Instant photos with a portable printer

Round-up by: Mary Lojkine

Last updated: 11 May 2005

Digital cameras provide instant gratification, as long as you’re content with seeing your photographs on the camera's screen. If you want to replicate the Polaroid experience -- see it, snap it, wait one minute, hand round the prints -- you need a portable photo printer.

The four printers shown here can all print directly from cameras and/or memory cards, although you'll need to check for compatibility with your particular camera. They're transportable rather than portable, and you'll need to set up near a power socket, but if you want to produce instant take-home snaps at a party or family gathering, these cute and compact printers will do the job. Three use dye-sublimation technology, while the fourth uses the more familiar inkjet technology. Ask to see some sample prints to decide which finish you prefer.