Top 10 Photo Printers
Photo Printer Epson Expression Photo XP-970
Ranked as the top photo printer in our list, the Epson Expression Photo XP-970 delivers exceptional photo quality that rivals professional prints. It features a six-color Claria Photo HD ink system, which ensures vibrant and accurate colors. This makes it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts who demand the best in photo printing.
One of the standout features of the XP-970 is its versatility. It can handle a wide range of media types and sizes, including borderless prints up to 11x17 inches. Additionally, the printer offers convenient wireless printing options, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet.
Despite its high-quality output, the XP-970 is reasonably priced at $259.99, and currently offers a 21% savings. This makes it a cost-effective option for those who want professional-grade prints without breaking the bank.
Compared to other printers on our list, the XP-970 stands out for its superior photo quality and versatile media handling capabilities. However, it is slightly larger and heavier than some of the more compact models, which may be a consideration for those with limited space.
Pros
Exceptional photo quality with six-color Claria Photo HD ink system Versatile media handling, including borderless prints up to 11x17 inches Convenient wireless printing options
Cons
Slightly larger and heavier than some compact models
Tip #1
Consider the cost of ink and paper when choosing a printer.
Photo Printer Liene 4x6''
Ranked at number 2, the Photo Printer Liene 4x6'' offers a great balance of performance and price. Priced at $149.99, it comes with a substantial 25% savings, making it an affordable choice for high-quality photo printing.
The Liene 4x6'' stands out for its exceptional print quality. It uses dye-sublimation technology, which ensures vibrant and long-lasting prints. The colors are rich, and the details are sharp, making it ideal for preserving your precious memories.
Another notable feature is its user-friendly design. The printer is compact and easy to set up, with a straightforward interface that even beginners can navigate. It also supports wireless printing, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet, which adds to its convenience.
However, the printer does have some limitations. While it excels in photo quality, it is not the fastest printer on the market. If you need to print large volumes quickly, you might find it a bit slow. Additionally, the cost of replacement cartridges can add up over time, which is something to consider if you plan on using it frequently.
Compared to other products on the list, such as the Epson Expression Premium XP-7100, which offers a higher discount but at a lower ranking, the Liene 4x6'' provides a more balanced option for those who prioritize print quality and ease of use over speed and cartridge costs.
Pros
Exceptional print quality User-friendly design Supports wireless printing
Cons
Not the fastest printer High cost of replacement cartridges
Tip #2
Look for printers with wireless connectivity for easy printing from multiple devices.
Photo Printer Epson Expression Premium XP-7100
The Epson Expression Premium XP-7100 stands out in the photo printer market with its versatile functionality and impressive print quality. Priced at $149.99, it offers a substantial 38% savings, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking high-quality photo prints without breaking the bank.
One of the key features of the XP-7100 is its ability to produce vibrant and detailed prints, thanks to its five-color Claria ink system. This printer is particularly well-suited for photo enthusiasts who demand sharp and vivid images. Additionally, the XP-7100 is equipped with a 4.3-inch touchscreen, which simplifies navigation and makes it easy to access various functions and settings.
Another notable feature is its versatility. The XP-7100 not only handles photo printing with ease but also excels at printing documents, making it a great all-in-one solution for home offices. It supports automatic two-sided printing, which can save both time and paper.
However, compared to other photo printers, the XP-7100 is relatively bulky, which might be a drawback for users with limited space. Additionally, while the print quality is excellent, the cost of replacement ink cartridges can add up over time, potentially making it a more expensive option in the long run.
When compared to the Epson Expression Photo XP-970 and the Canon Selphy CP1300, the XP-7100 offers a balanced mix of photo and document printing capabilities, making it a versatile choice. The XP-970 may offer slightly better photo quality, while the Selphy CP1300 is more compact and portable.
Pros
High-quality photo prints Versatile functionality for photo and document printing
Cons
Bulky design High cost of replacement ink cartridges
Tip #3
Check the print resolution to ensure high-quality photos.
Photo Printer Epson PictureMate PM-400
Ranked at number 4, the Epson PictureMate PM-400 is a compact and lightweight photo printer that offers portability and ease of use. Priced at $249.06, it sits in the mid-to-high range of the market, but the 8% savings offer makes it a bit more attractive.
One of the standout features of the Epson PictureMate PM-400 is its ability to print high-quality photos quickly. It supports borderless photo printing up to 5 x 7 inches, making it ideal for creating photo albums or scrapbooks. Additionally, the printer supports wireless printing, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet without the need for a computer.
However, the printer does have some downsides. The ink cartridges are relatively small and can be expensive to replace, especially if you print frequently. Also, while the printer is great for photos, it doesn't perform as well when printing documents, so it may not be the best choice if you need a multi-purpose printer.
Compared to other products in the same price range, the Epson PictureMate PM-400 offers superior photo quality but falls short in versatility. For instance, the Epson Expression Premium XP-7100, ranked at number 3, offers better overall functionality, including document printing and a higher savings percentage of 38%.
Pros
High-quality photo prints Compact and portable design
Cons
Expensive ink cartridges Limited functionality for document printing
Tip #4
Consider the size and portability if you need to print on the go.
Photo Printer Canon Selphy CP1300
Ranked at number 5, the Canon Selphy CP1300 photo printer offers a blend of portability and quality, making it an ideal choice for casual photographers and families. With a price tag of $139.99, it sits comfortably in the mid-range category, offering a good balance between cost and functionality.
The Canon Selphy CP1300 is renowned for its compact design, which allows it to be easily transported and used in various settings. Additionally, it supports both wireless and USB connectivity, providing flexibility for different user preferences. The printer is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, making it convenient for smartphone photographers.
Despite its small size, the Canon Selphy CP1300 delivers impressive print quality, producing vibrant and detailed photos. The dye-sublimation technology ensures that prints are not only vivid but also durable, with a protective layer that resists water and smudging.
However, the printer does have its limitations. The print speed is relatively slow compared to some other models, and the cost per print can be higher due to the specific ink and paper required. Additionally, the printer's small size means it is limited to printing smaller photo sizes, which might not be suitable for all users.
Compared to other products in the same price range, the Canon Selphy CP1300 stands out for its portability and ease of use. However, if print speed and cost per print are significant concerns, other models like the Epson Expression Premium XP-6100 might be more suitable.
Pros
Compact and portable design Supports wireless and USB connectivity Produces durable, water-resistant prints
Cons
Slow print speed Higher cost per print Limited to smaller photo sizes
Tip #5
Read reviews to see what other users say about the printer's performance.
Photo Printer KODAK Mini 2 ERA 4PASS
The KODAK Mini 2 ERA 4PASS photo printer secures the 6th spot in our ranking, offering a blend of portability and quality. Priced at $129.99, it is a mid-range option that does not compromise on features. This compact device uses 4PASS technology, which ensures each photo is printed with precision and vibrant colors. The printer is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, making it versatile for users with different smartphones.
One of the standout features of this printer is its ease of use. Setting up the printer is straightforward, and the companion app is user-friendly, allowing even novices to print photos without a hitch. Additionally, the printer's portability makes it an excellent choice for those who want to print on the go, whether at social gatherings or during travels.
However, the KODAK Mini 2 ERA 4PASS does have some drawbacks. The cost per print is relatively high compared to other models in the same price range. Furthermore, while the print quality is good, it may not meet the standards of professional photographers who require ultra-high resolution prints.
In comparison to other printers on our list, such as the Epson Expression Premium XP-6100, which offers a higher savings percentage at 47%, the KODAK Mini 2 ERA 4PASS falls short in terms of cost efficiency. However, it surpasses the Canon Selphy CP1300 in terms of portability and ease of use.
Pros
Easy to use Highly portable
Cons
High cost per print Not suitable for professional-grade prints
Photo Printer Epson Expression Premium XP-6100
The Epson Expression Premium XP-6100 ranks 7th in our list of top photo printers, and it comes with a very attractive price tag of $99.99, which is the lowest among the top 10. This compact and stylish printer offers a range of features that make it a solid choice for those looking to print high-quality photos at home.
One of the standout features of the XP-6100 is its versatility. It not only prints photos but also handles documents, making it a great all-in-one solution for home use. The print quality is impressive, with vibrant colors and sharp details, thanks to its five-color Claria Premium ink system.
However, the XP-6100 does have some drawbacks. While it offers a variety of functions, its print speed is slower compared to other models in our list. Additionally, the printer's build quality feels a bit less robust, which may affect its durability in the long run.
In terms of connectivity, the XP-6100 supports Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and USB, giving users multiple options for printing from different devices. The printer also features a 2.4-inch color LCD screen, which makes navigation and setup relatively straightforward.
When compared to other printers on our list, the Epson Expression Premium XP-6100 stands out for its affordability and versatility, but it falls short in terms of speed and build quality.
Pros
Affordable price Versatile functionality
Cons
Slower print speed Less robust build quality
Photo Printer KODAK Dock Plus 4Pass
The KODAK Dock Plus 4Pass is ranked 8th among the top 10 photo printers. Priced at $143.99, this printer offers a decent value for money, especially with its 10% savings. The printer stands out with its 4Pass technology, which ensures high-quality prints by layering colors sequentially. This results in vibrant and detailed photos that are resistant to water and fingerprints.
One of the notable features of the KODAK Dock Plus 4Pass is its compatibility with both iOS and Android devices, making it versatile for different users. Additionally, the printer supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for wireless printing without the need for a Wi-Fi network. This can be particularly useful for on-the-go printing needs.
However, the printer does have some drawbacks. The print speed is relatively slow compared to other models in the same price range. Users may find it inconvenient if they need to print a large number of photos quickly. Furthermore, the cost of replacement cartridges is higher than average, which can add up over time.
In comparison to the Epson Expression Premium XP-6100, which is ranked higher and priced lower at $99.99 with a 47% savings, the KODAK Dock Plus 4Pass falls short in terms of both speed and cost-efficiency. Nevertheless, its 4Pass technology and wireless printing capabilities make it a solid choice for those prioritizing print quality and convenience.
Pros
High-quality prints with 4Pass technology Compatible with both iOS and Android devices Supports Bluetooth connectivity for wireless printing
Cons
Relatively slow print speed High cost of replacement cartridges
Photo Printer Kodak Dock & Wi-Fi
Ranked at number 9, the Photo Printer Kodak Dock & Wi-Fi offers a blend of convenience and functionality. Priced at $114.00, it is one of the more affordable options on the market, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious users.
The printer stands out with its ability to print directly from your smartphone via a simple docking mechanism. This feature is particularly useful for users who prefer to print photos without the hassle of transferring files to a computer. Additionally, the device supports both Android and iOS, ensuring broad compatibility.
However, the Kodak Dock & Wi-Fi is not without its drawbacks. The print quality, while decent, does not quite match up to higher-end models like the Epson Expression Premium XP-7100. Users may notice a difference in color accuracy and sharpness, especially when printing larger photos.
Another limitation is the speed of printing. The Kodak Dock & Wi-Fi is slower compared to other models in its price range. This could be a concern for users who need to print multiple photos in a short amount of time.
In comparison to other printers in this list, the Kodak Dock & Wi-Fi offers a unique blend of affordability and ease of use but falls short in terms of print quality and speed.
Pros
Affordable price Easy smartphone docking mechanism
Cons
Lower print quality compared to higher-end models Slower printing speed
Photo Printer BluebirdSales Selphy CP1500
The Photo Printer BluebirdSales Selphy CP1500 ranks 10th on our list, offering a blend of functionality and portability. Priced at $199.99, it sits in the mid-range category, making it a viable option for casual users who don’t require professional-grade prints.
One of the standout features of this model is its wireless connectivity, which allows you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet. This convenience is further enhanced by its compact design, making it easy to transport and store. The printer supports various paper sizes, providing flexibility for different printing needs.
However, when compared to other models on our list, the print quality of the BluebirdSales Selphy CP1500 falls short. The colors are not as vibrant, and the resolution is lower, which might be a deal-breaker for users looking for high-quality photo prints. Additionally, the printing speed is slower than some of its competitors, which can be frustrating if you need to print multiple photos in a short amount of time.
In summary, while the BluebirdSales Selphy CP1500 offers decent features and portability, it lags behind in print quality and speed. If you prioritize these aspects, you might want to consider other models like the Epson Expression Premium XP-6100, which offers better print quality and faster speeds at a lower price point.
Pros
Wireless connectivity Compact design
Cons
Lower print quality Slower printing speed
What is the best type of Photo Printer to buy?
When choosing the best type of photo printer to buy, consider the following options:
- Inkjet Printers: Ideal for high-quality photo prints with vibrant colors. Best for home use and small businesses.
- Dye-Sublimation Printers: Excellent for professional photo printing. They produce smooth gradients and are perfect for event photography.
- Laser Printers: Not typically recommended for photo printing due to lower color accuracy but are suitable for high-volume document printing.
- Portable Photo Printers: Great for on-the-go printing. These compact devices offer convenience and decent print quality for instant photos.
- All-in-One Printers: Versatile devices that can print, scan, and copy. While not specialized for photos, they provide good quality for general use.
Consider the following features when selecting a photo printer:
- Print Resolution: Look for a printer with a high DPI (dots per inch) for sharp and detailed photos.
- Color Accuracy: Ensure the printer can produce accurate and vibrant colors.
- Print Speed: Consider the speed of the printer if you need to produce multiple prints quickly.
- Connectivity Options: Check for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other connectivity options for ease of use.
- Cost of Consumables: Take into account the cost of ink or toner and photo paper.
How to find the right Photo Printer?
When selecting a photo printer, it's essential to focus on specific features and specifications that will meet your needs:
- Print Quality: Look for printers with high DPI (dots per inch) for better resolution and detail.
- Ink Type: Consider whether the printer uses dye-based or pigment-based inks. Dye-based inks are typically more vibrant, while pigment-based inks are more durable.
- Paper Compatibility: Ensure the printer supports various paper sizes and types, including glossy, matte, and fine art papers.
- Color Accuracy: Check for printers with advanced color management settings or those that support ICC profiles for precise color reproduction.
- Connectivity Options: Look for printers with multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for greater flexibility.
- Print Speed: If you need to print large volumes, consider the printer's pages per minute (PPM) rate.
- Cost of Consumables: Evaluate the cost of replacement ink cartridges and paper to ensure it fits within your budget.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands that are known for reliability and customer support.