The Good
When comparing the MFC-L3720CDW to similar multifunction color laser printers from Canon or HP, this Brother model stands out for its user-friendly features and affordability. You can acquire it from Amazon for $399.99. Brother printers are well known for their lower total cost of ownership, thanks to competitively priced toner cartridges and a reputation for long-term reliability. The MFC-L3720CDW also boasts an intuitive touchscreen interface that simplifies everyday tasks, making it easier to set up and manage compared to more complex systems from competitors. While Canon and HP also produce high-quality color laser printers, many users prefer Brother for its balance of performance and cost efficiency.
The Less Good
While the MFC-L3720CDW is generally well-regarded for its performance and value, there are some less desirable features worth noting. The printer’s noise level is one of those features, especially during warm-up and printing. At around 47 decibels (dB), it can be disruptive in quieter office settings. Additionally, while laser printers like this one are known for their cost-effectiveness over time, you may find that the price of replacement toner cartridges is high (around $260 to replace all four cartridges with genuine Brother Toner (TN2294PK), which can be a financial burden up front, despite the lower cost per page. The last potential area of concern is the 250-sheet limit to the paper tray; you may find yourself refilling it more often than you would like, especially in busier small offices or legal practices.
Reliability, Clarity, and Professional Output
Overall, for solo or small law firms, the Brother MFC-L3720CDW is a superior option over inkjet printers due to its higher page yields, faster printing speeds, and lower operating costs. Inkjet printers, while effective for photo printing or low-volume tasks, are less suited to the heavy, text-based document demands of legal practice. A laser printer such as the MFC-L3720CDW offers the reliability, clarity, and professional output that law firms need to maintain a polished and efficient operation.