Consumers Adviser
Product Image Buy on Amazon

★★★★☆

Brother TD-4520DN: Desktop Thermal Label Printer

Category: Small Business

Key Features:

  • Brand: Brother

  • Connectivity Technology: USB

  • Printing Technology: Thermal

  • Special Feature: Display Screen

  • Color: Grey

  • Model Name: TD4520DN

  • Printer Output: Monochrome

  • Maximum Print Speed (Color): 6

  • Max Printspeed Monochrome: 6

  • Item Weight: 1 Pounds

Overview & First Impressions

The Brother TD4520DN is a compact and lightweight thermal printer designed primarily for monochrome printing. Its small size makes it ideal for home offices or smaller workspaces where space is at a premium. The inclusion of a display screen adds a level of user-friendliness, allowing you to easily navigate menus and settings.

Setup & Ease of Use

Setting up the TD4520DN is relatively straightforward. Connecting it via USB is simple, and the on-screen instructions are clear and concise. The display screen makes navigating the printer's menu system easy, even for users unfamiliar with Brother printers.

Print Quality & Performance

The TD4520DN delivers sharp and clear monochrome prints at a speed of up to 6 inches per second. It excels at printing barcodes, shipping labels, tags, and other text-heavy documents. While it lacks color printing capabilities, its focus on monochrome performance makes it suitable for specific use cases.

Ink/Toner Efficiency & Cost

As a thermal printer, the TD4520DN doesn't rely on traditional ink cartridges or toner. Instead, it uses heat to transfer images onto paper. This eliminates the ongoing cost of replacing consumables, making it potentially more economical in the long run.

Features & Functionality

The TD4520DN is primarily designed for printing labels and barcodes. Its key features include a display screen, USB connectivity, and a high print speed. While it lacks advanced features like duplex printing or wireless connectivity, its functionality meets the needs of users seeking a dedicated label printer.

Noise & Power Consumption

Thermal printers are generally known for being quieter than inkjet or laser printers. The TD4520DN operates at a relatively low noise level, making it suitable for use in office environments or homes where noise is a concern. Its power consumption is also modest.

Durability & Maintenance

The TD4520DN's compact size and lightweight construction suggest that it may not be as durable as larger printers. However, its thermal printing technology typically requires minimal maintenance.

Pros & Cons

Pros:
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • High print speed (up to 6 inches per second)
  • Sharp and clear monochrome prints
  • Thermal printing technology eliminates ink/toner costs
  • Easy to set up and use
Cons:
  • Only offers monochrome printing
  • Lacks advanced features like duplex printing or wireless connectivity
  • May not be as durable as larger printers

Pricing & Value for Money

The Brother TD4520DN is priced competitively in the market for dedicated label and barcode printers. Considering its features, performance, and cost-effectiveness, it offers good value for money.

Final Verdict & Recommendation

The Brother TD4520DN is a solid choice for users who need a reliable and efficient monochrome printer specifically for labels and barcodes. Its compact size, high print speed, and thermal printing technology make it a practical option for home offices or small businesses.

Buy on Amazon