Best Photo Printer of 2020 – Get the Most Out of Your Pictures

The printer is one of the most common devices seen in offices, art studios, colleges, and modern homes. It is essential for creating physical copies of documents and precious photos intended to last. Unfortunately, the contemporary inkjet printer is not ideal for pictures. If you want to print high resolution, high quality photos, then you need to invest in a dedicated photo printer.

These machines apply ink using dye sublimination (dye sub) technology that enriches the colors and creates a clearer image than a traditional inkjet. When you use an inkjet printer, the dyes are merely applied as colored dots. To find the best photo printer, you need to take a look at the device’s specs, how recent its dye sub technology is, and whether there are special requirements to use the printer.

For example, some models cannot be used for documents at all and will only accept certain brands of paper and ink. To help you find the right model for to print your beautiful images, we have identified some of the best models in the current market.

Comparison of 10 Best Photo Printers in 2020

Top 10 Best Photo Printer Reviews in 2020

Listed here are the top twelve photo printers for high resolution image creation. All of these models focus on the effective use of materials, quality completed projects, and technological compatibility with camera cards and other devices.

1. Epson Expression Premium XP-640 All-in-One Printer

The Epson Expression Premium XP-640 is a small and lightweight photo printer which could work well in a home office or studio. It includes a scanner and copier in addition to the basic printing function and has a digital touchscreen so you can rapidly switch between functions as needed.

This printer weighs 15 lbs., so it is not as portable as some others. However, it can print a variety of high resolution images in as little as 20 seconds. It works well with photo paper and creates borderless photos that measure 4 x 6 or 8 x 10 in.

When you use the Epson Expression Premium XP-640, you can choose from a broad range of connectivity options. Perhaps the most popular is the ability to print wirelessly from devices like smartphones and tablets. Users can also connect through the USB port or use an Ethernet cable if they are old-fashioned.

The device is not compatible with Apple phones. When setting up this printer, it is important to know the 2-sided printing is automatically switched on. If you would like to print on only one side of a page, you can use the digital touchscreen to turn the function off.

2. Canon Pixma Pro-100 Wireless Inkjet Printer

The Canon Pixma Pro-100 uses 8 dye-based inks to create accurate color and high resolution photos. Three of the inks are in various shades of gray because this printer allows users to create black and white pictures in addition to color.

This printer uses an Optimum Image Generating System to control how much of the ink is used for each picture. The output tray automatically feeds paper into the printer and is easy to change and adjust as needed.

Users are able to use photo and regular letter paper in multiple sizes. The Canon Pixma Pro-100 uses a variety of CLI 42 Ink Tanks. It is compatible with Windows and Mac systems and also features CD printing, which is not common in newer photo printers.

Because of the adjustable nature of the output tray, it can fit 150 sheets of regular letterhead, 20 sheets of basic photo paper, and 1 sheet each of other specialty papers. The full dimensions of this printer are 15.2 x 27.2 x 8.5 in., and it weighs 43 lbs. It is possible to connect to the Canon Pixma Pro-100 through a wireless system or a USB port.

3. Canon IP8720 Photo Printer Best for Print

The Canon IP8720 prints large photos up to 13 x 19 in. and is AirPrint and Cloud compatible. This model features a 6 color ink system including gray ink and 9600 x 2400 maximum color dots per inch (dpi) to develop high resolution images that can be framed or presented as artwork.

Unlike some other printers, the Canon IP8720 allows users to print in color or black and white. One of the greatest features of this printer is how many types of ink cartridge the system is compatible with. At a glance, the Canon IP8720 accepts numerous CLI 251 cartridges in a broad range of colors.

The ink droplet size can be 1, 2, or 5 depending on your personal preference. The device allows for wireless printing so users can send their documents to the printer from their laptops and desktops. A USB connection is also available, and you can use an Ethernet cable. The full product dimensions are 23.3 x 13.1 x 6.3 in. and the printer weighs 18.6 lbs.

4. HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 All-in-One Wireless Printer

The HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 is a more flexible and dedicated wireless photo printer which focuses on utilizing the latest technology to create high resolution prints. This model also includes a scanner and copier along with the initial printer, and it can also fax images and receive documents.

This printer utilizes wireless connectivity and allows users to print from a broad range of devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Users can also use apps like AirPrint to transfer and produce their photos.

2-sided duplex printing is included, and there is a color touchscreen and an auto document feeder. The HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 can print up to 20 black and white pages per minute and allows individuals to choose between creating full color and pure black and white images.

It is recommended that you don’t print more than 2000 pages during a month to keep the functionality consistent. This printer supports multiple paper sizes, including the following: Letter, Legal, Government Legal, Executive, Statement, 3×5 in, 4×6 in, 5×7 in, 13×18 cm, 8×10 in, 10×15 cm, L, Photo 2L, Envelope, Card.

Unlike many of the other photo printers on the market, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 includes a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty to cover part replacement and some repairs. 24/7 online tech support is also included with this device. The full dimensions of the HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 are 20.9 x 19.7 x 13.4 in., and it weighs 33 lbs.

5. Epson PictureMate PM-400 Wireless Photo Printer

The Epson PictureMate is a dedicated color photo printer that emphasizes the importance of high resolution image creation. The system creates borderless photos and utilizes an ultra-compact design that allows for portability.

This device uses an upper paper tray that holds pages vertically. The system can accommodate 4 x 6 and 5 x 7 in. paper. Similar to other Epson printers, this model features wireless connectivity. This allows users to print their images from a variety of machines like smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

To print a single image, the Epson PictureMate takes around 36 seconds. The manufacturer claims each image created by the Epson PictureMate will not smudge or fade for many years after the initial print. The device only accepts Epson print packs and will not function properly if you try to use refurbished cartridges. The full product dimensions of the Epson PictureMate are 15.1 x 9.8 x 7.9 in., and it weighs 6 lbs.

6. HP Envy 4520 Wireless All-in-One Photo Printer

The HP Envy 4520 Wireless is the most traditional of the photo printers on this list. It includes a scanner and copier but also allows for 2-sided and wireless printing. It is possible to send images to this device from a broad range of machines, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops.

Users can also send information through Bluetooth or various online apps. USB connectivity is included. The HP Envy 4520 Wireless creates borderless photos and supports numerous paper sizes like Letter, legal, 4 x 6, 5 x 7, 8 x 10, and No. 10 envelopes. It actually has some of the largest printing sizes out of the devices on this list.

The HP Envy 4520 can print around 20 pages per minute. One element of this printer that allows it to stand out from the rest is the 1-year limited hardware warranty. If something malfunctions during regular use, it is possible to receive replacement parts or have the cost of repair covered by the company. 24/7 online tech support is also available to answer questions about any errors.

This model features a digital touchscreen for easy navigation and accepts HP 63 ink cartridges. The ink cartridges are easy to come by and the HP Envy 4520 saves ink when possible while still creating high resolution images. The full product dimensions are 14.45 x 17.52 x 5.04 in. and it weighs 14 lbs. While it is not as portable as some, it can still be transported with ease.

7. Canon TS9120 Wireless All-In-One Printer

The Canon TS9120 works well in home offices because it includes a scanner and copier with the base photo printer. This model uses six individual color ink systems to create high resolution images on photo and regular paper.

The high definition system maximizes how much ink is saved during each print so cartridges last longer. Similar to other models, the Canon TS9120 uses a wireless connection to allow users to print from their smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices. It’s also possible to print using Bluetooth, the Cloud, and social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram.

The maximum resolution is 4800 x 1200 dpi. One enjoyable element about the Canon TS9120 is its inclusion of a touchscreen that allows users to adjust settings and make rapid changes. The enhanced interface even includes a document removal reminder for those who are prone to forgetting their pages in the printer.

This model prints borderless photos in multiple sizes, including 4 x 6, 5 x 7, and 5 x 5 in. The technology allows uses to apply filters before printing, and there is even CD, DVD, and Blu-Ray printing available. The full product dimensions are 14.2 x 14.7 x 5.6 in., and it weighs 14.5 lbs.

8. Kodak Mini 2 HD Wireless Photo Printer

The Kodak Mini 2 HD Wireless is a highly portable mini printer capable of being transported for easy photo access and creation. It weighs a mere 8 oz. and has full dimensions of 1 x 3 x 5.2 in., making it the smallest instant photo printer on the list.

This model is available in multiple colors, including light purple, pink, and blue. It utilizes a simple wireless connection which allows it to print small pictures directly from an Android device.

It is recommended to use this model with a smartphone or tablet for the best results. The dye transfer method used by the Kodak Mini 2 HD Wireless allows for the creation of black and white or color photographs depending on the user’s preference.

The manufacturer guarantees these pictures will not fade for 10 years. People who use this printer will need to purchase Kodak MC Cartridges to get more ink and photo sheets. Each cartridge allows the user to print 20, 30, or 50 images before replacement is required.

9. Canon Selphy CP1200 Wireless Photo Printer

This is another photo printer by well-known manufacturer Canon. The Canon Selphy would be good for a college dorm or frequent traveler because of its combination of functionality, affordability, and small size.

One outstanding feature of this printer is how it can print photos directly from a smartphone, tablet, or similar device. It can even do so through a wireless connection that allows the user to access photographs on apps like Instagram.

Above all else, the Canon Selphy is intended to be durable and portable. Unlike many other models, this one comes with a battery pack that allows the user to print up to 54 photos in a single session. The system prints multiple sizes, including: Card Size (2.1” x 3.4”), Postcard (3.9” x 5.8”), L Size (3.5” x 4.7”), Square Label (2.0” x 2.0”).

This model can only take specified Canon ink and requires the KP-108IN or the RP-108. Dedicated ink and paper sets are available for new users. One advantage of using the dedicated sets is that you never have to worry about having too much paper or purchasing the wrong type of ink. The only downside is that the sets need to be purchased online as it is not often sold in stores.

When it comes to size, the full product dimensions are 5.4 x 7.1 x 2.5 in. and the printer weighs a mere 2 lbs. People who like portability and to travel and celebrate might like this option. It has also been recommended for parties and similar events since the photos can be printed immediately.

10. Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 Inkjet Printer

One way in which the Canon imagePROGRAFE stands out is in the anti-clogging technology utilized in the design. This technology creates faster printing speeds while also reducing the chances of too much ink being applied to the page.

As the name suggests, it also reduces how often papers become stuck in the printer. This model also features an air feeding system that stops the pages from skewing while in the machine. The system prevents the papers from moving, ensuring an accurate ink delivery and reducing smudges.

The system can be seen along the side and tested on a regular basis. When it comes to ink quality, the Canon imagePROGRAFE is one of the only models capable of producing absolute blacks to improve contrast in printed photos. Precise gradation is also present. The printer utilizes a Lucia Pro 11-color plus Chroma Optimizer ink system with denser droplet placement.

This reduces bronzing while improving overall glossiness. When it comes to dimensions, the Canon imagePROGRAFE is 17 x 28.5 x 11.2 in. and weighs a whopping 70 lbs. It is designed to produce images of professional quality and might be ideal for photographers, graphic artists, and designers.

Unlike some of the other printers on this list, the Canon imagePROGRAFE does need an internet connection but is capable of connecting to a broad range of devices. It works on Macs and PCs and can be accessed through apps like AirPrint.

Conclusion

Whether you are an amateur or a pro, having a dedicated photo printer is one of the best ways to get the most out of your pictures and artwork. Because of the development of new forms of technology, the majority of contemporary photo printers utilize wireless connectivity. It is also possible to connect through apps, and many models are designed to be small and portable.

Out of all of the models here, perhaps the best one is the Canon imagePROGRAFE. It understands the needs of an artist and utilizes technology which makes printing high quality photos simpler, not more complicated. It uses the latest technology and is compatible with a broad range of devices. However, even if the Canon imagePrografe does not work for you, there are plenty of other great options available in this list!