6 Best Portable Color Printers for 2026
If you need reliable, high-quality portable color printers in 2026, consider models like the Canon PIXMA TR160, Epson WF-110, HP OfficeJet 250, and Canon Selphy CP1500 and QX20. These best portable color printers deliver vibrant prints and wireless connectivity, making them ideal for on-the-go use.
Battery options add true mobility, allowing you to print anywhere without hassle. Whether you want photo-quality dye-sublimation prints or versatile media handling, these devices cover your needs with ease.
Keep exploring to find which printer fits your specific lifestyle and creative projects best. With these top portable color printers, convenience and quality go hand in hand.
| Image | Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Compact Printer
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND PORTABLE - Connect and print on the go with the PIXMA TR160. This lightweight portable printer can...
- HIGH-QUALITY PRINTING ON THE GO - Print documents and photos up to 8.5” x 11” that showcase sharp black text...
- SIMPLE & EASY CONNECTIVITY - Printing is only an app away when using the Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint4, or...
- WIRELESS DIRECT MODE - Connect your compatible device to the printer even without a wireless router.
- 1.44” OLED DISPLAY - Easily check ink levels, printer status, and other settings with the 1.44” Monochrome...
Experience effortless, high-quality printing wherever you go with the Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Compact Printer. Designed for mobility, this lightweight and compact printer fits easily into your bag, enabling you to print sharp color documents and photos on demand. Its small size doesn’t sacrifice performance, making it a practical solution for professionals and creatives working remotely.
Maintaining the printer is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly 1.44” OLED display. This screen provides quick status updates, helping you manage print jobs and ink levels efficiently. The optional battery lets you print without being tethered to a power outlet, adding true portability to your workflow.
The PIXMA TR160 supports various media sizes through a 50-sheet tray, allowing you to handle different printing needs without frequent refills. Its 5-Color Hybrid Ink System ensures vibrant colors and crisp text, enhancing the quality of presentations, reports, and photos alike. Wireless connectivity options such as the Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, and direct wireless mode simplify printing from multiple devices.
While it lacks duplex printing and has limited paper capacity, its compact design and reliable color output make it an excellent tool for mobile use. The basic OLED display offers essential functionality without overwhelming complexity, focusing on practical operation.
Best for: Mobile professionals and creatives who require a portable, high-quality color printer for on-the-go document and photo printing.
What We Like:
- Lightweight, portable design with optional battery for true mobility
- Crisp, vibrant prints using a 5-Color Hybrid Ink System
- Easy wireless setup via Canon PRINT app, AirPrint, and direct wireless mode
- Compact size fits conveniently in small spaces or bags
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Canon |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | 12.7” x 7.3” x 2.6” |
| Weight | 4.5 lb |
| Ink System | 5-Color Hybrid Ink System |
| Paper Capacity | 50 sheets |
| Display | 1.44” OLED |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Canon PRINT, AirPrint, Direct) |
Epson Workforce WF-110 Wireless Color Mobile Printer,White, Small,Black
- Epson printing system is designed to be used exclusively with Epson Genuine Cartridges. Use of non-genuine ink...
- Flexible battery charging — Choose from a variety of charging options, including via USB and AC adapter, or print...
- Built-in battery — a rechargeable lithium-ion battery offers dependable performance in a small package.
- External accessory battery available — for even greater Print volume.
- Wireless connectivity, plus Wi-Fi Direct (1) — Wi-Fi 5; easily print from iPad, iPhone, tablets, smartphones and...
Experience true mobility with the Epson Workforce WF-110, designed for those who demand reliable color printing wherever they go. This wireless mobile printer solves the challenge of bulky equipment by offering a compact, lightweight solution that fits easily in your bag. It lets you produce sharp, vibrant prints with ease, enhancing your productivity on the move.
Weighing just 4.6 pounds, the WF-110’s ultra-portable design makes it simple to carry and operate anywhere. Its wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi 5 and USB options, lets you print directly from multiple devices without hassle. The built-in rechargeable battery ensures you can work without needing constant access to power outlets.
Maintenance is straightforward with genuine Epson cartridges, ensuring consistent print quality. While the printer handles media sizes up to 4 x 6 inches, its limited paper capacity of 20 sheets means you’ll want to plan ahead for larger tasks. Print speeds may slow when running on battery, but this trade-off supports flexibility and cordless convenience.
The Epson Workforce WF-110 is ideal for professionals who need dependable, on-the-go color printing without the bulk. Its combination of portability, wireless ease, and sharp output makes it a practical tool for business travelers and mobile offices.
Best for: Mobile professionals and business travelers requiring a compact, lightweight color printer for efficient on-the-go use.
What We Like:
- Lightweight and highly portable at just 4.6 pounds
- Sharp, high-resolution color and B&W prints up to 5760 x 1440 dpi
- Multiple wireless connectivity options including Wi-Fi 5 and USB
- Rechargeable battery supports cordless printing for increased mobility
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Epson |
| Dimensions | Compact (exact size not provided) |
| Weight | 4.6 lb (2.09 kg) |
| Color Options | White, Black |
| Media Size | Up to 4 x 6 inches |
HP OfficeJet 250 Wireless Mobile Printer (CZ992A)
- BUSINESS PRINTING—VIRTUALLY ANYWHERE - Use your laptop, tablet, or smartphone to print, scan, and copy on the go...
- EASY PORTABLE PRINTING, SCANNING, AND COPYING WHEREVER YOU NEED IT - Print business documents anytime, anywhere...
- HP APP - Print and scan right from your smartphone with the easiest-to-use print app
- EASY SETUP AND PRINTING FROM MOBILE DEVICES - HP Auto Wireless Connect allows for easy setup right out of the box...
- POWER UP, FAST - Charge within 90 minutes while the printer is turned off, with HP Fast Charge; plug in your AC...
The HP OfficeJet 250 Wireless Mobile Printer is designed to meet the needs of professionals who require reliable printing while on the move. This compact all-in-one device enables you to print, scan, and copy without being tied to a desk. Its wireless connectivity allows seamless operation from laptops, tablets, or smartphones, helping you stay productive wherever work takes you.
Thanks to its rechargeable battery with Fast Charge, you can complete tasks in locations without a power source. The 10-page automatic document feeder simplifies handling multipage documents, saving time and effort. Maintenance is straightforward, with easy cartridge replacements ensuring minimal downtime during busy periods.
The printer delivers borderless, high-resolution prints on a variety of media sizes, supporting diverse business needs. Cloud printing via the HP Smart app adds convenience, allowing you to send jobs remotely and manage tasks efficiently. Weighing just 6.5 pounds, its portable design balances performance with mobility for professionals on tight schedules.
While the battery life may require recharging during extended use, and print speeds are moderate, the device offers a solid balance of functionality and convenience. The use of HP 62 cartridges means replacement costs should be considered for high-volume printing but ensures consistent print quality.
Best for: professionals and mobile workers who need a compact, versatile, and wireless all-in-one printer for printing, scanning, and copying on the go.
What We Like:
- Lightweight, portable design with a rechargeable Fast Charge battery.
- Wireless printing from multiple devices and cloud connectivity via HP Smart app.
- 10-page automatic document feeder for efficient multipage jobs.
- Borderless, high-resolution printing on various media sizes.
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | HP |
| Dimensions | Not specified |
| Weight | 6.5 lb (2.95 kg) |
| Connectivity | Wireless (Wi-Fi) |
| Battery | Rechargeable with Fast Charge |
| Media Handling | 10-page automatic document feeder |
| Print Quality | Borderless, high-resolution |
Canon Selphy CP1500 Photo Printer Bundle (White)
- Complete Photo Printing Bundle Everything you need in one kit: Canon Selphy CP printer, KP-108 photo paper...
- Lab-Quality Prints at Home Dye-sublimation technology delivers vibrant, professional-quality 4x6 photos that are...
- Wireless & Compact Design Easily print from your smartphone, tablet, or computer via Wi-Fi. Compact and portable...
- Easy Setup – No Guesswork Pre-matched paper and ink means no compatibility issues. Just load, connect, and start...
- Perfect for Events & Gifts Ideal for parties, scrapbooking, journaling, or instant memories. Includes cleaning...
The Canon Selphy CP1500 offers a simple solution for anyone who wants quick, high-quality photo prints without the hassle of bulky equipment. Its wireless dye-sublimation technology creates vibrant, durable 4×6-inch prints that resist water and fingerprints, preserving your precious memories longer. This compact printer fits easily into any space, making it ideal for home use, events, or travel.
Connecting the Selphy CP1500 to your smartphone, tablet, or computer is seamless thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi. You can print directly from your devices without dealing with cables or complicated setups. The printer’s sharp 300 x 300 DPI resolution ensures your photos come out clear and detailed every time.
Included in the bundle are 108 sheets of glossy photo paper, three ink cartridges, and a microfiber cleaning cloth. These essentials help you maintain the printer for consistent performance and keep it in excellent condition. While the Selphy CP1500 focuses solely on photo printing, its compact design and ease of use make it a convenient choice for casual and hobbyist photographers.
Although it only prints 4×6 photos and lacks scanning or copying functions, the Selphy CP1500 delivers reliable, lab-quality prints at a steady pace, perfect for personal keepsakes or small events.
Best for: Individuals seeking a compact, wireless photo printer for durable, high-quality 4×6 prints at home or on the go.
What We Like:
- Produces vibrant, water- and fingerprint-resistant 4×6 photos with sharp resolution
- Wireless connectivity enables easy printing from multiple devices
- Bundle includes photo paper, ink cartridges, and cleaning cloth for maintenance
- Compact size ideal for portability and small spaces
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Canon |
| Dimensions | Compact (exact size not specified) |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Color Options | White |
| Print Size | 4 x 6 inches |
| Resolution | 300 x 300 DPI |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
Canon SELPHY CP1500 Photo Printer Bundle (Black)
- Wireless Dye-Sublimation Printing: Experience cutting-edge printing_technology with the Canon SELPHY CP...
- Multiple Print Sizes & Finishes – Supports 4" x 6", card-size (2.1" x 3.4"), square label (2.1" x 2.1"), and mini...
- Seamless Wireless Printing – Print directly from Wi-Fi-enabled smartphones, tablets, SD cards, and USB drives...
- Compact & Portable – Lightweight design with an optional battery pack for on-the-go printing. Perfect for travel...
- Complete Package for Instant Printing – Includes Canon KP-36IP Color Ink and Paper Set, providing everything...
Capture and print your favorite moments with ease using the Canon SELPHY CP1500 photo printer. This compact, portable printer delivers vibrant, lab-quality 4 x 6-inch photos, ideal for preserving memories wherever you go. Its wireless dye-sublimation technology produces fade-resistant prints with a smooth finish, ensuring your photos look great for years.
Designed for convenience, the SELPHY CP1500 connects effortlessly to smartphones, tablets, USB drives, or SD cards via Wi-Fi or USB. The 3.5-inch LCD screen and Canon SELPHY Layout app let you customize photo layouts and apply creative filters on the spot, making it simple to personalize your prints. The printer is lightweight and easy to carry, and with the optional battery pack, you can print without needing a power outlet.
Maintenance is straightforward with included accessories such as a cleaning kit, keeping your prints consistent and the printer running smoothly. While the printer supports duplex capability, it is primarily intended for single-sided photo prints. Print speed is moderate, producing about one page per minute, which balances quality with usability.
This device is perfect for users who want a reliable, user-friendly photo printer that fits both travel and home use. It solves the problem of needing quick, quality prints without bulky equipment or complicated setups.
Best for: Anyone looking for a portable, easy-to-use photo printer that produces vibrant, fade-resistant prints with versatile connectivity options.
What We Like:
- Produces durable, high-quality photos with customizable finishes
- Supports wireless printing from multiple devices including smartphones and USB drives
- Compact and lightweight design with optional battery for true portability
- Includes useful accessories like a cleaning kit for easy maintenance
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Canon |
| Dimensions | Compact size (approx.) |
| Weight | Lightweight |
| Color Options | Black |
| Print Size | Up to 4 x 6 inches |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB |
Canon SELPHY QX20 Compact Photo Printer Dark Gray
- Compact and portable photo printer with built-in battery and integrated paper tray.
- Prints on Canon’s new XC-20L (2.1” x 3.4”) Card-size sticker paper as well as with the existing XS-20L...
- Connect and print directly from Android and iOS devices via easy-to-use QR code Wi-Fi connection.
- High image quality using Dye Sublimation prints like the SELPHY QX10 including pattern overlay.
- When printing is complete, your photos will be instantly dry, marker-ready, waterresistant, and will continue to...
Experience the freedom of printing vibrant, waterproof stickers anytime, anywhere with the Canon SELPHY QX20 Compact Photo Printer. Designed for portability, this lightweight and compact printer easily fits in your bag, making it a convenient companion for creative projects on the move. It uses advanced dye-sublimation technology to deliver sharp, borderless prints that resist water and fading, preserving your memories for up to 100 years.
The QX20 connects seamlessly to your Android or iOS device through Wi-Fi or USB-C, allowing you to customize your prints with filters and stickers via the Canon SELPHY app. Its quick print speed delivers 2.1” x 3.4” or 2.7” square stickers in about 40 seconds, making it ideal for spontaneous creativity. This printer is perfect for enhancing journaling, scrapbooking, or crafting personalized gifts.
Maintenance is straightforward, but keep in mind that the printer requires proprietary sticker paper, which adds to ongoing costs. It prints one sheet at a time, and its maximum resolution of 300 dpi supports simplex (single-sided) printing only. Despite these limitations, the QX20’s durable design and intuitive controls provide a reliable and user-friendly experience.
Best for: Creative individuals seeking a portable, easy-to-use printer for producing quick, high-quality, waterproof stickers for journaling, scrapbooking, and DIY projects.
What We Like:
- Compact, lightweight design with built-in battery for on-the-go use
- Produces vivid, long-lasting, borderless prints using dye-sublimation
- Easy connectivity via Wi-Fi or USB-C with an intuitive customization app
- Fast print speed suitable for quick, creative sticker printing
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Canon |
| Dimensions | Compact size (exact size not specified) |
| Weight | Lightweight (exact weight not specified) |
| Technology | Dye-sublimation |
| Print Size | 2.1” x 3.4” or 2.7” square |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB-C |
| Color Options | Dark Gray |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Color Printer
When choosing a portable color printer, you’ll want to focus on print quality and resolution to guarantee your photos look sharp. Consider how portable the device is, including its weight and battery life, so it fits your on-the-go needs.
Don’t forget to check connectivity options and supported media sizes to make sure it works smoothly with your devices and printing tasks.
Print Quality and Resolution
How sharp and vibrant do you want your prints to be? Print quality hinges largely on resolution, measured in dpi (dots per inch). Higher dpi, like 4800 x 1200, means finer detail and richer colors, perfect for photos and detailed graphics.
Aim for at least 300 dpi to guarantee your photos look clear and professional. But resolution isn’t everything. The printer’s ink system and media compatibility also play key roles, working together to bring out color accuracy and smooth gradations.
Portability and Weight
Choosing a portable color printer means balancing performance with portability, and weight plays a crucial role. A lightweight printer, typically between 4 to 7 pounds, makes it easy for you to carry it wherever you go. Compact dimensions are just as important, ensuring the printer fits comfortably in your bag, backpack, or briefcase.
Keep in mind that additional accessories like batteries or carrying cases add to the overall weight, impacting portability. The lighter the printer, the less fatigue you’ll experience during extended use or travel. When selecting a model, consider both size and weight to make sure it’s convenient to transport without compromising performance.
This balance helps you stay productive on the move without feeling weighed down.
Battery Life and Power
Battery life plays a crucial role in keeping your portable color printer ready for action wherever you are. You want a printer with a battery that lasts long enough to print multiple pages without needing a recharge, especially when you’re on the move. Check the battery capacity, usually measured in mAh or the estimated number of prints per charge, to gauge how much you can print before running out of power.
Consider whether the printer uses an internal rechargeable battery or supports external power banks, so it fits your mobility needs. Fast recharge times and clear battery status indicators help you manage power efficiently during extended use. Some models even offer optional external batteries or higher-capacity versions, letting you print more between charges.
Connectivity Options Available
Once you’ve considered power needs, it’s just as important to look at how your portable printer connects to your devices. Most models offer wireless options like Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, or Bluetooth, making it easy to print from multiple devices without cables. Many also support cloud printing, so you can print directly from online storage platforms without needing a computer.
For times when wireless connections are unstable or unavailable, USB connectivity provides a reliable wired alternative. Additionally, some printers come with dedicated apps for mobile or desktop control, streamlining the printing process. Make sure the printer you choose supports your devices’ operating systems, whether iOS, Android, Windows, or macOS, to guarantee seamless connectivity and hassle-free printing wherever you go.
Supported Media Sizes
When selecting a portable color printer, you’ll want to make certain it supports the media sizes you use most often, such as 4×6-inch photos or standard letter-sized paper. Check if the printer handles borderless printing for those sizes, which is essential for professional-looking photos. Also, verify compatibility with different media types like envelopes, cards, or photo paper, depending on your needs.
If you often print on custom or less common sizes, make sure the printer can accommodate those as well. Although capacity is important, focus here on the range of supported sizes and media types to match your projects. By choosing a printer that meets these criteria, you’ll enjoy versatile, high-quality results without worrying about media limitations or frequent adjustments.
Print Speed and Capacity
Print speed and capacity play crucial roles in how effectively a portable color printer handles your tasks. Higher print speeds, typically ranging from 9 to 20 pages per minute (PPM), help you breeze through multiple-page jobs without long waits. If you often print in bursts, a faster model keeps your workflow smooth and efficient.
Meanwhile, a larger media capacity means you won’t have to reload paper frequently, saving you time and hassle. Look for printers that support various media sizes and types to boost versatility, though keep in mind this might affect print speed depending on the material.
Balancing print speed and capacity ensures your portable printer meets your workload demands without compromising convenience, making your mobile printing experience seamless and productive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do the Printer Batteries Typically Last on a Full Charge?
You’ll usually get between 2 to 4 hours of battery life on a full charge, depending on usage and printer model.
If you print frequently, expect shorter times, but lighter use can extend battery performance.
Can These Printers Connect Directly to Smartphones Without Wi-Fi?
Like a secret handshake, many portable printers connect directly to your smartphone via Bluetooth, so you don’t need Wi-Fi.
You’ll print instantly, cutting the cord and freeing you to create anywhere, anytime.
What Types of Ink Cartridges Are Compatible With These Printers?
You’ll find these printers use dye-based or pigment-based ink cartridges, often from original manufacturers or compatible third parties.
Check your model’s specifications to guarantee cartridge compatibility and avoid print quality issues or damage.
Are There Any Printers Here Suitable for Printing Labels?
Label lovers, search no further! You’ll find some sleek, smart printers suitable for sharp, sturdy label printing. They handle adhesive sheets effortlessly, letting you create crisp, colorful, custom labels wherever you go.
Do These Printers Support Borderless Photo Printing?
Yes, many of these printers support borderless photo printing, letting you print vibrant, edge-to-edge photos without white margins.
Just check each model’s specs to confirm compatibility with your preferred photo sizes and paper types.
Conclusion
Choosing the best portable color printer for 2026 means thinking about your needs, whether it’s crisp photos or quick document prints on the go. Don’t forget battery life, size, and connectivity—these matter as much as the print quality.
With options like Canon, Epson, and HP, you’ll find the perfect fit without hunting like it’s 1999. So, grab your favorite model and print away wherever you roam!
When selecting the best portable color printer, consider factors like portability, print speed, and image quality. These features ensure you get reliable performance in a compact package. The best portable color printers for 2026 combine convenience with excellent results, making them ideal for work or travel.
