Pages per minute (ppm): This describes how quickly the printer can print. For print work, a lower number (such as 200 dpi) is fine for readable text, but for images or photos, a higher number (such as 2,400 dpi) is recommended. When you’re comparing Brother printers, pay close attention to these key stats.ĭots per inch (dpi): This is a measurement of the resolution of an image or text that a printer can produce. Most printer manufacturers provide pages of statistics about each model, but when it comes down to it, there are three specifications that matter the most. If you need a printer for daily use or don’t need a color printer, Brother has multiple laser models that are surprisingly affordable. Color laser printers are especially expensive, and so is the toner, so some laser printers have high ongoing costs. Laser printers are pricier but typically print faster and with less risk of print imperfections. If you do a lot of printing in color, or you don’t have a lot of money to spend, an ink printer is still a solid choice. Ink printers leave pages wet, which can lead to smearing before the ink dries, but they tend to produce better color and image quality. Ink printers are more affordable than laser printers, and replacement ink is less expensive upfront than laser toner, though the cost per page is more in many models. The first decision to make when buying a Brother printer is whether you want one that prints with ink or one that prints with toner. Read our shopping guide for our take on Brother printers – the features you should look for, the specifications that matter, and the “gotchas” to avoid – and you’ll be all set to find the model that’s perfect for you. Brother has made a niche for itself in the printer market with affordability and ease of use, so if you need a printer that can produce high-quality output without breaking the bank, Brother printers are the best place to start. Although the company got its start making sewing machines, electronics manufacturer Brother has become one of the biggest names in printers, competing with long-established brands like HP, Epson, and Canon.