We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Portable Printers 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy – The Ideal Basic Home Printer - White, Medium

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,160
Print Quality (DPI)
Connectivity Options
Size and Weight

Most important from
17592 reviews

Print Quality (DPI)
Print quality, especially for photos, is impressive with bright and vivid colors, and no ink smudges.
Connectivity Options
Users have experienced some app-to-printer connection issues, but these are not deal-breakers.
Size and Weight
The printer is smaller and more lightweight than expected, saving desk space.
Ink Type and Availability
Filling the ink tank is satisfying and lasts significantly longer than traditional cartridges, reducing plastic waste.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is an appealing choice for anyone seeking a basic home printer that combines functionality and cost-effectiveness. One of its standout features is the cartridge-free printing system, which utilizes high-capacity ink tanks instead of traditional cartridges, leading to significant savings on replacement ink – up to 90% compared to regular cartridges. This means you can print a massive number of pages (up to 4,500 in black and 7,500 in color) before needing a refill, which is perfect for families or small home offices that print regularly.

In terms of print quality, the ET-2800 excels with its Micro Piezo technology, producing sharp text and vibrant color photos across various paper types. Additionally, it functions as an all-in-one device with scanning and copying capabilities, making it versatile for everyday tasks.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the print speed is decent, it’s not the fastest in its class, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute for black and 5 for color. For users who need high-volume printing quickly, this might be a limitation. Furthermore, the manual duplex printing means you will need to flip the paper manually for double-sided prints, which can be less convenient. Size-wise, the ET-2800 is relatively compact for a multi-function printer, weighing in at 8.8 pounds, making it manageable for home use. Its connectivity options are good, with both wired and wireless capabilities, allowing for mobile printing from various devices. The two-year warranty also adds a layer of reliability, reassuring users of its durability.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is well-suited for home environments, especially for those who prioritize cost-effective printing without compromising on quality. It may not be the best fit for heavy-duty users needing faster prints or high-volume duplexing, but it certainly meets the needs of casual users looking for an all-in-one solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,160
Print Quality (DPI)
Connectivity Options
Size and Weight

Most important from
17592 reviews

Print Quality (DPI)
Print quality, especially for photos, is impressive with bright and vivid colors, and no ink smudges.
Connectivity Options
Users have experienced some app-to-printer connection issues, but these are not deal-breakers.
Size and Weight
The printer is smaller and more lightweight than expected, saving desk space.
Ink Type and Availability
Filling the ink tank is satisfying and lasts significantly longer than traditional cartridges, reducing plastic waste.
#2

Liene M100 4x6'' Photo Printer, Phone Printer 100 Sheets & 3 Cartridges, Full-Color Photo, Portable Instant Photo Printer for iPhone Android, Thermal Dye Sublimation, Wi-Fi Picture Printer 100 Papers

Rating
8.2
Print Quality (DPI)
Connectivity Options
Size and Weight

Most important from
5558 reviews

Print Quality (DPI)
The quality of printed photos is better than expected with correct colors and a balanced finish.
Connectivity Options
The printer is super easy to use, especially for printing from your phone with a simple setup process.
Size and Weight
The compact size and ease of setup make it a highly recommended choice.
Ink Type and Availability
Great value with 100 sheets and 3 ink cartridges included, making it almost a steal at the price.

The Liene 4x6'' Photo Printer is a portable photo printer designed to produce high-quality 4x6 inch photos. It uses thermal dye sublimation technology, ensuring vibrant colors and durability with water, scratch, and fade resistance. With a print resolution of 300 x 300 DPI, it might not satisfy those looking for ultra-high-definition prints. The printer's speed is relatively slow, with a rate of 1 page per minute and an initial print time of 59 seconds, which could be a drawback if you need to print multiple photos quickly.

Connectivity is a strong point, with Wi-Fi and USB options, and the printer can connect to up to five devices simultaneously without needing a network, making it convenient for gatherings or shared use. Additionally, the Liene App offers various customization options for your prints. The printer is moderately compact and portable but at 6.32 pounds, it isn't the lightest option available.

It includes 100 sheets of photo paper and 3 cartridges, which is a generous starter pack. The capacity to hold 20 sheets at a time is somewhat limiting for bulk printing. Ink is proprietary, so you’ll need to ensure availability from Liene. This printer is best suited for casual photo enthusiasts or families who want a simple way to print photos directly from their smartphones or PCs, without requiring advanced technical skills or ultra-fast performance.

Rating
8.2
Print Quality (DPI)
Connectivity Options
Size and Weight

Most important from
5558 reviews

Print Quality (DPI)
The quality of printed photos is better than expected with correct colors and a balanced finish.
Connectivity Options
The printer is super easy to use, especially for printing from your phone with a simple setup process.
Size and Weight
The compact size and ease of setup make it a highly recommended choice.
Ink Type and Availability
Great value with 100 sheets and 3 ink cartridges included, making it almost a steal at the price.
#3

KODAK Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer (4x6 inches) + 10 Sheets

Rating
8.2
Print Quality (DPI)
Connectivity Options
Size and Weight

Most important from
18486 reviews

Print Quality (DPI)
The printer offers vibrant, high-quality 4x6 photos that come out clear and colorful every time.
Connectivity Options
Setup and Bluetooth connection are remarkably easy, making the printing process straightforward and hassle-free.
Size and Weight
Its compact size and moderate weight make it perfect for keeping on a nightstand or using casually at home.
Ink Type and Availability
The starter ink cartridge provides around ten prints, while the regular cartridge supports approximately forty photos before needing replacement.

The Kodak Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer is designed for people who want to quickly print 4x6 inch photos right from their smartphones or tablets. It stands out with its 4PASS dye sublimation printing, which delivers high-quality, vibrant photos that are water-resistant and fingerprint-proof—great if you want lasting memories. You can print border or borderless photos, adding a bit of customization. The printer connects easily via Bluetooth or wired connection and even lets you dock and charge your phone while printing.

The print speed is quite slow, at about one photo per minute, so it's best if you don’t need large volumes quickly. It’s moderately portable at just over 3 pounds and compact size, suitable for home use or casual on-the-go printing. The battery is included, and paper handling is straightforward with a single tray holding up to 10 sheets, but that limits how many prints you can do before needing to reload.

Ink comes in dye sublimation form, which means you'll need specific Kodak photo paper and ink cartridges, but this also ensures high print quality. This printer is a smart choice if you want affordable, high-quality photo prints for gifts, home decoration, or sharing with family, but not if you need fast or bulk printing.

Rating
8.2
Print Quality (DPI)
Connectivity Options
Size and Weight

Most important from
18486 reviews

Print Quality (DPI)
The printer offers vibrant, high-quality 4x6 photos that come out clear and colorful every time.
Connectivity Options
Setup and Bluetooth connection are remarkably easy, making the printing process straightforward and hassle-free.
Size and Weight
Its compact size and moderate weight make it perfect for keeping on a nightstand or using casually at home.
Ink Type and Availability
The starter ink cartridge provides around ten prints, while the regular cartridge supports approximately forty photos before needing replacement.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Printers

When choosing a portable printer, it's important to consider your specific needs and how you plan to use the device. Portable printers are great for on-the-go printing, whether for business, travel, or personal use. To make the best choice, you should understand the key specifications and how they align with your requirements. Here are some important specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Print Quality (DPI)Print quality is measured in DPI (dots per inch). This spec indicates how detailed and sharp the printed output will be. Higher DPI means better print quality. For text documents, a DPI of 300-600 is usually sufficient. For photos and high-quality images, look for a printer with at least 1200 DPI. Consider what you will be printing most often to determine the right DPI for you.
Print SpeedPrint speed is measured in pages per minute (PPM). This spec tells you how quickly the printer can produce documents. If you need to print large volumes quickly, look for a higher PPM. For occasional use or smaller print jobs, a lower PPM may be acceptable. Think about how often and how much you will be printing to decide the appropriate print speed.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and sometimes NFC. These options determine how you can connect your devices to the printer. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are great for wireless printing from smartphones, tablets, and laptops. USB is reliable for direct connections. Choose a printer with the connectivity options that match your devices and how you plan to use the printer.
Battery LifeBattery life is crucial for portable printers, as it determines how long you can print without needing to recharge. Longer battery life is better for extended use on the go. If you plan to use the printer frequently while traveling, look for a model with a robust battery. For occasional use, a shorter battery life may be sufficient. Consider your usage patterns to select the right battery life.
Size and WeightSize and weight are important for portability. Smaller and lighter printers are easier to carry around, but they may have fewer features or lower print quality. If you need a highly portable printer, prioritize compact size and light weight. If you can compromise on portability for better features, a slightly larger and heavier model might be suitable. Think about how often you will be carrying the printer and where you will use it.
Paper HandlingPaper handling refers to the types and sizes of paper the printer can accommodate. Some portable printers can only handle standard letter-sized paper, while others can print on various sizes, including photo paper and labels. If you need versatility in paper types, look for a printer with flexible paper handling capabilities. Consider what types of documents or photos you will be printing to choose the right paper handling features.
Ink Type and AvailabilityPortable printers use different types of ink, such as inkjet cartridges or thermal printing technology. Inkjet printers generally offer better color quality but require regular cartridge replacements. Thermal printers are more convenient and often more durable but may have limited color options. Check the availability and cost of replacement ink or paper for the printer you are considering. Choose the ink type that best fits your printing needs and maintenance preferences.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now