including spreadsheets, reports, and images, and all printed with professional-grade quality. The scanner also performed well, producing clear copies and scans at speeds up to 23.6 ipm (black).

Ink/Toner Efficiency & Cost

One of the standout features of the DCP-L2640DW is its ink efficiency. With a large 50-page auto document feeder, I was able to handle multiple pages without refilling the toner cartridge frequently. The included Refresh subscription provided peace of mind and savings on genuine Brother toners, ensuring that I could continue using my printer without worrying about running out of ink. Overall, the cost-effectiveness of the printer was a significant advantage.

Features & Functionality

The DCP-L2640DW offered a wide range of features that catered to both business and home users. Its duplex printing capability allowed for quick and efficient double-sided printing. The app compatibility with iPhone, smartphones, PC, tablets, and laptops made it easy to manage the printer from anywhere. Additionally, the Brother Mobile Connect app provided extensive functionality, including printing, scanning, document management, and even remote printing.

Noise & Power Consumption

While the DCP-L2640DW was relatively quiet during operation, I did notice a slight humming sound at times, which might be noticeable in an office environment with multiple printers. In terms of power consumption, the printer drew 10.5 watts when turned on, which is quite low for a high-capacity laser printer.

Durability & Maintenance

The build quality of the DCP-L2640DW was solid, and I noticed no issues during the initial usage period. The easy-to-reach toner cartridge and drum unit made maintenance straightforward. However, as with any printer, proper handling and regular cleaning are essential to maintain optimal performance.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:- Excellent print quality- Fast printing and scanning speeds- Multiple connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB)- User-friendly app for remote management- Large document feeder for efficient multi-page printing- Refresh subscription for toner savingsCons:- Slight humming sound at times- Limited color capabilities (1 bpp)

Pricing & Value for Money

The Brother DCP-L2640DW offers good value for money, especially considering its multifunctional capabilities and the included Refresh subscription. The price point is competitive in the market, making it a cost-effective choice for small businesses looking to invest in a reliable printer.

Final Verdict & Recommendation

The Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer is an excellent choice for small businesses and office environments. Its combination of high-quality print output, multiple connectivity options, and the included Refresh subscription makes it a versatile and efficient tool. While there are slight noise issues to consider, the overall value and performance justify its purchase.