What are portable photo printers?

Written by: Jon Duffy

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Time to read 3 min

If you’re tired of just admiring your favourite photos on your phone screen, a portable photo printer can help you create a physical keepsake of those special moments. But what are portable photo printers? And how does it connect to your smartphone? Maplin are here to help!

Portable photo printers from Maplin

What are portable photo printers?

So what are portable photo printers? Portable photo printers are designed to be small and lightweight, so that they can fit in your pocket or a bag. They provide a quick and practical way to print photos from your smartphone or camera without needing to transfer them to a computer first.


With their compact, portable build, they’re ideal for celebrations, parties, holidays and more.

Rechargeable

Since you’ll need them on the go, portable photo printers rely on their rechargeable battery life. Be sure to check the average battery life of each model or how many prints they can provide from a full charge. Of course, you could always pick up one of our Maplin Power Banks to make sure you never run out of juice.

Wireless connectivity

To connect to your phone or camera, most portable photo printers will use Bluetooth and/or WiFi connectivity. There’s no need to bring along a load of cables, so you can travel light! They also tend to be compatible with both Android and iOS devices, so you’ll be free to capture as many prints as you like.

Choose the right photo film

One thing to keep an eye on is the type of instant photo film you require. Most of our portable photo printers offer bundles with the compatible film to make your life easier, but if you’re just after replacement film make sure you check exactly what you need. You can find our full range of Instant Camera Film here.

Learn more about portable photo printers

Features

  1. Compact Size : One of the key features of portable photo printers is their compact and lightweight design, allowing users to carry them effortlessly in a bag or pocket. This portability makes them ideal for on-the-go printing, whether you're traveling, attending events, or spending time with friends and family.

  2. Wireless Connectivity : Most portable photo printers offer wireless connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC (Near Field Communication), allowing users to wirelessly send photos from their smartphones or tablets directly to the printer. This eliminates the need for cables or physical connections, providing seamless printing experiences.

  3. Multiple Printing Options : Portable photo printers support various printing options, including standard photo sizes (4x6 inches, 5x7 inches) as well as smaller sizes like wallet-sized prints and stickers. Some printers also offer creative features such as borders, filters, and editing tools to customize the appearance of printed photos.

  4. Long-lasting Battery Life : To ensure uninterrupted printing sessions, portable photo printers are equipped with long-lasting rechargeable batteries. This allows users to print multiple photos on a single charge, making them suitable for extended use during events or travel.

  5. High-Quality Prints : Despite their compact size, portable photo printers are capable of producing high-quality photo prints with vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent image clarity. Advanced printing technologies such as dye-sublimation and thermal printing ensure professional-looking results every time.

Applications

  1. Travel and Adventure : Portable photo printers are ideal companions for travelers and adventure enthusiasts who want to instantly print and share their travel experiences. Whether you're exploring exotic destinations or embarking on outdoor adventures, portable photo printers allow you to create tangible mementos of your journey.

  2. Events and Parties : Portable photo printers are popular additions to events, parties, weddings, and gatherings, where guests can instantly print and take home personalized photo souvenirs. These printers add a fun and interactive element to any occasion, allowing attendees to capture and share special moments in real time.

  3. Scrapbooking and DIY Projects : Scrapbookers and DIY enthusiasts can use portable photo printers to print photos for scrapbooking, journaling, card-making, and other creative projects. With their compact size and wireless connectivity, portable photo printers make it easy to incorporate printed photos into various crafts and designs.

  4. Gifts and Keepsakes : Printed photos make meaningful gifts and keepsakes for friends, family, and loved ones. Portable photo printers allow users to create personalized photo gifts such as photo albums, greeting cards, calendars, and fridge magnets, adding a personal touch to special occasions and celebrations.


Ready to print your favourite photo wherever you go? Check out our Photo Printers today to start collecting memories!

Compact Size: Easily portable, fitting into bags or pockets for on-the-go use

Wireless Connectivity: Utilizes Bluetooth, WiFi, or NFC for cable-free photo transfer

Long-lasting Battery Life: Equipped with rechargeable batteries for extended printing sessions

High-Quality Prints: Despite their size, they produce vibrant, clear photos using advanced printing technologies

Applications: Ideal for printing travel memories, scrapbooking and as personalised gifts

About the author

Jon Duffy is a Digital Merchandiser at Maplin.

An avid gamer from a young age, Jon has dabbled in gaming journalism and dedicates much of his spare time to this hobby. He also has an interest in music, playing bass guitar in a rock covers band.

Having previously worked as a copywriter with another electronics retailer, he was eager to join Maplin with their new online venture. In addition to writing blogs, Jon also works on many of the website's landing pages and adding new tech to the range.