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Best Portable Photo Printers of 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: March 29th, 2024

Last Updated: August 29th, 2024

📸Portable photo printers are a fun and handy way to turn your digital pics into physical keepsakes that you can share and display. Whether you’re a pro photographer, a student, or just someone who loves snapping pictures on the fly, there’s a portable printer out there for you.

We dove deep into the options and found the best models available in 2024. Each of these picks has something unique to offer, no matter your preferences or budget.

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Overall Best: Canon Selphy CP1500

Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer, Portable Photo Printer, Instant Photo Printer, Mobile Friendly, AirPrint, Black

The Canon Selphy CP1500 is our top pick for 2024, combining superior print quality with impressive versatility. This portable printer delivers high-quality prints that are water-resistant and long-lasting, ensuring your memories remain vibrant over time. Connectivity is a breeze with options including USB, Wi-Fi, and memory card support, allowing you to print from almost any device. Lightweight and compact, the Canon Selphy CP1500 is perfect for those who need a portable solution without sacrificing print size, as it can produce standard 4 x 6-inch photos. Additionally, its optional battery pack means you can take it anywhere without worrying about power outlets.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$117.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Canon SELPHY CP1500 Photo Printer? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How easy is it to set up and use the Canon SELPHY CP1500?

Setting up and using the Canon SELPHY CP1500 turns out to be pretty simple. It doesn't use Bluetooth, but it does have great Wi-Fi connectivity. According to the manufacturer's description, you can print wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet using Apple AirPrint and Mopria for Android, which is pretty convenient. From what we've gathered, most people find getting the Wi-Fi going is a breeze, letting you ditch the cables and easily print from your devices. If you still prefer connecting directly, there's also an option to use USB, which can be useful for devices that don't support wireless. Another handy feature is its option for mobile use. While Wi-Fi is great at home or any place with a network, you can also add an [optional battery pack](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Doptional%2Bbattery%2Bpack%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for portability. Just keep in mind, you'll have to buy this battery pack separately, which can up the total cost a bit, but it's perfect if you need to print on the go. As for ease of use, our data shows folks like how straightforward the setup and use are. Transferring images only takes a few steps thanks to the simple instructions and design. This makes it a favorite for those who want to easily turn their digital photos into physical ones. Overall, the Canon SELPHY CP1500 is a solid choice with its strong Wi-Fi connectivity and easy setup. Even though it lacks Bluetooth, most find that Wi-Fi and USB connections cover their needs just fine. If you're after a reliable, high-quality photo printer that fits well with a wireless lifestyle, it’s worth considering.

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What is the print quality like on the Canon SELPHY CP1500?

The Canon SELPHY CP1500 Compact Photo Printer really does a solid job when it comes to print quality. It mainly prints 4 x 6-inch postcard-sized photos but can also do a few other sizes like L size (3.5 x 4.7 inches), card size (2.1 x 3.4 inches), and square labels (2.1 x 2.1 inches). So, it's pretty flexible if you're into scrapbooking or fun craft projects. The printer uses dye-sublimation technology, which is pretty much what allows it to produce such vibrant and high-quality photos. This also makes the prints smudge-proof and fade-resistant, which means they'll stay looking great for a long time. Our research shows that both everyday users and professionals have given it a thumbs-up for creating sharp and vividly colored prints that really resemble what you see on your screen. Most folks are quite happy with the print quality. Still, bear in mind the initial ink and paper you get with it won't last long – it's more for trying it out than serious use. So, if you're planning to print a lot, you'd want to grab extra cartridges that can handle 54 or 108 prints. As for using the printer, most people find it pretty straightforward, but there are a few hiccups here and there. Some have run into minor connectivity issues or glitches with the app, including some concerns about geolocation data. Still, the setup is generally easy, and it’s quite handy with Wi-Fi connectivity, plus you can directly print from USB or memory cards, which is cool if you're printing from your phone. In a nutshell, if you're after a compact photo printer with impressive print quality and options, the Canon SELPHY CP1500 could be a good choice. Just be ready to buy extra supplies to make the most out of it.

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What are the connectivity options for the Canon SELPHY CP1500?

The Canon SELPHY CP1500 gives you a few different ways to connect, which is handy. The standout feature, according to the manufacturer's product description, is its Wi-Fi capability. This lets you print from phones, tablets, and computers without needing to mess with cables. You can use [Canon's SELPHY app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcanon%27s%2Bselphy%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [Apple AirPrint](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dapple%2Bairprint%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), or [Mopria](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dmopria%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for this, which works great for both iOS and Android devices. Now, if you were hoping for Bluetooth, it's worth mentioning that the CP1500 doesn't have it. Some folks might find this a downside, especially if they rely on Bluetooth a lot. But, from our research, it seems the printer really leans on its Wi-Fi for wireless connections. The Wi-Fi setup isn't too difficult, though you might need a bit of patience initially. Reviews point out that once you get it up and running, the connection is pretty solid and reliable. If you're more of a plug-and-play person, there's also a USB connection option. This can be useful if your Wi-Fi isn't cooperating, or if you just prefer a wired connection for some reason. As a bonus, this printer is compact and portable, which is a hit among users. Whether you're printing on the go or tucking it into a small space at home, the size and Wi-Fi features get good marks. So, if Wi-Fi is your main concern and you're okay without Bluetooth, the SELPHY CP1500 could fit your needs. But if you can't live without Bluetooth, you might want to explore other options or rely on a USB connection instead.

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Runner-up: Canon Pixma TR150

Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer

For those seeking a high-quality alternative, the Canon Pixma TR150 is an outstanding runner-up. This portable inkjet printer excels in both photo and document printing, making it a versatile addition to your toolkit. With swift output speeds and impressive print quality, the TR150 is a reliable choice for on-the-go printing. It's lightweight and compact with a built-in 1.44-inch OLED display for intuitive control. The TR150 supports a range of wireless printing options, including the Canon Print App, Apple AirPrint, and Google Cloud Print, ensuring seamless connectivity wherever you are.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$186.95 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Kodak Step Instant Printer

KODAK Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer - Portable Mini Color Wireless Mobile Printer - Zink 2x3” Sticky-Back Photos - Bluetooth Compatible with iOS & Android Devices - Fun Editing App - Black Printer Black

If you're on a budget but still want to enjoy the convenience of portable printing, the Kodak Step Instant Printer is a fantastic choice. Utilizing Zink Zero Ink Technology, it produces 2 x 3-inch glossy prints with adhesive backs, perfect for stickers or scrapbooking. Weighing in at less than one pound, this printer is incredibly portable and easy to use—just connect via Bluetooth to your smartphone. While its print quality can't match higher-end models, it offers great value for casual use and spontaneous photo prints.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$69.99 at Amazon

Best for Large Prints: HP Sprocket Studio

HP Sprocket Portable Photo Printer (2nd Edition) - Instantly Print 2x3 Sticky-Backed Photos from Your Phone - [Luna Pearl] [1AS85A]

For those who love large prints, the HP Sprocket Studio is a top-notch choice. Designed to create vibrant 4 x 6-inch photos directly from your smartphone via Bluetooth, the Sprocket Studio combines ease of use with excellent print quality. It is slightly bulkier than some other portable options but compensates with its ability to produce larger prints that still maintain portability. Whether you're making personalized gifts or capturing moments at events, the HP Sprocket Studio covers all your large-format printing needs.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$79.00 at Amazon

Best for Fun Prints: Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2

Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Smartphone Printer - Clay White

Bringing fun and creativity to photo printing, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 offers a nostalgic and entertaining experience. This lightweight and easy-to-carry printer produces credit-card-sized prints using instant film, reminiscent of classic Polaroid pictures. The accompanying app provides a variety of fun features, including the option to print from videos, adding a unique twist to your photos. However, note that it doesn't support printing from PCs or Macs, which may be a drawback for some users. Perfect for parties and events, the Instax Mini Link 2 is your go-to for a playful take on portable printing.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$89.00 at Amazon

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