The Canon Selphy QX20 is a compact, portable photo printer that makes printing high-quality images convenient and fun. The latest iteration in the Selphy range, the QX20 features a square format and utilizes dye-sublimation technology for impressive colour accuracy and durability. Aimed at casual photographers, hobbyists, and those who enjoy crafting, this wireless printer is perfect for creating lasting memories. Let’s dive into the features, performance, and usability of the Selphy QX20 to see how it stacks up.
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Design and build quality
The Canon Selphy QX20 has a sleek, minimalist design that makes it portable and attractive. Weighing around 445 grams, it’s lightweight enough to fit into a bag or backpack, making it ideal for printing on the go. The compact dimensions (approx. 102.2 X 32.9 x 145.8 mm) ensure that it doesn’t take up much space on a desk or countertop, while its clean aesthetic allows it to blend easily into any setting.
The printer has several colour options, allowing users to pick one that fits their style. The build quality feels sturdy, with no flimsy parts or cheap materials, reinforcing its appeal as a reliable portable gadget. Canon has designed the QX20 with both functionality and aesthetics in mind.
Print quality and technology
One of the standout features of the Canon Selphy QX20 is its use of dye-sublimation printing technology. This method of printing uses heat to transfer dye onto paper, resulting in images that are both vibrant and long-lasting. The colours produced by the QX20 are true-to-life and rich, with smooth gradations between tones, thanks to the 256 levels per colour that dye-sublimation provides.
Another major advantage of dye-sublimation is that the prints come out dry and water-resistant, which ensures durability over time. According to Canon, prints can last for up to 100 years when stored properly, making the QX20 an excellent choice for archiving special memories. The printer’s resolution of 287 dpi ensures that even fine details are captured clearly, providing a sharp, high-quality output for a small portable printer.
The QX20 prints in two formats, measuring XS-20L (Square format sticker paper): 72 x 85 mm and (Card-size sticker paper): 54 x 85 mm, which has become increasingly popular in social media and scrapbooking. This format is particularly suited to Instagram-style images, giving users a creative way to bring their digital memories to life in print form.
Connectivity and ease of use
Setting up and using the Canon Selphy QX20 is a straightforward process, with wireless connectivity options that make it easy to print from various devices. The printer supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for seamless printing from smartphones, tablets, and computers. Users can also connect directly through Canon’s Selphy Photo Layout app, which is available for both iOS and Android.
The app enhances the overall experience, providing users with a variety of layout and editing options, including filters, borders, and text overlays. It’s an intuitive and user-friendly interface that complements the printer’s ease of use. You can also print directly from social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook, making it easy to create tangible copies of your favourite digital images.
The QX20’s lack of a built-in screen may seem like a drawback, but the ease of printing through the app compensates for this. Additionally, since most users are likely to print from their smartphones, the absence of a screen doesn’t detract from the printer’s functionality.
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Portability and power options
As a portable photo printer, the Selphy QX20 shines when it comes to convenience. Its compact size makes it ideal for taking along on trips or to events where you may want to print and share photos instantly. The printer can be powered either by an AC adapter (included) or via an optional rechargeable battery, giving you flexibility when printing on the move. The battery option is especially useful for those who plan to use the QX20 outdoors or away from a power source.
The portability factor makes this printer appealing not only to casual users but also to event organizers or anyone who may want to set up an instant photo booth at weddings, parties, or festivals. The fact that it’s both lightweight and self-contained means you don’t need much space to create instant, high-quality prints on demand.
Paper and ink refills
The Selphy QX20 uses Canon’s proprietary paper and ink cartridges, which are easy to install and replace. One downside, however, is the relatively high cost of the consumables compared to other portable printers. A single cartridge and paper set typically yields about 20-25 square prints (based on our research), which might be considered a bit pricey for those printing in large quantities.
Nonetheless, the quality of the prints should justify the cost for most users, especially given the longevity and durability of the dye-sublimation prints. If you’re using the printer for special occasions or scrapbooking, the price may be less of a concern compared to the value of creating lasting memories.
Value for money
The Canon Selphy QX20 is priced competitively for a portable photo printer, especially considering the premium print quality it offers. While the cost of consumables can add up over time, the convenience, durability, and vibrant print quality make it worth the investment for users who value physical photos and want a portable printing solution.
Compared to other portable printers in the same category, the QX20 stands out for its superior print longevity and ease of use. It’s particularly well-suited for social media enthusiasts, scrapbookers, and families looking for a quick and fun way to preserve and share their favourite moments.
Should you get the Canon Selphy QX20?
The Canon Selphy QX20 is an excellent option for anyone seeking a portable photo printer that delivers high-quality prints with ease. Its compact size, dye-sublimation technology, and wireless connectivity make it a versatile and user-friendly device, ideal for on-the-go printing. While the consumable costs might be a factor to consider, the overall performance, longevity, and creative flexibility offered by the QX20 make it a worthy investment.
For those who appreciate the nostalgic joy of holding physical photos and want a reliable way to create lasting prints, the Canon Selphy QX20 is a top contender in the world of portable photo printers. Whether you’re printing for personal use or an event, it brings your digital memories to life with style and convenience.
