In an age when almost everything can be emailed, scanned, or stored in the cloud, the idea of owning a portable printer might sound unnecessary — until that moment when you absolutely need a hard copy of an important document or photo, and you don't have one. That’s where these compact printing powerhouses come in handy.
Portable printers are perfect for those “just in case” moments — printing a tax form, signing a contract on the go, or quickly sharing a photo at a party. While they may be small in size, many of today’s portable printers pack in impressive features like wireless printing, high-quality output, and even battery operation for full mobility. Whether you're a remote worker, frequent traveler, or someone who appreciates having physical photos and documents, a portable printer can be a surprisingly useful tool to have in your tech lineup.
After hands-on testing and thorough research, we’ve narrowed down the best portable printers for 2025. Each of these models is designed for different needs — from full-page documents to pocket-sized photo prints — but all offer convenience, quality, and performance you can rely on.
If you're looking for a well-rounded portable printer that balances power with portability, Canon’s PIXMA TR160 hits a sweet spot. It’s compact enough to toss in a bag but strong enough to replace a small desktop printer.
This model is great for printing full-sized documents on the go. It also supports wireless printing from your smartphone, laptop, or even cloud storage. One of its standout features is the ability to run on battery power, making it a true mobile solution when you’re away from an outlet.
Its compact design doesn’t mean it skimps on quality — text looks clean and sharp, and it supports color printing too, though photo prints might not be gallery-level vibrant. While it doesn’t support double-sided printing, its overall versatility makes it a top choice for most users.
For those who want more than just printing — think scanning and copying too — HP’s OfficeJet 250 delivers all the functionality of a home office in a surprisingly portable frame.
Despite being larger and heavier than other options, this printer stands out for its all-in-one capabilities. It’s built for people who need to print and manage documents while on the road or across multiple workspaces. The color touchscreen makes setup and navigation easy, and it integrates smoothly with both Windows and macOS systems.
It’s a great option for remote workers, traveling professionals, or anyone who doesn’t want to give up the comforts of an office printer when working from different locations.
When it comes to printing memories, HP’s Sprocket Studio Plus is a fun and easy-to-use photo printer that delivers surprisingly high-quality prints in a compact design.
This printer is specifically built for printing 4×6 photos — the classic snapshot size — and does so with excellent color clarity and quick turnaround. It's ideal for creating prints at parties, during travel, or for crafting. The companion app allows you to edit, decorate, and print straight from your phone with ease.
While it does need to be plugged in to work, its intuitive design and consistent results make it a great pick for photo lovers who value instant gratification.
If space is truly limited, or you want something that fits in your bag (or even a jacket pocket), the Sprocket Panorama is hard to beat.
This tiny, battery-powered printer connects via Bluetooth and prints unique panoramic-style photos — long, narrow prints perfect for scenic shots or creative layouts. It’s fun to use, especially for sharing photos at events or when traveling.
Although the print size is small and detail is limited, it offers a vibrant, smudge-free photo experience that fits in the palm of your hand. It's more about fun and creativity than high-definition accuracy, and that's exactly its charm.
Need something that can truly work anywhere — even when there’s no plug nearby? The Epson WorkForce WF-110 is your go-to for long battery life and full-page printing on the go.
This model is designed for productivity. It prints standard-size documents and is equipped with a built-in battery — and even allows the addition of an extra battery for extended use. That makes it perfect for professionals who may be traveling for work, attending meetings, or handling important paperwork in remote locations.
Despite its compact size, it feels durable and has a built-in screen and buttons to help you manage prints without needing a phone or app. It's reliable, road-ready, and built with real work in mind.
For a lightweight and affordable option focused purely on printing small photos, Kodak’s Step Photo Printer is a solid choice. It’s simple, battery-powered, and Bluetooth-enabled.
Using zero-ink technology, it creates smudge-free, wallet-sized prints directly from your smartphone. Setup is a breeze, and it’s great for casual use — think parties, scrapbooking, or journaling.
It may not replace a traditional printer, but it’s a perfect gift or travel companion for anyone who enjoys keeping their memories on paper rather than just on screen.
1. Size & Portability:
What do you need it for? Full documents or just photos? Some portable printers are small enough to fit in a pocket, while others require a backpack.
2. Battery or Plug-In:
If you’ll use it on the go, opt for a battery-powered model. Otherwise, plug-in models may be fine if you’ll use it mostly at home or in offices.
3. Connectivity:
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options give you the most flexibility, especially if you want to print from your phone or cloud storage.
4. Paper Type & Size:
Photo printers typically require special paper, while larger printers support standard-size sheets. Know your printing goals before buying.
5. Print Purpose:
Need sharp text or colorful images? Choose a printer that aligns with your primary use — photos, documents, or both.
You might not need a printer every day — and that’s exactly why a portable one makes sense. It’s there when you need it, tucked away when you don’t. Whether it’s a photo from your vacation, a last-minute contract on the road, or a gift idea brought to life, these compact printers prove that the printed page still has a place in the digital age.
So if your phone gallery is overflowing or you just want to be the hero who actually has a printer when someone needs one — a portable printer might be your next best investment.