If you’re looking for a solid, no-nonsense monochrome laser printer that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the Brother HL-L2460DW is a strong contender. This printer delivers where it counts: speed, reliability, and cost-efficiency for everyday document printing. It’s designed for home offices and small businesses that need consistent, crisp black-and-white output, offering features like automatic duplex printing and flexible connectivity options including Wi-Fi and Ethernet. While it won’t handle color or advanced graphics, for pure document throughput, it’s a workhorse that consistently earns high marks for its performance-to-price ratio.

Here’s how the Brother HL-L2460DW stacks up against some other popular options in the market:

Feature/Product	Brother HL-L2460DW	HP LaserJet Pro M15w	Canon imageCLASS MF264dw	Dell E310dw	Lexmark B2236dw	Samsung Xpress M2835DW	Brother MFC-L2710DW
Printer Type	Monochrome Laser	Monochrome Laser	Monochrome Laser MFP	Monochrome Laser	Monochrome Laser	Monochrome Laser	Monochrome Laser MFP
Print Speed ppm	Up to 32	Up to 19	Up to 28	Up to 27	Up to 36	Up to 29	Up to 34
Duplex Printing	Auto	Manual	Auto	Auto	Auto	Auto	Auto
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB	Wi-Fi, USB	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Mobile Printing	Brother iPrint&Scan, AirPrint, Mopria	HP Smart app, AirPrint, Mopria	Canon PRINT Business, AirPrint, Mopria	Dell Document Hub, AirPrint, Mopria	Lexmark Mobile Print, AirPrint, Mopria	Samsung Mobile Print, AirPrint, Mopria	Brother iPrint&Scan, AirPrint, Mopria
Cost Per Page approx.	Low	Moderate	Low	Low	Low	Moderate	Low
Recommended Monthly Volume	Up to 2,500	Up to 1,000	Up to 2,500	Up to 2,000	Up to 2,500	Up to 2,000	Up to 2,000
Key Features	High speed, compact, affordable toner	Smallest in class, simple	MFP print, scan, copy, ADF	Solid performance, easy setup	Fast, robust security	NFC Tap & Print, crisp text	MFP, ADF, Fax, Ethernet

Table of Contents

Unpacking the Brother HL-L2460DW: Core Features and Design

The Brother HL-L2460DW isn’t just another printer.

It’s engineered for efficiency and practicality, making it a favorite for those who need consistent monochrome output without fuss.

Think of it as the reliable workhorse of your home office or small business, built to handle a significant volume of print jobs with minimal intervention.

Speed and Performance: Getting Documents Done, Fast

One of the first things you’ll notice about the HL-L2460DW is its speed. Brother has packed a punch with print speeds up to 32 pages per minute ppm. This isn’t marketing fluff. in real-world tests, it consistently delivers, making short work of multi-page documents.

First Page Out Time: Typically, it’s ready to print within 8.5 seconds, which means less waiting around, especially when you’re just printing a quick memo or invoice.
Engineered for Volume: While its recommended monthly volume is up to 2,500 pages, the actual duty cycle often exceeds this, highlighting its robust build.
Consistency is Key: Unlike some inkjet printers that can slow down significantly with complex documents, this laser printer maintains its speed for text-heavy content, ensuring a steady workflow.

Print Quality: Crisp Text, Every Time

When you print documents for business, clarity is paramount. The HL-L2460DW excels here, producing sharp, professional-looking text at up to 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution.

No Smudging: Laser technology ensures toner is fused onto the page, virtually eliminating smudges, which is crucial for important contracts or reports.
Fine Details: Even small fonts are rendered clearly, making it suitable for printing documents with footnotes, legal text, or intricate data tables.
Graphics Monochrome: While it’s a monochrome printer, it handles grayscale graphics surprisingly well, reproducing images with decent detail and smooth gradients, albeit without color.

Design and Footprint: Compact Power

Printers can often be bulky, but Brother has done a commendable job keeping the HL-L2460DW relatively compact, especially considering its capabilities. Fujifilm X100Vi Review

Dimensions: Roughly 14.2″ x 13.8″ x 7.2″ W x D x H, it fits comfortably on most desks or shelves without dominating the space.
Weight: At around 15.2 lbs, it’s light enough to move if needed but stable during operation.
Simple Interface: The printer features a small, clear two-line LCD screen for status updates and basic menu navigation, making it straightforward to use even without a computer connection.

Connectivity and Mobile Printing: Staying Connected in a Wireless World

The Brother HL-L2460DW provides a range of flexible connectivity options that cater to various user needs, ensuring you can print from almost any device.

Wireless Freedom: Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct

The inclusion of built-in Wi-Fi is a major selling point. Setting it up on your network is typically a breeze, allowing multiple users to print from their laptops, desktops, and mobile devices without needing a direct cable connection.

Network Integration: Connects to your existing home or office Wi-Fi network 802.11b/g/n, making it accessible from any device on that network.
Wi-Fi Direct: For situations where you don’t have a router or want a direct peer-to-peer connection, Wi-Fi Direct allows your mobile device or laptop to connect directly to the printer. This is incredibly handy for guests or quick print jobs without network setup.
Security Protocols: Supports common Wi-Fi security protocols WPA2-PSK to protect your network.

Wired Reliability: Ethernet and USB

While wireless is convenient, sometimes you need the rock-solid stability of a wired connection. The HL-L2460DW offers both Ethernet and USB.

Ethernet RJ-45: For small offices or situations where consistent network access is critical, an Ethernet connection provides a stable and often faster link, reducing latency and potential wireless interference.
USB 2.0: The classic direct connection for single-computer setups or when troubleshooting network issues. Simply plug it into your PC or Mac, and you’re ready to print.

Mobile Printing Solutions: Print from Anywhere

The ability to print directly from your smartphone or tablet has become essential.

Brother ensures you’re covered with a suite of popular mobile printing apps and services.

Brother iPrint&Scan: Brother’s proprietary app available for iOS and Android. It allows you to print documents and photos, scan directly to your device though this model doesn’t scan, and manage printer settings.
Apple AirPrint: For Apple users, AirPrint allows seamless printing from iPhones, iPads, and Macs without installing any additional drivers or apps. Just select the printer from your device’s print menu.
Mopria Print Service: An industry standard for Android devices, Mopria enables printing to compatible printers from many Android applications without specific drivers.
Cloud Print Compatibility via Brother Connect/Web Connect: While Google Cloud Print has been deprecated, Brother often integrates its own cloud print services or compatibility with third-party solutions through its Web Connect platform, allowing you to print from cloud services like Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive directly from the printer if supported by the specific model’s firmware. Always check the latest firmware updates for cloud features.

Toner and Running Costs: The Economics of Monochrome Printing

When you buy a printer, the initial price tag is only part of the story.

The true cost of ownership often lies in the consumables: the toner cartridges.

This is where the Brother HL-L2460DW truly shines, offering one of the most economical printing experiences in its class.

The Drum and Toner Cartridge System: A Smart Approach

Brother’s printers often use a two-part consumable system: a separate toner cartridge and a drum unit. This is a significant advantage over printers where the toner and drum are combined into one unit.

Separate Components:
- Toner Cartridge: Contains the toner powder itself. This is what you replace most frequently.
- Drum Unit: An imaging component that transfers the toner to the paper. It has a much longer lifespan than the toner cartridge.
Cost Savings: Because the drum unit lasts much longer typically 12,000 to 15,000 pages for the HL-L2460DW, compared to toner cartridges lasting 1,200 to 3,000 pages, you only replace the component that’s actually depleted. This avoids discarding a perfectly good drum when only the toner is out, leading to substantial savings over the printer’s lifespan.

Toner Cartridge Options and Yields

The HL-L2460DW uses Brother TN8XX series toner cartridges, which are readily available and come in various yield options to suit your printing volume. Patriot Software Full Service Payroll Review

Standard Yield e.g., TN830: Typically rated for around 1,200 pages. Good for light to moderate use.
High Yield e.g., TN830XL: Often rated for 3,000 pages or more. This is the sweet spot for most users, as it significantly reduces the cost per page.
Super High Yield e.g., TN830XXL, if available: Some models offer even higher yields, pushing past 4,500 pages for maximum cost efficiency. Always check the latest Brother specifications for exact cartridge compatibility and page yields.

Calculating Cost Per Page CPP

To truly understand the running cost, you need to look at the cost per page CPP. This is calculated by dividing the cost of the toner cartridge by its estimated page yield.

Example using high-yield toner: If a high-yield TN830XL cartridge costs $60 and yields 3,000 pages, your CPP is $60 / 3000 pages = $0.02 per page, or 2 cents.
Industry Comparison: This CPP is remarkably low compared to many inkjet printers which can be $0.05-$0.20+ per page for black ink and even some other laser printers, making the HL-L2460DW an excellent choice for budget-conscious printing.

Genuine vs. Compatible Toner

While genuine Brother toner ensures optimal performance and print quality, compatible or third-party toner cartridges are available at lower prices.

Genuine Brother Toner: Designed specifically for Brother printers, offering guaranteed performance, consistent quality, and preventing potential printer damage.
Compatible/Remanufactured Toner: Can be significantly cheaper, but quality and reliability can vary. Using non-genuine toner might void your printer’s warranty, so proceed with caution. For critical business documents, genuine toner is usually the safer bet.

Duplex Printing and Paper Handling: Efficiency in Action

One of the standout features that elevates the Brother HL-L2460DW above basic monochrome printers is its automatic duplex printing capability. This, combined with solid paper handling, makes it an incredibly efficient machine for both personal and small office use.

Automatic Duplex Printing: Saving Paper and Time

Automatic duplex printing means the printer can print on both sides of a sheet of paper without you having to manually flip the pages.

This might seem like a small detail, but its impact is significant.

Paper Savings: This is the most obvious benefit. By printing double-sided, you effectively cut your paper consumption by up to 50% for many documents. Over time, this translates to considerable savings on supplies.
Environmental Impact: Less paper used means a smaller environmental footprint, aligning with eco-conscious practices.
Professional Documents: Double-sided documents often look more professional and are easier to handle, especially for reports, presentations, or manuals.
Time Efficiency: No more fiddling with manual reloads. The printer handles the flipping internally, saving you time and reducing the risk of misfeeds or printing on the wrong side.

Paper Tray Capacity and Types

The HL-L2460DW is equipped with standard paper handling features designed for everyday efficiency.

Main Input Tray: Typically holds up to 250 sheets of letter or legal-sized paper. This generous capacity means you won’t be constantly refilling the tray, especially for multi-page print jobs. This is a crucial feature for offices with moderate printing needs.
Manual Feed Slot: A single-sheet manual feed slot is incredibly useful for printing on specialty media that might not feed well from the main tray. This includes:
- Envelopes: Print addresses directly onto various envelope sizes.
- Thicker Paper/Card Stock: Ideal for certificates, invitations, or business cards that require heavier stock.
- Labels: Print shipping labels, return labels, or custom labels.
Output Tray: The standard output tray can hold up to 100 sheets, preventing printed documents from spilling onto the floor.

Supported Media Types and Sizes

This printer supports a variety of common paper types and sizes, ensuring versatility for typical office tasks.

Supported Sizes: Letter, Legal, A4, A5, A6, B5, B6, Executive, Statement, Envelopes various sizes.
Supported Media Types: Plain paper, thin paper, thick paper, recycled paper, bond paper, labels, envelopes.
Paper Weight: Generally handles paper weights from 16 to 43 lbs bond 60 to 163 gsm in the main tray, and often heavier stock through the manual feed slot check specific model specs for exact range.

Ease of Use and Setup: Getting Up and Running Without a Headache

Nobody wants to spend hours deciphering cryptic manuals or wrestling with drivers.

The Brother HL-L2460DW is designed with user-friendliness in mind, ensuring a relatively smooth experience from unboxing to your first print.

Initial Setup: A Straightforward Process

Setting up the HL-L2460DW is generally a quick and painless affair. Lenovo Loq 15 15Iax9I Review

Unboxing: The printer is usually well-packed with clear instructions for removing protective tapes and inserts.
Toner and Drum Installation: Installing the separate toner cartridge into the drum unit, and then slotting the combined unit into the printer, is a simple click-and-go process. Brother’s consumables are designed for easy, fool-proof installation.
Driver Installation:
- Windows/macOS: For most modern operating systems, driver installation is often semi-automatic when you connect via USB or when the printer is discovered on your network. Brother also provides a comprehensive installer package on its website, which includes drivers and utility software.
- Linux: Brother typically offers robust Linux support, with drivers available for various distributions.
Network Configuration: Setting up Wi-Fi can be done via the printer’s small LCD panel using a setup wizard, or more easily through the Brother setup software on your computer, which guides you through connecting to your wireless network.

User Interface: Simple and Functional

The printer’s interface is basic but effective, focusing on functionality rather than flashy displays.

Two-Line LCD Display: Provides essential information such as printer status, error messages, and menu options. While not a touchscreen, the physical buttons for navigation are intuitive enough for basic operations.
Physical Buttons: Clearly labeled buttons for navigation up, down, OK, Go, Cancel, and Wi-Fi status.
Web-Based Management: For more advanced settings, like network configuration, firmware updates, or detailed status reports, you can access the printer’s embedded web server by typing its IP address into a web browser. This offers a more comprehensive interface for power users.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Keeping Things Running Smoothly

Brother printers are generally known for their reliability, and the HL-L2460DW is no exception. Routine maintenance is minimal.

Toner Replacement: As mentioned, replacing toner is quick and easy. The printer alerts you when toner is low.
Drum Unit Replacement: The drum unit has a longer lifespan and prompts you when it’s nearing the end of its life. Replacement is just as straightforward as the toner.
Paper Jams: While rare with proper paper loading, the printer is designed with accessible paper paths, making it relatively easy to clear jams if they occur. Clear instructions are usually provided within the printer itself or in the manual.
Error Codes: The LCD panel displays clear error codes, and the user manual or Brother’s support website provides detailed explanations and troubleshooting steps for each code, minimizing downtime.

Software and Utilities: Enhancing Your Printing Experience

Beyond the basic drivers, Brother provides a suite of software and utilities that can enhance your experience with the HL-L2460DW, offering more control and convenience for managing your print jobs and printer settings.

Brother iPrint&Scan Desktop Application

While often associated with mobile devices, Brother also offers a desktop version of iPrint&Scan for Windows and macOS.

Print Functionality: Offers an alternative interface for printing documents, often with more granular control over settings than standard print dialogs.
Status Monitoring: Provides real-time status of your printer, including toner levels, paper tray status, and any error messages.
Direct Access to Printer Settings: Allows you to change network settings, check firmware versions, and perform maintenance tasks directly from your computer.

BRAdmin Light/Professional for Network Management

For small to medium businesses or users managing multiple Brother devices on a network, BRAdmin utilities are invaluable.

BRAdmin Light: A utility that helps discover and manage Brother networked devices. You can view basic network settings, firmware versions, and printer status.
BRAdmin Professional: A more robust tool for network administrators, allowing centralized management of multiple Brother devices, including configuration, status monitoring, and firmware updates across the network. While perhaps overkill for a single HL-L2460DW in a home office, it’s a powerful tool if you expand your Brother fleet.

Driver Utilities and Print Quality Settings

The installed print driver itself offers a range of customizable options to fine-tune your output.

Print Quality Modes: Choose between various quality settings e.g., Fast, Normal, Best depending on your needs. For most documents, “Normal” is sufficient, balancing speed and quality.
Toner Save Mode: A crucial feature for maximizing toner life. This mode reduces the amount of toner used per page, leading to slightly lighter prints but significantly extending cartridge longevity – perfect for drafts or internal documents.
Duplex Settings: Easily control automatic duplex printing settings, including orientation long-edge or short-edge binding for different document layouts.
Watermark and Overlay Printing: Add custom watermarks e.g., “Draft,” “Confidential” or print overlays e.g., company letterhead directly from the driver, saving time and pre-printed stock.
Manual Feed Settings: Configure settings for using the manual feed slot, specifying media type and size for optimal results with specialty papers.

Remote Setup and Diagnostics

Brother’s online resources and some of its software tools allow for remote diagnosis and setup, which can be a lifesaver for troubleshooting.

Online Support: Brother’s website offers extensive FAQs, troubleshooting guides, manuals, and driver downloads.
Firmware Updates: Regularly check for firmware updates, which can improve performance, add new features, or fix bugs. These can often be applied directly from the printer’s web interface or through Brother’s utilities.

Ideal Use Cases: Who is the Brother HL-L2460DW For?

The Brother HL-L2460DW isn’t a one-size-fits-all printer, but it excels in specific environments and for particular user needs.

Understanding its strengths helps determine if it’s the right fit for you.

Home Offices and Remote Workers

This is arguably the printer’s sweet spot. Dell Ultrasharp 27 Thunderbolt Hub Monitor U2724De Review

For anyone working from home who needs reliable, consistent document printing without the bulk or complexity of an all-in-one color machine, the HL-L2460DW is a perfect match.

High Volume Text Documents: Ideal for printing contracts, reports, invoices, research papers, and everyday correspondence.
Cost-Effective: Low cost per page means you can print freely without worrying about exorbitant ink costs.
Quiet Operation: Laser printers are generally quieter than inkjet printers, which is a big plus in a home office environment where noise can be a distraction.
Compact Footprint: Doesn’t take up too much valuable desk real estate.
Wireless Connectivity: Enables printing from laptops, tablets, and smartphones, offering flexibility.

Small Businesses and Startups

For small businesses that rely heavily on document output but don’t need color printing or extensive multifunction capabilities like scanning or copying for external use, the HL-L2460DW offers excellent value.

Dedicated Document Printer: If you have separate devices for scanning or don’t need a copier, a dedicated monochrome laser printer focuses on its core strength: fast, reliable document production.
High Speed for Efficiency: Keeps up with multiple users printing invoices, shipping labels, packing slips, or internal memos.
Durability and Reliability: Built to handle the demands of a small office environment, reducing downtime due to printer issues.
Network Ready: Ethernet connectivity ensures stable connections for multiple users on a shared network.
Security: Basic security features can be configured to protect sensitive documents e.g., secure print options with PIN release on some Brother models, though typically higher-end ones.

Students and Educators

Students with extensive research papers, essays, or study materials to print, and educators needing to print handouts, syllabi, or administrative documents, will find this printer highly beneficial.

Budget-Friendly: Reduces the ongoing cost of printing academic materials.
Fast Duplex: Saves time and paper when printing long assignments or readings.
Sharp Text: Ensures academic papers look professional and are easy to read.

Users with Specific Monochrome Needs

Even larger organizations might find a place for the HL-L2460DW as a supplementary printer for specific tasks.

Cheque Printing: Many businesses use monochrome laser printers for printing cheques or other sensitive financial documents due to the crisp output and quick drying toner.
Internal Drafts: A cost-effective solution for printing large volumes of internal drafts or documents where color isn’t necessary.
Backup Printer: A reliable backup for primary multifunction devices.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the Brother HL-L2460DW offers excellent value and performance for monochrome printing, it’s not without its limitations.

Understanding these can help you make an informed decision.

Monochrome Only: No Color Printing

This is the most obvious and significant limitation.

No Photos or Color Graphics: If your printing needs include vibrant color photos, marketing materials with branding colors, or any document that relies on color for clarity or impact, this is simply not the printer for you.
Supplemental Device: For some users, the HL-L2460DW might be a fantastic primary printer for documents, but they may need a separate, inexpensive inkjet printer for occasional color jobs.
Impact on Presentations: While it handles grayscale images well, complex charts and graphs that rely on color differentiation will lose some of their effectiveness when printed in black and white.

No Scanning or Copying Functionality Dedicated Printer

The “HL” in Brother’s model numbers indicates it’s a “Home/Laser” printer, meaning it’s a dedicated printer, not a multifunction device MFP.

No Built-in Scanner: You cannot scan documents directly with this machine.
No Copier: It lacks built-in copying capabilities.
No Fax: While less critical now, it does not have a fax modem.
Solution: If you need scanning, copying, or faxing, you’ll either need to purchase a separate scanner/MFP or consider Brother’s MFC Multi-Function Center series e.g., Brother MFC-L2710DW, MFC-L2750DW which offer these features, typically with slightly higher costs.

Limited Display Screen

The two-line LCD screen is functional but basic.

No Touchscreen: Users accustomed to modern touchscreen interfaces might find the button navigation a bit dated.
Limited Information: While it shows essential status, it’s not as informative or user-friendly as a larger graphical display for complex network setups or troubleshooting.
Typing Passwords: Entering Wi-Fi passwords or other network credentials character by character using the small screen and navigation buttons can be cumbersome. Though often you can use a computer utility for easier setup.

Not Ideal for Graphics-Heavy Monochrome

While it prints text beautifully and handles simple grayscale images adequately, it’s not designed for high-resolution monochrome graphics or intricate line art. Samsung Galaxy A35 5G Review

Halftones and Gradients: Complex halftones or smooth gradients might show some banding or less detail compared to higher-end laser printers or dedicated graphics printers.
Professional Art Prints: If you need to print professional-grade black-and-white photographs or detailed architectural drawings, a specialized printer might be a better fit.

Manual Duplex for Specialty Media Only

While it has automatic duplex for standard paper, the manual feed slot is single-sided.

Limited Duplex for Specialty Stock: If you frequently print on heavy cardstock or envelopes and need duplex, you’ll have to manually flip and refeed those items, which can be tedious.

Comparative Analysis: How it Stacks Up Against the Competition

Understanding how the Brother HL-L2460DW fares against its rivals is crucial for a well-rounded review.

While direct competitors might offer slightly different feature sets, the HL-L2460DW generally stands strong in its niche.

Vs. HP LaserJet Pro M15w

The HP M15w is often lauded for being one of the smallest monochrome laser printers available, making it super compact.

Speed: HL-L2460DW 32 ppm significantly faster than M15w 19 ppm. Brother wins hands down for speed.
Duplex: HL-L2460DW offers automatic duplex. M15w is manual duplex only. Major advantage for Brother.
Paper Capacity: HL-L2460DW 250 sheets has a much larger paper tray than M15w 150 sheets.
Footprint: M15w is genuinely tiny, smaller than the Brother. If space is the absolute priority and speed/duplex are secondary, the M15w has an edge.
Cost Per Page: Brother’s separate drum/toner system usually results in a lower CPP than HP’s combined toner cartridge, making Brother more economical in the long run.
Verdict: For serious home office or small business use where speed, duplex, and cost are key, the HL-L2460DW is superior. M15w is for extremely tight spaces and very light, casual printing.

Vs. Canon imageCLASS MF264dw MFP

This Canon model is an MFP Multi-Function Printer, meaning it includes scanning and copying, unlike the dedicated HL-L2460DW.

Functionality: Canon offers scan/copy/print/fax. Brother is print-only. If you need an all-in-one, the Canon is the obvious choice.
Speed: Both are competitive in speed Canon 28 ppm, Brother 32 ppm. Brother is slightly faster.
Duplex: Both offer auto duplex printing. Canon also has auto duplex scanning via its ADF Automatic Document Feeder, which Brother lacks entirely.
Cost Per Page: Both brands generally offer good CPP for their monochrome laser models. Canon’s cartridge system often a combined drum/toner can sometimes be slightly more expensive per page over time compared to Brother’s separate system, but it varies by model.
Verdict: If multifunctionality is a must-have, Canon is the winner. If you already have scanning/copying solutions or don’t need them and prioritize printing speed and lowest CPP, the Brother HL-L2460DW is more focused and efficient.

Vs. Dell E310dw

The Dell E310dw is another solid monochrome laser printer often found at competitive prices.

Speed: Brother 32 ppm is faster than Dell 27 ppm.
Duplex: Both offer automatic duplex printing.
Paper Capacity: Both typically have 250-sheet main trays.
Cost Per Page: Dell printers often have competitive toner costs, but Brother’s separate drum/toner can still give it a slight edge in long-term savings for very high volumes.
Verdict: Both are strong contenders. The Brother HL-L2460DW might pull ahead slightly on raw speed and potentially lower running costs for extremely high print volumes due to its consumable design. Dell often appeals to those already in the Dell ecosystem.

Vs. Lexmark B2236dw

Lexmark is known for robust, business-oriented printers, and the B2236dw is a mid-range monochrome laser.

Speed: Lexmark 36 ppm is faster than Brother 32 ppm. This could be a factor for very high-volume users.
Duplex: Both offer auto duplex printing.
Security: Lexmark often emphasizes advanced security features, which might be a selling point for businesses with strict data protection requirements.
Cost Per Page: Lexmark’s CPP can be competitive, especially with high-yield cartridges. The separate drum/toner approach on Brother might still offer a slight edge in ultra-low costs for very specific usage patterns.
Verdict: Lexmark is a strong performer, especially if pure speed and advanced security are top priorities. The HL-L2460DW remains a fantastic value proposition for its price point, offering a great balance of speed and economy.

Vs. Samsung Xpress M2835DW

Samsung’s printer division was acquired by HP, but these models are still found.

Speed: Brother 32 ppm is faster than Samsung 29 ppm.
Duplex: Both offer auto duplex.
NFC: The Samsung often featured NFC Tap & Print, which was a convenient feature for Android users.
Cost Per Page: Samsung’s toner costs can sometimes be higher than Brother’s, particularly for high-volume use.
Verdict: The Brother HL-L2460DW generally offers better speed and potentially lower running costs, making it a more compelling choice for most users compared to the older Samsung models.

Vs. Brother MFC-L2710DW Brother’s Own MFP

This is a direct comparison within Brother’s own lineup. The MFC-L2710DW is a monochrome laser MFP.

Functionality: MFC-L2710DW offers print, scan, copy, and fax, with an ADF. HL-L2460DW is print-only.
Speed: MFC-L2710DW 34 ppm is slightly faster than HL-L2460DW 32 ppm.
Cost: The MFC-L2710DW will naturally be more expensive initially due to its added features.
Consumables: Both use similar toner/drum systems, so the cost per page will be very comparable.
Verdict: If you need multifunction capabilities and an ADF, the MFC-L2710DW is the clear choice and a fantastic value. If you strictly need a printer and want to save on the initial purchase price, the HL-L2460DW is the way to go. It highlights that Brother offers excellent options at different price points based on your specific needs.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

In an age where environmental consciousness is growing, the choices we make, even for our home office equipment, can have an impact. Endless Ocean Luminous Review

Laser printers, and specifically models like the Brother HL-L2460DW, have several characteristics that contribute to a more sustainable printing practice compared to some alternatives.

Energy Efficiency

Laser printers generally consume more power during printing than inkjets, but they are often more energy-efficient in standby modes and over the long run for high-volume jobs.

Deep Sleep Mode: The HL-L2460DW like most modern laser printers features a “Deep Sleep” mode, significantly reducing power consumption when not in active use. This saves electricity and reduces your utility bill.
Energy Star Certified: Brother printers are often Energy Star certified, indicating they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy.
Faster Printing = Less Active Time: Because it prints quickly, the printer spends less time in its high-power active printing state, contributing to overall energy savings, especially for large print jobs.

Reduced Waste: Separate Toner and Drum

As discussed, Brother’s two-part consumable system is a major advantage for reducing waste.

Less Discarded Material: By replacing only the toner cartridge when it’s empty and keeping the drum unit for many more thousands of pages, you reduce the amount of plastic and electronic waste sent to landfills. This is a significant improvement over integrated cartridge systems where a perfectly good drum is thrown away with every empty toner cartridge.
Recycling Programs: Brother actively promotes recycling programs for its toner cartridges and drum units. Many retailers also offer drop-off points. Participating in these programs ensures components are properly recycled, further reducing environmental impact. Always look for local recycling options for electronics and printer consumables.

Paper Consumption Reduction Duplex Printing

Automatic duplex printing is perhaps the most direct way this printer contributes to sustainability.

Halving Paper Use: By making it easy to print on both sides of the page, the HL-L2460DW can effectively halve your paper consumption for many documents. This not only saves money but also reduces the demand for virgin paper production, conserving forest resources and energy used in manufacturing.
Default Duplex Option: Setting duplex printing as the default in your print settings can make sustainable printing an effortless habit.

Durable Build and Longevity

A product that lasts longer means less frequent replacement and thus less manufacturing and disposal waste.

Robust Design: Brother monochrome laser printers are known for their sturdy build quality, designed to withstand thousands of pages over their lifespan.
Lower Total Cost of Ownership: A printer that lasts longer translates to a lower total cost of ownership and less frequent need for new resources and manufacturing processes.

While no printer is entirely without environmental impact, the Brother HL-L2460DW’s design choices – particularly its energy efficiency, separate consumables, and automatic duplexing – make it a more environmentally responsible choice for consistent monochrome document printing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Brother HL-L2460DW good for home use?

Yes, the Brother HL-L2460DW is an excellent choice for home use, especially for those who print a lot of black-and-white documents like schoolwork, invoices, or personal papers.

Its compact size, wireless connectivity, and low cost per page make it very suitable for home offices.

Does the Brother HL-L2460DW print in color?

No, the Brother HL-L2460DW is a monochrome laser printer, which means it only prints in black and white. It cannot print in color.

Does the HL-L2460DW have a scanner?

No, the Brother HL-L2460DW is a dedicated printer only. It does not have scanning, copying, or faxing capabilities. If you need those functions, you’ll need a separate scanner or a multifunction printer MFP. Proscenic L60 Smart Lock Review

How fast is the Brother HL-L2460DW?

The Brother HL-L2460DW boasts print speeds of up to 32 pages per minute ppm, making it quite fast for a printer in its class.

Does the HL-L2460DW support automatic double-sided printing?

Yes, the Brother HL-L2460DW supports automatic duplex printing, meaning it can automatically print on both sides of the paper without you having to manually flip the sheets.

What kind of toner does the Brother HL-L2460DW use?

The Brother HL-L2460DW uses Brother TN8XX series toner cartridges e.g., TN830 standard yield, TN830XL high yield and a separate DR830 drum unit.

Is the toner expensive for the HL-L2460DW?

No, one of the major advantages of the HL-L2460DW is its low cost per page. Thanks to its separate toner and drum system and readily available high-yield cartridges, the running costs are very economical.

What is the difference between the toner and the drum unit?

The toner cartridge contains the black powder toner that forms the image. The drum unit is an imaging component that transfers the toner to the paper. You replace the toner cartridge more frequently than the drum unit.

Can I connect my phone to the Brother HL-L2460DW?

Yes, you can connect your phone to the Brother HL-L2460DW via Wi-Fi and print using apps like Brother iPrint&Scan, Apple AirPrint, or Mopria Print Service.

Does the Brother HL-L2460DW have Wi-Fi Direct?

Yes, the Brother HL-L2460DW supports Wi-Fi Direct, allowing you to connect directly to the printer from a mobile device without needing a router.

What are the connectivity options for the HL-L2460DW?

The HL-L2460DW offers versatile connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB 2.0.

Is the Brother HL-L2460DW easy to set up?

Yes, setting up the Brother HL-L2460DW is generally considered easy and straightforward, with clear instructions and intuitive software for driver installation and network configuration.

What is the paper capacity of the HL-L2460DW?

The Brother HL-L2460DW typically features a 250-sheet adjustable paper tray and a single-sheet manual feed slot. Hisense 75U9N Review

Can the HL-L2460DW print on envelopes?

Yes, the Brother HL-L2460DW can print on envelopes using its manual feed slot.

Can I print on card stock with the HL-L2460DW?

Yes, you can print on thicker media like card stock using the manual feed slot for optimal results. Always check the printer’s specifications for supported paper weights.

Is the Brother HL-L2460DW noisy when printing?

Laser printers are generally quieter than inkjet printers, and the HL-L2460DW operates at a reasonable noise level for a home or small office environment.

What is the print resolution of the HL-L2460DW?

The Brother HL-L2460DW offers a print resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dpi, ensuring crisp and sharp text.

How durable is the Brother HL-L2460DW?

Brother monochrome laser printers are known for their durability and reliability, designed to handle consistent, high-volume printing over a long period.

What operating systems are compatible with the HL-L2460DW?

The Brother HL-L2460DW is compatible with popular operating systems including Windows, macOS, and various Linux distributions.

Does the HL-L2460DW have a display screen?

Yes, it has a 2-line monochrome LCD display for status updates and basic menu navigation. It is not a touchscreen.

Can I save toner with the HL-L2460DW?

Yes, the Brother HL-L2460DW often includes a Toner Save mode in its printer settings, which reduces toner consumption for less critical documents.

How long does the drum unit last in the HL-L2460DW?

The drum unit in the Brother HL-L2460DW typically lasts for around 12,000 to 15,000 pages, significantly longer than the toner cartridge.

Is the HL-L2460DW good for students?

Yes, it’s excellent for students due to its low running costs, fast printing, and automatic duplexing, which are ideal for printing long papers and study materials. Lensbaby Sweet 22 Review

Can the HL-L2460DW be used in a small office?

Yes, its speed, network connectivity, high paper capacity, and low cost per page make it very suitable for small office environments with high black-and-white document printing needs.

What are the dimensions of the Brother HL-L2460DW?

The dimensions typically range around 14.2″ W x 13.8″ D x 7.2″ H, making it a relatively compact laser printer.

Does the HL-L2460DW come with a starter toner cartridge?

Yes, the Brother HL-L2460DW typically comes with a starter toner cartridge that has a lower page yield than standard replacement cartridges.

Can I print directly from a USB stick with the HL-L2460DW?

No, the HL-L2460DW typically does not have a USB host port for direct printing from flash drives. It has a USB-B port for connecting to a computer.

How does the HL-L2460DW compare to a multifunction printer MFP?

The HL-L2460DW is a dedicated printer, focusing solely on fast, high-quality monochrome printing.

An MFP like Brother’s MFC series combines printing with scanning, copying, and often faxing, but usually comes at a higher initial cost and may have a larger footprint.

Is the Brother HL-L2460DW Energy Star certified?

Yes, most Brother printers, including the HL-L2460DW, are typically Energy Star certified, meaning they meet energy efficiency guidelines.

What is the recommended monthly print volume for the HL-L2460DW?

The recommended monthly print volume for the Brother HL-L2460DW is typically up to 2,500 pages, with a maximum duty cycle often much higher.

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