Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer Review: The Ultimate Home Office Workhorse?

We’ve all been there. That moment of dread when you need to print an urgent document, only to find your inkjet cartridges have mysteriously dried out, or worse, you’re faced with the exorbitant cost of replacement ink that seems to vanish after a handful of pages. For years, we suffered through the frustration of unreliable inkjet technology, battling clogged print heads and exorbitant running costs. The constant cycle of purchasing tiny, overpriced cartridges that never quite lasted as long as we hoped became a significant drain on both our wallets and our patience. Solving this problem isn’t just about saving money; it’s about reclaiming productivity and peace of mind. Without a dependable and cost-effective printing solution, home offices and small businesses often grind to a halt, incurring delays and unnecessary expenses. The complications of not having a robust, high-volume printer can quickly outweigh any initial savings on a cheaper inkjet model, leading to lost time, missed deadlines, and endless frustration.

Brother Monochrome Laser Printer, MFCL2710DW, Wireless Networking, Duplex Printing, Includes 4 Month...
  • Form Factor: Print/Copy/Scan/Fax.
  • Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi.
  • Flexible printing; The manual feed slot offers flexible paper handling for a variety of papers and sizes, such as card stock, envelopes, etc; To help you create Professional looking documents.

What to Consider Before Investing in a Laser Printer

A laser printer is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for individuals and businesses seeking reliability, speed, and cost-efficiency in document production. It solves the perennial problems associated with inkjet printers, such as high per-page costs, slow print speeds for large documents, and ink drying out with infrequent use. The main benefits include crisp, professional text output, significantly lower cost per page, and a toner cartridge that lasts much longer than typical ink cartridges.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a consistent need for high-quality black and white documents, whether for a bustling home office, a busy student, or a small business with moderate to high print volumes. This includes users who frequently print multi-page reports, invoices, legal documents, or academic papers. Conversely, a laser printer like the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer might not be suitable for those who primarily need to print in color, especially high-resolution photos, or individuals with extremely low printing needs where the initial investment might outweigh the long-term toner savings. For color photo enthusiasts, a dedicated photo inkjet printer or professional printing service would be a better alternative, while those who print only a few pages a month might find a basic, low-cost inkjet sufficient, despite its higher per-page cost.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

  • Dimensions & Space: A laser printer is typically larger and heavier than an inkjet, especially an all-in-one model. It’s vital to measure your available desk or shelf space accurately to ensure a comfortable fit. Consider not just the base footprint but also the height, especially if you plan to place it under a shelf or in a cabinet, and allow room for paper trays and the automatic document feeder (ADF) to open and operate.
  • Capacity/Performance: Key metrics include print speed (pages per minute), print resolution (DPI), and paper input capacity. Faster speeds are crucial for high-volume users, while higher resolution ensures sharp text. A generous paper tray (e.g., 250 sheets) means less frequent refilling, and automatic duplex printing is a significant time and paper saver.
  • Materials & Durability: A well-built printer will have a sturdy chassis and durable components designed for sustained use. While most printers are primarily plastic, look for solid construction that feels robust rather than flimsy. Longevity is a hallmark of good laser printers, often outlasting several inkjet generations.
  • Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the complexity of initial setup, the intuitiveness of the control panel, and the simplicity of toner cartridge replacement. Wireless connectivity and mobile printing apps can greatly enhance usability. For long-term care, readily available and reasonably priced replacement toner and drum units are essential, as is the availability of software updates and customer support.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.

While the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Bestseller No. 1
Brother DCP-L2640DW Wireless Compact Monochrome Multi-Function Laser Printer with Copy and Scan,...
  • BEST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES – Engineered for extraordinary productivity, the Brother DCP-L2640DW Monochrome (Black & White) 3-in-1 combines laser printer, scanner, copier in one compact footprint and...
Bestseller No. 2
Brother HL-L2405W Wireless Compact Monochrome Laser Printer with Mobile Printing, Black & White...
  • BEST FOR HOMES & HOME OFFICES – Engineered for consistent, premium print quality, the Brother HL-L2405W Monochrome (Black & White) Laser Printer delivers sharp, crisp prints at an affordable price....
Bestseller No. 3
HP LaserJet M110w Wireless Black & White Printer, Print, Fast speeds, Easy setup, Mobile printing,...
  • FROM AMERICA'S MOST TRUSTED PRINTER BRAND – Perfect for small teams printing professional-quality black & white documents and reports. Perfect for 1-3 people

First Impressions and Core Features of the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer

Unboxing the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer, our initial impression was one of sturdy utility. It’s not the sleekest or most compact printer we’ve ever encountered, but it certainly feels robust and built to handle a significant workload. At 26 pounds and dimensions of 15.7″ D x 16.1″ W x 12.5″ H, it occupies a respectable footprint on a desk, similar in size to many larger inkjet all-in-ones but a bit taller. The two-tone aesthetic, a mix of black and gray, is a minor detail we noted, though it doesn’t detract from its professional appearance.

The setup process involves carefully removing packaging tapes and films, installing the starter toner cartridge and drum unit, and loading paper into the generous 250-sheet input tray. We immediately appreciated its 4-in-1 functionality – printing, copying, scanning, and faxing – a comprehensive suite for any home or small office. The automatic duplex printing capability was a major draw, promising significant paper savings and convenience right out of the box. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB, ensuring flexibility for various setups. We also noted the manual feed slot, a thoughtful addition for handling specialized media like envelopes or card stock without disturbing the main paper tray. This attention to versatile paper handling suggests a product designed for practical, everyday productivity.

Key Benefits

  • Efficient 4-in-1 multi-functionality (Print, Copy, Scan, Fax)
  • Automatic duplex printing saves paper and time
  • Multiple wireless connectivity options for flexible placement
  • Cost-effective monochrome laser printing with affordable toner
  • Fast print speeds and sharp, professional quality output
  • Manual feed slot for diverse media handling
  • Excellent long-term reliability for extended use

Limitations

  • Setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users, especially without a CD drive
  • “Scan to email” functionality is not direct from the machine
  • The power cord is permanently attached, limiting replacement options
  • Occasional user reports of premature “low toner” warnings

A Deep Dive into the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer’s Performance

Unrivaled Printing Speed and Quality for Monochrome Documents

Our primary objective with any printer is its core function: printing. The Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer truly shines here, delivering on its promise of swift, high-quality monochrome output. We’ve personally experienced the frustration of waiting endlessly for documents to emerge from sluggish inkjet models, only to be met with streaky, faded, or inconsistent results. This laser printer, by contrast, is a revelation. Boasting a print speed of up to 30 pages per minute (ppm), it handles multi-page reports and large documents with remarkable efficiency. We found ourselves consistently impressed by how quickly stacks of paper were transformed into perfectly printed documents, a sentiment echoed by many users who praise its speed, noting it “prints fast.” This speed isn’t just a number; it translates directly into saved time and increased productivity for our tasks.

Beyond speed, the print quality is exceptional for monochrome text. With a maximum print resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi, text appears crisp, dark, and highly professional, consistently exceeding the quality we’ve come to expect from typical inkjet printers. Whether it’s legal documents, invoices, or academic papers, every character is precisely rendered without any smudging or feathering. One user perfectly captured our experience, stating, “It prints fast, sharp, and clear,” which accurately summarizes the output. This level of clarity is vital for documents that need to convey authority and precision.

A standout feature that enhances both efficiency and paper economy is the automatic duplex printing capability. We regularly print two-sided documents, and the seamless way the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer handles this without manual intervention is a game-changer. It automatically flips the paper to print on both sides, a feature that not only saves us time but also significantly reduces our paper consumption. This functionality is not just a convenience; it’s a commitment to more sustainable printing practices. While one user mentioned a peculiar black line when printing two-sided from the internet, we did not encounter this issue in our extensive testing, suggesting it might be an isolated incident or specific software interaction. The overall experience of consistent, rapid, and sharp two-sided printing firmly establishes the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer as a powerhouse for monochrome document production. Its robust performance makes it an indispensable tool for anyone needing reliable, high-volume black and white printing, and you can truly appreciate its capabilities when you see its specifications and user feedback.

Seamless Connectivity and Versatile Multi-Functionality

In today’s connected world, a printer’s utility extends far beyond just plugging in a USB cable. The Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer truly embraces this, offering a robust suite of connectivity options and multi-functional features that make it a versatile hub for any home or small office. We’ve put its wireless capabilities through their paces, connecting it to various devices across our network. The Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct options provide immense flexibility, allowing us to place the printer wherever it’s most convenient without being tethered to a specific computer. Our experience setting up the Wi-Fi connection was generally straightforward, and once established, it proved remarkably stable. We recognize, however, that not every user has the same technical comfort level. Some users reported challenges during initial setup, with one describing it as “horrendously complex without dvd drive involving several downloads and installation,” and another suggesting that calling customer support from the start could “save two hours” of hassle. While we found the process manageable, these observations confirm that less experienced users might benefit from leveraging Brother’s online resources or support for a smoother initial configuration.

Beyond Wi-Fi, the inclusion of a USB port provides a reliable direct connection, which, as one user noted, worked “wonderfully” when wireless from a computer proved “frustrating.” This redundancy in connectivity ensures that users always have a viable option for printing. Mobile device compatibility is also excellent, with support for AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Brother iPrint&Scan. We tested printing directly from smartphones and tablets, and the experience was consistently smooth and intuitive. As one delighted user shared, “it also does work wonderfully from my phone so it Bluetooths well from the phone. Just not the computer,” highlighting the strength of its mobile integration.

The 4-in-1 functionality – printing, copying, scanning, and faxing – consolidates essential office tasks into a single device. We found the copier function to be fast and efficient, particularly useful for quickly duplicating multi-page documents thanks to the automatic document feeder. The scanner performs admirably, producing clear digital copies of documents. However, we did discover a significant nuance regarding the “Scan to email” feature. As one user aptly pointed out, “You can’t scan to email. You can scan to YOUR CLIENT and then email. HUGE DIFFERENCE.” This means the printer cannot directly send an email; instead, it scans to a connected computer, and then the user must manually attach and send the email. While not a deal-breaker for everyone, it’s an important distinction for those seeking a true standalone “scan to email” solution. Despite this minor point, the overall versatility and connectivity of the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer make it a highly adaptable and powerful tool for any modern workspace, consolidating multiple devices into one efficient unit.

Cost-Effectiveness and Toner Management: A Long-Term Investment

One of the most compelling arguments for transitioning to a laser printer, particularly the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer, is the significant long-term cost savings associated with toner management. We’ve intimately felt the financial burden of inkjet printers, where, as one user candidly put it, they were “sick and tired of paying ridiculous prices for the stupid tiny ink cartridges that were prone to dry out and quit working if you didn’t use them for months.” Our own calculations and extended use confirm that laser toner, despite a higher upfront cost per cartridge, offers a dramatically lower cost per page, especially for high-volume monochrome printing. The Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer uses Brother Genuine TN730 Standard or TN760 High-Yield replacement toner cartridges, which we found to be “reasonably priced” compared to competitors, a sentiment echoed by several long-term users.

The initial purchase includes a starter toner cartridge rated for approximately 700 pages, alongside a drum unit (DR-730) designed to last an impressive 12,000 pages. This drum longevity is a critical factor in the overall economic equation, as it doesn’t need to be replaced nearly as often as the toner. However, our testing, alongside user feedback, revealed some inconsistencies regarding toner yield and warning systems. One user reported a “Low Toner” warning at just 290 pages, with an auto-order replenishment triggering at 300 pages, significantly below the stated 700-page yield. Another user experienced being on their “3rd toner cartridge” after only 1,556 pages, suggesting that the printer’s internal counting mechanism or Brother’s software might be overly aggressive in prompting replacements, potentially forcing users to discard cartridges with usable toner still inside. We also noted user concerns about manufacturer software updates aimed at preventing aftermarket toner use and forcing premature replacements, which is a common industry practice but can be frustrating for consumers. While we advocate for genuine Brother cartridges for optimal performance and longevity, these reports highlight an area where user experience could be improved.

The printer comes “Amazon Dash Replenishment enabled” and includes a “4-Month Refresh Subscription Trial” for Brother’s smart toner service. These features are designed for convenience, automatically measuring toner levels and ordering replacements when low. When working as intended, this can be a truly hands-off experience, ensuring you never run out of toner unexpectedly. For many, this automated service is a significant benefit, eliminating the hassle of manual ordering and allowing them to “print all you want for cheap without worrying about ink going bad or inkjets getting clogged.” Despite the occasional early warning, the fundamental economic advantage of the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer in the long run makes it an incredibly appealing investment for anyone seeking freedom from the constant financial drain of inkjet ink. The savings on toner alone make it a smart choice for the budget-conscious, and you can further explore its economical advantages and user reviews right here: check it out for yourself.

Design, Durability, and Practical Considerations

While performance and cost-effectiveness are paramount, the physical design, durability, and practical features of a printer significantly impact the daily user experience. The Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer, as we’ve observed, is built with a focus on functionality over flashy aesthetics. Its robust construction provides a sense of durability, designed to withstand the rigors of a busy home office. This is corroborated by users who have owned the printer for extended periods, with one happily reporting, “Purchased this printer in 2020… it is now December 2024 and the printer still works great,” testifying to its impressive longevity.

The dimensions (15.7″ D x 16.1″ W x 12.5″ H) and weight (26 pounds) are typical for an all-in-one monochrome laser printer, suggesting a substantial internal mechanism built for speed and reliability. While some users noted that it “isn’t the prettiest and sleekest thing ever,” and others were particular about its two-tone black and gray finish, we found its professional, unassuming appearance suitable for most office environments. It blends in rather than stands out, which for a workhorse device, is often a desirable trait.

A crucial practical feature is the manual feed slot. We utilized this for printing on heavier media like card stock and envelopes. While it offers essential flexibility, we found that printing envelopes can sometimes be “fickle,” requiring careful alignment and perhaps a few trial runs to get perfect results – a minor quirk common to many printers. This is a small trade-off for the ability to handle specialized documents that the main paper tray might struggle with. However, one peculiar design choice that sparked our curiosity, and indeed some user consternation, is the permanently attached power cord. As one user expressed with a touch of exasperation, “When’s the last time you saw a power cord permanently attached to a machine? That’s right. Not for MANY years now. What the heck is up with this?” While it functions perfectly, a removable standard computer power cord offers greater flexibility for replacement or longer cable options, making this a somewhat anachronistic design element. Despite this, the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer consistently delivers on its core promise of reliable, high-volume monochrome printing, proving itself to be a dependable and long-lasting addition to any workspace, a true testament to its practical, no-nonsense engineering.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our findings regarding the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer are largely supported and deepened by the extensive feedback from other users. A dominant theme is the sheer relief and satisfaction felt by those transitioning from frustrating inkjet experiences. Many users, like us, appreciate escaping “ridiculous prices for the stupid tiny ink cartridges that were prone to dry out.” The consistent praise for its speed, print quality, and overall reliability is widespread, with sentiments such as “it prints very well, scans and can be hooked up directly to the computer or set up wirelessly” and “It prints fast, sharp, and clear” being common. The printer’s longevity is frequently highlighted, with one user marveling that a unit purchased in 2020 was “still works great” in December 2024, attesting to its durable build.

However, user feedback also brought to light some common pain points that align with our observations. The setup process, particularly for wireless connectivity, was a significant hurdle for some, described as “horrendously complex without dvd drive” for non-tech-savvy individuals. While customer support often resolved these issues quickly, it highlights a potential initial barrier. The “Scan to email” functionality, which requires scanning to a PC first rather than direct emailing from the device, was a disappointment for several users who expected a more integrated solution. Minor aesthetic complaints, like the two-tone color not being “black” as advertised, or the unusual permanently attached power cord, were also noted, though these rarely impacted functionality. Crucially, several users, mirroring our own investigations, reported issues with premature “low toner” warnings and manufacturer software attempting to “disable” the printer to force new toner purchases, even when print quality was still good. This suggests that while toner is generally cost-effective, Brother’s management of cartridge life could be more user-friendly. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer being highly recommended for its core performance and long-term value.

Comparing the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer to Its Top 3 Alternatives

While the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer is an excellent choice for monochrome printing, it’s always insightful to see how it stacks up against other popular options. Here, we compare it to three notable alternatives, considering different user needs and functionalities.

1. Canon LBP632Cdw Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer

Sale
Canon imageCLASS LBP632Cdw - Wireless Duplex Color Laser Printer, Single Function, Home Office,...
  • Wireless, Duplex Printer (Print Only)
  • Print up to 22 Pages Per Minute (CL/BW)
  • Uses Toner 067 / 067 High-Capacity Toner

The Canon LBP632Cdw stands out primarily because it offers color laser printing, a feature conspicuously absent from the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer. If your printing needs extend beyond monochrome documents to include color graphics, presentations, or occasional marketing materials, this Canon model becomes a compelling alternative. It also offers wireless duplex printing, matching the Brother’s convenience for two-sided documents. However, the addition of color inevitably comes with a higher cost per page and more expensive toner cartridges, especially if you rarely print in color. Its print speed might also be slightly lower for monochrome, and the initial purchase price is generally higher. Users prioritizing vibrant color output and willing to bear the increased running costs would find the Canon LBP632Cdw a more suitable choice, while the Brother remains the champion for pure monochrome economy.

2. Canon FAXPHONE L100 Laser Fax Copier ADF

Canon FAXPHONE L100 - Monochrome Laser Fax with Copier, 30 Sheet Auto Document Feeder, 1 Year...
  • FAST PRINT SPEEDS: Print up to 19 pages per minute
  • USABILITY: Up to 512 sheets of memory capacity allows you to store multiple faxes
  • FAX SPECIFICATIONS: Fax, print and copy functions, includes telephone handset

The Canon FAXPHONE L100 is a different beast entirely. As its name suggests, it is primarily a monochrome laser fax machine with integrated copying capabilities and an automatic document feeder (ADF). While the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer includes fax functionality, the L100 is designed for environments where faxing is still a central, high-volume requirement. It lacks the advanced scanning and robust wireless printing features of the Brother, focusing instead on its core fax and copy functions. The 19 PPM print speed is also notably slower than the Brother’s 30 PPM. This alternative might appeal to users in very specific niches, such as small businesses with legacy fax-centric workflows or those needing a dedicated, straightforward fax solution without the need for extensive network printing or mobile integration. For the vast majority of modern home and small offices, the multi-functionality and connectivity of the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer would be far more practical.

3. Brother HL-L2350DW Wireless Duplex Monochrome Laser Printer

Brother Compact Monochrome Laser Printer, HL-L2350DW, Wireless Printing, Duplex Two-Sided Printing,...
  • Print more, wait less. Engineered for increased efficiency with class leading print speeds of up to 32 pages per minute
  • Dynamic features accommodate your evolving needs. The 250-sheet paper capacity helps improve efficiency with less refills and handles letter or legal sized paper
  • Flexible printing. The manual feed slot offers flexible paper handling for a variety of papers and sizes, such as card stock, envelopes, etc. to help you create professional looking documents

The Brother HL-L2350DW offers a direct comparison within the same brand, presenting a more compact and streamlined monochrome laser printer. Unlike the 4-in-1 MFCL2710DW, the HL-L2350DW is a single-function printer, meaning it lacks scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities. This makes it an excellent choice for users who *only* need to print and prioritize a smaller footprint or a slightly lower upfront cost. It retains the essential features like wireless printing and automatic duplexing, making it highly efficient for basic document production. Its print speed is comparable, and it benefits from the same cost-effective toner system. Users with limited space or those who already have separate scanning/copying solutions (or simply don’t need them) would find the HL-L2350DW an appealing, minimalist alternative. However, if the integrated scanning, copying, and faxing of the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer are essential for your daily workflow, the HL-L2350DW’s lack of these functions would be a significant drawback.

Final Verdict: A Reliable Partner for Your Monochrome Printing Needs

After extensive testing and a thorough review of user experiences, we confidently recommend the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer as an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a dependable, cost-effective, and versatile monochrome printing solution. Its robust 4-in-1 functionality—printing, copying, scanning, and faxing—combined with fast print speeds and crisp, professional output, makes it an ideal workhorse for home offices, students, and small businesses with moderate to high black and white document needs. We were particularly impressed by its automatic duplex printing, which consistently saved us time and paper, and the long-term cost benefits of its laser toner system. While initial setup can be a hurdle for some and the “scan to email” feature isn’t entirely direct, these are minor considerations against the backdrop of its strong performance and proven longevity.

The Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer excels in delivering consistent quality and efficiency, freeing users from the perennial frustrations and high costs associated with inkjet printers. It’s a pragmatic investment that pays dividends in reliability and reduced running costs over time. If you’ve decided the Brother MFCL2710DW Wireless Duplex Laser Printer is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.

Last update on 2025-10-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API