HP Sprocket Select
Portable Printer- Overall Rating
- Easy to set up and use
Works with thermal heat
Tap to print prints photos
Modern design
Weights only 6.35 ounces
Polaroid Zip
Portable Printer- Overall Rating
- Cool and modern design
Prints very quality photos
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies
Polaroid mobile app included
Very Lightweight & value for money
Epson WorkForce WF-110
Portable Printer- Overall Rating
- Weighs only 4.6 pounds
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connect
Low energy consumption
Compatible with Android & iOS
LCD display screen is included
Introduction
Ever thought about taking your work on the go? We’re not just talking your laptop but an entire office setup that can take off and trot anywhere you roam? Well, those days of dreaming are over thanks to the new wave of portable products. On the rise is a portable printer, one that is lightweight and will give you beautifully printed documents and pictures in just a matter of minutes. Sound too good to be true? Well, if you don’t believe it, follow along as we introduce you to our top 10 picks.
We went out on a search for the best portable printers, selecting for all the important stuff like battery life, portability, and extra features. What we narrowed down to are the best in the market today. Below you’ll find a breakdown from our first to last picks plus, an in-depth look at each one. We highlight the features of each one, helping you to better choices. Then, we’ll share some things you should consider before stepping in store, guiding you to make the perfect purchase for you. We do have an ultimate favorite but, you’ll have to wait till the end to find it!
Overview Comparison table of Top 10 Picks for Best Portable Printer
So, here you have it. A list of our top 10 picks of portable printers for 2020. You can check out the most important features of each plus their ranking given by reviews on Amazon.
Sl No Portable Printer Image Features Ratings Product URL
1. Polaroid Zip 
• Zero connections needed with Wi-Fi and print
• Free App to create perfect prints
• Prints high quality photos in less than 1 minute
2. HP Sprocket Select 
• HP Sproket app includes frames and filters for unique photos
• Tag to Print for easy prinintg right from social media
• One-year limited warranty from HP
3. Epson WorkForce WF-110 
• Built in rechargeable battery
• Creates 4X6 inch prints
• Lightweight and compact
4. HP DeskJet 1112 Compact Printer 
• USB connection directly to computer
• Energy Star certified
• Create beautiful colored prints
5. HP Tango X printer 
• Modern design that looks sharp with any décor
• Professional quality prints
• Easy to setup and use, prining and scanning with the help of dual-band Wi-Fi
6. Canon Pixma iP110 
• Easy printing using Wi-Fi or cloud services
• PhotoPrint+ included to edit and print photos
• 9600 X 2400 color DPI
7. HP Office Jet 250 All-in-One Wireless Portable Printer 
• All-in-one portable printer
• Comapct and portable to take on the go
• colored touchscreen for easy selection of options
8. Brother P-touch Cube 
• Features Bluetooth wireless technolgy
• Creates personalized lables
• P Touch Design App uses voice to text and spell check
9. HP OfficeJet 200 Mobile Printer 
• Print using your smartphone or tablet
• Can hold up to 50 sheets at a time
• One-year limited warranty from HP
10. Brother PocketJet PJ-773 Portable Printer 
• Weighs only 8 ounces
• Comes with Wi-Fi and USB port
• Easy to operate, requiring just the push of a button
Let’s Dig Deeper: A Breakdown of Our Top 10
As promised, here is a deeper look into each product. Here we point out specifics like printing sizes and added features, helping you to narrow down which printers will work the best for you and with you. So, let’s get on starting with number 10.
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#10. Brother PocketJet PJ-773 Portable Printer
Using the help of thermal heating, this printer gets the job done. A sharp black display is accented by chrome buttons for a sleek appearance. A 300dpi creates crisp and clean prints without an ink ribbon. It can be taken on the go, connecting to a Wi-Fi source, and working like a charm. Use a smartphone or tablet to send images for printing directly to print in seconds or, take advantage of Apple AirPrint or Google Cloud Print. From start to finish, the machine works at 8ppm, printing out a variety of lengths and widths.
When printing documents straight from a computer, this Brother portable printer uses a 2.0 USB port that is embedded for easy connectivity. The printer can be charged using a lithium-ion battery, AC adapter, or DC car adapter. Once charged, the printer puts out a large 600 pages per charge. The portable thermal printer setup is compact and the total weight is only 8 ounces, making it the perfect companion to take on the road.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Connects to Wi-Fi and is compatible with AirPrint and Google Cloud Print
- 600 prints per charge
- No ink or ribbon needed
Cons
- Prints in black and white only
- Rechargeable battery not included
#9. HP OfficeJet 200 Mobile Printer
From the makers at HP comes the OfficeJet 200. This is a wireless and completely portable printer. Both black and white and color prints including photos are no trouble for this compact device. The weight is under 5 pounds and the dimensions are small and compact. You can take this printer along with you anywhere. It fits conveniently into luggage, giving you the printing power that you need on the go. Charge up with the help of a car adapter or plug into a power source when needed. It’s got a 50-sheet loading capacity for regular sheets of paper and 20 for labels. A 2-inch display screen lets you skim through and select options for all types of prints or jobs.
Cartridges used are HP 62 and HP 62 XL both black and color. Whether it is color or black and white, a full charge takes as little as 90 minutes and can last through a full day’s work. Connect to wireless to print from smartphone or tablet or, hook up directly for easy printing. HP products are known for their reliable build and unmatched quality. That is exactly what comes with this portable printer backed by a one-year warranty. Also included is HP customer care, known for its excellence in support from day one.
Pros
- Quick printing
- Quick charge and long-lasting battery
- Backed by HP one-year warranty
- Wireless and portable
Cons
- Batteries not include
- Incompatible with Mac OS
#8. Brother P-touch Cube
This small cube design is packed full of goodies. Let your creative side loose, choosing from tons of templates that are highly customizable. The designs include over 450 symbols and more than 60 frames. Included with the printer is the P touch Design & Print App, which is downloadable right to your cell phone or tablet. Both Apple and Android are compatible to suit a wide range of devices. Advanced voice to text works to quickly edit and check spelling before printing. The small cube includes Bluetooth technology that works to connect to mobile devices without the help of wires. Connectivity is manual, where you will have to reconnect each time you turn on.
Included in the box are several options for colors and bands to add to your design. The device is powered by one AAA battery, which will last through tons of prints. It is easy to transport, weighing only 13.4 ounces. No ink cartridge is needed, working with thermal transfer technology.
Colors come from the bands, which can be purchased in addition to other accessories including the AC adapter charger. Prints can be both individual and chain, working to print multiple labels or items at a time. This printer is a great option for printing labels or prints of the same size but, does not work to print out full documents. While this is a great option for a label maker, it will not do the job for full prints if that’s what you’re looking for.
Pros
- Super small and compact
- Comes with App with tons of designs and templates
- Powered by 1 AAA battery
- Bluetooth wireless technology connects to smartphones and tablets
- Prints are high quality
Cons
- AC Adapter not included
- Prints only labels
#7. HP Office Jet 250 All-in-One Wireless Portable Printer
This little machine does it all. You can scan, print, and copy all from this compact printer. It folds up and packs away easily into luggage or backpacks. It is lightweight enough to be taken on the go for long distances. It’s embedded with Wi-Fi, allowing you to connect to any smartphone or tablet. From your mobile device, the printer works with the HP ePrint App, where you can customize prints or create unique designs for any type of documents you need. Both black and white and colored prints are possible, using HP 62 or 62XL cartridges.
The display is a sleek black durable enforced plastic that is both weightless and durable. On the front, a display touchscreen presents all printing options including scanning and copying. There is a 10-page automatic document feeder that works perfectly for larger jobs. Charging can be done with AD or AC adapters, fitting in the car or a normal electrical unit. A full charge will last most of the workday, working alongside to print out up to 600 documents with ease. This machine comes with options to print sizes from full page to envelope to photos. All of this comes with the HP one-year warranty, which will replace the faulty hardware.
Pros
- Portable printing
- Color and black and white prints
- HP ePrint App for design
- Backed by HP one-year warranty
Cons
- Fits only 10 pages at a time
- Has had connectivity issues
#6. Canon Pixma iP110
This design is awesome and fits just about anywhere. Its small size doesn’t sacrifice quality. This printer has a maximum DPI of 9600 X 2400, creating beautifully colored prints with high resolution. The wireless connection works with all systems and devices along with the Cannon PRINT App. The app works great for printing and cloud services to get images and documents from the phone to print fast. Also included is Easy PhotoPrint+, Cannon’s advanced photo editing technology to create perfect images before sending off to print. The total weight is only 4.3 pounds, easily transporting from one place to another.
Compatibility ranges all across the board, from iOS and Android systems to all Windows including 7, 8, 8.1, and 12. Documents print out 8.5 X 11 inches maximum, with other options to choose from. Apart from the Wi-Fi connection, a USB port connects directly to the device from the phone.
Apart from the 5-color range, canon portable printer documents are beautiful thanks to the borderless printing option. If you’re on the hunt for a powerful printer that you can take anywhere, this Cannon Prixma could be the one. Besides this printer, Cannon is a quality brand, backed by years of releases or top-tier devices such as cameras and printers. Their name comes with a reputation for products that last, including amazing customer care and services. Â
Pros
- High-resolution prints
- Cannon PRINT App for customized editing and printing
- 5-color cartridge for beautiful prints
- Compact and easy to carry
Cons
- A bit flimsy
- Connecting mobile devices can be confusing
#5. HP Tango X printer
This little gadget is a good one. It is equipped with smart technology that allows you to print from anywhere anytime. If you’re out of the home and need to print, you can send over the details and have it ready when you get home. If you’re thinking out loud, the HP Tango will understand and print things out for you like grocery lists of checklists that you don’t want to forget. You can use your smartphone or tablet and can also connect with Alexa or Google Home. Black prints come with a high 1200 X 1200 dpi, which print from iPhone or Cloud. Options for printing include standard documents and also photos of the highest quality.
One fun feature allows you to print directly from social media, simply selecting and sending it over to your printer. A Wi-Fi connection is all that is needed to get the action started, taking just a few seconds to connect to mobile devices. An optional HP Ink Plan is an added feature, one where you can receive your ink before you run out automatically. With this plan, each refill comes automatically, monitored by ink sensing so that you can enjoy uninterrupted printing without the hassle of having to remember to buy ink.
The entire device weighs only 7 pounds and matches perfectly with all kinds of décor with its modern and minimalist solid white design. It’s quiet and small yet packed with features that make it an all-around great printer to own.
Pros
- Powerful dual-band Wi-Fi
- Options to include HP Ink Plan
- Compatible with a wide range of devices including Alexa and Google Home
- Prints out high-resolution documents and photos
Cons
- Small capacity, not suitable for large print jobs
#4. HP DeskJet 1112 Compact Printer
The only bad thing about this printer is it’s lacking Wi-Fi. Other than that, you’ve got a great option for all kinds of printing. It has a speed of 7.5 ppm for black prints and 5.5 ppm for color. It’s got room for 60 sheets at a time, and a weight of only 4.4 pounds. It packs up and transports for easy printing on the go. The square setup fits on desks and shelves, only taking up minimal space. To get prints from smartphones and computers, and added USB connection is necessary. Printing sizes include a normal letter to envelope sizes and everything in between.
It takes only a small amount of power to run and comes with an ENERGY STAR certification. Ink cartridges are needed both black and color but come with options to recycle to reduce waste. HP has worked for the last few years developing printers that use less ink to reduce overall waste and use without sacrificing performance. The look seems modern but, the modern features stop there. In the end, you’re left with a no-fuss printer without all the bells and whistles.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Compact design that fits easily anywhere
- Easy to take on the go
- High-quality prints while conserving ink
- ENERGY STAR certified
Cons
- No Wi-Fi connection or Bluetooth
- Works a bit on the slower than the competition
#3. Epson WorkForce WF-110
If you’re looking for a machine that works just as hard as you do, this is it. There is a built-in battery that is rechargeable to work overtime when needed. Options to charge include the lithium-ion battery and both USB and AC adapters. There is also an option for an added battery pack, which can power through a full day’s work without a problem. The added battery doesn’t sacrifice portability, keeping its weight down for easy use on the go. The 5G wi-fi connection works with devices including iOS and Android, receiving details and printing in no time. This printer works to print out both full-sized documents and photos without borders.
A bright LCD display screen is included in this Epson portable printer to select printing options that fit your design. Print speeds are not the fastest, coming in at 2.0 ppm for color and 3.5 ppm for black prints. That doesn’t mean that the quality is sacrificed, with this printer producing flawless prints from a wide range of sizes. It works efficiently without overusing energy, with a reduction in waste produced and consumed. HP has been making moves toward reducing waste for some time, including programs that work to help recycle cartridges to reduce emissions.
Pros
- Weighs only 4.6 pounds
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connect to all kinds of devices
- Low energy consumption
- Compatible with systems including iOS and Android
Cons
- Slower printing times
- Batteries don’t hold a charge well
#2. HP Sprocket Select
This HP mini printer is the perfect option for printing photos. It works in unison with the HP Sprocket app, which comes with a ton of fun features. Options to edit photos with fun filters and templates are part of the app along with an option to print right from social media pages.
A simple tap and print technology is part of the app, making it easy to select the exact photos you want and print them in just a matter of seconds. The previous version of the HP Sprocket was great and this one comes with a few upgrades. It has a modern design with a unique outer shell that folds up and it super simple to take with you wherever you go. It can hold up to 10 sheets at a time and uses ZINK papers without the need for ink.
Just like with most HP products, this one comes backed by a solid one-year warranty. In case there are any faults with any of the hardware needed to function properly, HP will replace the unit at any time. Right from the box, it is super easy to set up and connect. If there are any doubts on how to use, an in-depth and easy to follow tutorial walks you through the uses and options available to connect.
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Works with thermal heat and does not need ink
- Tap to print prints photos directly from social media
- Modern design that weighs only 6.35 ounces
Cons
- Only prints photos
- Holds only 10 sheets at a time
#1. Polaroid Zip
Don’t let the small size of this portable printing machine fool you. To use, all you have to do is connect to your mobile device via wi-fi. Then, you can start printing in no time. You don’t need any ink to create prints. This machine works with heat technology, taking out the need to purchase ink cartridges. The sheets for printing come with sticky peel back base to share and hang prints. The pocket-sized design can be taken on the road, ready to use with just the push of a button.
Included with the polaroid portable printer is the Polaroid Mobile app. This app is packed with features that will make your photos look professional and stunning. You can edit and add borders and frames to photos or just filter to get the perfect color combination. Unlike other compact printers, you won’t have to wait a lifetime for prints. The Polaroid Zip will have your photo ready in under 60 seconds.
Plus, one charge will keep this printer up and ready to print for 5 hours. All of this along with the Polaroid name is the reason why we chose this portable printer as our number one pick. The warranty from Polaroid covers the hardware that doesn’t work properly and will ensure that the quality continues as you use it.
Pros
- Cool and modern design
- Prints quality photos in under one minute
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies connect to smartphones
- Polaroid mobile app included free
Cons
- Needs full charge for large printing jobs
Comprehensive Buying Guide
What you Need to Know Before Purchasing a Portable Printer
Portable printers are becoming popular. It not only has to do with the fact that we are connecting more but, we’re also always on the go. Instead of a clunky machine, portable printers are lightweight and compact and can be taken with us as we live our busy lives. Especially now with the emphasis on remote working, portable printers can provide us with the freedom and ability to move that we so desperately need. Things are evolving, especially the way that we work, and portable devices can help. When you decide that a portable printer is what you need, it’s best to consider a few factors to help you select the best one for you and your printing needs. Â
- Battery Life
The thing about portable devices is that they need to be charged before use. Most portable printers come equipped with batteries or can be charged using USB ports. Batteries will need to be charged up too, most of which can be plugged into a power source and charged in as little as 90 minutes. Before going off and purchasing a portable printer, it is best to think about the amount of time you’ll be using it and whether you’ll be close to a power source during use. If you plan on using your printer a lot throughout the day, a printer with a battery and a backup charge will work best.
- Output and Quality
It is always best to take a look at your current printing habits. If you’re only printing a few documents in black and white, just about any printer will do. On the contrary, if you’re printing photos, you want the best resolution and quality color that you can find. Consider going with a portable printer that has high-quality resolution and large battery life as well. Also, consider who your prints are for. If they are for you and just for fun, maybe you can sacrifice a bit of quality. If you’re turning in reports to the boss, then quality is all that matters.
- Ink
Thermal printers are nothing new and have thankfully made their way into the portable printing world. They are great for many reasons, especially for convenience and the reduction of waste. You won’t have to purchase cartridges every time you run out or worry about running low at the last minute unable to print. The one bad thing with thermal technology is that, it is advanced, if something is to go wrong, it can be a hassle to fix. You run the risk of spending more if you have to replace the thermal printer than an ink cartridge so, it is something to consider.
- Connectivity
Most portable printers include either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology. More advanced and technologically heavy versions include Alexa and Google Home compatibility. These work with most systems but, some will not connect to all. Make sure that the printer you’re looking into is compatible with your device and that it will work with wi-fi. This will ensure that, wherever you roam, your printer can go along with you.
- Versatility
The last thing you want to take into account is versatility. There are some portable printers out there that can print documents of all sizes and even photos. Always make sure to check if the size of the document you need is available with the printer that you’re looking into. If not, at least you’ll know how to narrow down your choices, going with something that gives you exactly what you want and need. If you need an all-in-one portable printer, one that works for photos only just won’t cut it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Like we said before, portable printers come in handy. They offer the convenience to travel or work on the go. Most of them use wi-fi connectivity or Bluetooth to connect directly to mobile devices like smartphones or tablets. Some even come with advanced technologies that offer tap-to-print straight from social media.
The good thing about most portable printers is thermal printing technology. While that has not made it into all versions, it is up and coming and certainly on its way. Instead of going out on the hunt on your own, you’ve got all you need and more to guide you. Any of those mentioned in our top 10 are great printers, though it depends on the type of printing you’re partaking in daily.
As we stated in our guide, be sure to watch out for a few things before you step into the store. After considering the majority of printing you do, check for a few specifics like:
- Battery life
- Output and quality
- Ink (if any)
- Connectivity
- Versatile
Taking all of these things into consideration, you can avoid making a purchase that you don’t necessarily need. There are a ton of portable printers on the market and new ones making their debut often. There are options that print documents and photos some better than others. Once you know what to look for and have narrowed down your needs, your choices become clearer.
All of our top 10 picks can be found on Amazon, where you can check out customer reviews of each product and take a look at more pictures if needed. While we stand behind all of our picks, for us, the HP Sprocket stole our hearts for pictures and the Epson WorkForce for an all-around printer. The choice is yours but, going with any of these, you’re sure to be glad you did. The days of bulky office products are coming to an end, and it’s time to adapt with the help of a portable printer.
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