The Best Photo Printers 2024 | IJT Buyers Guide
10th Apr 2024
Simon Cross
Best budget photo printer
- Dedicated pigment black ink
- Easy on the wallet
- User-friendly controls
Best high-end photo printer
- Gallery-worthy prints
- Built to last
- Extensive features
Best professional photo printer
- Unmatched photo quality
- Pro-grade features
- Unparalleled control
Best home photo printer
- All-in-one convenience
- Mobile printing options
- Great photo quality for the price
Overview Of Best Photo Printers 2024
The best photos printers of 2024, based on a series of tests run here at our IJT Direct office. And good news for you all, we’ve summarised these tests into an awesome article to allow you to see which one is going to be best for your requirements.
Please note; there can be multiple printers that are just as good as each other. That's why we split them up into different areas which they are best suited in, and best for specific requirements.
Here’s what type of factors we use in our testing which influences our decisions on the ranking of the best photo printers in 2024.
How we ranked the best photo printers
We considered several important factors when ranking the best photo printers for you, to provide you with the best possible results and accuracy. Here's a breakdown of how each factor weighted into our decision:
Price
We wanted to offer a range of options to suit different budgets. High-end photo printers with exceptional quality will naturally cost more than budget-friendly options. We looked at the initial purchase price of the printer itself.
Quality
Photo quality is the most important factor in our rankings. We prioritised printers that produce vibrant, accurate colours, sharp details, and smooth gradations. We also assessed factors like colour accuracy, detail sharpness, and overall image fidelity.
Speed
While print speed is important, it wasn't the deciding factor unless there was a significant difference between printers. For most home users, a small difference in speed may not be a deal breaker. It’s good to note that print speeds can vary depending on the photo size and quality settings.
Cost to run
We looked for printers that offer low running costs, either through refillable ink tanks, high-yield cartridges, or energy-efficient operation. This also includes the cost of ink or toner replacements and the printer's energy efficiency.
Best Budget Photo Printers
Canon Pixma TS6350A
I've been in the printer game for a while now, and I've seen all sorts of machines come across my desk. The Canon Pixma TS6350A? It's a solid little trooper, especially if you're looking for a good photo printer that won't break the bank. We put it through its paces here at IJT, and here's what we found.
Our review
The photo quality is definitely decent, especially for the price. Our test photos came out great, with nice colours and clear details. Setting it up was also a breeze, even for someone not super tech-savvy like our warehouse team. The controls are straightforward, and the Wi-Fi connection worked flawlessly. Having separate trays for photo paper and regular paper is a real plus. No more messing around switching paper all the time. Lastly, this printer fits nicely on any desk without taking up too much space.
Best features
- High-quality photo printing: With a 5-ink system including a dedicated pigment black cartridge, the TS6350A produces vibrant photos with sharp details.
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Print wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
- Dual paper trays: Accommodates both plain paper and photo paper for convenient switching between printing tasks.
- SD card slot: Print photos directly from your SD card without a computer.
- Compact and stylish design: Fits well in most home offices.
Pros
- Easy on the wallet - you won't need to win the lottery to afford this one.
- Photo quality that holds its own - we were impressed with the results, especially for the price.
- User-friendly controls - even if you're not a tech whiz, you'll be printing photos in no time.
- Prints, copies, and scans - all in one machine, which is always a plus in our book.
- Wireless printing for the win - no more wrestling with cables.
Cons
- Not a speed demon - If you need to churn out photos quickly, this might not be the best choice. Print speeds are a bit on the slower side.
- Thicker Photo Paper Quirks - We found that thicker photo paper sometimes needs to be fed through the rear tray, which can be a little less convenient.
Finally summary
Overall, we absolutely loved the Canon TS6350A and if you're a home user who wants to print quality photos without spending a fortune, this is a great option. It's easy to use, versatile, and delivers good results. Just keep in mind the ink costs and slower print speeds if those are deal breakers for you.
Best High-End Photo Printers
Epson SureColor SC-P700
We put the Epson SureColor SC-P700 through its paces here at IJT, and the results were pretty damn good. The photo quality is very high and the colours are accurate and vibrant. It’s safe to say this really is the best printer for photo enthusiasts and serious photographers. Here’s some more info we found when reviewing this printer:
Our review
This printer has extremely high attention to detail. Those tiny details that get lost in other prints? Not here. The P700 captures every feather in a bird's wing or the intricate details of a flower petal.
But, let's be real, this isn't a budget printer. The upfront cost is significant, and the ink isn't exactly cheap. But for us, the professional-grade results justify the investment. The quality of the materials and construction gives us peace of mind that it will be churning out amazing prints for years to come.
Not only that but there are a lot of features on this printer, which is awesome for experts like us. But if you're new to photo printing, it might take some time to learn the ropes.
Best features
- Professional-grade printing: This printer boasts a 10-ink pigment ink system that delivers exceptional colour accuracy, smooth gradations, and deep blacks. It's like having a mini professional photo lab in your own home.
- Unmatched detail: With its advanced print head technology, the SureColor P700 produces incredibly sharp and crisp details, perfect for capturing even the finest textures in your photos.
- Built for longevity: This is a printer built to last, with durable construction and high-quality components. It's an investment, but one that will pay off for years to come.
- Advanced features: The SureColor P700 is packed with features to give you ultimate control over your prints, including media size flexibility, ICC profile support, and advanced colour management tools.
Pros
- Exceptional photo quality: This is where the SureColor P700 truly shines. It produces gallery-worthy prints that rival those from professional labs.
- Built to last: This is a high-end printer that's designed for serious use. You can expect it to deliver reliable performance for years to come.
- Extensive features: For photographers who like to have complete control over their printing process, the SureColor P700 offers a wealth of advanced features.
Cons
- Pricey upfront: Let's be honest, this printer isn't cheap. It's an investment for serious photographers.
- Ink costs can add up: High-quality inks come at a price. Factor in ongoing ink replacement costs when considering this printer.
- Large footprint: This is a substantial machine, so make sure you have the space for it on your desk.
Finally summary
If you're a serious photographer who wants to take your prints to the next level, the Epson SureColor P700 is a game-changer. It's an investment, but the quality and control it offers are unmatched. Just be prepared to carve out some space (and budget) for this printing powerhouse.
Best Professional Photo Printers
Canon Pixma Pro-200
When it comes to professional photos, we found this printer to be the best. The Canon Pixma Pro-200 isn't just a printer; it's a precision instrument for creating gallery-quality prints. With its advanced 10-colour Lucia PRO ink system and professional-grade features, this printer delivers unparalleled results that will leave you speechless.
Our review
Unlike most photo printers, the Pixma Pro-200 isn't just about creating gorgeous images. It also boasts professional-grade features that will help streamline your workflow. Precise media handling ensures smooth paper feeding and accurate printing on a variety of materials, from glossy photo paper to heavyweight canvas. Plus, the advanced colour management tools guarantee consistent and accurate colours across different print runs. This level of control and versatility is a game-changer for professional photographers who value both quality and efficiency.
Best features
- Unmatched photo quality: Get ready for vibrant colours that capture the full spectrum, smooth gradations, and deep blacks that rival traditional darkroom prints. This is printing that belongs in museums and art galleries.
- Professional-grade features: From precise media handling to advanced colour management tools, the Pixma Pro-200 offers everything you need for complete control over your prints.
- Exceptional detail reproduction: This printer boasts incredible resolution and sharp detail, ensuring that even the finest textures and subtle nuances in your photos are faithfully reproduced.
- Built to last: The robust construction and high-quality materials guarantee long-lasting performance and reliable printing for years to come.
Pros
- Superior print quality: This is where the Pixma Pro-200 truly shines. It produces museum-worthy prints that will impress even the most discerning critics.
- Unparalleled control: Professional photographers will appreciate the extensive features that allow them to fine-tune every aspect of the printing process.
- Durable design: This is an investment that will pay off for years to come, thanks to the built-to-last construction.
Cons
- Significant upfront cost: The Pixma Pro-200 is a high-end printer with a price tag to match. It's an investment for serious photographers only.
- High ongoing costs: Professional-grade inks aren't cheap. Factor in replacement costs when considering this printer.
- Large footprint: This is a substantial machine that requires dedicated space in your workspace
Finally summary
Overall the Canon Pixma Pro-200 is a dream machine for serious photographers who demand the absolute best in photo printing. The quality is unmatched, the control is unparalleled, and the all-in-one features streamline the printing workflow. But be prepared to shell out a significant amount of money upfront and for ongoing ink replacements. If you can swing the cost, this printer is a true all-star, but for those on a tighter budget, there might be better options out there.
Best Home Photo Printers
Canon Pixma TS6351
The Canon Pixma TS6351 strikes a great balance between affordability, functionality, and photo printing quality. It delivers everyday printing tasks flawlessly, while also producing impressive photo prints that are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Our review
The Canon Pixma TS6351A is a highly versatile and efficient printer that excels in both functionality and design. Notably, the TS6351A produces sharp, vibrant photo prints at a decent speed, making it suitable for a wide range of printing tasks from high-quality photos to crisp documents. The inclusion of individual ink tanks enhances colour accuracy and reduces waste, proving economical for regular use. Overall, the Canon Pixma TS6351 stands out for its robust performance and excellent colour reproduction, positioning it as a top contender in its class.
Best features
- Quality photo printing: With a 6-colour ink system and high resolution, the TS6350 produces vibrant and detailed photos that are sure to impress.
- All-in-one convenience: Print, scan, and copy – all in one machine. This saves space and simplifies your home printing needs.
- Easy to use: The controls are intuitive, and the menus are user-friendly. Even if you're not super tech-savvy, you'll be printing photos in no time.
- Mobile printing options: Print wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet for added convenience.
Pros
- Great photo quality for the price: You won't break the bank, but you'll still get beautiful photo prints.
- Versatile functionality: Print, scan, and copy – it does it all!
- Easy to use: No need to be a tech whiz to get started.
- Mobile printing convenience: Ditch the cables and print from your mobile devices.
Cons
- Slower print speeds: While not the slowest printer out there, photo printing can take a bit longer than some models.
- Limited paper handling: The paper tray capacity is a bit on the smaller side, so it might not be ideal for high-volume printing.
- Ink costs can add up: As with most inkjet printers, replacement ink cartridges can be expensive. Consider high-yield cartridges or third-party ink (if compatible) to manage running costs.
Finally summary
If you're looking for a good quality photo printer for home use that won't break the bank, then the Canon Pixma TS6351 is a great option. It delivers good photo prints, is versatile with scanning and copying functions, and is super easy to use. To be honest, this was one of our favourites and we would strongly recommend this to anyone.
Best Photo Printers for Speed
HP Envy Inspire 7920e
For speed, the HP Envy Inspire 7920e is a force to be reckoned with. It delivers exceptional photo quality while boasting impressive print speeds that are sure to impress even the most impatient users. This is the main feature that stood out to us when we were testing this photo printer.
Our review
The photo quality is fantastic for home use. Colours are rich and vivid, and details are clear enough to showcase those special moments. I love surprising family and friends with framed prints from birthday parties or vacations – it adds a personal touch that digital photos just can't match.
Best features
- Blazing-fast printing: This printer is all about speed. Get ready for crisp, high-quality photos printed in a fraction of the time compared to many other models.
- Exceptional photo quality: Don't let the speed fool you – the Envy Inspire 7920e produces stunning photo prints with rich colours, sharp details, and smooth gradations.
- All-in-one functionality: Print, scan, and copy – all in one convenient machine. This saves space on your desk and simplifies your workflow.
- Mobile printing options: Print wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet for added convenience.
Pros
- Unmatched print speeds: Get your photos printed in a flash!
- Excellent photo quality: You won't sacrifice quality for speed.
- Versatile functionality: Print, scan, and copy – it does it all!
- Mobile printing convenience: Ditch the cables and print from your mobile devices.
Cons
- Larger footprint: This is a substantial all-in-one printer, so make sure you have the space for it.
- Ink costs can add up: As with most photo printers, ink replacements can be expensive. Consider high-yield cartridges or third-party ink (if compatible) to manage running costs.
- Not the quietest printer: The printing process can be a bit noisy, something to consider if you share your workspace with others.
Finally summary
The HP Envy Inspire 7920e is the perfect choice for photographers or busy families who need a printer that can deliver high-quality photo prints quickly and efficiently. It excels in speed without compromising on quality, and the all-in-one functionality adds to its convenience. Just keep in mind the slight noise level before you buy.
Best Eco-Friendly Photo Printers
Epson EcoTank ET-8550
The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 is very unique and different when it comes to photo printers. Instead of relying on cartridges, it utilises a high-capacity refillable ink tank system. This not only reduces waste but also lowers your printing costs in the long run. It’s also very fun, and we enjoyed working with this printer.
Our review
The EcoTank system is a breath of fresh air. Instead of cartridges, it uses refillable ink tanks. It feels great knowing I'm reducing my environmental impact, and let's not forget the long-term cost savings – win-win! Now, you might be thinking "eco-friendly" means sacrificing quality. Not here! The ET-8550 produces stunning photo prints. Colours are vibrant, details are sharp, and those smooth gradations make our test photos look like they belong in a magazine. The only downside to this is the messy refill tank which can be quite time consuming and has a steep learning curve. Even after 5-10 attempts, we still couldn’t master it.
Best features
- EcoTank ink system: This innovative system replaces cartridges with large, refillable ink tanks, significantly reducing plastic waste.
- Superb photo quality: Don't let the eco-friendly focus fool you. The ET-8550 delivers exceptional photo quality with vivid colours, sharp details, and smooth gradations.
- Wireless printing options: Print wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer for added convenience.
- Dedicated media handling: This printer boasts a variety of paper trays and supports a wide range of media types, from glossy photo paper to fine art canvas.
Pros
- Eco-friendly design: Reduce your environmental impact with the refillable ink tank system.
- Exceptional photo quality: Enjoy beautiful photo prints without sacrificing the planet.
- Cost-effective in the long run: Say goodbye to expensive ink cartridge replacements.
- Versatile media handling: Print on a variety of papers and art materials.
Cons
- Larger footprint: This printer is on the bigger side, so make sure you have the space for it.
- Initial cost: The upfront cost of the printer is higher than some models due to the refillable ink tank system.
- Learning curve for refilling ink: The refilling process might take some getting used to compared to traditional cartridges. Can also be quite messy.
Finally summary
If you're looking for a photo printer that's kind to the environment and your wallet, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 is a fantastic option. The refillable ink tank system is a game-changer, the photo quality is excellent, and the versatility is a bonus. There's a bit of a learning curve with the refills, but for an eco-conscious printer that delivers beautiful results, the ET-8550 gets a big thumbs up from us here at IJT!
Best Wireless Photo Printers
Canon PIXMA TS8350
Gone are the days of tangled wires and printer frustration! If you're looking for a top-notch wireless photo printer that lets you print from anywhere, the Canon PIXMA TS8350 might be your perfect match. Here at IJT, we put this wireless wonder to the test, and here's what we found:
Our review
Now, wireless printing is fantastic, but what about quality? Let me tell you, the TS8350 doesn't disappoint. The photo quality is amazing. Vibrant colours, sharp details and the best part is - We can print directly from our phones, laptops or tablets with ease.
But, this printer isn't just about basic printing. It has a bunch of fun features to allow us to get a bit creative with our photo printing which is great. However, for a beginner this might be a little complex.
Finally, photos do take a little longer to print compared to some other models. The paper tray isn't huge, so for bigger printing projects then you might need to refill it more often.
Best features
- Seamless wireless printing: Print beautiful photos wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. No more wrestling with cables!
- Superb photo quality: This printer boasts a 6-colour ink system that produces vibrant colours, sharp details, and smooth gradations in your photos.
- All-in-one functionality: Print, scan, and copy – all in one machine. This saves space on your desk and simplifies your workflow.
- Creative printing options: The TS8350 offers a variety of creative printing features, allowing you to create photo collages, greeting cards, and more.
Pros
- Effortless wireless printing: Ditch the cords and print from your mobile devices with ease.
- Excellent photo quality: Enjoy stunning photo prints without sacrificing convenience.
- Versatile functionality: Print, scan, and copy – it does it all!
- Creative options: Get creative with your photo printing projects.
Cons
- Slower print speeds: While not the slowest printer out there, photo printing can take a bit longer than some models.
- Limited paper handling: The paper tray capacity is a bit on the smaller side, so it might not be ideal for high-volume printing.
- Ink costs can add up: As with most inkjet printers, replacement ink cartridges can be expensive. Consider high-yield cartridges or third-party ink (if compatible) to manage running costs.
Finally summary
If you're looking for a photo printer that's wireless, convenient, and delivers beautiful results, then the Canon PIXMA TS8350 is a fantastic choice. It frees you from printer cable woes, produces high-quality prints, and even lets you get pretty damn creative with your photos.
The print speed could be faster, and the paper tray is a bit on the small side, but for a wireless photo printer that makes printing from your mobile, laptop or tablet super easy then it’s a big yes from us.
Blog Author: Simon Cross is the engaging and knowledgeable voice behind the insightful articles on printers and printer consumables at IJT Direct, an ecommerce store renowned for its comprehensive selection of printers, printer consumables, and hardware. View Simons author page to find out more about him.