
The DPI you require will depend on what you plan to use your printer for. In short, the higher the DPI, the better your printout will look, especially if you want color photos, but a lower DPI means you'll spend less on replacement ink cartridges (which can get pricey). The DPI refers to 'drops per inch' and indicates the quality of an image produced by an Inkjet printer.

What DPI should I look for in a small printer? A thermal printer will heat the paper according to the desired image, causing the picture to show up. Thermal printing, like Zink, uses specialized paper rather than ink cartridges to deliver its results. This means it's potentially better for the environment. Instead, all color required is embedded in the paper, making it popular for instant mobile printers.

Zink is short for 'Zero Ink' and refers to a type of printing that requires no ink cartridges whatsoever. It works by putting tiny drops of ink onto the page at a rate indicated by the DPI. Inkjet is the most popular printing technology and probably the one you're most familiar with. Each has its pros and cons and will be suitable for some while not serving others. Throughout this guide, you will have seen mention of various print technologies, including Inkjet, Zink, and Thermal. (Image credit: Future) Inkjet vs Zink vs Thermal
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Real Homes rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars | read our full review of the Canon PIXMA TR150
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Note: previous models of the PIXMA TR150 didn't come with a battery pack, which was a bit of a downside for a portable device! This has been rectified. In addition, there's the option to purchase a rechargeable battery, so you can print out your pictures even when traveling between destinations. Again, all you need is Wi-Fi. In addition, Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print compatibility make it super easy to print on the go.Īt just 12 inches long by 2 inches tall, this small compact printer will easily fit into a backpack or carry-on for travel. Thanks to its small size and decent 4800 DPI, you can print easily from a phone or tablet so long as it is hooked up to Wi-Fi. The Canon PIXMA TR150 is perfect for those whose printing needs don't always arise at home, with its super-portable design and high-quality results earning the top spot for best full-size small printer.
