From stunning 4x6 snapshots to gallery-ready 13x19 prints, we've tested the top photo printers for every photographer's needs and budget.
Canon PIXMA Pro-200
Professional 8-ink system
Canon PIXMA G620
2.5 cents per 4x6 photo
Epson EcoTank ET-8550
Up to 13x19 borderless
Epson SureColor P700
Archival pigment inks
In 2026, photo printing technology has reached new heights. Whether you're a professional photographer selling gallery prints, a hobbyist creating photo books, or a parent preserving family memories, there's a perfect photo printer for you. Unlike standard inkjet printers that prioritize speed and text quality, dedicated photo printers use advanced ink systems designed specifically for vibrant colors, smooth gradients, and exceptional longevity.
After extensive testing of over 15 photo printers, we've identified the best options across different categories. Our evaluation focused on color accuracy, print longevity, cost per print, ease of use, and overall value. Here are the printers that consistently delivered stunning results.
Professional-quality photo prints can transform any space
The Canon PIXMA Pro-200 represents the pinnacle of dye-based photo printing for enthusiasts and professionals who demand gallery-quality results. With its innovative 8-color dye ink system, this printer produces stunning prints with exceptional color accuracy and smooth tonal gradations that rival professional lab output.
Canon PIXMA Pro-200
~$549
If you print a lot of photos, the Canon PIXMA G620 is a game-changer. This MegaTank printer uses refillable ink bottles instead of cartridges, slashing your cost per photo to just 2.5 cents for a 4x6 print. With its 6-color dye ink system including special Red and Gray inks, it delivers exceptional photo quality that rivals more expensive dedicated photo printers.
💡 Pro Tip: The G620's ChromaLife 100 system protects photos for up to 100 years in albums!
Canon PIXMA G620
~$329
Best cost-per-print!
Wide-format photo printers bring landscape photography to life
The Epson EcoTank ET-8550 combines wide-format capability with ultra-low running costs. This versatile all-in-one prints stunning borderless photos up to 13x19 inches using Epson's 6-color Claria ET Premium ink system. At just 4 cents per 4x6 photo, it's ideal for photographers who need large prints without the large expense.
Epson EcoTank ET-8550
~$699
Wide-format champion
When only the absolute best will do, the Epson SureColor P700 delivers museum-quality prints that will last for generations. Using Epson's UltraChrome PRO10 pigment-based ink system with 10 colors, this printer produces prints with an astonishing color gamut and exceptional archival longevity. It's the choice of professional photographers and fine art printmakers worldwide.
🎨 Perfect for: Gallery prints, fine art reproductions, wedding albums, and archival photography
Epson SureColor P700
~$799
Professional archival quality
| Feature | Canon Pro-200 | Canon G620 | Epson ET-8550 | Epson P700 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$549 | ~$329 | ~$699 | ~$799 |
| Max Print Size | 13x19" | 8.5x11" | 13x19" | 13" wide |
| Ink Type | Dye (8-color) | Dye (6-color) | Dye (6-color) | Pigment (10-color) |
| Cost per 4x6 | ~40 cents | ~2.5 cents | ~4 cents | ~50 cents |
| Archival Life | 100 years | 100 years | 100 years | 200+ years |
| All-in-One | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Best For | Enthusiast photos | High-volume printing | Versatile wide-format | Fine art & galleries |
Dye inks dissolve in liquid and penetrate deep into the paper fibers. They produce vibrant, saturated colors with smooth gradations.
Pigment inks contain microscopic particles that sit on top of the paper surface. They're more resistant to fading and water.
Bottom Line: For most home users and hobbyists, modern dye-based printers like the Canon G620 or Pro-200 offer excellent quality and value. Choose pigment only if you're selling prints or need museum-quality archival life.
How many photos do you print per month? High-volume printers (100+ photos/month) should consider tank systems like the Canon G620 or Epson ET-8550. Low-volume users might be better served by a traditional cartridge printer or even a professional print service.
Don't just look at the printer price - calculate your 3-year total cost of ownership. A $700 tank printer printing 500 photos/month costs less over 3 years than a $100 printer with $30 cartridges that only print 50 photos each.
Most people only print 4x6 or 5x7 photos. If you'll never need prints larger than letter size, save money with an 8.5x11 max printer. Wide-format (13x19) printers are only necessary for large prints, posters, or professional work.
Using cheap paper on an expensive printer is like putting regular gas in a sports car. Invest in quality photo paper (Canon, Epson, or third-party premium) to see what your printer can really do. Paper choice affects color accuracy, detail, and longevity.
It depends on your volume. If you print fewer than 50 photos per month, a print service may be cheaper. However, at-home printing offers instant results, creative control, and convenience. For serious hobbyists and professionals, a dedicated photo printer pays for itself within 1-2 years.
While possible, we don't recommend it for photo printers. OEM inks are precisely formulated for color accuracy and longevity. Third-party inks may cause color shifts, clogging, and significantly reduced print life. The savings aren't worth the quality compromise for photos.
With modern dye-based inks and quality paper, prints stored in albums can last 100+ years. Pigment-based prints can last 200+ years. The key is proper storage: avoid direct sunlight, humidity, and use acid-free albums. Framed prints behind UV glass last longer.
For most photos, glossy or luster/satin finish paper works best. Glossy provides the most vivid colors, while luster offers a professional look with less fingerprint visibility. Matte paper works well for fine art and black-and-white photography. Always use paper rated for your ink type.
For casual printing, no - modern printers come well-calibrated from the factory. For professional work, investing in a color calibration tool (like a SpyderPrint or i1Photo Pro) ensures what you see on screen matches your print. At minimum, calibrate your monitor.
Our top picks deliver gallery-quality prints at home