The Best Portable Photo Printers for 2024
The Best Portable Photo Printers for 2024
Print your memories on-the-go with the best portable photo printers out there. Compare and find your perfect match now!
The reviews of the products in this article are created by a team of experts that is independent from CTech's editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission.
Our Top Picks
Looking for a portable photo printer that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget? We've got you covered. Our team has researched and tested the most popular portable photo printers on the market to provide you with a helpful guide to the best products available. We analyzed the quality of the prints, size and portability of the printer, and connectivity options to ensure they meet your requirements. We also took customer reviews into consideration and provided expert insights and tips to help you make an informed decision. Check out our top-ranking products and choose the one that's right for you.
1 . KODAK Mini 2 Portable Photo Printer
There's good reason why this portable photo printer is at the top of our list. The 4PASS printing technology of this printer results in high-quality prints every time. It's also smartphone-compatible, so you can edit and print photos through your phone. The printer itself comes in a compact, retro design that can fit inside a pocket. Plus, it comes with 68 sheets of high-quality photo paper, so you can start printing right away.
Pros
High-quality printing, App control, Anti-fingerprint
Cons
Charging cable is short
2 . Canon Ivy 2 Portable Photo Printer
Unlike the Kodak Mini 2, this portable photo printer by Canon uses zink technology to produce good-quality prints. The printer produces sticky-back prints, allowing you to easily stick your photos anywhere you like. It also comes with its own app that you can use to edit or print your photos. Plus, the Canon printer has a unique feature known as tiling, which allows you to print pieces of a larger image that you can stick together once printed.
Pros
Zink technology, Android and iOS compatible, Image tiling
Cons
Canon paper is relatively pricey
3 . HP Sprocket Portable Photo Printer
This portable photo printer has a ton of digital features that make it the perfect companion for your other devices. For example, not only is the printer compatible with both iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth, but it can also print directly from your phone's gallery or your social media profiles. Additionally, the HP sprocket app not only lets you download pictures to print them, but you can directly take new pictures from within the app for instant printing.
Pros
iOS and Android compatible, Print directly from social media, Take pictures with sprocket app
Cons
Some app functions aren't intuitive
4 . KODAK Step Mobile Portable Photo Printer
For just under $64, the Kodak Step offers a bunch of features that make it a no-brainer purchase. It comes with an easy-to-use app that you can use to customize your photos with filters, borders, and more. The portable photo printer is compatible with both iOS and Android devices via NFC and Bluetooth for hassle-free printing. Plus, the prints are smudge-proof, water-resistant, and have a sticky back for easy display.
Pros
Affordable, Wireless connectivity, Compact and portable
Cons
Print quality could be better
5 . HP Sprocket Studio Plus Portable Photo Printer
While this photo printer may not be as portable as the others on our list, we love the quality of pictures it produces. The printer uses dye sublimation technology to produce high-quality, crisp images. The prints are also water- and smudge-proof. It also comes with a feature-packed mobile app that you can use to edit photos. Additionally, you can print photos directly from either your phone's local storage or your social media.
Pros
Dye-sub technology, Water- and smudge-proof prints, WiFi compatibility
Cons
Relatively pricey
6 . Canon SELPHY QX10 Portable Photo Printer
While not exactly pocket-sized, this portable photo printer is nevertheless a top-of-the-line photo printer that allows you to print your favorite photos directly from your iPhone or Android device. Similar to the HP Sprocket Studio Plus, this printer also uses dye-sub technology to print vibrant colors and sharp details. We also love that it features a built-in battery, eliminating the need for a power source and increasing its portability.
Pros
Built-in battery, Dye-sub technology, Wireless connectivity
Cons
Paper refills are difficult to find
7 . Liene Portable Photo Printer
Weighing just under half a pound, this portable photo printer is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry around for travel or attending events. Another attractive feature of this printer is its Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, which allows you to easily print photos directly from your iOS or Android device. There is no need for messy wires or complicated setups. Simply connect your smartphone to the printer via Bluetooth, select your favorite photo, and watch as the Liene printer brings it to life in vibrant color or classic black and white. Plus, with the included 50 Zink adhesive paper, you'll have plenty of paper to print and share your memories.
Pros
Highly portable, Bluetooth 5 connectivity, Comes with 50 papers
Cons
App may be buggy
FAQ
Q: What is a portable photo printer?
A: A portable photo printer is a compact device that allows you to print photos directly from your smartphone or camera on the go. It is small enough to travel with and can be used anywhere.
Q: How do portable photo printers work?
A: Portable photo printers generally utilize either dye-sublimation or ZINK (Zero Ink) technology. Dye-sublimation printers use heat to transfer dye onto paper, producing high-quality prints. ZINK printers, on the other hand, use special paper embedded with color crystals that activate and colorize when heated, eliminating the need for ink cartridges.
Q: What are the benefits of a portable photo printer?
A: With a portable photo printer, you can instantly print high-quality photos without having to visit a store or use a computer. It is convenient, easy to use, and allows you to share memories with others in a tangible way. Additionally, it is a great way to create personalized gifts or keepsakes.
Q: What should I look for when buying a portable photo printer?
A: When buying a portable photo printer, consider factors such as print quality, connectivity options, and compatibility with your devices. Look for a printer that is easy to use and produces vibrant and long-lasting prints. It's also important to check for any additional features, such as editing tools.
Q: Do portable photo printers need WiFi?
A: No, portable photo printers do not necessarily need WiFi to operate. Many models offer alternative connectivity options such as Bluetooth, which allows them to pair directly with a smartphone or tablet. Some also feature USB ports or memory card slots for printing photos directly from other devices without the need for a wireless connection.
Article Contributors
Jessica Schoeman
From dance floors to mountain trails, Jessica finds inspiration in life's adventures. When not whipping up culinary delights, she's tending to her garden, sewing fashion-forward creations, or exploring the great outdoors with her pets.
These product recommendations are designed to help you pick the best product for your needs.
First published: 22:21, 03.01.24
