Best Photo Printers in the UK 2026
Photo printing in the UK has evolved significantly, with modern printers offering exceptional colour accuracy and wireless connectivity at accessible prices. Whether you're a hobbyist photographer, scrapbooker, or small business owner, finding the right photo printer depends on your volume, budget, and desired output quality. This guide covers the best photo printer options available in the UK market in 2026, from budget-friendly all-in-ones to professional-grade machines. We've researched current models based on print quality, ink efficiency, ease of use, and value for money—helping UK consumers make an informed choice without overspending.
What to Look For
- 1Consider ink system: cartridge-based systems cost more per page; refillable eco-tank systems offer better value for regular printing
- 2Check connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, and mobile printing (Apple AirPrint, Mopria) are now standard; ensure compatibility with your devices
- 3Photo paper costs matter: dedicated photo printers often require premium glossy/matte papers; factor ongoing consumables into your budget
- 4Colour accuracy is critical: look for printers with at least 5-colour systems; 6-colour systems deliver richer blacks and shadows
- 5Determine volume and size: hobbyists printing 10–20 photos per month suit compact all-in-ones; professionals need faster speeds and larger paper feeds
Our Top Picks
Canon PIXMA TS8520
Pros
- Outstanding photo print quality with 6-colour system
- Compact design fits most desks and workspaces
- Excellent value for mixed-use printing (documents + photos)
- Fast wireless setup via Canon PIXMA app
Cons
- High per-page ink costs with standard cartridges
- Smaller paper tray capacity (50 sheets)
- No automatic document feeder for scanning
Best overall photo printer for UK households wanting lab-quality prints and document scanning in one compact machine.
Epson EcoTank ET-2720
Pros
- Dramatically lower cost per page (80% savings vs cartridges)
- Large refillable ink tanks reduce replacement frequency
- Reliable colour accuracy for everyday photo printing
- Quiet operation compared to laser alternatives
Cons
- 4-colour system lacks grey channel; blacks not as rich as 6-colour
- Slower print speeds for photos than competitor models
- Refillable tanks require careful handling to avoid spills
Best value for budget-conscious UK users printing 20+ photos monthly who prioritise running costs over premium quality.
HP DeskJet 4155e
Pros
- Affordable entry-point under £130 for all-in-one functionality
- Wi-Fi 6 connectivity ensures fast wireless printing from any room
- HP Smart app includes useful features like document scanning to cloud
- Low energy consumption makes it eco-friendly
Cons
- Standard cartridge system with higher per-page costs than eco-tanks
- Print speed is slower than Canon or premium Epson models
- 4-colour system adequate but not ideal for professional photo work
Best budget entry-level photo printer for casual UK users needing occasional photo prints alongside everyday document printing.
Editor's Note
Photo printing in the UK market has shifted toward eco-tank systems and wireless-first designs. The choice between cartridge and tank systems remains the biggest decision: cartridges offer better image quality and lower upfront cost, while tanks suit frequent printers with budget constraints. UK retailers stock all three models above consistently, with reliable warranty support from Canon, Epson, and HP service centres nationwide. For serious enthusiasts, consider paper investment—premium glossy and matte stocks from Fujifilm or Kodak are readily available through UK photo retailers and often outweigh the printer cost in total setup expense. Test print samples before committing if possible.