10 Best Mobile Printers for Travel: Compact, Convenient, and Perfect for On-the-Go Printing

Written by: Editor In Chief
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When you’re on the move, having a reliable mobile printer can streamline your work and enhance your creativity. Compact and convenient, these printers are designed to fit seamlessly into your travel plans. Whether you’re printing important documents or cherished photos, you’ll want a device that meets your needs without the hassle. Discover which of the top 10 mobile printers can keep up with your journey and deliver quality results.

HP OfficeJet 250 Wireless Mobile Printer

If you’re a frequent traveler who needs to print, scan, or copy on the go, the HP OfficeJet 250 Wireless Mobile Printer is an ideal choice. This compact all-in-one fits easily in your car, backpack, or briefcase, allowing you to work without a network connection. You can print and scan directly from your smartphone using the HP app, and the HP Auto Wireless Connect guarantees easy setup. Plus, it charges quickly in just 90 minutes, whether at home, in the car, or office. With high-quality prints and a one-year warranty, it’s perfect for busy lifestyles.

Best For: Frequent travelers and professionals who need a portable printing solution without relying on a network connection.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a car, backpack, or briefcase.
  • Quick charging time of just 90 minutes ensures you’re always ready to print on the go.
  • Supports mobile printing directly from smartphones via the HP app for added convenience.

Cons:

  • Limited paper capacity may require frequent refills during large print jobs.
  • Battery life may vary depending on usage, potentially requiring frequent recharging.
  • Original cartridges can be costly, impacting overall running costs.

Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer

The Canon PIXMA TR160 Wireless Portable Printer is perfect for professionals and travelers who need high-quality prints while on the move. Weighing in as a lightweight option, it fits easily in your bag or backpack. With a 50-sheet paper tray, it can handle various printing tasks, delivering sharp black text and vibrant colors up to 8.5” x 11”. Its 5-Color Hybrid Ink System guarantees stunning results, including borderless prints. You’ll appreciate the user-friendly 1.44” OLED display for checking ink levels and status. Plus, its wireless connectivity options make printing from your devices a breeze, even without a router.

Best For: Professionals and travelers who need a lightweight and portable printer for high-quality prints on the go.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry in bags or backpacks.
  • High-quality printing with a 5-Color Hybrid Ink System for sharp text and vibrant colors, including borderless prints.
  • User-friendly 1.44” OLED display provides easy access to printer status and ink levels.

Cons:

  • Limited paper capacity with a 50-sheet tray, which may require frequent refills for larger print jobs.
  • No built-in scanner or copier functions, limiting its versatility compared to all-in-one printers.
  • Wireless connectivity may require setup for some users, especially those unfamiliar with mobile printing applications.

HP OfficeJet 200 Wireless Mobile Printer – Black, Battery Included (CZ993A)

For professionals on the go, the HP OfficeJet 200 Wireless Mobile Printer is an ideal choice, offering the convenience of compact design and battery power for printing anywhere. Easily fitting into your car, backpack, or briefcase, this printer lets you produce high-quality documents anytime with your laptop, tablet, or smartphone. The HP app makes printing and scanning a breeze, while the fast charging capability guarantees you’re ready in just 90 minutes. With support for various paper sizes and a one-year limited warranty, you’ll find this mobile printer meets all your business needs without hassle.

Best For: Professionals who need a portable printing solution for business documents while on the go.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design for easy transport.
  • Wireless printing capability without the need for a network connection.
  • Fast charging feature allows for quick power-ups in just 90 minutes.

Cons:

  • Limited paper capacity compared to larger printers.
  • Battery life may vary depending on usage and print volume.
  • Original HP cartridges can be more expensive than third-party alternatives.

Epson Workforce WF-110 Wireless Color Mobile Printer,White, Small,Black

Traveling professionals and creatives will find the Epson Workforce WF-110 Wireless Color Mobile Printer to be an invaluable companion. Weighing just 4.6 pounds and measuring 9.1 x 12.2 x 8.5 inches, it’s compact and easy to carry. With a print speed of 3.5 ISO ppm for black and 2.0 for color, you’ll get quality prints at 5760 dpi. Its wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi Direct, allows you to print from various devices effortlessly. Plus, the rechargeable battery means you won’t be tethered to an outlet. Enjoy the convenience of dual-sided printing and excellent print media support while on the go!

Best For: Traveling professionals and creatives in need of a portable and efficient printing solution.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry while traveling.
  • High print resolution of 5760 dpi ensures quality prints for both documents and photos.
  • Wireless connectivity options allow printing from various devices without needing to be plugged in.

Cons:

  • Limited print speed compared to larger printers, which may not suit high-volume printing needs.
  • Maximum media size of A6 restricts the types of documents that can be printed.
  • Rechargeable battery life may not support extended printing sessions without recharging.

TATTMUSE Portable Wireless Printer for Phone & Laptop

Designed with the modern nomad in mind, the TATTMUSE Portable Wireless Printer is a game-changer for anyone needing seamless mobile printing. This inkless printer supports US Letter and A4 sizes, making it perfect for travel. With advanced thermal direct technology, you’ll enjoy sharper prints and 99% uniform density. Its Double-Tap Auto Paper Return Technology means no more manual jam removals, reducing frustration. Plus, the cool charging tech extends battery lifespan by up to 4×, ensuring safety while you’re on the go. Weighing 15% less than competitors, it’s a compact, eco-friendly solution that’s ready whenever you are.

Best For: Those who frequently travel and require a compact, wireless printing solution without the hassle of ink cartridges.

Pros:

  • Inkless printing technology eliminates the need for cartridges, making it eco-friendly and cost-effective.
  • Double-Tap Auto Paper Return Technology reduces frustration by automatically reversing stuck paper.
  • Extended battery lifespan due to cool charging technology, ensuring safe and long-lasting use.

Cons:

  • Limited to US Letter and A4 paper sizes, which may not meet all printing needs.
  • May have a higher initial cost compared to traditional printers that use ink.
  • Wireless connectivity might face compatibility issues with some devices.

Portable Wireless Thermal Printer for Travel

The N80 Wireless Thermal Printer stands out as an excellent choice for busy professionals who need to print on the go. Weighing just 1.5 pounds and measuring 3.3 x 11 x 2 inches, it’s incredibly portable. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily connect it to your iOS or Android device, making printing documents, invoices, and even tattoo templates a breeze. The inkless technology guarantees you won’t run out of toner, while the rechargeable battery lets you print up to 160 sheets per charge. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, making it perfect for the environmentally conscious traveler.

Best For: Busy professionals and travelers who require a portable, inkless printing solution for documents and templates on the go.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry during travel.
  • Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless printing from mobile devices.
  • Eco-friendly inkless technology reduces ongoing printing costs.

Cons:

  • Requires the installation of a driver for USB connection to laptops and PCs.
  • Limited to black & white printing with a maximum speed of 4 ppm.
  • Charging adapter not included, which may be inconvenient for some users.

Inkless Portable Printer for Travel

For busy professionals and students who need to print on the go, the Inkless Portable Printer by Gloryang is an excellent choice. Utilizing advanced thermal technology, it eliminates the hassle of ink and toner. You’ll appreciate its lightweight design, weighing just 1.75 lbs, making it easy to slip into your bag. The printer connects effortlessly to your iOS or Android devices via Bluetooth using the “Jadens Printer” app. With a built-in paper bin and the ability to print documents from 2 to 8.5 inches, it’s perfect for emergency printing needs, contracts, or office documents while traveling.

Best For: Busy professionals and students who require a compact and efficient printing solution while on the go.

Pros:

  • Inkless technology: Eliminates the need for ink, toner, or ribbons, reducing maintenance and mess.
  • Portable design: Weighs only 1.75 lbs and fits easily into bags, perfect for travel and emergencies.
  • Bluetooth connectivity: Easily connects to iOS and Android devices, as well as laptops and computers for quick printing.

Cons:

  • Limited compatibility: Can only use Gloryang thermal paper, restricting paper options.
  • Print size limitations: Only accommodates documents ranging from 2 to 8.5 inches, which may not suit all printing needs.
  • Dependency on battery: Requires charging, which may be inconvenient during extended travel without access to power.

Portable Wireless Thermal Printer A285M for Travel

Traveling professionals, like business travelers and mobile notaries, will find the Portable Wireless Thermal Printer A285M an indispensable companion. Weighing just 1.5 lbs, it’s incredibly lightweight and comes with a compact carrying case, making it easy to take anywhere. This inkless Bluetooth thermal printer connects seamlessly to your iPhone, Android devices, or tablets. You can print in various sizes, from letter to smaller rolls, without worrying about ink issues. Plus, it includes four rolls of thermal paper, ensuring you’re always ready to print essential documents on the go. Enjoy hassle-free printing with the A285M by your side!

Best For: Business travelers, mobile notaries, and professionals needing portable printing solutions.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable design, perfect for travel with its compact carrying case.
  • Inkless printing technology eliminates the need for ink, toner, or ribbons, ensuring hassle-free use.
  • Versatile compatibility with multiple devices via Bluetooth and USB-C, accommodating various printing sizes.

Cons:

  • Limited to black and white printing, which may not suit users needing color options.
  • Driver download required for USB functionality, which may be inconvenient for some users.
  • Thermal paper dependency could be a limitation for those preferring traditional printing methods.

Portable Wireless Thermal Printer A285M for Travel

Designed with business professionals and students in mind, the Portable Wireless Thermal Printer A285M makes on-the-go printing a breeze. Weighing just 1.5 lbs, it’s compact enough to fit in your bag. With inkless thermal technology, you won’t have to worry about messy cartridges or clogs. It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet, and it’s compatible with USB-C for laptops. Supporting various paper sizes up to 8.5” x 11”, it’s perfect for any setting—be it a construction site or a coffee shop. Just download the app, connect, and you’re ready to print in no time!

Best For: Business professionals, students, and anyone who needs portable printing solutions while traveling or working in various environments.

Pros:

  • Inkless thermal printing technology eliminates the need for messy ink cartridges and reduces maintenance issues.
  • Compact and lightweight design allows for easy portability, making it ideal for travel.
  • Supports multiple paper sizes and wireless connectivity, enhancing versatility and convenience.

Cons:

  • Only supports black and white printing, limiting use for color documents.
  • Requires a specific app for mobile devices and driver installation for laptops, which may add setup time.
  • Thermal paper is needed for printing, which may not be readily available everywhere.

HP OfficeJet 250 Portable Printer (CZ992A)

The HP OfficeJet 250 Portable Printer (CZ992A) is an ideal choice for busy professionals and students who need reliable printing on the go. This certified refurbished printer offers all-in-one capabilities, allowing you to scan, copy, and print effortlessly. Its 2.65-inch color touchscreen and auto document feeder make tasks quick and easy. With the free HP ePrint app, you can print from your smartphone or tablet anywhere. The compact design guarantees portability, while the long-lasting battery and multiple charging options keep you connected. You’ll appreciate its quick setup, letting you print right out of the box without delays.

Best For: Busy professionals and students who require portable and reliable printing on the go.

Pros:

  • All-in-one capabilities for scanning, copying, and printing in a compact design.
  • Wireless printing from smartphones and tablets using the free HP ePrint app.
  • Long-lasting battery with multiple charging options for convenience during travel.

Cons:

  • Being a certified refurbished product, it may not come in the original packaging.
  • Limited battery life may require frequent charging during heavy use.
  • Touchscreen size of 2.65 inches may be considered small for some users.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Mobile Printers for Travel

When choosing a mobile printer for travel, you’ll want to take into account several key factors. Size and weight are essential for portability, while print quality guarantees your documents look professional. Don’t forget about battery life, connectivity options, and media compatibility to suit your specific needs on the go.

Size and Weight

Choosing a mobile printer for travel often hinges on two critical factors: size and weight. Ideally, you’ll want a printer that weighs less than 5 pounds for easy transport. Look for compact designs around 10 inches wide and 3 inches high, allowing for convenient storage in your bag or backpack. Models under 12 inches in length are often preferred, as they enhance portability. Additionally, a lightweight printer should have a slim profile, ideally less than 3 inches thick, to fit seamlessly into tight spaces. When considering size, make sure the printer offers functionality without sacrificing portability, so it can comfortably fit in your carry-on luggage or briefcase. Keeping these factors in mind will make your travel experience smoother.

Print quality is an important aspect to take into account in mobile printers for travel. You’ll want to evaluate the printer’s dpi, as higher values like 5760 x 1440 dpi deliver sharper, more vibrant prints. The type of printing technology also matters: thermal printers excel at consistent text quality but struggle with color, while inkjet models generally offer richer color output. Look for printers with advanced ink systems, such as 5-color hybrids, for improved black text and vibrant colors. Don’t forget about paper choice; using glossy photo paper can elevate your images, while high-quality paper enhances documents. Finally, regular maintenance, like replacing cartridges and cleaning print heads, is vital for maintaining ideal print quality.

Battery Life

Considering print quality is just one part of the equation; battery life plays an essential role in your mobile printing experience while traveling. A printer’s battery determines how many pages you can print before needing to recharge, with some models offering several hundred sheets on a full charge. Look for fast charging capabilities that cut down on downtime; some can fully charge in just 90 minutes while powered off. Convenience is key, so choose printers that can charge from various sources like AC outlets, car chargers, or USB connections. Also, consider the weight and size of the battery, as a bulkier one can hinder portability. Advanced technologies help extend battery life and prevent overheating, ensuring a reliable printing experience.

Connectivity Options

How do you guarantee seamless printing while on the go? Choosing a mobile printer with versatile connectivity options is essential. Look for models that offer Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB connections, enabling you to print from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Bluetooth is particularly handy, allowing direct printing without a wireless network, perfect for those spontaneous moments. Wi-Fi Direct simplifies setup by connecting your device to the printer without needing an existing network, which is great for remote locations. Additionally, check if the printer supports popular printing apps like Apple AirPrint or Android printing services to ascertain compatibility with your devices. Features like HP Auto Wireless Connect can also streamline the process, automatically detecting and connecting to nearby devices.

Media Compatibility

When you’re on the road, ensuring your mobile printer can handle a variety of media is essential for meeting your diverse printing needs. Look for models that support different media sizes, like US Letter and A4, to keep your options open. It’s also wise to choose printers that accommodate various media types, such as photo paper, envelopes, and card stock. This way, you’ll have flexibility while traveling. Check the printer’s maximum media capacity to handle your expected print volume efficiently. Additionally, consider how well it manages different paper weights and finishes, as this impacts print quality. Opt for models with built-in paper bins or those that support thermal paper for added convenience and reduced clutter on your journeys.

Setup Process

While traveling, a seamless setup process for your mobile printer can save you time and hassle. Look for printers that feature HP Auto Wireless Connect, allowing you to print wirelessly from your laptop or smartphone without complicated configuration. Many models let you print directly through mobile apps, ensuring minimal setup. Wireless Direct Mode is another great option, enabling you to connect to the printer without needing an existing Wi-Fi network, perfect for on-the-go printing. Additionally, choose printers with built-in instructions or touchscreens that guide you through the setup process. Fast charging capabilities are also essential; some printers can recharge in about 90 minutes, so you can quickly get back to printing wherever your travels take you.

Durability and Design

Choosing the right mobile printer for travel hinges on durability and design, as these factors can make or break your printing experience on the go. Look for lightweight printers, ideally under 5 pounds, to guarantee easy transport. Compact dimensions are essential, allowing the printer to fit snugly in your bag or backpack. Durability is vital; opt for models with robust construction that can handle the bumps and falls of travel. A battery-powered option is a must, so you can print anywhere, and fast-charging capabilities that recharge within 90 minutes are a bonus. Finally, check for water and dust resistance ratings to enhance the printer’s longevity, making sure it performs well in various travel environments.

Cost of Supplies

Understanding the cost of supplies is essential for anyone considering a mobile printer for travel. The cost varies considerably depending on the printing technology you choose. Ink-based printers often require regular cartridge replacements, which can range from $10 to $50. Using original cartridges usually yields more pages, helping reduce overall supply costs over time. On the other hand, thermal printers eliminate ink costs entirely but require specialized thermal paper, which can lead to long-term savings. Additionally, consider the price and availability of supported paper types; some printers may need proprietary formats that are more expensive. Ultimately, evaluating these factors will help you choose the most cost-effective mobile printer for your travel needs.