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Best Portable Printers for 2023 – Print Anywhere, Anytime

Best Portable Printers for 2023 On-the-Go Professionals and Travel Enthusiasts. Experience quality printing anywhere with these top-rated compact printers.

CR Staff
By Updated: 2024, Jan 30

Introduction to Best Portable Printers

Best Portable printers have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a convenient solution for those who need to print documents or photos while on the go. Whether you’re a business professional who frequently travels for work or a student who needs to print assignments on campus, a portable printer can be a game-changer. In this ultimate guide, we will explore the benefits of using portable printers, factors to consider when choosing one, and the top features to look for.

Best Portable Printers for 2023 – Print Anywhere, Anytime
Best Portable Printers for 2023

By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision and find the best portable printer to meet your on-the-go printing needs.

Benefits of Using Portable Printers

There are numerous benefits to using portable printers, making them a valuable tool for individuals and businesses alike. Firstly, their compact size and lightweight design make them easy to carry around, whether you’re traveling or moving between different locations.

This portability ensures that you can have access to a printer whenever and wherever you need it. Additionally, many portable printers offer wireless connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, allowing you to print directly from your mobile device or laptop without the need for cables or a dedicated internet connection.

Furthermore, portable printers are known for their versatility. They can handle a wide range of printing tasks, from documents and presentations to high-quality photos. This versatility is especially beneficial for professionals who need to print important documents or presentations on the spot.

Additionally, students can benefit from portable printers when they need to print assignments or study materials in a library or coffee shop. With a portable printer, you can maintain your productivity and eliminate the hassle of finding a nearby printing service or relying on the availability of public printers.

Lastly, portable printers are often energy-efficient, which is not only environmentally friendly but also helps you save on operating costs. Many models feature automatic power-off functions and energy-saving modes, ensuring that the printer is not wasting energy when not in use. This is particularly useful for professionals who use their portable printers sporadically or students who may only need to print occasionally.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Printers

Before investing in a portable printer, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you make the right choice. Firstly, you need to assess your specific printing needs. Are you primarily printing documents, photos, or a combination of both? This will help you determine the type of printer that best suits your requirements. For example, if you’re mainly printing photos, you may want to prioritize a portable printer with high-resolution capabilities and color accuracy.

Next, consider the connectivity options available. While most portable printers offer wireless connectivity, it’s important to check if they support the specific wireless technology you require. For instance, if you frequently work with Apple devices, you may want a printer that is compatible with AirPrint. On the other hand, if you rely on Android devices, finding a printer that supports Google Cloud Print would be beneficial. Additionally, some portable printers offer the option to print directly from a USB drive or memory card, which can be useful if you want a quick and straightforward printing process.

Another crucial factor to consider is the printing speed and quality. Look for a portable printer that offers high-speed printing without compromising on print quality. This is especially important if you often print large documents or high-resolution photos. Reading reviews and comparing specifications will give you a good idea of the speed and quality each printer offers.

Lastly, don’t forget to consider the overall cost of ownership. Look beyond the initial purchase price and consider the cost of ink cartridges or toner replacements. Some portable printers may have higher ongoing costs due to expensive ink or toner. It’s worth researching the cost of consumables and how frequently you’ll need to replace them to avoid any surprises down the line.

Top Features to Look for in a Best Portable Printers

When it comes to portable printers, certain features can enhance your printing experience and make your life easier. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the best portable printer for your needs:

1.Wireless Connectivity: Ensure that the printer supports wireless connectivity options such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct. This will allow you to print directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop without the need for cables or a dedicated internet connection.

2.Battery Life: Check the battery life of the portable printer to ensure it can last long enough to meet your printing needs. Look for models with extended battery life or the option to use external batteries for added convenience.

3.Print Resolution: Consider the print resolution offered by the portable printer. Higher resolution ensures sharper text and more vibrant colors, making it ideal for printing photos or detailed documents.

4.Paper Handling: Evaluate the paper handling capabilities of the printer. Look for features such as automatic document feeders, adjustable paper trays, or the ability to print on various paper sizes. This will allow you to print a wide range of documents without any hassle.

5.Mobile App Support: Check if the portable printer has a dedicated mobile app that provides additional functionality and convenience. Features such as scanning, document editing, or cloud printing can greatly enhance your printing experience. By considering these features, you can find a portable printer that meets your specific requirements and enhances your on-the-go printing experience.

Best Portable Printers for On-the-Go Printing – Bluetooth, Small, and Mini Options

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of portable printers and the factors to consider when choosing one, let’s explore some of the best portable printers available in the market today. These printers have been selected based on their performance, features, and overall customer satisfaction.

Quick Summary of Best Portable Printers

Image Product Description Price
1
Canon Pixma TR150 Wireless Portable Printer
Canon Pixma TR150 Wireless Portable Printer
This compact and portable printer is perfect for printing on the go. It’s easy to set up and use, and it prints high-quality documents and photos. The TR150 also has a built-in battery, so you can print even when you’re not near an outlet.
2
Best Portable Printers
HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer
This versatile printer is perfect for home and office use. It can print, scan, and copy, and it also has a built-in fax machine. The OfficeJet 250 is also wireless, so you can print from anywhere in your home or office.
3
Best Portable Printers
Brother PocketJet PJ883
This portable printer is perfect for printing documents and photos on the go. It’s small and lightweight, and it can print from a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The PocketJet PJ883 also has a built-in battery, so you can print even when you’re not near an outlet.
4
Best Portable Printers
Canon Selphy CP1500 Wireless Compact Photo Printer
This stylish photo printer is perfect for printing high-quality photos at home. It’s easy to use, and it can print from a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and cameras. The Selphy CP1500 also has a built-in battery, so you can print photos wherever you are.
5
Best Portable Printers
Kodak Step Instant Mobile Photo Printer
This fun and easy-to-use photo printer is perfect for printing instant photos on the go. It’s small and portable, and it can print from a variety of devices, including smartphones and tablets. The Kodak Step also has a built-in battery, so you can print photos wherever you are.
6
Best Portable Printers
Kodak Mini 3 Retro
This stylish and compact photo printer is perfect for printing instant photos at home. It’s easy to use, and it can print from a variety of devices, including smartphones and tablets. The Kodak Mini 3 Retro also has a built-in battery, so you can print photos wherever you are.
7
Best Portable Printers
Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300
This portable label printer is perfect for creating professional-looking labels on the go. It’s easy to use, and it can print a variety of label sizes and types. The LabelWorks LW-PX300 also has a built-in battery, so you can print labels wherever you are.

Best Portable Printers

Canon Pixma TR150 Wireless Portable Printer

Canon Pixma TR150

  • What We Like?

    The Canon Pixma TR150 is a highly regarded portable printer that offers exceptional performance and versatility. It supports wireless connectivity, including Bluetooth, allowing you to print directly from your mobile device or laptop. The printer produces high-quality prints with sharp text and vibrant colors, making it suitable for both documents and photos. Additionally, it has a long battery life, ensuring that you can print multiple documents on a single charge. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, making it an excellent choice for professionals and students alike.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Canon Pixma TR150 is that it does not offer automatic duplex printing. This means that if you need to print double-sided documents, you’ll have to manually flip the pages, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Additionally, the printer’s ink cartridges can be quite expensive to replace, so it’s important to factor in the ongoing cost of consumables.

Product Specification

Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Battery Life Long-lasting

Pros

  • Exceptional print quality
  • Wireless connectivity options

Cons

  • No automatic duplex printing
  • Expensive ink cartridges
9.0
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Canon Pixma TR150 is a top-notch portable printer with excellent wireless capabilities and print quality. Its compact design and long battery life make it a great choice for those who need to print on the go. However, the lack of automatic duplex printing and high ink cartridge costs are minor drawbacks to consider.


HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer

HP OfficeJet 250

  • What We Like?

    The HP OfficeJet 250 is a compact and feature-rich portable printer that offers excellent functionality. It supports wireless printing via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct, allowing you to print from your mobile devices or laptop without any hassle. The printer has a built-in scanner and copier, making it a versatile all-in-one solution for on-the-go printing needs. The print quality is impressive, with sharp text and vibrant colors. It also has a long battery life and offers fast printing speeds, ensuring you can complete your printing tasks efficiently.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One downside of the HP OfficeJet 250 is its relatively large size and weight compared to other portable printers. While it is still portable, it may not be as convenient to carry around on a regular basis. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the printer’s wireless connectivity, experiencing disconnections or difficulties in establishing a stable connection.

Product Specification

Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct
Functions Print, Scan, Copy

Pros

  • All-in-one functionality
  • Wireless printing and scanning

Cons

  • Relatively larger size and weight
  • Wireless connectivity issues reported
8.7
Our Score

Our Verdict

The HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One Printer offers a comprehensive solution for mobile printing, scanning, and copying needs. Its all-in-one functionality and wireless capabilities make it a versatile choice for professionals on the go. However, its slightly larger size and occasional wireless connectivity issues should be considered when making your decision.


Brother PocketJet PJ883

Brother PocketJet PJ883

  • What We Like?

    The Brother PocketJet PJ883 is a compact and lightweight portable printer that excels in terms of portability. It is one of the smallest portable printers available, making it easy to slip into a bag or briefcase. The printer uses thermal printing technology, eliminating the need for ink or toner cartridges. This not only saves on ongoing costs but also ensures that the printer is always ready to use. It supports wireless connectivity through Bluetooth, allowing you to print directly from your mobile devices. The print quality is excellent, with sharp text and graphics.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Brother PocketJet PJ883 is its limited printing options. It can only print in black and white, which may not be suitable for those who require color printing. Additionally, the thermal paper used by the printer can be more expensive than traditional printer paper, so it’s important to consider the ongoing cost of consumables.

Product Specification

Printing Options Black and White

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Thermal printing technology

Cons

  • Only black and white printing
  • Costlier thermal paper
8.5
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Brother PocketJet PJ883 offers exceptional portability and convenience with its compact design and thermal printing technology. However, its limited color printing capability and higher consumable costs should be taken into consideration based on your printing needs.


Canon Selphy CP1500 Wireless Compact Photo Printer

Canon Selphy CP1500

  • What We Like?

    The Canon Selphy CP1500 is a compact and user-friendly portable printer specifically designed for photo printing. It supports wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone or tablet. The printer produces high-quality prints with vibrant colors and sharp details, ensuring that your photos look their best. It also offers various printing options, including different sizes and layouts, giving you the flexibility to create personalized prints. The printer comes with a built-in battery, making it truly portable and perfect for printing memories on the go.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One limitation of the Canon Selphy CP1500 is its relatively slow printing speed. If you need to print a large number of photos in a short amount of time, this printer may not be the most efficient option. Additionally, the printer’s consumables, such as ink cartridges and photo paper, can be quite expensive, so it’s important to factor in the ongoing cost of printing photos.

Product Specification

Printing Options Photo Printing
Wireless Connectivity Wi-Fi

Pros

  • High-quality photo printing
  • Wireless connectivity for convenience

Cons

  • Relatively slow printing speed
  • Expensive consumables
8.8
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Canon Selphy CP1500 Wireless Compact Photo Printer is an excellent choice for those who want to print high-quality photos on the go. Its wireless connectivity and various printing options make it a versatile option for photo enthusiasts. However, its slower printing speed and cost of consumables should be considered when evaluating its suitability for your needs.


Kodak Step Instant Mobile Photo Printer

Kodak Step Instant

  • What We Like?

    The Kodak Step Instant Mobile Photo Printer is a small and lightweight portable printer that offers instant photo printing capabilities. It supports wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, allowing you to print directly from your smartphone. The printer uses ZINK Zero Ink technology, eliminating the need for ink cartridges or toner. This ensures that the printer is always ready to use and eliminates the ongoing cost of consumables. The prints produced by the Kodak Step are vibrant and have a peel-and-stick backing, making them perfect for creating instant memories or customizing your belongings.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Kodak Step Instant Mobile Photo Printer is its limited compatibility with mobile devices. While it supports Bluetooth connectivity, it may not be compatible with all smartphones or tablets. It’s important to check if your device is compatible before purchasing the printer.

Product Specification

Printing Technology ZINK Zero Ink
Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth

Pros

  • Instant photo printing
  • ZINK technology eliminates ink needs

Cons

  • Limited device compatibility
8.6
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Kodak Step Instant Mobile Photo Printer is an excellent choice for those who want to quickly print vibrant photos with a peel-and-stick backing. Its ZINK technology eliminates the need for ink, making it a hassle-free option. However, be sure to check device compatibility before purchasing to ensure a seamless printing experience.


Kodak Mini 3 Retro

Kodak Mini 3 Retro

  • What We Like?

    The Kodak Mini 3 Retro is a compact and stylish portable printer that offers nostalgic charm. It supports wireless printing via Bluetooth and produces high-quality photo prints with vibrant colors and sharp details. The printer uses ZINK Zero Ink technology, ensuring that you never have to worry about running out of ink. It also offers various printing options, including filters, frames, and stickers, allowing you to personalize your prints. The Kodak Mini 3 Retro is easy to use and perfect for capturing and sharing memories wherever you go.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One limitation of the Kodak Mini 3 Retro is its relatively small print size. If you’re looking to print larger photos or documents, this printer may not be the most suitable option. Additionally, the printer’s battery life may not be as long-lasting as some other portable printers, so it’s important to consider your printing needs and habits.

Product Specification

Printing Options Photo Printing
Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth

Pros

  • Stylish retro design
  • ZINK technology eliminates ink needs

Cons

  • Small print size
  • Battery life may be limited
8.4
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Kodak Mini 3 Retro is a charming and compact portable printer that adds a touch of nostalgia to your photo printing. Its retro design and ZINK technology make it a convenient option for quick and stylish prints. However, its smaller print size and potential battery limitations should be considered when deciding if it’s the right fit for your printing needs.


Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300

Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300

  • What We Like?

    The Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300 is a portable label printer that offers excellent functionality and versatility. It is specifically designed for creating labels and is perfect for professionals who need to print barcodes, shipping labels, or organizational stickers on the go. The printer supports wireless printing via Bluetooth and offers a wide range of label customization options, including various font styles, sizes, and symbols. The labels produced by the Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300 are durable and water-resistant, ensuring that they can withstand different environments and conditions.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300 is its limited printing capabilities. It is primarily designed for label printing and may not be suitable for those who require general document or photo printing. Additionally, the ongoing cost of label tapes should be considered, as they can be more expensive compared to traditional ink or toner cartridges.

Product Specification

Printing Options Label Printing
Wireless Connectivity Bluetooth

Pros

  • Specifically designed for label printing
  • Wide range of label customization options

Cons

  • Limited to label printing
  • Higher cost of label tapes
8.0
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300 is a reliable option for professionals who require label printing on the go. Its customization options and durable labels make it suitable for various labeling needs. However, its limited printing capabilities and higher cost of label tapes may be factors to consider based on your specific requirements.


Comparison Table

Feature Canon Pixma TR150 HP OfficeJet 250 Brother PocketJet PJ883
Price $69.99 $99.99 $541.70
Dimensions 12.2 x 4.1 x 7.5 inches 13.7 x 5.1 x 7.3 inches 10.4 x 8.1 x 3.1 inches
Weight 4.4 pounds 5.1 pounds 6.5 pounds
Print Speed Up to 10 ipm black, up to 8 ipm color Up to 10 ipm black, up to 7.5 ipm color Up to 10 ipm black, up to 7.5 ipm color
Resolution Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi Up to 4800 x 1200 dpi Up to 300 x 300 dpi
Paper Capacity 50 sheets 100 sheets 100 sheets
Battery Life Up to 80 minutes Up to 70 minutes Up to 30 minutes
Features Wireless printing, Bluetooth printing, PictBridge support Wireless printing, Wi-Fi Direct printing, Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print support Wireless printing, Bluetooth printing, USB printing
Additional Information Built-in battery, compact and portable design All-in-one printer with scanner, copier, and fax machine Thermal printer for printing documents and photos

Conclusion

In conclusion, portable printers are a convenient solution for individuals and businesses that require on-the-go printing capabilities. They offer numerous benefits, including portability, wireless connectivity, and versatility. When choosing a portable printer, consider factors such as your specific printing needs, connectivity options, printing speed and quality, and overall cost of ownership. By carefully evaluating these factors and considering the top features discussed in this guide, you can find the best portable printer to meet your on-the-go printing needs.

Whether you’re a business professional, student, or photography enthusiast, there is a portable printer out there for you. The Canon Pixma TR150, HP OfficeJet 250, Brother PocketJet PJ883, Canon Selphy CP1500, Kodak Step, Kodak Mini 3 Retro, and Epson LabelWorks LW-PX300 are all excellent options to consider. Each printer offers unique features and capabilities, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your specific requirements.

Investing in a portable printer will not only enhance your productivity but also provide you with the convenience and flexibility to print whenever and wherever you need. Say goodbye to the hassle of searching for a nearby printing service or relying on the availability of public printers. With a portable printer, you can take control of your printing needs and ensure that you’re always prepared, no matter where you are.

So, why wait? Take the first step towards finding the best portable printer for your on-the-go printing needs and experience the freedom and convenience it brings. Happy printing!