Brother MFC-T920DW InkBenefit vs Epson EcoTank ET-2861
Detailed Technical Comparison & Buying Guide
Brother MFC-T920DW InkBenefit
VS
Epson EcoTank ET-2861 Brother MFC-T920DW InkBenefit
✅ Extremely fast first page out for an inkjet.
❌ Takes up significant desk space when trays are open.
Epson EcoTank ET-2861
✅ Ultra-low printing costs, includes up to 3 years of ink in the box.
❌ Higher upfront cost and lacks an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF).
| Feature | Brother MFC-T920DW InkBenefit | Epson EcoTank ET-2861 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | Inkjet Tank System | PrecisionCore Heat-Free |
| Colour Output | Color | Color |
| Print Resolution | 1200 x 6000 dpi | 5760 x 1440 dpi |
| Black Print Speed (PPM) | 17 ipm | 10.0 ppm |
| Colour Print Speed (PPM) | 16.5 ipm | 5.0 ppm |
| First Page Out Time | 6 sec | 10 sec |
| Auto Double-Sided | Automatic | Manual |
| Input Paper Capacity | 150 Sheets (Front), 80 (Rear) | 100 Sheets |
| Output Tray Capacity | 50 Sheets | 30 Sheets |
| Supported Paper Sizes | A4, LTR, LGL, EXE, A5 | A4, A5, A6, B5, C6, DL |
| Paper Weight Support | 64 to 220 g/m² | 64 to 300 g/m² |
| Scanner Type | Flatbed, ADF | CIS Flatbed |
| Scan Resolution | 1200 x 2400 dpi | 1200 x 2400 dpi |
| Auto Document Feeder | 20 Sheets | None |
| Copy Speed | 13 ipm (Black) | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Wireless 802.11b/g/n | Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Ethernet Support | Yes (Ethernet) | No |
| USB Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0 | High-speed 2.0 |
| Mobile Printing Support | Brother Mobile Connect | Epson Smart Panel, Apple AirPrint |
| Display Panel | 4.5 cm Colour LCD | 3.7 cm Colour LCD |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | 2,500 pages | 3,000 pages |
| Ink/Cartridge System | BTD60BK / BT5000 Bottles | Epson 104 Ink Bottles |
| Borderless Printing | Yes | Yes (up to 10x15cm) |
| Width | 435 mm | 375 mm |
| Depth | 439 mm | 347 mm |
| Height | 195 mm | 179 mm |
| Machine Weight | 9.7 kg | 3.9 kg |
| Energy Efficiency | Energy Star | 12 Watts (Standalone copying) |
| Noise Level (dB) | 50 dB(A) | 5.1 B(A) |
| Processor Speed | 576 MHz | N/A |
| Internal Memory | 128 MB | N/A |
| Cloud Print Support | Brother Cloud Apps | Epson Connect |
| Security Features | WPA2-PSK | WEP, WPA-PSK |
| Compatible OS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS |
| Included in Box | Full Bottle Set (2x Black) | Full Ink Set, Power Cable |
| Warranty Period | 1 Year | 1 Year (Up to 3 Years on Promo) |
| Recommended Use | High Volume Professional | Home Office, High Volume Printing |
⚖️ Expert Verdict
The Epson ET-2861 is a refined version of their core EcoTank line, but it still lacks the office-centric features that make the Brother MFC-T920DW stand out. The Brother’s standout feature is its 80-sheet multi-purpose tray, which is a godsend for anyone who needs to print on heavy cardstock or envelopes without emptying the main tray. The T920DW also features a much faster print engine and a more robust scanner with an ADF. While the Epson app experience is arguably more modern, the Brother T920DW wins on pure hardware capability and office throughput, making it the better choice for a busy home business.
What Owners Are Saying?
Brother MFC-T920DW InkBenefit
TechHead ★★★★★
Epson EcoTank ET-2861
Oliver ★★★★★
Sarah P. ★★★★☆
More Comparisons
Brother MFC-T920DW InkBenefit
vs
Epson EcoTank ET-2810Epson EcoTank ET-2850Canon PIXMA G3560 MegaTankHP Smart Tank 5105Epson EcoTank ET-4850