Brother HL-L5200DW Wireless Laser Printer Review Reliable Monochrome Performance for Office Use

Description

Outstanding Print Speed and Quality

From the moment I tested the Brother HL-L5200DW Wireless Monochrome Single-Function Laser Printer, its impressive speed stood out. Capable of printing up to 42 pages per minute, this device delivers results incredibly fast, making it a solid choice for offices or workgroups with heavy printing needs. The 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution ensures that each document is crisp and professional-looking. Whether printing detailed business reports or plain text documents, I found the quality to be consistent and reliable. The first page pops out in under 7.2 seconds, which is a major time-saver when working on tight deadlines.

Versatile Paper Handling Options

One of the key benefits of this product is its versatile paper handling. The 250-sheet capacity paper tray handles both letter and legal-sized documents seamlessly, while the 50-sheet multi-purpose tray is perfect for envelopes and other specialty media. I personally tested it with a variety of paper types, including recycled paper and labels, and was impressed by how smoothly it handled different weights and textures. For high-volume users, the option to expand the capacity to 1,340 sheets with additional trays is a game-changer. This flexibility makes it suitable for businesses with diverse printing requirements.

• Supports a variety of paper types and sizes
• Expandable paper capacity for fewer refills
• Handles 16 to 53 lbs. media weights efficiently

Connectivity Made Easy

Setting up this printer was a breeze, thanks to its Wireless 802.11b/g/n, Ethernet, and Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interfaces. I tested its mobile device compatibility using AirPrint, Google Cloud Print 2.0, and the Brother iPrint&Scan app, and each method worked flawlessly. The addition of Wi-Fi Direct means you can print directly from your smartphone or tablet without needing a router. This feature proved incredibly useful when coworkers needed to send files quickly during a meeting. The connectivity options are robust and cater to both tech-savvy users and those who prefer a straightforward USB connection.

Advanced Security Features

Security is often overlooked in printers, but it’s a major plus point here. The printer includes Secure Function Lock, Enterprise Security (802.1x), and SSL/TLS encryption, which I found particularly reassuring when printing sensitive documents. The Secure Print feature was easy to activate, ensuring that only authorized individuals could collect confidential prints. Businesses handling sensitive data, like client contracts or financial reports, will appreciate these advanced measures.

• Protects documents with secure print options
• Enterprise-level encryption for enhanced security
• Locks device to prevent unauthorized access

Pluses

• High-speed printing up to 42 ppm ensures quick results.
• Expandable paper trays reduce interruptions.
• Advanced mobile compatibility for flexible printing.
• Energy-efficient duplex printing saves on paper costs.
• Durable build quality handles frequent use with ease.

Pitfalls

That being said, there are a few areas for improvement. While the monochrome functionality is great for text-heavy documents, the lack of color printing does limit its versatility. Additionally, the 1-line LCD display feels outdated and can be frustrating when navigating through settings. A larger or touchscreen display would have made the interface much more user-friendly. I also noticed that the high-yield replacement toner cartridges, while cost-efficient in the long run, are initially quite expensive, which could deter budget-conscious buyers.

• Limited to black-and-white printing
• Outdated 1-line LCD display
• Replacement toner cartridges can be pricey

Competing Products

When compared to the HP LaserJet Pro M404dn, the Brother HL-L5200DW stands out with its wireless connectivity options and higher paper capacity expansion. On the other hand, the HP model offers a more user-friendly interface with its larger LCD screen. Similarly, the Canon imageCLASS LBP6230dw provides comparable print speed and quality but lacks the robust security features and paper handling versatility of the Brother printer. If you prioritize secure printing and high-volume capabilities, the Brother product is the superior option.

Affordable Quality

In terms of cost-efficiency, this printer delivers excellent value for its features. The inclusion of auto duplex printing saves paper costs over time, and the energy-efficient design keeps electricity consumption low. While the upfront cost for additional paper trays and high-yield toner may seem steep, I found the long-term savings to be significant. For small businesses or home offices looking to invest in a reliable, high-capacity printer, this model offers true value without compromising on performance.

Additional information