Canon Ivy vs Hp Sprocket: Which Pocket Printer Reigns?
Tired of your photos living solely on your phone? Craving instant gratification and tangible memories? You’re in luck! The world of pocket-sized photo printers is booming, offering a convenient way to bring your digital snaps to life instantly.
Two of the most popular contenders in this arena are the Canon IVY Mini Photo Printer and the HP Sprocket Portable Photo Printer. Both promise to transform your digital images into physical prints, ready to be shared, displayed, or tucked away for safekeeping.
But which one comes out on top? This in-depth comparison of the Canon IVY vs HP Sprocket will delve into their key features, print quality, ease of use, and overall value, helping you decide which portable printer is the perfect match for your needs.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | canon ivy | hp sprocket |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | ZINK | ZINK |
| Photo Size | 2×3 inches | 2×3 inches |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Mobile App | Canon Mini Print | HP Sprocket App |
| Border Options | Yes | Yes |
| Print Speed | Approx. 50 seconds | Approx. 40 seconds |
| Paper Capacity | Up to 10 sheets | Up to 10 sheets |
| Battery Life (Prints) | Up to 20 prints | Up to 35 prints |
| Charging | Micro USB | Micro USB |
| Customization Options | Stickers, Frames, Filters | Stickers, Frames, Filters |
| Weight | 5.6 oz | 6.2 oz |
| Dimensions | 4.7 x 3.2 x 0.8 inches | 4.5 x 3.0 x 0.9 inches |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Print Quality
- Canon Ivy: Utilizes ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, producing 2×3-inch prints. The print quality is generally acceptable for casual use, with decent color reproduction and sharpness in good lighting. However, details can be soft, and colors might not be as vibrant as professional prints.
- Hp Sprocket: Also uses ZINK technology, offering 2×3-inch prints. Print quality is similar to the ivy, with acceptable color and clarity for casual prints. Like the ivy, it can suffer from soft details and less-than-vibrant colors compared to higher-end printing methods.
- Winner: Tie
Print Speed
- Canon Ivy: Offers relatively fast printing, typically completing a print in under a minute. This allows for quick sharing and instant gratification.
- Hp Sprocket: Provides a comparable print speed to the ivy, completing a print in a similar timeframe.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Canon Ivy: Connects via Bluetooth to smartphones and tablets. Offers easy and quick wireless printing from your devices.
- Hp Sprocket: Also utilizes Bluetooth connectivity for wireless printing from smartphones and tablets, with a similar ease of use.
- Winner: Tie
App Features
- Canon Ivy: The Canon Mini Print app allows for photo editing, adding filters, stickers, and text. Provides a user-friendly interface for customization before printing.
- Hp Sprocket: The HP Sprocket app offers similar features, including photo editing, filters, stickers, and text options. Has a similar user-friendly experience.
- Winner: Tie
Paper Size & Type
- Canon Ivy: Prints on 2×3 inch ZINK photo paper. The paper has a peel-and-stick backing.
- Hp Sprocket: Uses 2×3 inch ZINK photo paper with a peel-and-stick backing.
- Winner: Tie
Portability & Design
- Canon Ivy: Compact and lightweight, making it easily portable. Often features a sleek and modern design.
- Hp Sprocket: Similarly compact and lightweight, designed for easy portability. Also offers a variety of stylish designs.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Canon Ivy: Provides a decent battery life, allowing for a reasonable number of prints on a single charge. The exact number can vary depending on usage.
- Hp Sprocket: Offers a comparable battery life to the ivy, allowing for a similar number of prints per charge.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Availability
- Canon Ivy: Generally available at a competitive price point, with relatively accessible paper costs. Availability is usually good.
- Hp Sprocket: Often priced similarly to the ivy, making it a comparable option. The paper costs are also quite similar. Availability is also generally good.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Print Quality | Tie |
| Features | Tie |
| Portability | Canon Ivy |
| Battery Life | HP Sprocket |
| App Features | Tie |
| Print Speed | HP Sprocket |
What They Have in Common
- Print Technology: Both the Canon IVY and HP Sprocket utilize ZINK (Zero Ink) printing technology, eliminating the need for ink cartridges. This results in instant, borderless, and smudge-proof prints.
- Photo Size: Both printers produce 2×3-inch photos, perfect for sharing, sticking in a wallet, or creating small collages.
- Connectivity: Both printers connect wirelessly via Bluetooth, allowing for easy printing from smartphones and tablets.
- Mobile App Support: They both have accompanying mobile apps (Canon Mini Print and HP Sprocket App) that offer photo editing features and customization options.
- Paper Compatibility: Both printers are compatible with the same 2×3-inch ZINK photo paper, ensuring compatibility across devices.
- Border Options: Both printers offer the ability to print with or without borders, giving you flexibility in your photo presentation.
Canon Ivy vs HP Sprocket Buying Guide
Portability and Design
Both the Canon Ivy and HP Sprocket are designed for portability, making them ideal for on-the-go printing. The Ivy boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a smooth finish, available in a variety of colors. It’s compact and lightweight, easily fitting in a pocket or small bag. The Sprocket also offers a compact design, often featuring vibrant colors and a more playful aesthetic. Its dimensions are similar to the Ivy, making it equally portable and convenient for travel and instant photo printing. Both prioritize ease of use and portability, though aesthetic preferences may vary.
Print Quality and Technology
The Canon Ivy and HP Sprocket both use ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, which eliminates the need for ink cartridges. This technology embeds color crystals in the photo paper. The Ivy generally produces slightly better image quality, with more vibrant colors and sharper details compared to the Sprocket. The Sprocket offers acceptable print quality for casual use, but the images may appear slightly less detailed. When choosing between the two, consider that the Ivy’s print quality is slightly superior, especially in terms of color accuracy.
Connectivity and App Features
Both printers connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing for wireless printing. The Canon Ivy app offers a range of editing features, including filters, stickers, and text options, providing more customization. The HP Sprocket app also offers editing tools, but its interface is considered more user-friendly by some. Both apps are intuitive and easy to navigate. Canon’s app is often praised for its advanced editing options. Connectivity and app features are pivotal in the overall user experience.
Paper and Printing Costs
Both printers utilize ZINK photo paper, which is readily available. The cost of the paper is a significant factor in the overall cost of printing. While the price per print for both printers is comparable, it’s worth comparing prices from different retailers to find the best deals. Consider the paper dimensions and the availability of different paper packs, such as sticker-backed paper, which adds to the functionality. Budgeting for paper is crucial for long-term printer use.
Battery Life and Charging
The battery life of both printers is sufficient for a moderate amount of printing on a single charge. Both are charged via micro-USB, making it easy to charge on the go. The Ivy’s battery life is comparable to the Sprocket’s. It’s recommended to charge the printer before a photo session. The battery life is an important consideration for those who plan to use the printer frequently. Battery life is a critical factor for on-the-go printing.
Ease of Use and User Experience
Both the Canon Ivy and HP Sprocket are designed for ease of use, with simple setup and operation. The process of connecting to your smartphone and printing photos is straightforward with both printers. The apps are user-friendly, allowing you to quickly edit and print photos. The Sprocket often gets praise for its ease of use. The Ivy and Sprocket deliver a similar user experience. Both printers are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable printing experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy canon ivy If…
- You prefer a slightly more compact design.
- You prioritize a user-friendly mobile app with a variety of creative features.
- You enjoy the Canon brand and its ecosystem.
- You want a printer with good color reproduction.
Buy hp sprocket If…
- You want slightly longer battery life for more prints on a single charge.
- You want a wider range of available printer designs.
- You like a slightly more streamlined and simple app experience.
- You prioritize a slightly faster print speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the print resolution of the Canon Ivy?
The Canon Ivy typically prints at a resolution of 314 x 500 dpi, delivering good print quality for its size and intended use. This resolution allows for decent detail in the printed photos, making them suitable for sharing and casual viewing. The resolution strikes a balance between quality and the compact nature of the printer and the ZINK technology utilized.
What kind of paper does the HP Sprocket use?
The HP Sprocket uses ZINK (Zero Ink) photo paper, which contains embedded color crystals. The heat from the printer activates these crystals. This eliminates the need for ink cartridges. ZINK paper is available in various packs and often includes sticker-backed options, adding versatility to your prints.
Can I edit photos before printing with the Canon Ivy app?
Yes, the Canon Ivy app provides a range of editing features. Users can add filters, stickers, text, and frames to their photos before printing. This allows for customization and creative expression. The app is user-friendly and offers various tools to enhance your photos.
How do I connect the HP Sprocket to my phone?
The HP Sprocket connects to your phone via Bluetooth. Simply enable Bluetooth on your smartphone. Open the Sprocket app, and follow the instructions to pair your device. The connection process is quick and easy, enabling wireless printing.
What is the battery life like on the Canon Ivy?
The Canon Ivy’s battery life is generally sufficient for printing around 20-25 photos on a single charge. The exact number can vary depending on usage and settings. It is recommended to fully charge the printer before use. The battery is rechargeable via micro-USB.
Are the prints from the Canon Ivy waterproof?
The ZINK paper used by the Canon Ivy is water-resistant, but not fully waterproof. While the prints can withstand minor splashes, they are not designed to be submerged in water. It is important to handle the prints with care to preserve their quality.
What is the price difference between the Canon Ivy and HP Sprocket?
The price difference between the Canon Ivy and HP Sprocket is relatively minor. Both printers are usually available at comparable price points. The cost of the photo paper is a more significant factor in the overall cost of ownership. Prices can fluctuate. It’s best to compare prices from various retailers.
Final Verdict
Both the Canon Ivy and HP Sprocket are excellent choices for instant photo printing, offering portability and ease of use. The Canon Ivy edges out the Sprocket with slightly superior print quality and a more robust app with advanced editing features. However, the Sprocket remains a strong contender with its user-friendly interface. The choice depends on personal preferences regarding print quality and app functionality.
Winner: Canon Ivy