There’s something magical about holding a physical photo—the crisp colors, the texture of the paper, the nostalgia that digital screens just can’t match. In today’s digital age, home photo printers have carved out a special niche, allowing us to instantly print our favorite memories without a trip to the store. Whether it’s a spontaneous family gathering, a vacation snapshot, or a creative DIY project, having a reliable photo printer at home brings a tangible joy that’s hard to beat.

In this review, I dove deep into the world of home photo printers, testing and evaluating a wide range of models—from compact portable devices designed for instant prints on the go, to multifunction all-in-one machines that handle everything from scanning to duplex printing. My aim? To help you find the perfect printer that fits your lifestyle, budget, and photo printing needs.

How We Reviewed These Photo Printers

Selecting a photo printer isn’t just about the sharpness of the print or the speed at which it spits out images. I looked at a comprehensive set of factors including:

• Print Quality: The heart of any photo printer. I examined color accuracy, vibrancy, and print durability.
• Portability: Can you take this printer to a party, or is it better suited as a home or office fixture?
• Connectivity: From Wi-Fi to Bluetooth and USB, how easily does the printer connect to your devices?
• Ease of Use: The intuitiveness of the app, control panel, and setup process.
• Cost of Operation: Initial price plus ongoing expenses like cartridges or paper.
• Features: Extras like touchscreen controls, automatic document feeders, or special printing technologies.

I compared ten standout products currently available on Amazon, providing you with a detailed guide that balances specs with real-world usability.

What You Need to Consider When Choosing a Home Photo Printer

Before diving into individual reviews, a quick primer on what matters:

• Photo Size & Quality: Need wallet-sized prints or 4x6” photos? Dye-sublimation printers offer vivid colors and long-lasting durability, while inkjet printers may deliver more versatility.
• Portability vs. Functionality: Want to print at a party or on a hike? Portable models with rechargeable batteries are your best bet. For heavy-duty home or office use, all-in-one printers offer more features.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth is great for quick mobile printing, Wi-Fi supports multiple devices, and Ethernet/USB options might be vital for home offices.
• Operating Costs: Some printers require proprietary cartridges or paper, which can add up. Others, like the Epson EcoTank, use refillable tanks to save money.
• Ease of Use & App Support: A good app can transform your printing experience with editing tools, filters, and seamless sharing.

Overview of the Printers Covered in This Article

• Liene M100 4x6'' Photo Printer — Portable, dye-sublimation, multi-device Wi-Fi
• Liene M100 4x6'' Wi-Fi Photo Printer Bundle — Larger consumable pack, home use
• Canon PIXMA TR8620a All-in-One Printer — Multifunction with touchscreen and smart home integration
• KODAK Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer — High-quality prints with Bluetooth and dock
• Epson ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer — Cartridge-free, eco-friendly, budget-conscious
• HP Envy 6155e All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer — Affordable all-in-one, basic photo printing
• YOTON YP01 Portable Photo Printer — Compact Zink printer with AR video printing
• KODAK Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer — Mini, fun, and portable Zink printer
• HP ENVY Inspire 7955e Wireless Inkjet Printer — Versatile all-in-one with fast printing
• Canon TS202 Inkjet Photo Printer Model 2319C002AA — Budget-friendly basic printer

In the following sections, I’ll walk you through each printer’s strengths and weaknesses, share insights from expert reviewers, and help you understand which printer fits your unique needs. So, whether you’re a casual snapshooter or a seasoned photo buff, this guide will equip you to make an informed choice and bring your memories to life.

Liene M100 4x6'' Photo Printer Amazon Link

Price: $139.99

If you’ve ever wanted a little photo lab that fits in your backpack, the Liene M100 is about as close as it gets. This portable 4x6-inch photo printer uses thermal dye sublimation technology to produce vibrant, durable prints that are protected by a clear coat—meaning no more worrying about smudges or dust ruining your favorite snapshots. What’s particularly interesting is its ability to connect up to five devices via stable Wi-Fi, making it perfect for group events or family get-togethers where everyone wants to print their own photos.

Our Experience

Imagine you’re at a birthday party or a wedding reception. Everyone’s snapping photos on their phones, but instead of waiting to get prints back weeks later, you pull out the Liene M100. Within about a minute, you have a glossy, full-color photo ready to hand over. No cords, no fuss. The rechargeable battery lets you print about 40 photos before recharging, so it’s truly mobile. Plus, the companion app lets you tweak your photos with filters and edits right before printing, which is a nice touch for quick personalization.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Thermal dye sublimation for rich, vibrant, and durable prints
• Supports simultaneous connection for up to 5 devices (iOS, Android, PC)
• Rechargeable battery supporting ~40 prints per charge
• Includes 100 sheets of photo paper and 3 cartridges in the box
• Minimal control panel with status LEDs (no touchscreen)
• Liene Photo APP enables editing and cloud printing

What Experts Say

Tech reviewers praise the print quality and portability but note the operating costs and print speed could be better compared to competitors like the Canon Selphy CP1300. Still, the M100 is recognized as a solid, user-friendly choice for mobile printing.

Best For

• Capturing and sharing memories instantly at parties, weddings, and family gatherings
• Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to print on the go without power outlets
• Social events where multiple users can connect and print simultaneously

Limitations

• Higher operating costs due to proprietary cartridges and paper
• Print speed (~1 minute per image) is slower than some rivals
• Minimalistic control panel might frustrate users wanting more direct control
• No USB cable included for direct PC connection

Value Assessment

Offering a great blend of portability, print quality, and multi-device connectivity, the Liene M100 justifies its price for those prioritizing on-the-go photo printing. However, if you’re budget-sensitive or need faster outputs, it’s worth considering alternatives.

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Liene M100 4x6'' Wi-Fi Photo Printer Bundle Amazon Link

Price: $169.98

If you’re looking to print a high volume of photos at home with professional-level quality, the Liene M100 Bundle offers a compelling package. It ups the game by including a massive 180 sheets of photo paper and 5 ink cartridges—perfect for family projects, scrapbooking, or holiday cards. Unlike its portable sibling, this model lacks a battery, meaning it needs to stay plugged in, making it more of a home fixture than a travel companion.

Our Experience

Using this printer at home feels like having a mini photo studio. The prints are larger and crisper than compact Zink printers, and the colors pop with impressive accuracy. The sturdy design and magnetic input tray make loading paper straightforward, although the bulkier size means it’s less convenient to move around. The Liene app makes printing from your smartphone a breeze, but the minimal control panel means you won’t get much feedback from the device itself.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Dye-sublimation printing technology for vivid 4x6" photos
• Large consumable bundle included (180 sheets + 5 cartridges)
• Wi-Fi connectivity optimized for iOS and Android
• Strong build quality with magnetic input tray
• Does not include a rechargeable battery—requires power outlet
• Minimal control panel with status LEDs only

What Experts Say

Reviewers praise its superior print quality compared to smaller portable printers but lament the lack of portability and slower print speed due to the four-pass printing process.

Best For

• Home users printing large volumes of photos for albums and gifts
• Students or hobbyists needing accurate, high-quality prints
• Family gatherings and events where bulk printing is anticipated

Limitations

• No battery, so not suitable for on-the-go printing
• Bulkier design limits portability
• Slower print speed may frustrate users needing quick prints
• Input tray can be misplaced if not stored carefully

Value Assessment

The bundle represents good value for home users focusing on print quality and quantity. However, if you want portability or faster speed, the standard M100 or other models might be better.

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Canon PIXMA TR8620a All-in-One Printer Amazon Link

Price: $139.00

For those who want a multifunction printer capable of handling home office tasks alongside high-quality photo printing, the Canon PIXMA TR8620a is a versatile powerhouse. It combines fast printing speeds with sharp photo quality and extras like scanning, copying, faxing, and duplex printing. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen simplifies navigation, and smart home integration lets you control the printer with Alexa or Google Assistant.

Our Experience

In a busy home office or small business, the TR8620a shines. Printing photos feels like a breeze with vibrant colors and crisp details thanks to the five-ink cartridge system. The automatic document feeder and duplex printing save time, especially for multi-page documents. However, watch out for the comparatively high ink costs, which can add up quickly for frequent printing. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, but the inability to make two-sided scans or copies via ADF is a bit of a letdown.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Five-ink cartridge system for superior photo color accuracy
• 20-page automatic document feeder (ADF) and duplex printing
• 4.3-inch color touchscreen interface
• Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, and smart home integration (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant)
• Fast printing speeds: up to 15 ppm (black) and 10 ppm (color)
• Lacks two-sided scanning/copying via ADF

What Experts Say

Tech reviewers commend its photo quality and multifunction features but caution about the above-average ink costs and minor scanning limitations.

Best For

• Home office users needing multifunction capabilities with photo printing
• Small businesses requiring scanning, copying, faxing
• Smart home enthusiasts wanting voice control integration

Limitations

• Ink expenses can be high without a subscription
• No two-sided copying/scanning via ADF
• Slightly bulky for small spaces or portability
• Setup can be tricky for network and iOS users

Value Assessment

If multifunctionality and photo quality top your list, the TR8620a is a solid choice, balancing features and performance. Just keep an eye on ink costs over time.

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KODAK Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer Amazon Link

Price: $118.99

The KODAK Dock Plus brings the dye-sublimation printing experience to your home with a splash of creativity. Known for producing vivid, durable 4x6” prints, this printer supports Bluetooth and a physical docking station for smartphones, making it flexible for different users. The Kodak Photo Printer app unlocks a creative toolbox, perfect for crafting, greeting cards, or scrapbooking.

Our Experience

Using the Dock Plus feels like stepping into a photo lab with a crafty twist. The prints are sharp and vibrant, protected by a clear coat to ensure longevity. The docking feature is a clever convenience, though the printer is a bit bulkier than truly portable models, so it’s best suited for home use. The app’s creative functions add a lot of value, whether you’re personalizing gifts or decorating a photo wall.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Dye-sublimation 4Pass printing for vivid, durable 4x6-inch photos
• Bluetooth and docking station connectivity
• Creative app with editing, stickers, and custom options
• Compact but less portable than battery-powered models
• Includes 10 sheets initially; additional paper and ink must be purchased separately

What Experts Say

Photography enthusiasts highlight the unmatched color and clarity of prints, praising the printer’s ease of use and app features, while noting the limited portability.

Best For

• Home users creating personalized gifts and crafts
• Scrapbookers and crafters looking for creative printing options
• Event hosts wanting on-site photo printing for guests

Limitations

• Not ideal for on-the-go printing
• Higher price point compared to smaller portable printers
• Limited to 4x6-inch print size
• Additional costs for sticker paper and extra consumables

Value Assessment

A great option for quality-focused users who want creative freedom at home. While not the most portable, its print quality and app features justify the investment.

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Epson ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer Amazon Link

Price: $195.98

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 shakes up the home printer market with its cartridge-free ink system. If you’re tired of constantly replacing cartridges and want to save money long term, this printer’s large refillable ink tanks are a game-changer. It handles both documents and photos with accurate colors, though photo print quality isn’t quite on par with dedicated dye-sublimation printers.

Our Experience

Setting up the ET-2800 was straightforward, and the minimalist design fits nicely in a home office. Printing photos yields good color and detail, though not as vibrant as dye-sublimation prints. What stands out is the low running cost—the ink bottles last a long time, making it perfect for families or users who print regularly. The print speed is on the slower side, so patience is key if you print in bulk.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Cartridge-free EcoTank refillable ink system for low running costs
• Compact, minimalist design
• Accurate colors and decent photo print quality
• Printing speed of about 10 pages per minute (monochrome)
• Lacks SD card slot and Ethernet port
• Small 1.4-inch LCD screen limits navigation ease

What Experts Say

Laptop Mag praises the printer’s eco-friendliness and productivity but notes that print speeds are slow and features limited.

Best For

• Budget-conscious home users printing photos and documents regularly
• Environmentally minded consumers seeking refillable ink systems
• Small families needing an all-in-one solution without frequent cartridge changes

Limitations

• Slow print speeds may frustrate high-volume users
• Photo quality is good but not top-tier for serious photo enthusiasts
• Limited connectivity options and small display hinder usability
• No paper tray for larger jobs

Value Assessment

A solid investment for those prioritizing low operating costs and convenience over speed and premium photo quality.

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HP Envy 6155e All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer Amazon Link

Price: $89.99

The HP Envy 6155e is a budget-friendly all-in-one printer aimed at casual home users. It covers the basics well—printing, scanning, copying—with a compact footprint and support for mobile printing via the HP Smart app. While it produces sharp documents, photo prints can appear over-brightened and sometimes inaccurate.

Our Experience

This printer is perfect for homework assignments, occasional photo prints, and simple scanning tasks. The 2.4-inch touchscreen and app integration make operating straightforward. However, if you’re aiming for professional photo quality or large volume printing, you might find the print speed slow and ink costs mounting quickly due to its two-cartridge system.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Basic two-cartridge ink system (HP 68 Black & Tri-Color)
• Automatic duplex (double-sided) printing
• 2.4-inch touchscreen for control
• Supports Apple AirPrint and Mopria for mobile printing
• Includes 3 months of HP Instant Ink subscription
• Slow print speeds and sub-par photo print accuracy

What Experts Say

Reviewers appreciate document sharpness and app ease but warn about slow speed and high recurring ink costs.

Best For

• Occasional home users printing documents and light photos
• Families needing a compact, easy-to-use printer
• Users who want basic scanning and copying capabilities without a high price tag

Limitations

• Not suitable for high-volume or professional photo printing
• Over-brightened photo prints with limited color accuracy
• Basic flatbed scanner lacking an automatic document feeder
• High ink costs relative to ink-tank alternatives

Value Assessment

A decent choice for casual printing needs but less economical for heavy users or photo enthusiasts.

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YOTON YP01 Portable Photo Printer with 54 Sheets Amazon Link

Price: $99.99

The YOTON YP01 is a compact, lightweight photo printer perfect for those who want to print memories on the fly. Using Zink zero-ink technology, it eliminates messy cartridges, and supports AR video printing—a fun, innovative feature that bridges physical photos with digital content.

Our Experience

I took this little printer on a weekend trip, and it was a delight to instantly print 2x3 inch photos from my phone. The Liene Photo App offers various editing tools, from filters to collages, enhancing creativity. The only hiccup was the initial Bluetooth connection, which was a tad tricky, but once set, printing was smooth. The print speed is about a minute per photo—not lightning fast, but acceptable for casual use.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Zink zero-ink technology for hassle-free printing
• Supports AR video printing for a unique twist
• Compact and lightweight (only 183g)
• Includes 54 sheets of photo paper and one cartridge
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity with iOS and Android
• Small print size (2x3 inches) and slower print speed

What Experts Say

Reviewers love the portability and app features, though some note initial setup challenges and limited print size.

Best For

• Travelers and event-goers wanting instant prints
• Creative users making collages, stickers, or personalized gifts
• Families with kids engaged in fun photo projects

Limitations

• Not suitable for larger print sizes or bulk printing needs
• Initial setup might be tricky for non-tech-savvy users
• Requires step-down voltage transformer in some regions

Value Assessment

An excellent portable printer offering unique features and solid print quality for casual users and creatives.

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KODAK Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer Amazon Link

Price: $69.99

The KODAK Step printer is a fun, budget-friendly portable option that prints 2x3 inch sticker-backed photos via Bluetooth in under a minute. It uses ZINK technology, meaning no ink cartridges to worry about, and the accompanying app offers a variety of filters and stickers.

Our Experience

This was a hit at a recent party where guests printed their own photos instantly. While print quality isn’t perfect—colors sometimes skew and images crop tightly—the convenience is undeniable. The small size and rechargeable battery make it easy to carry, though the editing app is somewhat limited compared to others.

Key Features Worth Noting

• ZINK Zero Ink printing for cartridge-free operation
• Prints 2x3 inch sticky-backed photos quickly
• Bluetooth connectivity with iOS and Android
• Rechargeable battery supporting ~25 prints per charge
• Simple, fun editing app though limited in advanced tools

What Experts Say

Pocket-lint highlights ease of use and portability but notes compromises in print quality.

Best For

• Casual users wanting quick, fun photo souvenirs
• Scrapbookers or crafters using sticker-backed photos
• Travelers and event attendees needing portable printing

Limitations

• Not for users seeking professional photo quality
• Limited editing capabilities
• Colors can be inaccurate; prints may crop unexpectedly

Value Assessment

Great value for a playful, portable printer that’s easy to use but not for serious photography.

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HP ENVY Inspire 7955e Wireless Inkjet Printer Amazon Link

Price: $149.99

The HP ENVY Inspire 7955e is a versatile all-in-one printer that offers fast document printing alongside quality photo output. It supports duplex printing, a 35-sheet automatic document feeder, and includes a dedicated photo paper tray. The printer comes with 3 months of HP Instant Ink, making ink costs more manageable.

Our Experience

This printer fits well in home offices where both documents and photos need printing. The color prints are sharp and vibrant, and the scanning features are handy. Setup is generally straightforward, though some users report network hiccups. The tri-color cartridge system can lead to some ink wastage, and scanning speeds are not the fastest, but overall, it balances features and performance well.

Key Features Worth Noting

• High-quality color photo and document printing
• 35-sheet automatic document feeder and duplex printing
• Dedicated photo paper tray with 15-sheet capacity
• Supports HP Instant Ink subscription to reduce running costs
• Tri-color cartridge can cause ink waste
• Some issues with network and iOS setup reported

What Experts Say

Tom’s Guide and Digital Trends praise its performance and feature set but caution on ink costs without subscription.

Best For

• Home users needing high-quality photos and document printing
• Small offices requiring versatile scanning and printing
• Users who benefit from Instant Ink subscription for ink management

Limitations

• High ink costs without subscription
• Slow scanning speeds
• Network setup can be challenging for some
• Tri-color cartridge leads to some ink wastage

Value Assessment

A well-rounded all-in-one offering with strong photo and document capabilities, best for moderate volume users who manage ink costs carefully.

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Canon TS202 Inkjet Photo Printer Model 2319C002AA Amazon Link

Price: $39.00

The Canon TS202 is a no-frills, affordable printer for users with minimal needs. It produces sharp color documents and decent photos but lacks wireless connectivity and scanning capabilities, limiting its versatility.

Our Experience

This printer is a basic workhorse for families and students who need occasional color printing. It’s compact and easy to set up but slow and limited in features. The lack of wireless means you’re tethered to a USB connection, which feels outdated in 2024.

Key Features Worth Noting

• Compact and affordable
• Rear paper tray with 60-sheet capacity
• Prints sharp color documents and decent photos
• No wireless or scanning features
• Slow printing speeds (7.7 ipm black, 4 ipm color)

What Experts Say

While it resolves fine details well, reviewers warn about slow speed, high maintenance, and overall limited functionality.

Best For

• Casual users needing basic printing
• Families and students on a tight budget
• Users who don’t require wireless or multifunction features

Limitations

• No scanning or copying
• Slow print speeds
• No wireless connectivity
• Higher maintenance and ink costs over time

Value Assessment

A budget entry point for simple print jobs, but limited and slow compared to modern alternatives.

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Comprehensive Comparison of Home Photo Printers

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Home Photo Printer

When selecting a home photo printer, understanding your specific needs is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider:

Print Quality and Technology

The quality of your printed photos depends heavily on the printing technology. Dye-sublimation printers, like the Liene M100 and KODAK Dock Plus, pass ink through heat, producing smooth gradients and vibrant colors with a protective coating that resists smudges and fading. If you want professional-grade prints, these are your best bet.

Inkjet printers, such as the Canon PIXMA TR8620a and Epson EcoTank ET-2800, offer versatility and multifunction capabilities, but photo prints may lack the longevity and richness of dye-sublimation outputs.

Portability

Ask yourself: Do you want to print photos on the go? Battery-powered, lightweight printers like the Liene M100 (standard), YOTON YP01, and KODAK Step are perfect for travel, parties, and outdoor events. Larger all-in-ones are better suited to stationary use at home or in the office.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi connectivity is now a must-have for easy printing from smartphones, tablets, and computers. Some models support multiple simultaneous connections (Liene M100 standard model), while others rely on Bluetooth (YOTON, KODAK Step) or wired USB connections (Canon TS202). Consider your devices and how you prefer to print.

Ease of Use and Software

A well-designed app or touchscreen interface can make printing seamless. Many printers come with companion apps offering editing tools, filters, and creative options. If you’re less tech-savvy, look for printers with intuitive controls and quick setup.

Operating Costs

Don’t overlook the cost of consumables. Printers requiring proprietary cartridges or special photo paper (Liene M100, KODAK Dock Plus) can be pricey over time. Ink tank systems like Epson EcoTank offer lower running costs but might have higher upfront prices.

Print Size and Speed

Most home photo printers produce standard 4x6-inch prints; however, some portable models print smaller sizes (2x3 inches). Consider what size suits your needs. Also, print speed varies—portable printers generally take about a minute per photo, while all-in-ones can be faster but may compromise portability.

Which Home Photo Printer Should You Choose?

The Social Butterfly: The Party Printer

If you love hosting events and want your guests to print memories instantly, the Liene M100 4x6'' Photo Printer is a fantastic choice. Its ability to connect five devices simultaneously and portability with a rechargeable battery means everyone can join in the fun. The vibrant dye-sublimation prints make the memories last.

The Home Photo Enthusiast: Quality & Volume

For those printing lots of photos at home with top-notch quality, the Liene M100 4x6'' Wi-Fi Photo Printer Bundle or the KODAK Dock Plus 4PASS Instant Photo Printer offer excellent print quality and large consumable packs. The bundle is great for volume, while Kodak adds creative app features.

The All-in-One Home Office User

If you want a printer that handles everything from documents to photos, check out the Canon PIXMA TR8620a or the HP ENVY Inspire 7955e. Both offer multifunction features, smart home connectivity, and high-quality prints. Canon leans more towards smart home integration, while HP offers fast document printing.

The Budget and Eco-Friendly Printer

For those seeking low operating costs and environmental friendliness, the Epson ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Supertank Printer is a solid pick. Its refillable ink tanks mean fewer cartridge replacements and long-term savings, though it’s less portable.

The Casual, Portable Printer

If you want a fun, portable printer for casual use and creative projects, the YOTON YP01 Portable Photo Printer and KODAK Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer are budget-friendly options with hassle-free printing and easy app-based editing.

Conclusion

Choosing the right home photo printer boils down to your lifestyle and priorities. If portability and instant printing at events are your thing, the Liene M100 4x6'' Photo Printer stands out as an excellent companion. For high-volume home printing with exceptional quality, the Liene M100 Bundle or KODAK Dock Plus provide abundant consumables and vivid dye-sublimation prints.

Need multifunctionality? The Canon PIXMA TR8620a and HP ENVY Inspire 7955e excel in blending photo printing with office tasks, though watch for ink costs. And for eco-conscious users seeking low running costs, the Epson ET-2800’s refillable tanks offer long-term savings.

Ultimately, whether you’re printing your child’s art, preserving wedding memories, or crafting personalized gifts, there’s a photo printer here tailored for you. Ready to bring your memories to life? Start exploring your perfect printer today.

Explore the Liene M100 4x6'' Photo Printer on Amazon