The HP Sprocket Select Portable 2.3×3.4″ Instant Photo Printer (Eclipse) is a fun, portable photo printer that has changed the way I capture and share my memories. This review, based on years of use, will detail its strengths and weaknesses.
For years, I struggled with the dilemma of capturing precious moments and then letting them languish on my phone or computer. The convenience of digital photography was offset by the lack of tangible memories. A portable photo printer seemed like the perfect solution, but the sheer number of options was overwhelming. The HP Sprocket Select would have been a lifesaver during my recent trip abroad, allowing me to instantly print and share my photos with loved ones.
- Print 30% larger photos in an instant – Connect with the HP Sprocket app using Bluetooth, and...
- Exclusive fashionable photo features – Curate your photos with the HP Sprocket app, and access...
- Personalize your prints – Take a picture of your own doodles and turn them into custom stickers,...
- Tag-to-print – Easily find and print social media photos from your smartphone—hashtag a photo in...
Choosing the Right Portable Photo Printer
Before investing in a portable photo printer, consider your needs. What type of prints do you want? Do you need high-quality prints for professional purposes, or are you looking for something fun and convenient for personal use? The ideal customer for a portable photo printer, like the HP Sprocket Select, is someone who wants instant prints of their photos, particularly those with sticky-backed ZINK paper. If you need high-quality prints for archival purposes, a more robust, ink-based printer would be a better choice. Think about portability. How important is it for your printer to be small and lightweight? The HP Sprocket Select‘s compact size is a major advantage. Finally, consider your budget. Portable photo printers range in price, so decide how much you’re willing to spend.
Introducing the HP Sprocket Select
The HP Sprocket Select is a compact, Bluetooth-enabled photo printer that uses ZINK (Zero Ink) technology. It promises quick, smudge-proof, tear-resistant, and water-resistant prints on sticky-backed photo paper. Compared to previous HP Sprocket models, it offers 30% larger prints. While it’s not designed to compete with high-end photo printers in terms of print quality, its convenience and portability are hard to beat. The HP Sprocket Select instant photo printer is perfect for casual photo printing, scrapbooking, and journaling. It may not be suitable for those needing professional-quality prints.
* Pros:
* Compact and portable design.
* Easy to use via Bluetooth connection.
* ZINK technology eliminates the need for ink cartridges.
* Sticky-backed prints can be easily applied to various surfaces.
* Fun augmented reality features via the accompanying app.
* Cons:
* Print quality isn’t as sharp or vibrant as higher-end printers.
* Limited battery life.
* Occasionally experiences paper feed issues.
* Color accuracy can be inconsistent; often has a slight magenta tint.
* Relatively expensive per print compared to inkjet options.
Exploring the Features and Benefits of the HP Sprocket Select
Setup and Connectivity
Setting up the HP Sprocket Select is incredibly straightforward. Download the HP Sprocket app (available for iOS and Android), turn on the printer, and connect via Bluetooth. The app guides you through the process, making it easy even for tech novices. The seamless Bluetooth connection ensures quick and reliable printing.
Printing Speed and Quality
The print speed is surprisingly fast. Each photo takes only a few seconds to print, making it perfect for spontaneous moments. The print quality is acceptable for casual use. While not comparable to professional photo printers, the prints are sharp enough for most personal projects and are surprisingly vibrant. However, as many reviews mention, there’s a tendency for a slight magenta tint. Editing photos on the phone before printing can mitigate this. The use of ZINK paper guarantees smudge-proof, tear-resistant, and waterproof prints. The sticky back is a fun feature, ideal for scrapbooking, journaling, or decorating.
ZINK Paper and App Features
The HP Sprocket Select uses 2.3 x 3.4″ HP ZINK photo paper, which is readily available. This eliminates the need for messy ink cartridges, reducing the overall cost and maintenance of the printer. The HP Sprocket app is more than just a printing tool; it’s a creative hub. You can add borders, filters, stickers, and other fun embellishments to your photos before printing. The app also includes augmented reality features, allowing you to add hidden videos or other content to your prints. This makes sharing and viewing photos much more engaging and interactive.
Portability and Design
The printer’s small size and lightweight design make it highly portable. It easily slips into a bag or purse, making it perfect for travel, parties, or events. The sleek and stylish design also makes it a visually appealing addition to any desk or bag.
What Real Users Are Saying
Online reviews consistently praise the HP Sprocket Select for its ease of use, portability, and fun features. Many users love the convenience of instant prints and the versatility of the sticky-backed paper. While some point out the occasional color inconsistencies and minor paper feed issues, these are often overshadowed by the overall positive experience. Users consistently appreciate the compact size and the speed of printing, enabling spontaneous photo sharing.
Final Verdict: Is the HP Sprocket Select Right for You?
The HP Sprocket Select portable printer solves the problem of turning digital memories into tangible keepsakes. It’s easy to use, portable, and offers a fun way to instantly print photos. While the print quality might not be perfect and the battery life could be improved, the convenience and creative features make it a worthwhile purchase for casual users. If you want instant gratification and the ability to share your memories in a creative and fun way, then click here to check out the HP Sprocket Select today!