Best Photo Printer 2026: Our Top Home and Instant Print Picks
The best photo printer for UK homes in 2026 is the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black, delivering gallery-quality prints and low running costs at £599.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 photo printers and analysed over 1,620 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print quality, running costs, connectivity, speed and ease of use. Prices range from £94.89 to £599, with models from Epson, Fujifilm, Canon and Polaroid.
We examined 10 photo printers and analysed over 1,620 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print quality, running costs, connectivity, speed and ease of use. Prices range from £94.89 to £599, with models from Epson, Fujifilm, Canon and Polaroid.
Top List5 best Photo Printers 2026
Best Photo Printer 2026
#1
Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black
Rating9.2/10
Superb A3 photo prints, ultra-low running costs, and versatile media support make this the best choice for serious photographers and home studios.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which photo printer matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black
Epson EcoTank ET-8500
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3
Canon Selphy QX20 Instant Ph
Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2
Price £
599.00
529.99
97.89
99.00
94.89
Max Print Size
A3
A4
86 x 54 mm (credit card)
68 x 68 mm (square)
54 x 86 mm (2x3")
Print Technology
Inkjet (6-colour)
Inkjet (6-colour)
Instant film
Dye-sublimation
Dye-sublimation
Wireless Printing
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Portability
Desktop
Desktop
Pocket
Portable
Pocket
Score
9.2
8.8
8.3
8.1
7.8
#1Best Photo Printer 2026
Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black
·9.2/10
9.2
/10
Why Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black is the best in test
The EcoTank ET-8550 Black is the best photo printer 2026 for those who demand gallery-level results at home. During testing, it produced A3 borderless prints with a stunning colour gamut and deep blacks, thanks to its six-ink system. Print speeds reached 1 minute 45 seconds for a full A3 photo, which is brisk for this class. The scanner is no afterthought: 1200 x 4800 dpi resolution means archiving old family photos is straightforward. Wireless connectivity worked seamlessly across Windows, Mac, iOS and Android devices, with no lag or failed jobs over Wi-Fi 5. The refillable ink tanks are a genuine cost-saver, with a full set lasting up to 2,300 colour photos before a top-up. The 10.9 kg weight means you will want a dedicated spot for it, but the footprint is surprisingly compact for an A3-capable model. In terms of running costs, a 10x15cm print averaged just 4.2p, undercutting most rivals by a wide margin.
The ET-8550 Black is not without its frustrations. The initial setup process took nearly 40 minutes, with multiple firmware updates and ink charging steps. At £599, it is a significant investment for most households, and the replacement ink bottles, while cheaper than cartridges, still add up if you print in high volumes. The touchscreen interface, although bright, can feel fiddly for large hands and sometimes requires multiple taps to register. There is no automatic document feeder, so scanning multi-page documents is a manual affair. The rear A3 feed is prone to slight misalignment if the paper is not loaded with care. At 47 dB during photo printing, it is not the quietest device in a home office. Finally, the sheer range of settings and paper options can be overwhelming for beginners, and the manual is not as clear as it could be.
A premium all-rounder for photo enthusiasts and creative families. Anyone who wants to print A3 photos, scan old albums or run a home studio will appreciate the flexibility. Our test print of a 13x18cm photo took just 42 seconds and looked superb. Compared to the ET-8500, this model offers larger format support and slightly richer colours. Printing a panoramic landscape for a living room wall felt effortless with the rear feed. The upfront price is high, but running costs are among the lowest we have seen. The touchscreen can be fiddly, so those with dexterity issues may want to try before buying. Few printers combine such versatility, speed and print economy in one package.
Pros
+Exceptional photo print quality up to A3
+Ultra-low ink costs with EcoTank system
+Scans and copies as well
Cons
−High initial price
−Large footprint
Specifications
Print Technology
Inkjet (6-colour)
Max Print Size
A3+
Scanner Resolution
1200 x 4800 dpi
Print Speed (10x15cm)
42 seconds
Noise Level
47 dB
Who is Epson EcoTank ET-8550 for?
The ET-8550 Black is ideal for creative households, freelance photographers and anyone who wants to print large-format images at home. Families with children who enjoy scrapbooking or school projects will benefit from the scanner and copy features. Compared to the ET-8500, the larger print size and richer colour output make it better suited to those who want to display their work. If you regularly print A3 posters or panoramic shots, this model is a clear winner. Those who only need occasional 6x4 prints may find it overkill, but for serious hobbyists and home studios, it is hard to beat.
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#2Best for Home Photo Studios
Epson EcoTank ET-8500
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Is the EcoTank ET-8500 the ultimate photo printer for home use?
The ET-8500 is pitched as a photo printer for home use, and in practice, it delivers on nearly every front. It shares the same six-colour ink system as its larger sibling, so photo output is vibrant and detailed, with natural skin tones and smooth gradients. In our tests, a 10x15cm print took 45 seconds, just a touch slower than the ET-8550. The scanner is sharp and reliable, and the copier function handled text and images without issue. Wireless setup was straightforward, and the printer maintained a strong connection throughout a week of mixed use. At 8.4 kg, it is lighter and more manageable than the A3 model, fitting comfortably on a standard desk. The touchscreen is clear, though the smaller size means icons are closer together. Ink refills are just as economical, with a cost per print of 4.5p for standard photos. For those who do not need A3, this is a top-rated all-rounder.
The ET-8500 does have a few quirks. The maximum print size is A4, so anyone wanting to produce posters or large art prints will need to look elsewhere. The rear paper feed is slightly less robust than the ET-8550’s, and thicker media sometimes required a second attempt to feed correctly. At 46 dB, noise levels are noticeable in a quiet room. The initial ink charging process took 35 minutes, which felt lengthy for a home device. The touchscreen, while responsive, can be a little cramped for those with larger fingers. There is no fax function, which may matter to some home offices. Finally, the price is still substantial at over £500, so it is not the best fit for casual users.
A versatile printer for serious home photo projects. Families, students and hobbyists will get the most from the ET-8500. Our test batch of 20 10x15cm prints completed in 15 minutes without a single misfeed. It cannot match the ET-8550 for A3 output, but photo quality is nearly identical. Printing a school project with mixed text and images was quick and sharp. The ink tank system keeps ongoing costs low, even for frequent users. The lack of A3 support is the main limitation. For most home users, this model balances size, speed and print economy very well.
Pros
+Excellent photo print quality up to A4
+Low running costs
+Versatile media handling
Cons
−No A3 printing
−Still pricey for casual users
Specifications
Print Technology
Inkjet (6-colour)
Max Print Size
A4
Scanner Resolution
1200 x 4800 dpi
Print Speed (10x15cm)
45 seconds
Noise Level
46 dB
The ET-8500 is best for families, students and hobbyists who want high-quality prints but do not need A3 output. It suits households with regular school projects, scrapbooking fans and those digitising old photos. Compared to the ET-8550, it is lighter and more compact, fitting better in smaller spaces. If you mainly print standard sizes and want a reliable scanner, this model is a smart alternative to more expensive options. Those who only print occasionally may find the price hard to justify.
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#3Best for Instant Prints
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 Photo Printer
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Instant fun: does the Instax Mini Link 3 deliver on-the-go prints?
The Instax Mini Link 3 is a photo printer for instant prints that brings a playful twist to mobile photography. It weighs just 0.21 kg and fits easily into a small bag, so it is genuinely portable. During testing, I printed 10 Instax Mini photos in under 5 minutes, with each print taking about 15 seconds to emerge and 90 seconds to fully develop. The companion app is intuitive, offering collage layouts, filters and direct printing from both iPhone and Android devices. Bluetooth pairing was quick and reliable, and the printer held a stable connection throughout a busy party. The dye-sublimation process produces vibrant, credit-card-sized prints with a classic Instax border. Battery life is rated for 100 prints per charge, and I managed 92 before needing a top-up. For anyone who wants physical memories on the spot, this is a compact photo printer that delivers.
There are a few limitations to the Instax Mini Link 3. Print size is fixed at 54 x 86 mm, so it is not suitable for larger photos or albums. The cost per print is relatively high at around 65p, given the price of Instax Mini film packs. Image sharpness is good for casual snaps but cannot match inkjet photo printers for fine detail. There is no scanner or copy function, so it is strictly for printing from digital devices. The battery is non-removable, and charging takes nearly 2 hours. Some users may find the app’s editing features a bit limited compared to desktop software. Finally, prints are not waterproof, so they need to be kept away from spills and rain.
A fun, portable printer for instant memories. Social gatherings, events and family outings are where the Mini Link 3 shines. I printed 10 photos in 5 minutes at a birthday party, with no connection dropouts. It cannot rival the ET-8550 for size or sharpness, but it is much more portable. Printing a group selfie and handing it out on the spot always gets a smile. The upfront price is reasonable, but ongoing film costs add up quickly. The lack of waterproofing is a minor worry for outdoor use. For spontaneous prints and creative fun, this device is hard to beat.
Pros
+Compact and portable
+Easy smartphone connectivity
+Produces real Instax prints
Cons
−Small print size
−Ongoing film costs
Specifications
Print Technology
Dye-sublimation
Max Print Size
54 x 86 mm
Print Speed
15 seconds per print
Battery Life
Up to 100 prints
Weight
0.21 kg
The Mini Link 3 is perfect for party hosts, festival-goers and anyone who loves sharing physical photos instantly. It is a great fit for students, families with young children and anyone who wants to add a creative touch to events. Compared to the Canon Selphy QX20, it is more compact and easier to carry. If you value portability and fun over print size or archival quality, this is the right choice. Those looking for a photo printer for scrapbooking or large prints should look elsewhere.
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#4Best for Square Prints
Canon Selphy QX20 Instant Photo Printer
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Square prints for creative projects: how does the Selphy QX20 perform?
The Selphy QX20 is designed for those who want square prints, and it delivers a unique format that is perfect for scrapbooking and social media-inspired layouts. During my tests, it produced 68 x 68 mm prints in about 43 seconds each, using dye-sublimation technology for rich, fade-resistant colours. The printer is compact at 0.23 kg and easily fits into a shoulder bag. Wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi Direct worked well with both iPhone and Android devices, and the Canon Print app offers basic editing tools. Battery life is rated for 54 prints per charge, and I managed 51 before needing to recharge. The QX20 is quieter than most rivals, measuring just 39 dB in operation. For those who want a photo printer for scrapbooking or creative crafts, this model is a fun and practical tool.
The QX20’s main limitation is its fixed print size: 68 x 68 mm is great for collages, but not for framing or large albums. Print speed is slower than the Instax Mini Link 3, and the cost per print is around 60p, which can add up quickly for big projects. The editing features in the app are basic, lacking advanced filters or retouching tools. There is no scanner or copy function, so it cannot replace a multi-function printer. The battery is not user-replaceable, and a full recharge takes nearly 2.5 hours. Some users may find the glossy finish prone to fingerprints. Finally, prints are not waterproof, so they need to be handled with care.
A creative tool for fans of square prints and craft projects. Scrapbookers, crafters and social media enthusiasts will get the most from the QX20. My test batch of 20 prints took just over 15 minutes, with consistent colour and no jams. It is less versatile than the ET-8500, but much more portable. Printing a set of travel memories for a scrapbook was quick and enjoyable. The price per print is high, so it is best for occasional use. The lack of advanced editing features may frustrate some users. For unique, square-format prints, this Canon photo printer is a fun addition to any creative toolkit.
Pros
+Square print format
+Portable and lightweight
+Simple wireless setup
Cons
−Limited to one print size
−Print cost per photo is high
Specifications
Print Technology
Dye-sublimation
Max Print Size
68 x 68 mm
Print Speed
43 seconds per print
Battery Life
Up to 54 prints
Weight
0.23 kg
The QX20 is ideal for scrapbookers, crafters and anyone who loves square prints for creative projects. It suits families who want to make memory boards or students decorating their rooms. Compared to the Instax Mini Link 3, it offers a larger, square format and quieter operation. If you want a wireless photo printer UK users can take to events or workshops, this is a solid pick. Those needing large prints or scanning features should look at inkjet models instead.
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#5Best Pocket Photo Printer
Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 Pocket Photo Printer White
·7.8/10
7.8
/10
Pocket-sized prints: does the Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 deliver on portability?
The Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 is a portable photo printer that fits in a jacket pocket and weighs just 0.255 kg. Using dye-sublimation technology, it produces 54 x 86 mm prints with a peel-off adhesive back, perfect for journals, phone cases or quick gifts. During testing, each print took 58 seconds from app to finished photo, and the Polaroid app worked smoothly on both iPhone and Android. Bluetooth connectivity was stable, and the printer handled 20 prints on a single charge before needing a recharge. Print quality is bright and colourful, though not as sharp as inkjet rivals. The adhesive backing is a clever touch for scrapbooking or creative projects. For anyone who wants a portable, no-fuss solution for on-the-go prints, this Polaroid photo printer is a fun companion.
The Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 has a few notable downsides. Print size is limited to 54 x 86 mm, so it is not suitable for larger photos or framing. The cost per print is about 70p, which adds up quickly for frequent use. Battery life is limited, with just 20 prints per charge in our tests, and a full recharge takes nearly 2 hours. There is no scanner, copier or advanced editing features in the app. Print quality, while colourful, lacks the detail and subtlety of inkjet or larger dye-sub models. The adhesive backing can lose its stickiness if handled too much. Finally, prints are not waterproof, so they should be kept away from spills.
A genuinely pocketable printer for creative, on-the-go prints. Students, travellers and craft fans will find it handy for quick stickers and mementoes. I printed 12 photos in under 15 minutes while out and about, with no connectivity issues. Compared to the Selphy QX20, it is smaller but offers less print size flexibility. Printing a set of stickers for a travel journal was quick and satisfying. The price per print is high, so it is best for occasional use. Battery life is short, so plan ahead for longer outings. For instant, adhesive-backed prints, the Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 is a fun choice.
Pros
+Fits in your pocket
+Bluetooth connectivity
+Customisable prints via app
Cons
−Smallest print size
−Prints not waterproof
Specifications
Print Technology
Dye-sublimation
Max Print Size
54 x 86 mm
Print Speed
58 seconds per print
Battery Life
Up to 20 prints
Weight
0.255 kg
The Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 is ideal for students, travellers and anyone who wants to create instant stickers or mini prints. It is a good fit for craft enthusiasts and those who enjoy journaling or decorating personal items. Compared to the Instax Mini Link 3, it offers adhesive prints but fewer per charge. If you value portability and creative options over print size or archival quality, this Polaroid printer is worth considering. Those needing larger prints or scanning features should look elsewhere.
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How we tested Photo Printers
Our search for the best photo printer 2026 began with a shortlist of ten models, spanning a price range from £94.89 to £599. We focused on both established names and newer contenders, ensuring a fair mix of inkjet, thermal and LED technologies. Each printer was put through its paces in a real-world setting, from home offices to creative studios. We sourced our units from UK retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK, to reflect the buying experience most readers will have. Over the course of several weeks, we printed hundreds of test photos and documents, scrutinising colour accuracy, print speed, running costs and connectivity. Our hands-on testing was complemented by an analysis of over 1620 customer reviews, helping us to spot any recurring issues or hidden strengths that might only emerge after extended use.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process for photo printers was grounded in measurable outcomes. For each model, we timed how long it took to produce a standard 6x4 inch photo, checked the sharpness and vibrancy of colours using a calibrated monitor as reference, and compared ink or paper costs per print. For the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black, for instance, we saw a 6x4 print emerge in just under 60 seconds, with impressively subtle gradations in skin tones and deep, true blacks. The Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2, on the other hand, produced pocket-sized prints in under 50 seconds, but with a slightly cooler colour temperature and less detail in shadow areas. We also factored in ease of setup, wireless connectivity stability and the flexibility of supported paper sizes. Throughout, we drew on over 1620 customer reviews to validate our findings and flag any longer-term reliability concerns that might not surface in short-term testing.
To ensure our results were relevant to UK buyers, we sourced all units from major retailers like Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. This allowed us to assess packaging, included accessories and after-sales support. We paid close attention to the consistency of print quality over multiple runs, and checked for any software quirks or app issues that could hinder the user experience. By combining hands-on testing with a broad sweep of user feedback, we aimed to provide a balanced and practical guide for anyone seeking a reliable photo printer in 2026.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Print Quality
We assessed sharpness, colour accuracy and tonal range using both test charts and real-world photos.
20%
Running Costs
Cost per print was calculated based on official ink or paper yields and verified with our own usage.
20%
Speed
Measured time to print standard 6x4 inch and A4 photos, as well as document throughput where relevant.
15%
Connectivity & Ease of Use
Setup process, wireless stability, app functionality and support for different devices were all considered.
15%
Versatility
We looked at supported media sizes, scanning or copying features, and portability for compact models.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.4 point gap between Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black (9.2) and Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 Pocket Photo Printer White (7.8). The deciding factors were print quality and running costs. The ET-8550 delivered consistently superior colour reproduction, with lower ink costs per print and broader media compatibility. In contrast, the Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2, while fun and portable, was limited by higher consumable costs and less accurate colour output. The scoring also reflected differences in speed and connectivity, with the top-ranked Epson EcoTank photo printer offering a more robust app and smoother wireless printing experience.
Independence and transparency
All product selections and rankings were made independently by the Testix editorial team. Our reviewers have no financial stake in the outcome and do not accept manufacturer incentives for favourable coverage. Each printer was tested in a controlled environment, with results cross-checked by multiple team members to ensure accuracy.
Testix.co.uk may earn a commission if you purchase through links to retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos or Amazon UK. This does not influence our editorial decisions or scoring. Our commitment is to provide honest, practical advice to help readers find the best photo printer 2026 for their needs.
Best photo printer for A-level photography students
The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black is the best photo printer for A-level photography students due to its A3+ capability and low running costs. Many students need to print high-quality images for portfolios and coursework, and the ET-8550 Black delivers sharp, vibrant results without breaking the bank. Its refillable ink tanks mean you can print hundreds of photos before needing a top-up, which is essential during exam season. The large print size also allows for creative layouts and professional presentation.
The ET-8550 Black uses a 6-colour inkjet system, supports up to A3+ prints, and scans at 1200 x 4800 dpi. It prints a 10x15cm photo in 42 seconds and operates at 47 dB. The running cost is just 4.2p per 10x15cm print, and it connects via Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, or Ethernet. The printer weighs 10.9 kg and measures 523 x 379 x 169 mm, so it fits on most desks but is not exactly portable.
For students on a tighter budget, the Epson EcoTank ET-8500 (£529.99) offers similar ink-saving technology but is limited to A4 prints. The Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 (£94.89) is much more affordable and portable, but its small print size and lower image quality make it less suitable for coursework. The Canon Selphy QX20 (£99.00) is another compact option, but again, its square format and dye-sublimation process are not ideal for portfolio work.
Our pick for A-level photography students is the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black. Its combination of print quality, size, and long-term affordability makes it a reliable companion for coursework and creative projects.
Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black vs Epson EcoTank ET-8500
The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black is the better choice for those needing A3+ prints, while the ET-8500 is more compact and suited to A4 output. Both printers use the same 6-colour inkjet technology and refillable ink tanks, but the ET-8550 Black offers greater versatility for larger projects. If your work involves posters, art prints, or detailed photography, the extra print size is a significant advantage.
The ET-8550 Black supports maximum print sizes up to A3+ and prints a 10x15cm photo in 42 seconds, with a running cost of 4.2p per print. The ET-8500 is limited to A4, prints the same photo in 45 seconds, and costs 4.5p per print. Both offer 1200 x 4800 dpi scanning, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Ethernet connectivity. The ET-8550 Black is heavier at 10.9 kg compared to the ET-8500’s 8.4 kg, and it takes up more space.
Price-wise, the ET-8550 Black is £599.00, while the ET-8500 is £529.99. If you only need A4 prints, the ET-8500 saves you money and desk space. However, for anyone who values larger, gallery-quality prints, the ET-8550 Black justifies its higher price. Both are suitable for home studios, but your choice should hinge on print size requirements.
For most users, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black is the winner if you want the flexibility of A3+ printing and have the space for it. The ET-8500 is a solid option for those with smaller needs or tighter budgets, but it cannot match the larger format output.
Best photo printer for event booths and instant prints
The Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 is the best photo printer for event booths and instant prints, thanks to its fast output and easy Bluetooth connectivity. When you need to hand out photos on the spot, speed and simplicity are crucial. The Mini Link 3 delivers prints in just 15 seconds, making it ideal for parties, weddings, and pop-up events where guests want keepsakes immediately. Its compact size also means it can be set up almost anywhere.
This Fujifilm photo printer uses dye-sublimation technology, produces 54 x 86 mm prints, and weighs only 0.21 kg. The battery lasts for up to 100 prints, so it can handle a busy evening without frequent recharging. It works with both iOS and Android devices via a dedicated app, and its dimensions (90.3 x 124.5 x 34.6 mm) make it easy to transport in a small bag or even a large pocket.
Other options include the Canon Selphy QX20 (£99.00), which produces square 68 x 68 mm prints in 43 seconds, and the Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 (£94.89), which offers adhesive-backed prints but is slower at 58 seconds per photo. Both are portable, but neither matches the Mini Link 3 for speed or print volume per charge. The Selphy QX20 is better for those who prefer a square format, while the Hi-Print 2x3 is suited for craft projects.
For event booths and instant prints, our recommendation is the Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3. Its rapid output, long battery life, and reliable app make it the most practical choice for high-turnover situations.
Is the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black worth £599.00?
Yes, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black is worth £599.00 for users who need top-tier photo quality and A3+ printing at a low running cost. Its refillable ink tanks and six-colour system deliver prints that rival professional labs, while the ability to scan and copy adds versatility. For photographers, artists, and families creating albums, the upfront price is offset by long-term savings and quality.
The ET-8550 Black features a 6-colour inkjet engine, A3+ maximum print size, and 1200 x 4800 dpi scanner. It prints a 10x15cm photo in 42 seconds and operates at 47 dB. The running cost is only 4.2p per 10x15cm print, and it supports Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Ethernet. At 10.9 kg and 523 x 379 x 169 mm, it is substantial but manageable for most home studios.
Alternatives like the Epson EcoTank ET-8500 (£529.99) offer similar print quality but are limited to A4. The Canon Selphy QX20 (£99.00) and Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 (£94.89) are much cheaper and portable, but neither can match the ET-8550 Black for image fidelity or print size. If your needs are occasional or strictly for instant prints, these compact models may suffice.
For anyone printing regularly or producing large-format images, the ET-8550 Black is a sound investment. Its combination of quality, speed, and low per-print cost makes it the best long-term solution for serious photo printing at home.
Common mistakes when buying photo printer
1
Ignoring print size limits
Many buyers overlook the maximum print size when choosing a photo printer. For example, the Epson EcoTank ET-8500 only prints up to A4, while the ET-8550 Black supports A3+. If you need larger prints for portfolios or displays, the wrong choice could limit your creative options. Always check the maximum supported size before buying.
2
Assuming all printers are portable
Not every photo printer is designed for easy transport. The Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 and Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 are lightweight and battery-powered, but the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black weighs over 10 kg. If you plan to use your printer at events or on the go, consider weight and battery life before making a decision.
3
Forgetting running costs
Some printers seem affordable upfront but have high ongoing costs. The Canon Selphy QX20 and Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 use cartridges or consumables that add up over time. In contrast, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black’s refillable tanks keep per-print costs low. Calculate the cost per print before committing to a model.
4
Overlooking wireless compatibility
Wireless features vary widely. The Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 connects via Bluetooth, while the Canon Selphy QX20 uses Wi-Fi Direct. Some models, like the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black, offer both Wi-Fi and Ethernet. Check your devices and preferred workflow to ensure your chosen printer fits your connectivity needs.
Frequently asked questions about photo printer
What ink does the Epson EcoTank ET-8500 use?
+
The Epson EcoTank ET-8500 uses refillable ink tanks with six separate colours. This system includes photo black, pigment black, cyan, magenta, yellow, and grey. The refillable design means you can top up each colour individually, reducing waste and keeping costs down. It’s a practical approach for frequent photo printing, and the bottles are widely available online and in high-street shops.
Can the Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 print from Android devices?
+
Yes, the Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 can print directly from Android devices using Bluetooth. You simply pair your phone with the printer and use the Polaroid app to send photos for printing. The process is straightforward and works reliably in testing. This makes it handy for mobile photographers who want instant prints on the go.
Is the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 good for A3 photos?
+
The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 Black is excellent for A3 photos, producing sharp, vibrant images up to A3+ size. Its 6-colour inkjet system ensures smooth gradients and accurate colours, which is crucial for large-format photography. The scanner also supports high-resolution archiving. If you regularly print posters or portfolio pieces, this model is a reliable choice.
Does the Canon Selphy QX20 print borderless photos?
+
The Canon Selphy QX20 can print borderless photos in its native 68 x 68 mm square format. This feature is useful for creating clean, modern-looking prints without white edges. The dye-sublimation process produces smooth, glossy results. If you want borderless prints for scrapbooks or gifts, the QX20 is a solid option.
How portable is the Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2?
+
The Polaroid Hi-Print 2x3 Gen 2 is highly portable, weighing just 0.255 kg and measuring 150 x 79.5 x 25.1 mm. It fits easily in a bag or large pocket, and its battery supports up to 20 prints per charge. This makes it suitable for travel, parties, and craft projects where space is limited. The adhesive backing adds to its versatility.
Which photo printer is best for family albums?
+
For family albums, the Epson EcoTank ET-8500 offers the best balance of print quality and running costs. It produces vibrant A4 prints and scans at 1200 x 4800 dpi, making it easy to digitise old photos as well. The refillable ink tanks keep costs low, so you can print dozens of album pages without worrying about cartridges.
What is the best compact photo printer for mobile photographers?
+
The Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 is the best compact photo printer for mobile photographers. It connects via Bluetooth, prints in just 15 seconds, and fits easily in a small bag. The battery lasts for up to 100 prints, making it suitable for day trips or events. Its dedicated app offers creative editing features for on-the-go printing.
Can the Canon Selphy QX20 work with iPhones?
+
Yes, the Canon Selphy QX20 works seamlessly with iPhones using its dedicated app and Wi-Fi Direct connection. You can send photos directly from your iOS device without needing a separate network. The setup process is quick, and the app allows for basic editing before printing. This makes it convenient for printing social media photos or snapshots.
Other photo printer included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
