What To Know
- Both the Brother HL-L2321D and the HP 1020 Plus offer print speeds of up to 30 pages per minute (ppm), making them suitable for low to medium-volume printing tasks.
- However, the Brother HL-L2321D has a slight edge in print quality, producing sharp text and crisp graphics with a resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi.
- Yes, both the Brother HL-L2321D and the HP 1020 Plus come with a USB cable for direct connection to a computer.
In the realm of office equipment, monochrome laser printers stand out as reliable and cost-effective solutions for everyday printing needs. Two notable contenders in this category are the Brother HL-L2321D and the HP 1020 Plus. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of these printers, helping you make an informed decision for your printing requirements.
Print Speed and Quality
Both the Brother HL-L2321D and the HP 1020 Plus offer print speeds of up to 30 pages per minute (ppm), making them suitable for low to medium-volume printing tasks. However, the Brother HL-L2321D has a slight edge in print quality, producing sharp text and crisp graphics with a resolution of up to 2400 x 600 dpi. The HP 1020 Plus, on the other hand, has a resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi, which may be sufficient for basic document printing.
Paper Capacity and Handling
The Brother HL-L2321D boasts a standard paper capacity of 250 sheets, expandable to 500 sheets with an optional tray. This makes it ideal for offices with moderate printing volumes. The HP 1020 Plus, on the other hand, has a more limited paper capacity of 150 sheets, which may be suitable for smaller workgroups or personal use. Both printers support a variety of paper sizes and types, including letter, legal, and envelopes.
Connectivity and Features
The Brother HL-L2321D offers flexible connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi, allowing for easy integration into both wired and wireless networks. The HP 1020 Plus, in contrast, only supports USB connectivity, which may be a limitation for offices that require wireless or network printing. Additionally, the Brother HL-L2321D features a built-in duplexer for automatic double-sided printing, while the HP 1020 Plus requires manual duplexing.
Toner Cost and Yield
Toner costs play a significant role in the long-term affordability of a laser printer. The Brother HL-L2321D uses Brother TN-760 toner cartridges, which have a yield of approximately 2,600 pages at 5% coverage. The HP 1020 Plus uses HP 1010 toner cartridges, which have a yield of approximately 1,600 pages at 5% coverage. While the Brother HL-L2321D has a higher toner yield, the cost per page is slightly higher than the HP 1020 Plus.
Physical Dimensions and Design
The Brother HL-L2321D has a compact design, measuring 14.2 x 14.2 x 10.2 inches and weighing approximately 19 pounds. The HP 1020 Plus is slightly smaller and lighter, measuring 14.2 x 13.5 x 8.4 inches and weighing approximately 13 pounds. Both printers have a sleek and modern design that can complement any office environment.
Warranty and Support
Brother and HP offer comprehensive warranties for their laser printers. The Brother HL-L2321D comes with a 1-year limited warranty, while the HP 1020 Plus has a 1-year limited hardware warranty. Additionally, both manufacturers provide online support resources, including user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and driver downloads.
The Verdict: Brother HL-L2321D vs HP 1020 Plus
After a thorough comparison, the Brother HL-L2321D emerges as the superior choice for most office environments. Its faster print speed, higher print quality, flexible connectivity options, and automatic duplexing make it a versatile and cost-effective solution. However, if budget and space constraints are a priority, the HP 1020 Plus may be a suitable option for basic printing needs.
Top Questions Asked
1. Which printer has the lower cost per page?
The HP 1020 Plus has a slightly lower cost per page than the Brother HL-L2321D.
2. Can I print from mobile devices with either printer?
Yes, the Brother HL-L2321D supports mobile printing through Wi-Fi and the HP 1020 Plus supports mobile printing through the HP Smart app.
3. Do both printers come with a USB cable?
Yes, both the Brother HL-L2321D and the HP 1020 Plus come with a USB cable for direct connection to a computer.
4. Can I use recycled or third-party toner cartridges with these printers?
Using recycled or third-party toner cartridges may void the manufacturer’s warranty and could potentially damage the printer.
5. How often should I replace the toner cartridge?
The frequency of toner cartridge replacement depends on the volume of printing. However, it is recommended to replace the toner cartridge when the print quality starts to deteriorate.
