How we chose the best portable printersOur portable printer recommendations are based on a mix of hands-on testing and research. What to consider when shopping for the best portable printersThere are many factors to consider when deciding which portable printer is right for you. Battery powerSome of our portable printers can run off a battery, meaning they’re portable rather than just physically small. Portable photo printers that we recommend use special paper, while the larger general-use portable printers in this guide can use standard paper. A portable printer’s size alone may be enough to convince you to keep one in the house just in case.