10 Best Photo Printers 2026 in the United States

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a versatile all-in-one printer that stands out in the photo printer category, particularly for home use. One of its major strengths is the innovative cartridge-free system that significantly reduces ink costs; the EcoTank can replace up to 80 traditional cartridges with its refillable bottles. This can lead to savings of up to 90% on ink, allowing for impressive print yields of around 4,500 pages in black and 7,500 in color. Additionally, it comes with two years' worth of ink right in the box, which means less frequent trips to the store for replacements.

The print quality is noteworthy, using Micro Piezo technology that produces sharp text and vibrant colors, making it suitable for both documents and photos. Its built-in scanner and copier add to its functionality, making it a practical choice for users who need more than just printing capabilities. The connectivity options are modern and user-friendly, supporting wireless printing from smartphones and compatibility with apps like AirPrint.

However, there are some areas for improvement. The print speed is relatively slow, with a maximum of 10 pages per minute for monochrome and 5 pages for color, which might be a consideration for those needing high-volume printing quickly. While the printer is portable for home use, it may not be the best choice for users needing a compact printer for small spaces, as it is somewhat bulky. Another consideration is that using non-genuine Epson inks can void the warranty, which might deter some users seeking cost-saving alternatives.

The Canon imagePROGRAF Professional 13" PRO-310 is designed for serious photographers and artists who need gallery-quality prints. One of its standout features is the 9-color pigment-based ink system, which includes a Chroma Optimizer to produce exceptionally accurate and vivid colors. The addition of matte black ink enhances print density and broad reproductions of dark areas, making it ideal for high-contrast photos.

The printer's LUCIA PRO II ink system delivers impressive gloss uniformity and scratch resistance, ensuring the longevity and durability of prints. The 3.0-inch color LCD monitor provides a user-friendly interface to easily track ink levels and printer status, enhancing its ease of use. Its Anti-Clogging System and Skew Correction further contribute to reliable and consistent performance, reducing print errors and maintenance issues.

However, the print speed is relatively slow at 2 pages per minute for both monochrome and color prints, which could be a drawback for users requiring faster output. Additionally, the printer is quite substantial, weighing 31.6 pounds and has a large footprint, making it less portable and requiring a dedicated space. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, which facilitates wireless printing. While the ink system offers high-quality results, the cost of the pigment-based inks might be higher compared to dye-based alternatives, so it's essential to consider ongoing expenses. This Canon model excels in producing high-quality prints with excellent color accuracy, making it a strong choice for professionals who prioritize print quality over speed and portability.

The Kodak Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer is a compact and portable option designed mainly for casual users who want quick, fun photo prints from their smartphones. It uses Zink (zero ink) technology, so you won’t need ink cartridges—just special 2x3-inch sticky-backed photo paper. This makes printing simple and mess-free, producing water-resistant and smudge-proof photos at 300 dpi resolution, which is good for casual snapshots but not professional-quality prints. The printer connects easily via Bluetooth or NFC to iOS and Android devices, offering a smooth wireless experience. Its companion Kodak app allows you to edit photos with filters, borders, and stickers before printing, adding a creative touch.

On the downside, the print speed is quite slow at about 1 page per minute, and the print size is small, limiting it to wallet-sized photos rather than full-sized prints. Battery life supports around 25 photos per charge, which is handy for on-the-go use but might require recharging during longer sessions. The printer is light and fits easily in a bag, making it great for social gatherings, scrapbooking, and personal keepsakes.

If you need faster printing, larger photos, or higher resolution for professional use, this printer might feel limited. It’s best suited for those who value portability, ease of use, and fun instant prints rather than high-volume or high-detail photo printing.