Hp Sprocket vs Canon Ivy: Which Instant Printer Reigns?
Looking for a fun and convenient way to print your photos instantly? The world of instant photo printers is booming, offering a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern technology. Two popular contenders often top the list: the HP Sprocket and the Canon IVY.
Both the HP Sprocket and Canon IVY promise to bring your digital memories to life in a matter of seconds, but which one is the better fit for you? This comparison dives deep into their features, performance, and overall value to help you make the perfect choice.
We’ll explore everything from print quality and ease of use to design and portability. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each printer, empowering you to choose the instant photo printer that best suits your needs and preferences. Get ready to capture and share your memories in an instant!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | hp sprocket | canon ivy |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | ZINK | ZINK |
| Print Resolution | 313 x 400 dpi | 313 x 400 dpi |
| Photo 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 | 10 sheets | 10 sheets |
| Water Resistance | Yes | Yes |
| Sticker Backing | 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. The prints are water-resistant and smudge-proof. However, the image quality can be somewhat grainy.
- Canon Ivy: Also utilizes ZINK technology, offering similar print quality to the sprocket. Images are generally vibrant and the printer is compact. Print quality is good for casual prints, but not professional quality.
- Winner: Tie
Print Speed
- Hp Sprocket: Print speeds are relatively slow, taking around 40-60 seconds per print. This can be a drawback when printing multiple photos.
- Canon Ivy: Offers comparable print speeds to the sprocket, taking about 50 seconds to print a single photo.
- Winner: Tie
Size and Portability
- Hp Sprocket: Known for its compact and pocket-friendly design, making it easy to carry around. Its small size is a major advantage for portability.
- Canon Ivy: Also boasts a small and lightweight design, similar to the sprocket, making it highly portable and easy to slip into a pocket or bag.
- Winner: Tie
Photo Paper
- Hp Sprocket: Uses HP ZINK photo paper, which is readily available and comes in packs. The paper is sticky-backed, allowing for easy placement on surfaces.
- Canon Ivy: Uses Canon ZINK photo paper, offering similar features to HP’s. The paper also has a sticky back for easy application.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Hp Sprocket: Connects via Bluetooth, making it easy to print from smartphones and tablets. The companion app offers basic editing features.
- Canon Ivy: Also connects via Bluetooth and a dedicated app, providing a user-friendly interface for editing and printing photos from mobile devices.
- Winner: Tie
App Features
- Hp Sprocket: The HP Sprocket app allows for basic photo editing, adding filters, stickers, and text. It integrates with social media platforms.
- Canon Ivy: The Canon Mini Print app provides similar features to the Sprocket app, offering editing tools, templates, and social media integration.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Hp Sprocket: Battery life is moderate, allowing for a limited number of prints per charge.
- Canon Ivy: Provides similar battery life to the sprocket, printing a limited number of photos before needing to be recharged.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Hp Sprocket: Typically priced competitively, offering an affordable option for instant printing.
- Canon Ivy: Generally priced similarly to the Sprocket, making it a comparable option in terms of cost.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Print Quality | Tie |
| Portability | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| App Features | Tie |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Print Technology: Both printers utilize ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, eliminating the need for ink cartridges and offering a convenient printing experience.
- Print Size: Both the HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy print photos in a 2 x 3-inch format, perfect for sharing and sticking anywhere.
- Connectivity: Both printers connect to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, enabling wireless printing from anywhere.
- Borderless Printing: Both devices offer borderless printing, allowing photos to be printed edge-to-edge.
- Sticker Backing: The photos printed by both the Sprocket and Ivy have a peel-and-stick backing, allowing you to easily place them on various surfaces.
- Mobile App Integration: Each printer has its own dedicated mobile app for easy editing and printing.
Hp Sprocket Vs Canon Ivy Buying Guide
Portability and Design
Both the HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy excel in portability, designed for on-the-go printing. The Sprocket often features a more compact and boxy design, making it easy to slip into a pocket or bag. The Canon Ivy, on the other hand, frequently boasts a sleeker, more rounded aesthetic. Consider which design appeals most to your personal style and which form factor you find more comfortable to carry. Think about how important aesthetics are to you and how frequently you plan to use the printer outside of your home. Both printers are lightweight, so the difference is primarily visual and ergonomic.
Print Quality and Technology
Print quality is a crucial factor. Both printers utilize ZINK (Zero Ink) technology, which means they use special paper with embedded dye crystals. The heat from the printer activates these crystals to produce the image. While both offer decent results, the Canon Ivy is often praised for slightly better color accuracy and vibrancy. The Sprocket sometimes struggles with color reproduction, particularly in darker areas. Evaluate the importance of print quality for your intended use, and consider printing some test photos before committing to a purchase. The resolution is similar, but the Ivy often has a slight edge.
Connectivity and App Features
Both printers connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing for wireless printing. The companion apps are essential for editing, customizing, and printing your photos. The HP Sprocket app typically offers basic editing tools like cropping, filters, and borders. The Canon Ivy app provides a similar set of features, often with a slightly more user-friendly interface and perhaps more advanced editing options. Check reviews regarding the app’s stability, ease of use, and the range of customization options it offers. Consider which app interface you prefer, as it will be an important part of your printing experience.
Print Speed and Paper Handling
Print speed and paper handling are important practical considerations. Both printers generally print at a similar speed, taking roughly a minute per print. However, slight variations can exist. Check user reviews for any complaints about printing delays. Paper handling is also similar, with both printers using a stack of pre-cut ZINK photo paper. Ensure you buy the right size paper for your chosen printer. Consider how often you’ll be printing and if speed is a critical factor for your needs. Easy paper loading and fewer jams are desirable features.
Cost of Ownership
The cost of ownership includes the initial printer purchase price and the ongoing cost of ZINK paper. The printers themselves are often similarly priced, but paper costs can vary. Shop around for the best deals on paper packs. Consider how often you plan to print and how much you are willing to spend on paper. The cost per print is a key metric. Compare the prices of paper packs from different retailers. Factor in any special offers or bundles that might be available to reduce the overall cost of ownership. Consider the long-term impact on your budget.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is important for portability. Both printers are battery-powered and rechargeable via USB. The battery life varies, depending on usage. Check the specifications for the estimated number of prints per charge. The Canon Ivy often offers slightly better battery life. Consider how long you’ll need the printer to last on a single charge. Look for user reviews regarding actual battery performance. The charging time is also important; faster charging is always a plus. Carry a power bank if you plan to print frequently away from a power outlet.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy hp sprocket If…
- You prefer a wider range of design options and customization features within the app.
- You value a compact and easily portable design.
- You prioritize a user-friendly interface for quick and easy printing.
Buy canon ivy If…
- You prefer a more streamlined and minimalist design.
- You want a printer with a dedicated app that offers a variety of creative filters and effects.
- You value ease of use and quick printing of photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ZINK paper and regular photo paper?
ZINK paper is a special type of paper that contains embedded dye crystals. These crystals are activated by heat from the printer, creating the image without the need for ink cartridges. Regular photo paper requires ink to print. ZINK paper is convenient for portable printers because it eliminates the need for ink and is water and tear-resistant. It is also often adhesive-backed for easy sticking.
How do I connect my HP Sprocket or Canon Ivy to my smartphone?
Both printers connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. Enable Bluetooth on your phone, then open the printer’s companion app. The app will search for available printers and prompt you to select your device. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair the printer with your phone. Once paired, you can select photos from your phone’s gallery or social media and print them wirelessly.
Can I edit photos before printing with these printers?
Yes, both the HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy come with companion apps that allow you to edit photos before printing. These apps typically offer basic editing features, such as cropping, rotating, applying filters, adding text, and adjusting brightness and contrast. The level of editing capabilities varies, so check reviews to see which app offers the features you need.
What size photos do these printers print?
Both the HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy generally print photos at a size of 2×3 inches. This small format is ideal for printing instant photos that can be shared or used in scrapbooks. The size is convenient for carrying around or sticking on walls. Make sure to check the specific paper size before purchasing paper for your printer.
How long does a print take with these printers?
A single print typically takes about 45 seconds to a minute with both the HP Sprocket and the Canon Ivy. The printing time can vary slightly depending on the complexity of the image and the printer model. This is a reasonable time frame for instant photo printing, making it easy to share photos quickly.
Are these printers waterproof?
The ZINK paper used by both printers is water-resistant, but the printers themselves are not waterproof. Exposure to water can damage the printer’s internal components. While prints are resistant to splashes and moisture, direct submersion in water should be avoided. Handle the printers with care, especially in damp environments.
What is the best way to store the printed photos?
Printed photos should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Consider using photo albums or storage boxes to protect the prints from scratches and fading. ZINK prints are relatively durable, but proper storage will extend their lifespan and preserve the image quality. Avoid bending or folding the prints.
Final Verdict
Both the HP Sprocket and Canon Ivy offer convenient and fun ways to print instant photos. The Canon Ivy often edges out the Sprocket with slightly better print quality and a sleeker design. While the Sprocket remains a solid choice, the Ivy’s superior image reproduction and app features make it the preferred option for most users looking for a reliable and high-quality instant photo printing experience.
Winner: Canon Ivy