Best Budget Photo Printer Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding a photo printer that delivers vibrant, lasting memories without breaking the bank can feel like a daunting task. In a market flooded with options, from pocket-sized instant printers to versatile all-in-one machines, it’s easy to get lost. That’s where we come in. We’ve spent weeks testing, printing, and evaluating the top budget-friendly photo printers available in the UK today. After rigorous testing, we’ve crowned the Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Wireless Inkjet Printer our top pick. It strikes the perfect balance between exceptional, gallery-worthy print quality thanks to its 6-colour ink system, and the everyday versatility of a high-performing scanner and copier, making it the best all-around investment for any home.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Budget Photo Printer Uk

#1 Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Wireless Inkjet Printer – Ideal for: High-Quality All-in-One Home Use

From the moment we unboxed the Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Wireless Inkjet Printer, we knew it was a strong contender for the top spot. This isn’t just a photo printer; it’s a versatile home creative hub. The setup process was refreshingly simple, guided by clear on-screen instructions on the large 10.9cm touchscreen, a sentiment echoed by many users who found the app-based video instructions particularly helpful. What truly sets this printer apart is its 6-colour Claria Photo HD Ink system. In our tests, it produced stunning, vibrant, and incredibly detailed A4 photos that could easily be mistaken for professional lab prints. The colours were rich and accurate, capturing subtle gradients and skin tones with remarkable fidelity. We also appreciated the dual paper trays—one for A4 and a dedicated tray for photo paper—which eliminates the constant swapping of media. For more creative projects, the rear specialty media feed handled thicker card stock without a hitch. While it also functions as a scanner and copier, its primary strength is undeniably photo output. We did note that, as some users mentioned, it’s not the fastest printer on the market, but for the exceptional quality it delivers, we found the wait to be more than worthwhile. It’s the perfect middle ground between budget and professional performance.

#2 HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Instant Photo Printer – Perfect for: Social Media and Scrapbooking on the Go

For those who value spontaneity and portability, the HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Instant Photo Printer is a delightful little gadget. Small enough to slip into a pocket, it turns your smartphone into an instant camera. We found it incredibly fun to use at social gatherings, allowing us to print and share memories on the spot. The Zink (Zero Ink) technology is brilliant—no messy cartridges to worry about, just load the sticky-backed paper and you’re ready to go. The HP Sprocket App is where the magic happens; it’s packed with filters, frames, and emojis, making photo personalisation a breeze. This makes it a fantastic tool for journaling, scrapbooking, and creative projects. However, it’s important to set expectations for print quality. In our tests, the 2×3 inch prints were clear and perfectly adequate for their intended use, but they don’t rival the quality of an inkjet printer. Some users reported that colours can appear faded or that lines can appear on the prints, an issue we encountered intermittently. We also noticed the battery doesn’t hold its charge for very long when idle, often requiring a top-up before use. Despite these minor drawbacks, for its price and convenience, it’s an excellent choice for instant, tangible keepsakes.

#3 INSTAX mini Link 3 Smartphone Photo Printer – Suits: Creating Authentic Instant-Film Prints

The INSTAX mini Link 3 Smartphone Photo Printer offers the best of both worlds: the convenience of digital photography and the nostalgic charm of instant film. Instead of Zink paper, it uses actual Fujifilm Instax mini film, which we found produces that classic, beloved instant-photo aesthetic with rich colours and a tangible quality. The setup was a breeze; after a quick charge via USB-C, it connected to our smartphone seamlessly. The companion app is intuitive and loaded with creative features like collage modes, filters, and even the ability to print a still frame from a video. We particularly liked this feature, as it allows you to capture the perfect moment without wasting precious film. The printer itself is compact, lightweight, and stylishly designed. Our experience was confirmed by users who praised its portability and the high quality of the prints. While the initial setup requires a full charge, which some found wasn’t immediately obvious from the instructions, the battery life during use was solid. The main consideration here is the ongoing cost of Instax film, which is pricier than Zink paper. However, for those who love the look and feel of real instant photos but want the control to edit and select their best shots, this printer is an outstanding choice.

#4 INSTAX SQUARE Link Smartphone Photo Printer – Ideal for: Iconic Square-Format Instant Prints

Building on the success of its Mini counterpart, the INSTAX SQUARE Link Smartphone Photo Printer brings the larger, iconic square format to smartphone printing. We were immediately impressed by the added real estate of the SQUARE film; the 62x62mm print area feels more substantial and gives photos more impact. Just like the Mini Link, this printer uses real film, delivering excellent colour fidelity and that distinct instant-photo charm. Connecting via Bluetooth was straightforward, although we noted some Android users experienced minor hiccups during the initial sync, which required connecting directly to the printer’s Wi-Fi. The app is a standout feature, offering a plethora of creative tools, including AR Print which embeds hidden messages or links into a QR code on the photo—a fun, interactive touch. The print quality itself is fantastic, a point many users agree on, though some perfectionists advise a slight bump in contrast and saturation on your phone before printing for the absolute best results. While the cost of SQUARE film is a factor to consider, the ability to select and edit your best shots from your phone before committing to a print makes it far more economical than a traditional instant camera. For those who love the square format, this is a brilliant, well-executed device.

#5 KODAK Dock Plus Instant Photo Printer Bundle – Perfect for: Traditional 6×4 Inch Photo Prints at Home

If you’re looking for a simple way to produce standard 6×4 inch photos at home, the KODAK Dock Plus Instant Photo Printer Bundle is a compelling option. Unlike the smaller, portable printers, this is a stationary dock that produces prints that are ready for framing. It uses 4PASS dye-sublimation technology, which we found to be fascinating to watch. The paper passes through the printer four times, layering on yellow, magenta, and cyan, followed by a final protective laminate coat. This process results in high-quality, fingerprint-proof, and water-resistant photos with excellent colour accuracy and contrast. We found the setup to be very straightforward, and the ability to print wirelessly via Bluetooth or dock your phone on top is a convenient touch. The included bundle with 90 sheets of paper and cartridges offers great initial value. However, our testing experience wasn’t flawless. We, along with several other users, encountered issues with the ink ribbon. On a few occasions, the ribbon stuck to the paper and tore, rendering the cartridge useless. While the print quality is great when it works, this reliability issue is a significant concern that prevents it from ranking higher. When it performs as intended, it’s a fantastic home printer for standard-sized photos.

#6 KODAK Mini 2 Retro 4PASS Photo Printer Bundle – Suits: High-Quality Portable Photo Printing

The KODAK Mini 2 Retro 4PASS Photo Printer Bundle successfully bridges the gap between the portability of a Zink printer and the superior quality of a dye-sublimation model. This compact device produces 2.1×3.4 inch prints that are noticeably better than their Zink counterparts. We were very impressed with the 4PASS technology in this small format; the colours were vibrant and true-to-life, and the final laminated layer gives the photos a durable, high-quality feel. It’s an excellent choice for scrapbooking or travel journaling when quality matters. The Kodak app is easy to navigate, connecting quickly via Bluetooth and allowing for simple edits before printing. One of our favourite features is the option to print with or without a border, adding to its retro appeal. However, the device is not without its flaws. The cartridge mechanism feels quite fragile, and as some users pointed out, it’s easy to damage the delicate ink film during insertion if you’re not careful. We also experienced occasional paper jams, which can be frustrating and wasteful. Despite these mechanical sensitivities, when it works, the print quality is arguably the best among the mini printers we tested, making it a fantastic choice for those who prioritize output quality in a portable package.

#7 INSTAX LINK Photo Printer Bluetooth App – Ideal for: The Largest Instant-Film Prints

For those who feel the mini and square formats are just too small, the INSTAX LINK Photo Printer Bluetooth App (or LINK WIDE) is the answer. It produces the largest prints in the Instax family, and in our testing, the extra size makes a huge difference. Photos feel more substantial and impactful, making them perfect for sharing or displaying. Like its smaller siblings, it uses real Instax film, which delivers that beautiful, slightly vintage aesthetic with great colour saturation. The app is straightforward and packed with features, including over 30 templates and a clever QR code mode that can embed a hidden sound, message, or URL into your print. This adds a fun, interactive element that we really enjoyed. We found the printer easy to set up and use, a sentiment shared by many users who love being able to give out high-quality, generously-sized prints at events. The print quality is excellent for an instant film product. The main drawback, as with all Instax printers, is the cost of the film. WIDE film is the most expensive of the formats, so you’ll want to be selective about what you print. However, for creating truly impressive and memorable instant photos, the LINK WIDE is in a class of its own.

#8 HP Sprocket Select Portable Color Photo Printer – Perfect for: Larger Zink Prints and Portability

The HP Sprocket Select Portable Color Photo Printer is HP’s answer to those who like the idea of the original Sprocket but want slightly larger photos. It prints on 2.3×3.4 inch sticky-backed Zink paper, which is 30% larger than the standard model. In our hands-on testing, this size increase was a welcome improvement, making the photos feel more substantial and detailed. The printer itself is incredibly slim and stylish, with a magnetic lid that makes reloading paper a snap. Setup via the HP Sprocket app and Bluetooth was simple and quick. The app remains a strong point, offering extensive customisation options, from fun AR features to exclusive filters and stickers. However, the fundamental limitations of Zink technology are still present. We found that the print quality can be inconsistent; while some photos came out great, others appeared dark and lacked colour vibrancy, a complaint voiced by several users. Getting the best results often required pre-editing photos to boost brightness and contrast. While it’s a step up in size from the smaller Sprocket, it still can’t match the quality of dye-sublimation or inkjet printers. It’s an excellent choice for casual users, scrapbookers, and teens who prioritize portability and fun over perfect colour accuracy.

#9 Canon Zoemini Instant Mini Photo Printer + 20 Sheets + 10 Circle Stickers – Suits: Creative Journaling and Sticker Making

The Canon Zoemini Instant Mini Photo Printer enters the crowded portable printer market with a strong focus on creativity and ease of use. This slim, pocket-sized device uses Zink technology to produce 2×3 inch sticky-backed prints. We found the setup process to be incredibly fast; within five minutes of unboxing, we were printing our first photo via the Canon Mini Print App. The app is a major highlight, offering a tiling feature to create larger posters from multiple prints, as well as unique pre-cut circle stickers, which this bundle conveniently includes. This makes the Zoemini a fantastic tool for bullet journaling, scrapbooking, and personalising belongings. In terms of print quality, it’s on par with other Zink printers we’ve tested. As many users noted, photos can print slightly darker than they appear on screen, so we recommend brightening them in the app before printing. The quality is perfectly suitable for crafts and casual snaps. However, we did encounter some of the issues mentioned in user feedback, including occasional prints with a white line across them and a battery that depletes rather quickly. Despite these potential hiccups, its ease of use and creative app features make it a strong and fun contender in the budget mini printer space.

#10 Phomemo M08F Portable A4 Thermal Printer – Ideal for: Printing Documents and Stencils on the Go

While not strictly a photo printer, the Phomemo M08F Portable A4 Thermal Printer earns its spot on our list for its sheer utility and budget-friendly, ink-free operation. This is an A4 printer you can hold in one hand. For anyone who needs to print documents, invoices, or contracts while away from the office, it’s a game-changer. We were incredibly impressed by its compact size and how simple it was to set up. Using Bluetooth with the Phomemo app on our phone, we were printing in seconds. It uses thermal technology, which means you’ll never buy ink or toner again, but you must use special thermal paper. The print quality for black and white text and simple graphics is sharp and clear. Many users, particularly tattoo artists, have praised it for its ability to print high-quality stencils. However, it is not designed for grayscale photo printing. When we tried printing a photograph, the result was a high-contrast, grainy black-and-white image, lacking any subtle tones. So, if you need a portable solution for documents, line art, or stencils, this is an outstanding and economical device. If your primary need is printing photos, you should look elsewhere on this list.

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

Key Factors to Consider

• Print Technology: The three main types in the budget market are Inkjet, Zink (Zero Ink), and Dye-Sublimation (like Kodak’s 4PASS). Inkjet, like our top pick Epson, offers the best quality and versatility for different paper types but requires ink cartridges. Zink is ultra-portable and ink-free but offers lower photo quality. Dye-sublimation provides durable, high-quality prints but is often less portable and can be prone to mechanical issues.
• Portability vs. Print Size: Do you want to print on the go or at home? Pocket printers like the HP Sprocket or INSTAX LINK are fantastic for travel and events but are limited to small print sizes. Larger, stationary models like the Epson XP-8700 or KODAK Dock Plus can produce standard A4 or 6×4 inch prints but need a dedicated space.
• Running Costs: The initial price of the printer is only part of the story. Consider the cost per print. Zink paper can be pricey, but you never buy ink. Instax film is often the most expensive consumable. For inkjet printers, factor in the cost of both ink cartridges and photo paper.
• Connectivity: Most modern photo printers connect wirelessly to your smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Check compatibility with your device (iOS/Android) and how intuitive the companion app is, as this is how you will be controlling the printer.

Understanding Print Resolution (DPI)

DPI stands for “Dots Per Inch” and refers to the number of individual dots of ink a printer can place within a one-inch line. A higher DPI generally means a sharper, more detailed image. For instance, the Epson XP-8700 boasts a high resolution of 5760 x 1440 DPI, contributing to its superb photo quality. Portable Zink printers typically have a much lower resolution, around 300 DPI, which is why their prints are less sharp. While DPI is an important number, technology also plays a huge role. A 300 DPI dye-sublimation print can often look better than a 300 DPI Zink print because of how the colour is applied in continuous tones rather than tiny dots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Cost Per Print: A very cheap printer might have extremely expensive cartridges or paper, making it costly in the long run. Always research the price of consumables before buying.
• Expecting Lab Quality from a Pocket Printer: Zink and mini-printers are designed for fun and convenience, not for professional-grade photo archiving. Set your expectations accordingly.
• Forgetting to Buy Paper: Many printers, especially instant ones, come with only a small starter pack of paper (or film). Make sure to add a larger pack to your basket so you’re not disappointed.
• Not Using the Right Paper: Always use the manufacturer-recommended paper for your printer. Using third-party paper can lead to jams, poor quality, and even damage to the device.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best photo printer available in the UK for under £100?

For under £100, the best options are typically portable mini printers. The KODAK Mini 2 Retro 4PASS Photo Printer Bundle often falls in this price range and offers superior dye-sublimation quality. The HP Sprocket 2×3 Inch Instant Photo Printer and Canon Zoemini are also excellent Zink-based choices that focus on portability and creativity for under £100.

Are cheap photo printers expensive to run in the long term?

They can be. The business model for many budget printers involves selling the hardware at a low price and making a profit on proprietary ink, toner, or special paper. Before purchasing, calculate the “cost per print” by dividing the price of a paper/ink bundle by the number of prints it yields. This will give you a much clearer picture of the long-term cost.

What features do you sacrifice with a budget photo printer?

With budget models, you typically sacrifice print size, speed, and multi-functionality. High-end printers offer larger format printing (A3+), faster speeds, more ink colours for better accuracy, and advanced features like touchscreens and multiple paper trays. Budget printers are often single-function and focused on smaller, standard photo sizes.

Can you still get high-quality prints from a budget model?

Absolutely. Our top pick, the Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Wireless Inkjet Printer, is a budget-friendly model that produces exceptional, high-quality photos thanks to its 6-colour ink system. Similarly, dye-sublimation printers like the KODAK models deliver very high-quality, durable prints for their price point.

What are the typical running costs (ink and paper) for a budget printer?

Running costs vary by technology. For an inkjet like the Epson, a full set of cartridges might cost £50-£70. For Zink printers (HP, Canon), a 50-sheet pack of paper costs around £25, making each print about 50p. For Instax printers, a 20-shot pack of film is about £15, making each print 75p. For dye-sublimation printers (Kodak), a cartridge and paper bundle for 80-120 prints can range from £30-£40, making the cost per print around 30-40p.

Which budget brands offer the best value for money?

Based on our testing, Epson offers fantastic value for all-in-one inkjet models that don’t compromise on photo quality. For portable printing, Kodak’s dye-sublimation models provide excellent print quality for the price, while brands like INSTAX, HP, and Canon offer great value if your priority is the fun and convenience of instant sticker photos.

Is it better to buy a budget printer or use a printing kiosk?

This depends on your printing volume. If you only print a handful of photos a few times a year, a kiosk is more economical. Kiosks typically charge 25-50p per 6×4 print. If you plan to print photos regularly, create scrapbooks, or want the convenience of printing instantly at home or at events, investing in a budget printer quickly becomes the more cost-effective and convenient option.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive testing, our firm recommendation for the best budget photo printer is the Epson Expression Photo XP-8700 Wireless Inkjet Printer. It stands out from the competition by offering a rare combination of affordability, versatility, and truly exceptional photo quality. While portable printers are fantastic for their novelty and convenience, the XP-8700 provides lasting, frame-worthy prints that you’ll be proud to display. Its 6-colour Claria Photo HD ink system produces vibrant, detailed images that rival professional services, and its ability to also function as a high-quality scanner and copier makes it an invaluable tool for any modern home. It is the smartest investment for anyone serious about printing their memories without needing a professional-grade budget.