Buying Guide for the Best Printers That Work With Iphone
Choosing a printer that works well with an iPhone can make your life a lot easier, whether you're printing out photos, documents, tickets, or even recipes straight from your phone. The key is to find a printer that offers easy compatibility, reliable connection options, the features you need, and print quality that suits your tasks. It’s all about matching your daily needs with the right balance of technology and usability, so you’re not left frustrated or stuck with something you won’t use.Wireless Connectivity (AirPrint Support)Wireless connectivity refers to how well a printer can communicate with your devices without cables, and for iPhone users, AirPrint support is especially important. AirPrint is Apple's built-in system that allows you to print directly from your iPhone without installing extra apps or drivers. Printers with AirPrint support provide the easiest and most seamless experience. If a printer lacks AirPrint, you might need to use special manufacturer apps or workarounds, which can be less convenient. When deciding, check if the printer clearly mentions AirPrint support in the description. This makes setup and daily use with your iPhone quick and hassle-free.
Type of Printer (Inkjet vs. Laser)Printers generally come in two main types: inkjet and laser. Inkjet printers are versatile and handle photos and color images very well, making them good for users who want to print pictures or graphics from their iPhones. Laser printers are faster and more efficient for text-heavy documents and are often the choice for users whose printing mostly involves paperwork. Think about what you print most on your iPhone—photos, color images, or mostly documents—to guide your decision.
Print Quality (DPI – Dots Per Inch)Print quality is often described by DPI, or dots per inch, which measures how many tiny dots of ink the printer lays down in each inch of the print. Higher DPI numbers generally mean sharper, more detailed prints, which is particularly important if you plan to print photos or images from your iPhone. For general document printing, lower DPI is usually sufficient. If you want high-quality photo printing, look for printers with a higher DPI rating, while for basic text and everyday documents, a moderate DPI will work just fine.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of a printer can range from full-sized desktop models to compact, portable options you can carry around. If you have limited space or want a printer you can easily move or use on the go, consider a more compact model. These are ideal for users who travel or attend events and need to print directly from their iPhones. Larger, stationary printers are usually packed with more features and are suitable if you'll keep the printer in one place, like a home office.
Paper HandlingPaper handling covers the types and sizes of paper a printer can use, as well as how much paper it holds. Some printers can print only on standard letter or A4 sizes, while others offer options for photo paper, envelopes, or even labels. If you want to print photos from your iPhone, make sure the printer supports photo paper sizes. Also, check the capacity of the paper tray—if you print in bulk, a larger tray saves time, while for infrequent printing a small tray can be enough.
Mobile App FeaturesMany printers come with companion mobile apps offering extra features like photo editing, scanning, cloud printing, or remote monitoring. While AirPrint covers basic printing from your iPhone, these apps might provide handy options, especially if you enjoy customizing prints or want more control from your phone. Give thought to how much you’d use these added functions—heavy app users might benefit from a richer set of features.