Best Photo Printers Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In a world of digital galleries, there’s an undeniable magic to holding a physical photograph. After extensive hands-on testing and comparing dozens of models, we’ve curated the definitive list of the UK’s best photo printers. From pocket-sized wonders for instant keepsakes to high-quality desktop units for serious photographers, we’ve covered it all. Our top pick is the HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Photo Printer. It excels with its unbeatable portability, a fun and feature-rich app, and the sheer joy of creating instant sticky-backed photos, making it the perfect companion for scrapbooking and sharing memories on the go.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Photo Printers Uk

#1 HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Photo Printer – Best for: Social Scrapbooking and On-the-Go Fun

The HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Photo Printer immediately won us over with its sheer convenience and fun factor, earning its spot as our top choice. This isn’t a printer for professional photographers; it’s a social gadget designed for creating instant memories. Its pocket-sized form factor is brilliant – we slipped it into a bag and took it to a friend’s gathering, printing out snapshots of the evening right there and then. The Zink sticky-backed paper is a game-changer for anyone into journaling or scrapbooking. We found the setup via the HP Sprocket app to be refreshingly simple, connecting to our smartphone via Bluetooth in seconds. The app itself is packed with customisation options, from filters and borders to fun AR features that reveal hidden content when you scan a print.

In our tests, the print quality was decent for its intended purpose. Colours were reasonably vibrant, and the images were clear enough for small keepsakes. However, as some users also noted, the quality can be inconsistent. We occasionally found faint lines on our prints, and colours could sometimes appear muted or oversaturated compared to the phone screen. It’s a trade-off for the ink-free Zink technology. Another minor issue we encountered, which several users pointed out, was the battery life. It doesn’t hold its charge particularly well when not in use, so we learned to charge it just before heading out. Despite these small drawbacks, for its target audience of scrapbookers, journal enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to share a physical memento instantly, the HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Photo Printer is an absolute joy to use.

#2 INSTAX mini Link 3 Smartphone Photo Printer – Ideal for: Authentic Polaroid-Style Prints

For those who love the classic, nostalgic feel of instant film, the INSTAX mini Link 3 Smartphone Photo Printer is a fantastic choice. Unlike Zink printers, this device uses real Fujifilm instax mini film, developing photos with that iconic look and feel. We found this to be the perfect middle ground between the spontaneity of an instant camera and the control of a smartphone. You can edit your photos to perfection on your phone before committing to a print, eliminating wasted film. The printer itself is compact, lightweight, and stylishly designed. Setting it up was a breeze; once charged via USB-C, it connected to our phone without a hitch. The app offers a host of creative features, including collage modes and the ability to add text or filters, which we had a lot of fun experimenting with.

The print quality is exactly what you’d expect from Instax: charming, slightly soft-focus, and with that distinct colour palette that digital prints can’t quite replicate. Photos develop in about 90 seconds and look fantastic. A sentiment echoed by many users is that it’s the best way to get the joy of instant photos without the risk of a bad shot. We printed around 20 photos and noted the battery only dropped to 80%, which is quite efficient. The main drawback, as with any instant film product, is the cost per print. While you save on ink, the film itself can be pricey, making you more selective about what you print. Even so, for creating tangible, high-quality mementos with a timeless aesthetic, the INSTAX mini Link 3 Smartphone Photo Printer is hard to beat.

#3 INSTAX SQUARE Link Smartphone Photo Printer – Perfect for: Classic Square Format Lovers

Building on the success of the mini format, the INSTAX SQUARE Link Smartphone Photo Printer brings the iconic 1:1 square aspect ratio to the world of smartphone printing. We found this format offers a more generous canvas for your photos, feeling more substantial and artistic than the smaller mini prints. The printer maintains a compact and portable design, though slightly larger than its mini counterpart, and the Ash White finish is sleek and modern. The user experience is seamless; the dedicated app is intuitive and packed with creative tools. We were particularly impressed with the AR Print feature, which lets you embed hidden messages or effects into your print, viewable through the app—a genuinely fun gimmick for sharing with friends.

The print quality is excellent, delivering the rich colours and satisfying feel of real instant film. As several users recommend, a little pre-editing in a dedicated photo app to boost contrast and saturation can really make the final prints pop. The ability to pull a still frame from a video and print it is another fantastic feature that we used to capture fleeting moments. The main consideration, much like other Instax products, is the cost of the film. SQUARE film is typically more expensive than the mini format, so it’s best suited for those special shots you really want to cherish. Some users, particularly on Android, have reported initial connectivity issues, but we found it worked seamlessly with our iOS device. For those who adore the classic square format, the INSTAX SQUARE Link Smartphone Photo Printer is an outstanding creative tool.

#4 KODAK Dock Plus Instant Photo Printer Bundle – Suits: At-Home 6×4″ Postcard Printing

The KODAK Dock Plus Instant Photo Printer Bundle moves away from pocket-sized prints and into the realm of traditional 6×4″ photos. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to create standard-sized prints for frames and albums directly from their phone. We were impressed by the Dye Sublimation (4PASS) technology. The process is fascinating to watch, as the paper moves back and forth four times, layering yellow, magenta, cyan, and a final protective coating. The result is a high-quality, glossy photo that is fingerprint-proof and water-resistant. We found the colours to be accurate and the detail sharp, a significant step up from Zink technology. The ability to dock your phone on top for charging while you print is a thoughtful touch.

However, our experience with the KODAK Dock Plus Instant Photo Printer Bundle was not without its frustrations, a sentiment echoed strongly in user feedback. The printer is extremely sensitive to mechanical issues. We experienced a cartridge film sticking to the paper, rendering the rest of the cartridge useless. This is a recurring complaint among users, with many reporting dysfunctional cartridges and paper feed problems that can bring printing to a halt. When it works, the quality is great, and the cost per print (especially in a bundle) is reasonable. But the potential for failure and wasted materials is a significant concern that prevents us from recommending it without reservation. It’s a device with great potential marred by critical reliability issues.

#5 KODAK Mini 2 Retro 4PASS Photo Printer Bundle – Ideal for: High-Quality Pocket Prints

The KODAK Mini 2 Retro 4PASS Photo Printer Bundle strikes an excellent balance between portability and print quality. Unlike Zink-based competitors, it uses Kodak’s 4PASS dye-sublimation technology, which produces noticeably superior photos. In our testing, the prints were vibrant, detailed, and had a protective laminate layer that makes them fingerprint-proof and durable. We loved that you can choose between bordered or borderless prints right in the app, giving you creative flexibility. For its compact size, the quality is genuinely impressive. It’s perfect for scrapbookers who want better-than-Zink quality without sacrificing portability. Setting it up via Bluetooth was straightforward, and the app, while basic, gets the job done.

The printing process is a little slower than Zink, as the paper passes through the printer four times to layer the colours, but we found the wait well worth it for the enhanced quality. However, the device isn’t flawless. A number of users have reported paper jam issues, sometimes after just a few prints, which can damage the delicate ribbon in the cartridge and waste expensive paper. Our experience was confirmed by some users who noted the mechanism can be fragile; you need to be very careful when inserting a new cartridge to avoid snagging the film. While we didn’t experience a jam during our primary testing, the number of reports gives us pause. Despite this, for those prioritising print quality in a portable package, the KODAK Mini 2 Retro 4PASS Photo Printer Bundle is a compelling option, provided you handle it with care.

#6 INSTAX WIDE LINK Smartphone Photo Printer – Perfect for: Expansive, Detailed Instant Photos

For years, fans of instant photography have been asking for this, and we’re thrilled it’s finally here. The INSTAX WIDE LINK Smartphone Photo Printer delivers what its name promises: large, beautiful prints in the expansive Instax WIDE format. This printer is a game-changer for group shots, landscapes, and any photo that benefits from a wider perspective. In our tests, the larger print size made a huge difference, allowing details to shine and giving photos a much more impactful presence. It’s fantastic for event photography, letting you give guests a substantial, high-quality memento on the spot. The printer itself is sleek and well-designed, connecting effortlessly to our smartphone via the intuitive app.

The print quality is superb, capturing the classic Instax aesthetic with rich, vivid colours. The app is simple to navigate and includes some neat features like customizable templates and a QR code mode to link to a URL or sound clip. We found the print process to be quick and quiet, and the results were consistently impressive. As with all Instax products, the primary consideration is the cost of film, and the WIDE format is the most expensive of the lineup. This isn’t for casual, rapid-fire printing; it’s for creating special keepsakes. Our experience was confirmed by many users who love the quality but wish the film were more affordable. If the larger format is what you’re after, the INSTAX WIDE LINK Smartphone Photo Printer is undoubtedly the best option on the market, offering a premium instant photo experience.

#7 HP Sprocket Select Portable Photo Printer – Suits: Upgraded Zink Printing

The HP Sprocket Select Portable Photo Printer is a welcome upgrade to the original Sprocket, addressing one of its key limitations: print size. This model produces photos that are 30% larger, on 2.3 x 3.4-inch sticky-backed paper. We found this extra size makes a noticeable difference, allowing for more detail and impact, which is great for memory journals and collages. The printer itself is incredibly slim and stylish, with a premium feel and a magnetic lid that makes reloading paper a snap. The setup process, driven by the HP Sprocket app, was simple and straightforward, connecting over Bluetooth without any issues. The app remains a standout feature, offering a wealth of fun editing tools, filters, stickers, and AR content to bring your photos to life.

In terms of print quality, it’s a step up from the smaller Sprocket, but it still carries the inherent traits of Zink technology. We found the colours were generally good, but as some users have also pointed out, they can be inconsistent. Photos sometimes came out darker than on our phone screen, and skin tones could occasionally be off. It gives prints a distinct, slightly retro vibe, which we actually quite liked, but it won’t satisfy those seeking perfect colour accuracy. While some users report the app can be glitchy, our experience was smooth. For those who love the Sprocket concept but want a more substantial print, the HP Sprocket Select Portable Photo Printer is a solid and stylish choice.

#8 Canon Zoemini Instant Mini Photo Printer + 20 Sheets + 10 Circle Stickers – Ideal for: Budget-Friendly Sticker Making

The Canon Zoemini Instant Mini Photo Printer is Canon’s excellent entry into the ultra-portable Zink printer market. It’s incredibly slim and lightweight, easily fitting into a pocket, making it one of the most portable options we’ve tested. Setting it up was a five-minute job; we downloaded the Canon Mini Print app, paired it via Bluetooth, and were ready to go. We found the app to be a real highlight, offering a great range of filters, frames, AR effects, and even a tiling feature to create larger posters from multiple small prints. The included bundle with 20 sheets and 10 pre-cut circle stickers is a nice touch, letting you get creative right out of the box. The smudge-proof, tear-proof, and water-resistant nature of the prints makes them perfect for decorating phone cases, laptops, or journals.

Print quality is on par with other Zink printers. It’s not going to win awards for colour fidelity, but it’s more than adequate for its purpose. As many users suggest, it’s a good idea to slightly brighten your photos in the app before printing, as they can come out a little dark. We did notice that, on rare occasions, a faint line could appear on a print, a common issue with this technology. The biggest drawback, shared by many users, is the battery life, which tends to drain after about 10-15 prints. However, for quick, fun, and affordable sticker printing, the Canon Zoemini Instant Mini Photo Printer is a fantastic and easy-to-use gadget that’s perfect for creative projects.

#9 Phomemo M08F Portable Thermal Printer – Perfect for: Mobile Document and Stencil Printing

The Phomemo M08F Portable Thermal Printer is a different beast entirely from the other printers on this list. It’s not designed for colour photos but for A4 black-and-white documents, making it an invaluable tool for professionals on the move. We were immediately struck by its compact size; it’s about 80% smaller than a traditional printer and easily fits into a briefcase or backpack. The inkless thermal technology is the star here. For someone who prints infrequently, the fact that there’s no ink to dry out is a massive advantage. We tested it by printing invoices and contracts directly from our smartphone via Bluetooth, and the process was quick and seamless. The print quality for text and line art is sharp and clear.

This printer has found a niche following among tattoo artists for printing stencils, and we can see why. It handles the specific thermal paper well, producing a clean transfer. Our experience was confirmed by several users in this field who praised its performance compared to more expensive, dedicated machines. The built-in 1200mAh battery is robust, capable of printing over 100 sheets on a single charge. The main limitation is that it only prints in monochrome and requires special thermal paper, which is more expensive than standard A4. It’s not a photo printer, but for anyone needing to print A4 documents or stencils on the go without the hassle of ink, the Phomemo M08F Portable Thermal Printer is a brilliantly effective solution.

#10 Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Multifunction Wireless Printer – Suits: Serious Hobbyist Photographers

For those who are serious about photo quality, the Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Multifunction Wireless Printer is a superb all-in-one solution. This is a proper desktop inkjet printer, and it stands leagues above the portable gadgets in terms of print fidelity. Using its 6-colour Claria Photo HD Ink system, the XP-8700 produces stunning, vibrant, and incredibly detailed photos up to A4 size. We printed a range of images, from portraits to landscapes, and were consistently impressed by the professional, glossy finish and accurate colour reproduction. Epson claims these prints can last up to 300 years in an album, making it perfect for archival purposes. The large 10.9cm touchscreen makes standalone operation a breeze, and we appreciated the dual paper trays—one for plain paper and one for photo paper.

Beyond just printing, it’s a full-featured machine with high-quality scanning and copying capabilities. The wireless setup was straightforward, and printing from a mobile device via the Epson Smart Panel app worked flawlessly in our tests. However, as a traditional inkjet, you must factor in the ongoing cost of ink. The six individual cartridges can be costly to replace, although you only need to swap out the colour that runs out. Some users have reported issues with the rear paper feed being finicky with thicker media, and occasional firmware glitches. But if your primary goal is to produce the best possible photo prints at home without investing in a professional lab printer, the Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Multifunction Wireless Printer delivers exceptional results.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Print Technology: The biggest decision is between Zink (Zero Ink), Dye-Sublimation (Dye-Sub), and Inkjet. Zink is ultra-portable and mess-free but offers lower quality. Dye-sub provides excellent, durable prints in a compact form. Inkjet offers the highest quality and versatility but requires a larger desktop unit and ink cartridges.
• Portability vs. Quality: Do you want to print photos at a party or on holiday? A pocket-sized Zink or Instax printer is your best bet. If you want to create frame-worthy prints for an album at home, a desktop inkjet like the Epson XP-8700 is the clear winner.
• Print Size: Portable printers offer sizes from mini credit-card prints to larger square and wide formats. Desktop printers typically handle standard sizes up to A4. Decide what you’ll be using the photos for—small stickers for a journal or larger prints for a frame.
• Cost Per Print: This is a crucial long-term factor. Calculate the cost of the paper (and ink, for inkjets) divided by the number of prints per pack. Zink and Instax film can seem expensive per sheet, while inkjet costs are tied to both paper and ink consumption.
• Connectivity and App Features: All modern photo printers connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Check the companion app’s features. Some, like HP’s, are packed with fun AR and editing tools, which can significantly enhance the user experience.

Understanding Zink vs. Dye-Sublimation

Two of the most common technologies in portable printers are Zink and Dye-Sublimation, and they work very differently. Zink (Zero Ink) technology uses special paper embedded with colourless dye crystals. The printer uses heat to activate these crystals, bringing the colours to life. It’s brilliant because it requires no ink cartridges, making the printers very small. The trade-off is that colour accuracy can be limited, and prints can sometimes have a muted or vintage look.

Dye-Sublimation (Dye-Sub), used by models like the Kodak Dock Plus, uses a ribbon containing solid dyes. The print head heats the ribbon, turning the dye into a gas (sublimation) that permeates the surface of the photo paper. This happens in multiple passes for each colour (cyan, magenta, yellow) and is finished with a protective laminate coat. This process results in continuous tones, vibrant colours, and highly durable, waterproof prints that look and feel like traditional photos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Consumable Costs: Falling for a cheap printer without researching the price of its specific paper or ink can be a costly mistake. Always check the price of refill packs before you buy.
• Expecting Lab Quality from a Pocket Printer: Portable printers are designed for convenience and fun, not for professional-grade reproductions. Manage your expectations regarding colour accuracy and resolution.
• Choosing the Wrong Size: Don’t buy a mini printer if you want to frame your photos. Conversely, a large desktop printer is overkill if you just want small stickers for a scrapbook. Match the printer’s output to your primary need.
• Neglecting App Compatibility: Before purchasing, check recent reviews of the printer’s companion app on your phone’s app store. A buggy or unsupported app can render a perfectly good printer useless.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important feature to look for in a photo printer?

The most important feature depends on your primary use. For on-the-go printing and scrapbooking, portability and special paper types (like sticky-backed Zink paper) are key. For high-quality prints to frame or archive, print technology (like 6-colour inkjet or dye-sublimation) and maximum print resolution (DPI) are the most critical factors.

How much does it cost to print a photo at home in the UK?

The cost varies significantly by technology. For portable Zink or Instax printers, expect to pay between 45p and £1 per print, depending on the film format and pack size. For a desktop dye-sublimation printer like the Kodak Dock Plus, costs can be lower, around 30p-40p per 6×4″ print when buying bundle packs. For inkjet printers, the cost is a combination of paper (15p-50p per sheet) and ink, which is harder to calculate but can average out to a similar range for standard photos.

Are inkjet or dye-sublimation printers better for photos?

Both produce excellent results, but for different reasons. Inkjet printers (like the Epson XP-8700) offer higher resolutions, wider colour gamuts, and the ability to print on various paper types (glossy, matte, art paper), giving enthusiasts more control and potentially superior detail. Dye-sublimation printers create prints with smooth, continuous tones and a protective layer that makes them waterproof and durable right out of the printer, which is a major advantage for longevity and handling.

Do photo printers use a lot of ink?

Inkjet photo printers use more ink than when printing simple text documents because photos require dense coverage of multiple colours. Models with individual colour cartridges (like the Epson XP-8700) are more efficient because you only replace the colour that runs out. Zink, Instax, and thermal printers are “inkless,” as the colour chemistry is built into the paper or film, so you never have to buy ink for them.

What’s the difference between a normal printer and a photo printer?

While many normal printers can print photos, dedicated photo printers are optimised for the task. Key differences include: specialised ink systems (often with extra colours like light cyan or magenta for better tones), higher print resolution, the ability to handle thick photo paper without jamming, and features like borderless printing. Portable photo printers are a distinct category, designed for small-format, instant prints, a function most normal printers cannot perform.

Which brand is most reliable for photo printers in the UK?

Based on our testing and long-term user feedback, Epson and Canon are consistently reliable choices for high-quality desktop inkjet printing. For portable instant printers, Fujifilm’s INSTAX line is renowned for its reliability and consistent quality, while HP’s Sprocket series offers a solid and user-friendly experience. Reliability can be more variable with other brands, as seen with the mechanical issues reported on some Kodak models.

Can a photo printer also print documents well?

This depends on the type. A desktop inkjet photo printer like the Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 can print excellent documents, often using a separate pigment black ink cartridge for crisp, laser-like text. However, portable photo printers (Zink, Instax, etc.) are completely unsuitable for document printing as they are designed for small-format photos on special media only. A multifunction photo printer is the best choice if you need to do both.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing, we stand by our top choice: the HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Photo Printer. While it may not produce the highest fidelity prints on this list, it perfectly understands and executes its primary mission: to make photo printing fun, instant, and social. Its incredible portability means it’s the printer you’ll actually have with you when a memorable moment happens. The magic of peeling off the backing to create an instant sticker for a journal, a gift tag, or a friend’s notebook cannot be overstated. Combined with a genuinely enjoyable and feature-packed app, the Sprocket ecosystem provides a seamless experience from phone to print. For anyone looking to bring their digital memories into the physical world for scrapbooking, journaling, or simply sharing the joy of a tangible photo, the HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Photo Printer is the best and most delightful choice on the market.