Brother MFC-L2717DW Laser Printer Review Compact All-in-One for Home or Office Use

Description

Compact Design and Build Quality

I’ve always appreciated a compact and functional design, and this all-in-one laser printer doesn’t disappoint. The Brother MFC-L2717DW sits neatly on my home office desk, leaving room for other essentials. At 30 pounds, it’s not exactly lightweight, but it feels robust and durable, which gives me confidence it’ll last. The 2-line LCD display might seem a bit outdated in an age of touchscreens, but it’s simple and gets the job done. The buttons are responsive, and the overall build has a sturdy, no-nonsense vibe. It’s perfect for someone like me who values functionality over flashy aesthetics.

Performance and Printing Speed

This printer is a workhorse. While testing, I found its 32 pages per minute (ppm) printing speed impressive for an office or home setting. It handled a variety of tasks with ease, from printing envelopes and labels to scanning and copying documents. The 2400 x 600 dpi resolution ensures crisp and professional-quality text output, which is vital for reports and presentations. I even printed a batch of cardstock invitations, and the results were surprisingly sharp for a monochrome laser printer. Its automatic duplex printing feature saved both time and paper, which is a win for both productivity and the environment.

Ease of Use and Connectivity

Setting it up was as easy as plugging it in and connecting it to my Wi-Fi. The wireless printing capability is a game-changer, especially when I’m working from my smartphone or laptop in another room. The Ethernet option is great for those who prefer a wired connection, and the USB 2.0 port adds even more versatility. Using the AirPrint feature, I printed directly from my phone without any additional setup, which was seamless. The mobile printing options make it ideal for a tech-savvy household or small office. However, I did notice the 2-line LCD display can be a little limiting when navigating more complex settings.

Key Benefits

• The 32 ppm speed ensures quick and efficient printing for high-volume tasks.
• Automatic duplex printing helps reduce paper usage while keeping workflow smooth.
• Wireless and mobile printing capabilities are extremely convenient for a busy home or office setup.
• Crisp 2400 x 600 dpi resolution delivers sharp text and detailed prints every time.

Areas for Improvement

• The 2-line LCD display feels outdated compared to modern touchscreens.
• At 30 pounds, moving the printer can be a bit of a hassle without help.
• It lacks color printing, which might be a dealbreaker for some users needing vibrant graphics.

Scanning, Copying, and Faxing Features

The automatic document feeder (ADF) was a lifesaver when it came to scanning multi-page documents. I tested it with a 20-page report, and it worked flawlessly without any jams. The scanning quality is solid, though not outstanding. Copying functions are straightforward, and the machine maintains the original document’s clarity well. I didn’t use the faxing feature extensively, but it’s there for those who still need it, which I imagine could be useful in certain industries. For someone who values all-in-one functionality, this device ticks almost every box.

Product Comparisons

Comparing this printer to the HP LaserJet Pro MFP M227fdw and the Canon imageCLASS MF267dw, I noticed a few key differences. The Brother MFC-L2717DW outshines the HP model in terms of wireless connectivity options, especially with its seamless mobile printing features. However, the Canon printer offers a slightly more modern interface with a touchscreen display, which could appeal to users looking for a more polished experience. Both competitors are excellent in their own right, but the Brother’s reliability and robust build give it a distinct edge for users prioritizing durability over cutting-edge design.

Affordable Quality

I’d say the product offers excellent value for its price range. Considering its all-in-one functionality, high-speed printing, and versatile connectivity, it’s hard to find a printer that delivers as much without breaking the bank. The cost-effectiveness becomes even more apparent when factoring in the toner efficiency. I’ve printed hundreds of pages, and the toner still seems to have plenty of life left, making it a smart investment for long-term use. While it may not be the cheapest option out there, its performance and reliability make it worth every penny.

If you’re someone who prints loads of black-and-white documents, or even a mix of envelopes and labels, this compact monochrome laser printer is a reliable choice. It’s not perfect, but the Brother MFC-L2717DW proves to be a dependable workhorse that gets the job done with minimal fuss.

Additional information