Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer Review
At first glance, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Laser Printer looks like just another monochrome laser printer in a crowded market. But dig deeper, and you’ll see why it’s being talked about as one of the best office laser printers in its class. This wireless all-in-one model blends sharp text output, automatic duplex printing, and surprisingly robust scan-and-copy features into a compact frame that fits neatly on a desk or small office shelf.
Brother has long specialized in workhorse lasers, and the DCP-L2640DW Laser Printer continues that tradition, delivering speed, efficiency, and a low cost per page that small businesses and home offices can rely on. While it’s not meant for photos or color graphics, it excels at what matters most in an office setting: crisp contracts, invoices, reports, and bulk text jobs. We put it through our tests for print speed, print quality, usability, and connectivity—and it makes a strong case for anyone searching for the best all-in-one laser printer in 2025.
Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer Review: A Compact All-in-One Laser For Busy Offices
- Fast monochrome printing — up to 34 ppm
- Sharp, professional-quality text output
- Built-in Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct & mobile printing
- Automatic duplex (two-sided) printing
- All-in-one: print, scan, copy
- High-yield toner options for low running costs
- Compact and reliable for small offices
- No color printing (mono only)
- ADF is slower than premium models
- No fax function
- Small LCD display, not touchscreen
The Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer isn’t flashy, but that’s exactly why it stands out. In our tests, it proved to be a well-rounded all-in-one monochrome laser printer with the right blend of speed, quality, and long-term value. Text came out razor-sharp, even at small font sizes, and duplex printing worked reliably without slowing the machine down.
What impressed us most is how much functionality Brother has packed into a compact unit. The 50-sheet automatic document feeder supports duplex scanning, making it far more versatile than most entry-level office lasers. Add in wireless connectivity—including Wi-Fi Direct, AirPrint, Mopria, and Brother’s iPrint&Scan app—and it’s equally at home in a small office network or paired directly with a smartphone. The Printer also has super fast 36 ppm print speed and scan speeds up to 23.6/7.9 ipm(3) (black/color) with Duplex printing capabilities make it more relible printer for any office. A 50-page auto document feeder(4) allows for convenient, time saving multi-page scanning and copying.
Running costs are another win. With standard- and high-yield toner options, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer offers a low cost per page that undercuts many rivals in its class. Combined with Brother’s reputation for durability, this makes it an excellent choice for offices that churn through contracts, invoices, or long-form reports on a daily basis. So you need to print documents
The Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer is an easy recommendation for home, offices, students, and large businesses that need a reliable all-in-one laser printer for day-to-day documents. If your workload consists of contracts, invoices, reports, or research papers, this model delivers crisp output and a duty cycle that can keep up with regular use.
It’s also a smart fit for professionals who need scanning and copying on top of printing. The automatic duplex scan feature means you can digitize multipage reports or copy double-sided documents without extra steps, saving both time and effort.
That said, this printer is not for everyone. If you need high-quality color graphics, glossy marketing materials, or photo printing, you’ll want to look at a color laser or inkjet alternative. But for anyone who values speed, efficiency, and low running costs in a compact package, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Laser Printer hits the sweet spot.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Printer Type | Monochrome Laser (All-in-One: Print/Scan/Copy) |
| Print Speed | Up to 34 pages per minute |
| Print Resolution | Up to 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Wireless Support | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Apple AirPrint, Mopria, Brother iPrint&Scan |
| Duplex Printing | Yes, automatic two-sided printing |
| Input Paper Capacity | 250-sheet paper tray + manual feed slot |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | Up to 15,000 pages (recommended ~2,000 pages) |
| Display | 2-line monochrome LCD |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 16.1″ x 15.7″ x 12.5″ |
| Weight | 27.6 lbs (approx.) |
| Operating Systems | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Price Range | Approximately $180–$220 USD |
Design & Build
The Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer hits a nice balance in size. At 356 × 360 × 183 mm and around 7.1 kg, it’s not too bulky to overwhelm your desk, but it’s not so small that it skimps on useful features either. Its matte-black body looks sleek and professional, while still feeling sturdy enough for everyday use—whether that’s at home or in a small office.
The paper tray and output slots are neatly built in, giving it a clean, compact shape without awkward parts sticking out. Despite the modest footprint, it packs in a lot: printing, scanning, copying, automatic two-sided printing, and even a 50-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF) that makes handling multipage documents a breeze.
Using it is straightforward too. The two-line LCD screen and simple button layout make setup and everyday tasks easy, and connecting through Wi-Fi or USB is quick and hassle-free. Many users point out how smooth the setup feels compared to other printers.
Overall, the DCP-L2640DW is designed to be practical: compact yet powerful, simple yet durable, and focused on saving space without sacrificing performance.
Print Speed & Output Quality
The Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer is built for productivity, and its performance shows it. Rated at 34 pages per minute for monochrome output, it handles long contracts, reports, and invoices with ease. In real-world use, first-page-out time is quick enough that short one- or two-page jobs don’t feel sluggish, while longer print runs keep pace with what you’d expect from a business-class monochrome laser.
Text quality is where this model shines. Even at small font sizes—down to 6 points—characters remain sharp and highly legible, making it an excellent choice for academic work, legal documents, and any job where fine detail matters. Line graphics and charts also come out clean, with smooth curves and solid fills that look professional on plain paper.
For business reports and simple visual presentations, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer delivers more than acceptable quality. While it can’t match the depth or vibrancy of a color laser for marketing materials, its output is consistent, smudge-resistant, and archival-friendly. Duplex printing is handled automatically, and the mechanism does not noticeably slow down the printer, which is a plus for offices looking to save on paper without sacrificing speed.
Overall, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer balances speed and clarity in a way that makes it highly dependable for office use, particularly in environments where crisp text and efficient throughput matter most.
Scan & Copy Features
The Brother DCP-L2640DW isn’t just a printer—it’s a true all-in-one, and its scan and copy functions are central to its appeal. A flatbed scanner with a 50-sheet automatic document feeder makes it easy to handle both single-page items and multipage documents. Automatic duplex scanning is supported, so double-sided pages can be digitized in one pass without extra effort. That’s a time-saver for anyone archiving contracts, reports, or academic materials.
Scan resolution is more than adequate for office use, producing crisp digital copies of text and line graphics. OCR software support allows scanned documents to be converted into editable text, which can be invaluable for workflows that require searchable PDFs or quick text extraction. Copy quality mirrors its print performance: text is clear, graphics are serviceable, and multi-page copying through the ADF is consistent.
While it’s not designed for photo scanning or color-critical work, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer more than delivers on everyday business tasks. From digitizing invoices to creating quick copies of ID cards or reports, it offers a reliable, no-frills toolset that supports efficient office productivity.
Connectivity & Usability
The Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer is designed with flexible connectivity in mind, making it easy to integrate into almost any home or office setup. Standard USB and Wi-Fi connections are supported, along with Wi-Fi Direct for peer-to-peer printing without the need for a router. Mobile device support is strong, with compatibility for AirPrint, Mopria, and Brother’s own iPrint&Scan app, and also worked with Alexa which allows users to print or scan directly from a smartphone or tablet.
Setup is straightforward, whether connecting via USB for a single-user environment or adding the printer to a shared wireless network. The control panel, with its two-line monochrome LCD and well-organized buttons, keeps navigation simple. While it’s not as flashy as a touchscreen interface, the menu system is clear and functional, allowing for quick access to copy, scan, and print settings without confusion.
In everyday use, the DCP-L2640DW Printer proves dependable. Print jobs queue smoothly over Wi-Fi, mobile printing is reliable, and scanning to email or cloud storage through Brother’s software is quick to configure. Security features, such as password-protected printing, help safeguard sensitive documents in shared environments.
Taken together, the connectivity and usability of the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer ensure that it adapts easily to modern workflows, whether you’re working from a home office, a small business, or a hybrid setup where mobile access is essential.
Cost & Efficiency
For many small offices and home users, the total cost of ownership is as important as raw performance—and on that measure, the Brother DCP‑L2640DW shines.
Toner Life & Cost per Page
The standard TN-830 toner cartridge gives you around 1,200 pages, while the high-yield TN-830XL stretches that up to about 3,000 pages. Although pricing varies depending on where you buy, the XL version almost always works out cheaper per page, making it the smarter choice if you print often or in bulk.
Estimated Running Costs
Independent cost analysis suggests black-and-white text prints average about 4.8 cents each, while pages with heavier graphics land closer to 15.3 cents. These numbers put the DCP-L2640DW on the efficient side for entry-level office lasers, and a lot more cost-effective than many comparable inkjet options.
Long-Term Savings & Maintenance
One of the advantages of toner is that it doesn’t dry up like ink, so you don’t waste money on clogged printheads or unnecessary cleaning cycles. The drum unit (DR-830) only needs replacing after about 15,000 pages, which helps keep ongoing costs low and predictable.
Subscription Convenience
Brother also offers its Refresh EZ Print subscription for this model, which delivers toner automatically before you run out. It even comes with a free trial and extended warranty benefits in some regions, like Brother Canada, adding a layer of convenience on top of the savings.
The Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer delivers low-priced, high-yield printing, particularly when you opt for TN-830XL cartridges. Its long-lasting drum and efficient toner usage translate into a strong cost-to-performance ratio, especially for high-volume or budget-conscious workflows. Add in automated replenishment options, and this machine becomes both economical and convenient—a standout for anyone seeking an office laser printer that’s easy on the wallet in both the short and long term.
Competition With CANON & HP
When positioned against its peers, the Brother DCP‑L2640DW holds its own—but knowing how it stacks up helps reinforce whether it’s your top pick.
Canon imageCLASS MF275dw
- The Canon MF275dw brings integrated fax capability and a richer color LCD touchscreen—features missing on the Brother.
- However, the Brother DCP‑L2640DW wins on speed: Canon clocks in around 29 ppm compared to Brother’s 34 ppm. Brother also offers a lower price point for similar monthly volume capabilities.
HP Laserjet MFP M235sdw Printer
- HP Laserjet MFP M235sdw Printer features a larger physical footprint and generally supports higher-volume environments, but lacks the Brother’s compact design.
- Brother’s DCP-L2640DW Printer remains easier to fit into tight office setups while delivering comparable performance.
Brother’s Own HL-L2460DW (Single-Function)
- The single-function HL-L2460DW offers slightly faster speeds—up to 36 ppm—and lighter weight since it drops scanning and ADF functions. It’s cheaper, too, but lacks the multifunction versatility of DCP‑L2640DW.
Broader Recommendations
For small offices and home setups, both Tom’s Guide and The Spruce cite Brother models—especially ones like the DCP‑L2640DW—as among the top monochrome laser printers for their speed, reliability, and value. The Spruce even names it the Best Laser Printer, noting its crisp output and fast performance paired with long-term durability.
Where the DCP-L2640DW stands out:
- Exceptional speed within its class
- Full all-in-one (print, scan, copy) versatility in a compact form
- Strong cost-per-page value and flexible connectivity
Where rivals win:
- Canon adds fax and touchscreen convenience
- HP’s tank model may suit those needing ultra-heavy volume
- Brother’s own HL-L2460DW offers better price/speed trade-off for monochrome-only use
Comparison: Leading All-in-One Monochrome Lasers
| Model | Brother DCP-L2640DW | Canon imageCLASS MF275dw | Brother HL-L2460DW (Single-Function) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 2-line LCD | 9.3 cm touchscreen | 1-line character (single line) |
| Functions | Print, scan, copy + duplex ADF | Print, scan, copy, fax | Print only (no scanning or copying) |
| Print Speed | Up to 34 ppm (mono) | Up to 29 ppm (mono) | Up to 36 ppm (mono) |
| ADF Capacity | 50 sheets (duplex scanning) | Yes (capacity lower, fax-capable) | Not applicable |
| Paper Tray Capacity | 250 sheets | 150 sheets | 250 sheets |
| Connectivity | USB, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 / 5 GHz), Ethernet | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet | USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Duplex Printing | Yes (auto-duplex) | Yes | Yes (Brother USA) |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 356 × 360 × 183 mm | Approx. 374 × 368 × 390 mm | Compact footprint (similar) |
| Weight | ~7.1 kg | ~11 kg | ~7.1 kg |
| Best For | Compact all-in-one for intensive office use | Fax-capability + touchscreen interface | Fast print-only needs at a lower price |
At a Glance:
Brother DCP-L2640DW shines as a compact but full-featured performer—offering print, scan, copy, automatic duplexing, and a 50-sheet ADF—all in a relatively small footprint.
Canon MF275dw adds a touchscreen interface and built-in fax, but at a heavier and less desk-efficient size.
Brother HL-L2460DW, while faster and more affordable, is single-function—best suited if all you need is quick, reliable printing without scan or copy.
By comparing these models, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer demonstrates exceptional value for users needing multifunction versatility and efficiency packaged in a compact office-ready design.
Verdict: Why Brother DCP-L2640DW Consider as Best Budget Office Laser Printer?
The Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer makes a strong case as one of the best budget office laser printers of 2025. It combines fast print speeds, sharp monochrome text output, and dependable duplexing with the versatility of scanning and copying in a compact all-in-one design. Wireless connectivity, mobile printing and Alexa support, and a straightforward control panel make it easy to integrate into any office setup, while its high-yield toner options keep running costs low compared with rival models. It isn’t built for color graphics or photo output, and the automatic document feeder could be quicker, but for small offices, home businesses, or students who need a reliable, efficient workhorse for text and document handling, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer delivers excellent long-term value. It earns its place as a top choice for anyone seeking an affordable, all-in-one office laser printer that balances performance with economy.
If you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful office printer, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Printer Review shows why it stands out as a top contender. With its fast print speeds, low running costs, and reliable duplexing, it secures its place among the Best Office Laser Printers of 2025. And thanks to its scan-and-copy flexibility, it doubles as the Best All in One Laser Printer for small businesses, home offices, and students who want long-term value without overspending.
