Lexmark MB3442i vs Brother MFC-L2880DW: Why This $300 Business Printer Is the Smarter Buy
In the Australian and New Zealand market, Brother and HP dominate consumer printer awareness — while Lexmark is often overlooked. That’s a mistake.
The Lexmark MB3442i is not an entry-level printer. It’s a mid-range business-class mono laser MFP originally priced near $695 RRP. Today, it’s available from around $303.60 — sometimes even less with limited-time promotions.
In this review, we compare it directly with the popular Brother MFC-L2880DW and explain why, on hardware, warranty, and long-term running cost, the Lexmark MB3442i is the stronger choice for serious users.
What the Lexmark MB3442i Really Is (And Why That Matters)
The MB3442i sits in Lexmark’s business MFP lineup, designed for offices that print regularly, scan multi-page documents, and expect reliability.
- 34 pages per minute mono printing
- Automatic duplex printing
- ADF with single-pass duplex scanning
- Network & wireless connectivity
- Compact A4 footprint
Unlike many consumer-focused printers, the MB3442i is built around business-grade hardware and firmware. That distinction becomes very clear in day-to-day use.
Head-to-Head: Lexmark MB3442i vs Brother MFC-L2880DW
| Feature | Lexmark MB3442i | Brother MFC-L2880DW |
|---|---|---|
| Print speed | 34ppm | 32ppm |
| Duplex printing | Yes | Yes |
| Duplex scanning | Single-pass duplex | Single-side per pass |
| Target segment | Business / SMB | Home / SOHO |
| Warranty | 12-month onsite exchange | 12-month return-to-base |
The most important difference here is single-pass duplex scanning. If you scan contracts, statements, medical forms or multi-page documents, the Lexmark completes the job in one pass — faster and with less mechanical wear.
Running Cost Comparison: Lexmark vs Brother
Printer pricing is only half the story. Toner cost per page is where real ownership cost shows up.
| Model | Toner | Yield | Price | Cost / 1,000 pages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lexmark | Extra High Yield | 6,000 | $156.88 | ~$26 |
| Brother | Extra High Yield | 5,000 | $187 | ~$37 |
Over time, the Lexmark MB3442i delivers lower cost per page, especially for medium-to-heavy print users.
Warranty Reality: Onsite vs Return-to-Base
Warranty terms are often ignored — until something goes wrong.
The Lexmark MB3442i includes a 12-month onsite exchange warranty. That means no boxing, no courier bookings, no downtime chasing support.
The Brother MFC-L2880DW requires return-to-base service, which often means shipping the unit away and waiting.
For offices, medical practices, and professional users, onsite warranty support is a meaningful advantage.
Who Should Choose the Lexmark MB3442i?
- Small offices and growing businesses
- Accountants, legal, medical and admin teams
- Users who scan double-sided documents regularly
- Anyone wanting business-class hardware at consumer pricing
- Buyers who value lower long-term running cost
Final Verdict
The Lexmark MB3442i is one of the most under-appreciated printers on the ANZ market — not because it lacks capability, but because it’s priced far below what its hardware class suggests.
When compared objectively against the Brother MFC-L2880DW, Lexmark wins on hardware capability, duplex scanning, warranty, and running cost.
Exclusive at OzToner.au — Limited Stock Available
We currently hold exclusive stock of the Lexmark MB3442i in Australia, with approximately hundreds stock available.
View Lexmark MB3442i*Pricing and promotions may change. Please check product page for current offers.
