Hp Sprocket vs Canon Ivy 2: Which Pocket Printer Reigns?
Looking for a quick and easy way to print your photos on the go? Pocket printers have become increasingly popular, offering instant gratification and a fun way to share memories. But with so many options available, choosing the right one can be tricky. Today, we’re putting two popular contenders head-to-head: the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2.
Both the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2 promise to deliver high-quality prints from your smartphone or other devices. They both use ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, eliminating the need for ink cartridges. This makes them compact, convenient, and perfect for travel or everyday use.
In this in-depth comparison, we’ll delve into the key features, performance, and overall user experience of the HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy 2. We’ll explore their print quality, ease of use, app functionality, and design to help you determine which pocket printer best suits your needs and preferences. Get ready to find out which one comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | hp sprocket | canon ivy 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | ZINK | ZINK |
| Print Resolution | 313 x 400 dpi | 314 x 400 dpi |
| Print Size | 2 x 3 inches | 2 x 3 inches |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Mobile App | HP Sprocket App | Canon Mini Print App |
| Borderless Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Paper Capacity | Up to 10 sheets | Up to 10 sheets |
| Photo Editing Features | Yes | Yes |
| AR Features | Yes | Yes |
| Charging | Micro USB | Micro USB |
| Dimensions | Varies by model | Varies by model |
| Weight | Varies by model | Varies by model |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Print Quality
- Hp Sprocket: Uses ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, resulting in vibrant but sometimes less detailed prints. Colors can appear slightly muted compared to inkjet printers. Prints are water-resistant and smudge-proof.
- Canon Ivy 2: Also uses ZINK technology, offering similar print quality characteristics as the Sprocket. Prints are generally good for casual use and sharing, but not ideal for professional photography.
- Winner: Tie
Print Size
- Hp Sprocket: Prints 2×3-inch photos, perfect for small prints and sharing. Provides a classic instant photo size.
- Canon Ivy 2: Also prints 2×3-inch photos, offering the same size convenience for instant sharing and sticking.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Hp Sprocket: Connects via Bluetooth to smartphones. Offers a simple and straightforward connection process, but may experience occasional pairing issues.
- Canon Ivy 2: Connects via Bluetooth to smartphones. Features easy setup and reliable connection, similar to the Sprocket.
- Winner: Tie
App Features
- Hp Sprocket: The HP Sprocket app allows for photo editing, adding filters, stickers, and text. Offers a user-friendly interface for customization.
- Canon Ivy 2: The Canon Ivy Mini Photo Printer app provides similar features, including photo editing, templates, and social media integration. Offers a comprehensive range of creative options.
- Winner: Tie
Portability & Design
- Hp Sprocket: Compact and lightweight, designed for easy portability. Features a stylish and modern design.
- Canon Ivy 2: Similar to the Sprocket in terms of portability, with a sleek and compact design. Available in a variety of colors.
- Winner: Tie
Paper/Cartridge Cost & Availability
- Hp Sprocket: Uses ZINK photo paper, which is relatively affordable and readily available online and in stores. Costs vary depending on pack size.
- Canon Ivy 2: Also uses ZINK photo paper, with similar cost and availability as the Sprocket.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Hp Sprocket: Offers a decent battery life, allowing for a reasonable number of prints on a single charge. Battery life can vary depending on usage.
- Canon Ivy 2: Provides a comparable battery life to the Sprocket, allowing for several prints before needing to recharge.
- Winner: Tie
Ease of Use
- Hp Sprocket: Generally easy to set up and use, with a straightforward printing process. User-friendly for beginners.
- Canon Ivy 2: Equally easy to use, with a simple setup and intuitive app interface. Designed for user convenience.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Print Quality | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| App Features | Tie |
| Portability | Tie |
| Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Print Technology: Both printers utilize ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, eliminating the need for ink cartridges and offering instant prints.
- Print Size: They both produce 2 x 3-inch prints, ideal for wallet-sized photos and stickers.
- Connectivity: Both connect to smartphones and tablets via Bluetooth, enabling wireless printing from mobile devices.
- Mobile App Support: Each printer has a dedicated mobile app (HP Sprocket App and Canon Mini Print App) for photo editing, customization, and printing.
- Borderless Printing: Both printers offer the option of borderless printing, allowing for full-bleed photos without white edges.
- Paper Capacity: Both printers can hold up to 10 sheets of photo paper, allowing for multiple prints before needing to reload.
Hp Sprocket Vs Canon Ivy 2 Buying Guide
Print Quality
The print quality is a crucial factor when choosing between the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2. The HP Sprocket utilizes ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, which produces vibrant but often slightly less sharp prints. Colors can appear somewhat muted or less detailed, especially in photos with complex gradients. The Canon Ivy 2 also uses ZINK technology, offering comparable print quality to the Sprocket in terms of color reproduction. However, the Canon Ivy 2 often provides slightly better sharpness and detail, particularly in areas with fine textures or intricate elements. Both printers are suitable for casual prints, but the Canon Ivy 2 often provides a small edge in overall print fidelity.
Portability and Design
Both the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2 are designed for portability, making them ideal for on-the-go printing. The HP Sprocket typically features a more compact and boxy design, often with a slightly more rugged feel. The Canon Ivy 2 frequently sports a sleeker, more rounded design, contributing to a more modern aesthetic. Both printers are small enough to fit comfortably in a pocket or bag. Consider the design that best suits your personal style and needs. Both are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal companions for travel and everyday use.
Connectivity and App Features
Connectivity and app features play a significant role in the user experience. Both printers connect to smartphones via Bluetooth, enabling wireless printing. The HP Sprocket app offers basic editing tools, filters, and the ability to add text and stickers to photos. The Canon Ivy 2 app generally provides a more comprehensive set of editing options, including more advanced filters, border styles, and layout customization. Both apps are user-friendly, but the Canon Ivy 2’s app often provides a slightly richer and more customizable experience. Consider the app features that align with your desired level of photo editing.
Print Speed and Paper Size
Print speed and paper size are important considerations. The HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2 typically print at a similar speed, with each print taking approximately 40-50 seconds. Both printers use 2×3 inch ZINK paper. This small size is perfect for creating instant photos, stickers, and sharing memories. The paper is designed to be peel-and-stick, which adds to the convenience. Both are similar here, offering a fun, instant photo experience with their compact size and quick printing.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is crucial for on-the-go printing. Both printers have built-in rechargeable batteries. The HP Sprocket usually offers a battery life that can print approximately 30-40 photos on a single charge. The Canon Ivy 2 also boasts a similar battery performance. Both printers typically recharge via a micro-USB port. For extended printing sessions, it’s advisable to carry a portable charger or ensure the printer is fully charged before heading out. Both printers are similar regarding battery life.
Cost and Value
The overall cost and value are important when making a purchasing decision. Both printers have a similar initial price point. However, the cost of the ZINK paper is a recurring expense. The price of ZINK paper is comparable for both printers. Consider the total cost of ownership, including the printer itself and the ongoing cost of paper. Evaluate the features, print quality, and overall user experience to determine which printer offers the best value for your needs. Both are competitively priced, making them accessible to many.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy hp sprocket If…
- You prefer a wider selection of designs and customization options within the app.
- You value a slightly more compact and portable design.
- You are looking for a printer with integrated AR features.
Buy canon ivy 2 If…
- You prefer a sleek and modern design.
- You are looking for a printer with a user-friendly app interface.
- You want a printer that offers a wide range of sticker designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the print technology used in HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy 2?
Both the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2 use ZINK (Zero Ink) technology. ZINK technology utilizes special paper that contains embedded dye crystals. When heated by the printer, these crystals activate and create the image without requiring ink cartridges. This makes the printers compact and convenient for on-the-go printing, eliminating the need for ink refills.
What is the print size for photos from these printers?
Both printers produce 2×3 inch prints. This small, wallet-sized format is ideal for creating instant photos that can be shared, placed in wallets, or used as stickers. The 2×3 inch size is perfect for a quick, fun way to create memories. This size is also compatible with many accessories, such as photo albums and scrapbooks.
How do I connect the printer to my smartphone?
Both the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2 connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. You’ll need to download the corresponding app (HP Sprocket app or Canon Mini Print app) on your device. Then, enable Bluetooth on your phone, open the app, and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your printer. The pairing process is straightforward.
Can I edit photos before printing?
Yes, both printers’ apps offer basic photo editing features. The HP Sprocket app provides tools for cropping, adding filters, and adding text. The Canon Ivy 2’s app typically provides a more extensive range of editing options, including more advanced filters, border styles, and layout customization. Both apps allow you to adjust brightness, contrast, and other settings to improve your prints.
How long does it take to print a photo?
The print speed is relatively similar for both printers. It usually takes approximately 40-50 seconds to print a single photo. This printing speed is fast enough to create instant photos. This allows you to quickly share and create memories. You’ll have your photos in your hands in under a minute.
What is the battery life like?
Both printers have built-in rechargeable batteries. The HP Sprocket typically offers battery life for printing approximately 30-40 photos on a single charge. The Canon Ivy 2 also offers comparable battery performance. Battery life may vary depending on usage. You can recharge the printers through a micro-USB port.
What are the key differences between the HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy 2?
The main differences lie in app features and design. The Canon Ivy 2 often provides a slightly more refined user experience with its app, including more editing options. The design of the Canon Ivy 2 tends to be sleeker. Print quality is similar, with the Canon Ivy 2 providing a slight edge in sharpness. Both printers offer great portability and are perfect for printing on the go.
Final Verdict
Both the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy 2 are excellent choices for instant photo printing, offering portability and ease of use. The Canon Ivy 2 generally provides a slightly better user experience with its app and a more modern design, while print quality is similar. Therefore, the Canon Ivy 2 is the better option.
Winner: Canon Ivy 2