In this comparison, let’s know the key differences in features, connectivity, performance, and value of Epson L3256 and Brother T520W so you can confidently choose the one that best fits your needs.
Epson L3256
- All-in-One Ink Tank
- Weight 3.9 kg
- No display available.
Brother T520W
- All-in-One Ink Tank
- Weight 6.4 kg
- Display available
Epson L3256 vs Brother T520W Specs Comparison
Feature | Epson L3256 | Brother T520W |
---|---|---|
Printer Type | All-in-One Ink Tank | All-in-One Ink Tank |
Functions | Print, Scan, Copy | Print, Scan, Copy |
Print Technology | Epson Micro Piezo Technology | Brother Piezo Technology |
Print Resolution | 5760 x 1440 dpi | 1200 x 6000 dpi |
Print Speed (Black) | 10 ipm | 17 ipm |
Print Speed (Color) | 5 ipm | 9.5 ipm |
Connectivity | USB, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct | USB, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct |
Mobile Printing Support | Yes (Smart Panel, iPrint) | Yes (Brother Mobile Connect) |
Ink Bottle Compatibility | Epson 003 | Brother BT Series (BT-D60BK, BT5000) |
LCD Display | No | Yes (1-Line LCD) |
Page Yield (Black/Color) | 4,500 / 7,500 pages | 7,500 / 5,000 pages |
Monthly Duty Cycle | Up to 3,000 pages | Up to 2,500 pages |
ADF | No | No |
Design/Color | White | Black |
Weight | 3.9 kg | 6.4 kg |
Ideal For | Home & light office use | Fast-paced home or office printing |
Check Latest Price | Epson L3256 | Brother T520W |
Epson L3256 vs Brother T520W Printer Comparison in Detail
1. Print Quality and Performance
Epson L3256: Offers a print resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, ideal for photos and color documents. Its speed is moderate—10 ipm (black) and 5 ipm (color).
Brother T520W: Delivers higher speeds—up to 17 ipm (black) and 9.5 ipm (color)—with solid resolution of 1200 x 6000 dpi, making it a better fit for bulk and fast printing needs.
Winner: If you need faster output, the Brother T520W is ahead. For slightly sharper photo output, Epson L3256 shines.
2. Connectivity & Mobile Printing
Both printers come with:
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi Direct
- USB
- Mobile printing apps (Epson Smart Panel vs Brother Mobile Connect)
Additionally, Brother T520W features a 1-line LCD display, offering better usability for Wi-Fi setup and status checking.
Winner: Brother T520W offers a slight edge due to its on-device LCD for easier operation.
3. Ink Efficiency and Cost per Page
Epson L3256: Uses Epson 003 ink bottles, yielding 4,500 pages (black) and 7,500 pages (color).
Brother T520W: Uses BT series ink bottles, yielding 7,500 pages (black) and 5,000 pages (color).
While Epson offers more color prints per refill, Brother provides better black page yield, perfect if you mostly print documents.
Winner: Choose based on your usage. For black text-heavy prints, go with T520W. For vibrant color printing, pick L3256.
4. Ease of Use and Setup
- Epson L3256: No screen, setup, and controls are handled through the Epson Smart Panel app.
- Brother T520W: Comes with a 1-line LCD, making it easier to set up and operate without relying solely on a mobile app.
Winner: Brother T520W wins for easier standalone usage thanks to its built-in display.
5. Design and Space
Epson L3256: Compact and lightweight (3.9 kg), fits easily on a home desk.
Brother T520W: Bulkier (6.4 kg), built for higher output, but takes more space.
Winner: For small home setups, Epson L3256 is more compact and portable.
Which Printer Should You Choose?
Go for Epson L3256 if:
- You want a compact wireless printer with high color page yield.
- You mostly print photos, projects, or documents with graphics.
- You prefer a minimalist design and rely on app-based printing.
Choose Brother T520W if:
- You need faster print speeds and higher black ink yield.
- You often print bulk documents, reports, or monochrome content.
- You want a small display screen for easier setup and operation.

Madhuri is a printer enthusiast with years of experience using and exploring all types of printers. She shares practical tips and honest insights to help you choose the right printer.