In today’s mobile world, professionals, freelancers, and even avid travelers often find themselves needing a reliable printer while on the go. Whether it’s printing contracts, invoices, presentations, or simply travel documents, the importance of having a travel-friendly printer cannot be overstated. This comprehensive guide will explore the best travel printers available on the market, examining their features, portability, print quality, and more. We’ll also crown an overall winner and provide useful tips on how to travel with your printer safely.
Portability vs. Travel Suitability
Portability primarily refers to the size and weight of a printer, making it easy to carry. However, travel suitability encompasses a broader range of features that address the specific challenges of traveling:
- Durability: Travel printers must withstand rough handling, vibrations, and sometimes extreme conditions such as dust and moisture. A typical portable printer designed for light and casual use may not be built to endure these stresses.
- Battery Life: For travel, especially where power sources are scarce or unreliable, a printer with a long-lasting battery is crucial. Many portable printers offer battery operation, but only some have batteries that can handle a significant amount of printing on a single charge.
- Connectivity Options: Travel often means printing from various devices and in places without reliable internet. Great travel printers support multiple connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB, and often feature direct mobile printing capabilities without needing a network.
- Ease of Use: In travel scenarios, dealing with complex setup and maintenance isn’t practical. Printers suitable for travel are often designed with simplified interfaces and robust software that can quickly adapt to new networks and devices.
- Ink and Maintenance Needs: Travel printers are advantageous if they use ink efficiently and require less frequent maintenance. Some portable printers might use ink or thermal technology that isn’t suited for sparse use, which is common in travel settings, leading to dried out cartridges or special paper requirements.
The Best Travel Printers on the Market
Epson WorkForce WF-110 Wireless Mobile Printer
The Epson WorkForce WF-110 stands out as a formidable option for professionals who are often on the move, requiring a reliable printing companion. Its design and features are tailored to meet the needs of mobile users, from business travelers to freelance professionals who frequently work in various locations.
Why We Like the Epson WorkForce WF-110
- Ultra-Light and Portable: The WF-110’s design is both sleek and lightweight, making it incredibly easy to transport in bags or briefcases without any hassle, ensuring worry-free printing wherever you go.
- Flexible Charging Options: It can be charged via USB or an AC adapter, providing versatility in power sources. For those needing extended print capabilities, an optional external battery can significantly increase its volume capacity.
- High-Quality Printing: Despite its compact size, the printer does not compromise on print quality. It offers a high resolution of 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi, ensuring crisp and clear prints.
- Connectivity: Built-in wireless connectivity and Wi-Fi Direct allow easy printing from various devices including iPads, iPhones, and laptops without the need for internet connections, making it extremely convenient for quick printing tasks.
- Ink Efficiency: Uses pigment ink, which is known for being durable and instant-dry, ideal for professionals who need their documents ready to go immediately.
Cons
- Ink Usage: Some users have reported that the ink can dry up if not used frequently and the cartridges may run out quickly, which could be a concern for those who don’t use it regularly.
- Battery Performance: Mixed reviews on battery life suggest that while generally reliable, performance might vary, particularly when printing complex documents on battery power alone.
- Cost of Cartridges: The printer is designed to be used with Epson genuine cartridges only, which can be more expensive than third-party options and could add to the running costs.
Additional Features and Considerations
- Print Speed: The WF-110 offers a decent print speed that varies with power source: up to 6.7 ppm in monochrome and 3.8 ppm in color when connected to AC power, which slightly reduces when operating on battery.
- User Feedback: The overall customer satisfaction rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars underscores the printer’s reliability and performance. A significant majority of users appreciate its portability and ease of setup, highlighting its convenience for mobile work environments.
- Environmental Responsibility: Epson’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its participation in the SmartWay program, which aims to reduce greenhouse gases and improve air quality.
The Epson WorkForce WF-110 wireless mobile printer emerges as a highly recommended choice for traveling professionals who need a reliable and high-quality printing solution. Its design prioritizes portability and ease of use without compromising on the essential features expected from a mobile printer. While the ink and battery aspects may require some consideration, the overall performance and robustness make it a standout option, particularly for those who value efficient and effective mobile printing solutions.
HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One
The HP OfficeJet 250 All-in-One Portable Printer emerges as the ideal choice for professionals who require a robust and versatile printing solution on the go. Rated highly for its performance and portability, it offers a comprehensive feature set that supports a wide range of printing needs across different environments.
Why the HP OfficeJet 250 is the Best Travel Printer
- High-Speed Printing: With color print speeds of up to 19 ppm and monochrome speeds of up to 20 ppm, the HP OfficeJet 250 stands out for its efficiency in handling urgent print jobs efficiently.
- Multifunctional Capability: More than just a printer, this device also includes scanning and copying functions, making it a complete mobile office solution.
- Wireless and Mobile Printing: Supports mobile printing through the HP ePrint app, Bluetooth Smart technology, and Wi-Fi Direct, enabling users to print from nearly anywhere using their smartphones or tablets.
- Compact and Portable: Designed for mobility, it fits easily into a car, backpack, or travel case. This feature is crucial for professionals who frequently change their work locations.
- Easy Setup and Use: The printer facilitates a quick and easy setup, allowing users to start printing right out of the box. Its 2.65-inch color touchscreen makes operation straightforward, enhancing the user experience.
- Long-Lasting Battery: Reduces the need for frequent recharging, and the printer can be charged from home, car, or office, with the capability to charge fully within 90 minutes while powered off.
- High-Quality Print Output: Utilizes Original HP 62 ink & HP 62XL cartridges that produce high-quality prints that are both durable and vibrant, ensuring that documents look professional every time.
Cons
- Ink and Maintenance Cost: While it uses high-yield HP cartridges for better page output, the cost of original HP ink might be a consideration for those mindful of ongoing operational expenses.
- Mixed Connectivity Feedback: Some users have expressed difficulties with connectivity and the initial setup of wireless features, indicating that while generally reliable, there can be occasional connectivity hiccups.
- Size and Weight: Although portable, at 6.51 pounds, it is heavier than some other portable printers, which could be a consideration for those who need ultra-lightweight devices.
Additional Insights from Customer Reviews
- Customer Satisfaction: The printer holds an impressive overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 3,000 ratings on Amazon. A significant majority of users (76%) rated it with five stars, highlighting its reliability and high-quality output.
- Ease of Use: Many users have praised the printer for its ease of setup and general use, noting that it performs well across all its functions—printing, scanning, and copying.
- Portability: Despite some notes on its weight, the consensus is that the HP OfficeJet 250 is highly portable and practical for travel, fitting easily into various types of bags and carrying cases.
The HP OfficeJet 250 All-in-One Portable Printer is the best travel printer for 2024, providing a powerful combination of speed, functionality, and ease of use. It supports high-demand mobile offices, offering the versatility to print, scan, and copy from virtually anywhere. Its robust build and reliable performance, coupled with high customer satisfaction, make it a top choice for professionals on the move. Whether for business trips, fieldwork, or temporary offices, the HP OfficeJet 250 adapts to various user needs, making it a worthy investment for those seeking productivity without boundaries.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 stands out as a highly regarded portable printer, tailor-made for professionals on the move. With its compact design and advanced features, it offers an exceptional balance of portability and performance, making it an ideal choice for anyone needing to print high-quality documents or photos while traveling.
Why the Canon PIXMA TR150 is a Great Travel Printer
- Compact and Lightweight: Weighing just 4.5 pounds, the PIXMA TR150 is designed for travel. Its small size allows it to easily fit into bags and backpacks, making it perfect for professionals who are always on the go.
- High-Quality Printing: Despite its compact size, the TR150 does not compromise on print quality. It offers impressive print speeds of up to 9 ppm in monochrome and 5.5 ppm in color, ensuring quick and efficient printing sessions.
- Wireless Connectivity: Equipped with Wi-Fi and USB connectivity, the printer allows for easy printing from laptops, smartphones, and tablets without the need for physical cables.
- Optional Battery Pack: For even greater mobility, the TR150 can be equipped with an optional battery pack, allowing you to print without needing an AC power outlet. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor work environments or locations without convenient power sources.
- Custom Templates: The ability to save up to five custom templates directly on the printer is a standout feature for professionals who frequently print specific documents. This saves time and simplifies the printing process while on the move.
- User-Friendly Interface: The inclusion of a 1.44-inch OLED display provides a clear, intuitive interface, making it easy to manage print tasks directly from the printer, enhancing its usability in various settings.
Cons
- Mixed Connectivity Feedback: Some users have reported issues with the printer’s connectivity features, which might require troubleshooting in certain environments.
- Ink Costs and Availability: As with many portable printers, the cost of ink cartridges and their availability can be a concern, potentially affecting the overall value and cost-efficiency of the printer.
- Variable Performance: While generally reliable, performance may vary depending on the type and complexity of documents being printed, especially when operating on battery power.
Additional Insights from Customer Reviews
- Overall Satisfaction: The printer has received a strong positive response from users, with a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating from over 3,620 reviews. A significant majority of the reviewers (77%) have given it five stars, praising its print quality and ease of use.
- Ease of Installation: Many users highlight the TR150’s straightforward setup and ease of operation, appreciating its plug-and-play setup which allows them to start printing almost immediately after unboxing.
- Portability and Design: Customers are very satisfied with the printer’s compact design and lightweight nature, which make it an ideal travel companion for professionals who need to print while away from the office.
The Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Portable Printer offers an excellent combination of portability, ease of use, and high-quality printing capabilities. It stands out as a top choice for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient printing solution on the go. Whether for business trips, field work, or casual travel, the PIXMA TR150 meets the diverse needs of mobile professionals with its robust feature set and user-friendly design, making it a worthwhile investment for those who require printing capabilities wherever they are.
The Brother PocketJet PJ773 is a uniquely compact direct thermal printer designed specifically for mobile professionals. Its lightweight and streamlined design make it a suitable option for those who need to print monochrome documents on the go. Despite its mixed reviews, several features stand out that may make it the ideal choice for certain travel-heavy environments.
Why the Brother PocketJet PJ773 is a Great Travel Printer
- Ultra-Portable Design: The PocketJet PJ773 is incredibly compact, with dimensions of 2.17″D x 10.04″W x 1.18″H, and a minimalist design that makes it one of the most portable printers available.
- Thermal Printing Technology: As a thermal printer, it doesn’t require ink or toner, which is a significant advantage for travelers. This reduces the need for supplies and avoids the risk of ink leakage or cartridge damage during travel.
- Monochrome Output: The printer specializes in monochrome printing, capable of printing at speeds of up to 8 pages per minute, making it efficient for handling basic documents like invoices, forms, and scripts.
- Connectivity Options: With Wi-Fi and USB connectivity, the PJ773 offers flexible options for printing from various devices, including laptops and smartphones, facilitating easy prints on the move.
- Battery Powered: While the printer’s battery issues have been noted, the concept of a battery-powered printer enhances its portability, allowing for printing in environments where power outlets are not available.
Cons
- Lack of Accessories: Many customers have noted the absence of a charger or power source in the package, and the USB cable also needs to be purchased separately, which can be inconvenient and add extra costs.
- Mixed Reviews on Quality: The product has received mixed feedback on its performance and build quality. Some users have reported reliability issues, and a significant 22% of reviews rated it one star, citing various disappointments.
- Battery Issues: There are reports of battery-related problems, where customers received units with non-functional or quickly depleting batteries, which is a crucial concern for a device intended for travel.
Additional Insights from Customer Reviews
- Customer Satisfaction: The overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars reflects a polarized customer base. While 59% of reviewers gave it five stars, highlighting its practicality for specific uses, the 1-star reviews suggest a significant dissatisfaction rate.
- Niche Suitability: Those who rated it highly appreciate its ultra-portability and the convenience of thermal printing without the need for ink. It’s especially favored by professionals who require simple, straightforward document printing.
The Brother PocketJet PJ773 Direct Thermal Printer offers a mixed bag of features that might suit highly mobile professionals under specific conditions. Its strongest suit is its portability and the convenience of inkless thermal printing. However, potential buyers should be aware of the concerns regarding battery life and the lack of included power accessories. This printer could be the right choice for those who prioritize size and simplicity over multifunctionality and are prepared to manage the additional accessory needs. For users needing reliable, high-volume printing on the go, other models might be more appropriate, but for minimalistic document printing, the PocketJet PJ773 remains a contender.
Choosing the Overall Winner
Among the models reviewed, the HP OfficeJet 250 Mobile All-in-One stands out as the overall best travel printer. It balances excellent print quality, robust battery life, and superior connectivity and paper handling capabilities. It’s slightly heavier than other models, but it compensates with its all-in-one functionality, making it a versatile choice for both business and personal use.
Traveling with Your Printer: Packing and FAQs
How to Pack a Printer for Flight?
- Original Packaging: If possible, pack the printer in its original box which is designed to protect it during transport.
- Bubble Wrap: Securely wrap the printer in bubble wrap to protect it from impacts.
- Hard Case: Consider a hard-sided case for additional protection, especially if checking the printer as luggage.
Should Your Printer Be on Your Carry-On?
- Carry-On Recommended: It’s safer to carry your printer in your carry-on luggage to avoid damage from rough handling of checked baggage.
- Size Considerations: Ensure the printer’s dimensions comply with your airline’s carry-on size restrictions.
FAQs
- Can I use third-party ink or toner?
- It’s generally recommended to use original cartridges to avoid potential issues and ensure the best quality.
- How do I maintain my printer while traveling?
- Keep the printer clean, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, and carry spare cartridges and charging cables.
- What should I do if my printer isn’t working overseas?
- Check voltage requirements and plug types; you may need an adapter or converter.
Methodology for Printer Selection
- Customer Reviews and Ratings: We extensively analyzed customer reviews on major retail platforms like Amazon to gauge user satisfaction and identify common issues faced by users. This real-world feedback is invaluable, helping us to recommend products that are tried and tested by actual users.
- Direct Product Analysis: Our team examined the features, build quality, and performance of various printers. We looked at factors such as size, weight, battery life, and durability—key considerations that influence a printer’s suitability for travel, especially to remote locations like the African wilderness.
- Travel Durability and Practicality Considerations: Understanding that travel, particularly the kind involved in safaris, can be particularly hard on luggage and equipment, we focused on printers that promise durability and resilience. Products that can withstand dust, frequent movement, and the occasional bump or scrape were prioritized.
- Ease of Use and Functionality: We recognize that when you’re away from the usual conveniences of an office, simplicity and efficiency in technology are paramount. The selected printers are not only compact and easy to carry but also simple to operate, ensuring that you can get your printing tasks done with minimal fuss.
At SafariTravelPlus, we are more than just a travel agency; we are your travel partners who aim to enhance your safari experience by ensuring you are well-prepared and equipped. Our recommendations are made with a deep understanding of what it takes to travel effectively and safely. The chosen printers are reflective of our commitment to providing you with resources that will truly benefit your travel experience.
Whether you are a business traveler needing to print contracts and agreements on the fly, a freelance writer documenting your travels, or a family keeping travel documents organized, our recommended list of travel printers is designed to address your needs.