Want the Best Portable Printer? Here Are 2025's Top Picks!

Key highlights

• Portable printers offer the freedom to print anywhere, without bulky setups.

• Ideal for small businesses, students, travelers, and professionals needing on-the-go prints.

• Look for features like lightweight design, wireless connectivity, and long-lasting battery life.

• Portable photo printers should deliver vivid, high-quality prints; label printers focus on efficiency and clarity.

• Popular models include the Brother RJ3250WBL, TSC Alpha-30L, Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC, and Godex MX30i.

• Wireless and app-based connectivity make setup easy for mobile devices.

• DuraFast Label Company offers expert advice and fast shipping to help you find the best portable printer for your needs.

Printing on the go used to sound impossible, but not anymore. Whether you’re closing a deal on the road, organizing products for your small business, or capturing moments you want to print instantly, the best portable printer gives you the power to do it all from anywhere. No waiting, no wires, no office required.

Think about it. How many times have you needed to print an invoice, label, or quick document when you weren’t near your desk?

That small frustration is exactly what portable printers solve. Today's models are sleek, lightweight, and surprisingly powerful, letting you print crisp text and vibrant photos straight from your phone or laptop.

In this guide, you’ll learn what makes portable printers so useful, which features matter most, and which mini portable printer, portable thermal printer, and portable label printer models deliver the best performance for your needs.

Why Are Portable Printers So Useful Today?

The way we work, travel, and create content has changed, and so has the need for printing on the go. Portable printers offer the freedom to print documents, photos, or labels anywhere, without relying on a bulky setup.

Here’s why portable printers have become so popular today:

• Work without limits: Professionals can print from their car, a client’s office, or even a trade show booth. Whether it’s receipts, contracts, or reports, everything is ready when you need it.

• Perfect for small businesses: If you’re managing deliveries, creating price tags, or printing invoices, a small portable printer helps keep things efficient and professional.

• Great for students and travelers: Print notes, assignments, or your favorite travel photos instantly. It’s an easy way to stay organized or capture memories on the go.

• Wireless and easy to connect: Most portable printers work smoothly with smartphones, tablets, and laptops using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so you don’t have to deal with cables.

• Compact but powerful: Even with their small size, these printers can produce crisp text and colorful images that rival many home printers.

Portable printers fit naturally into modern life. Whether you need quick business prints or personal photos, they make printing simple, smart, and completely hassle-free.

Which Features Turn a Regular Printer Into a Great Portable One?

Finding the right portable printer isn’t just about picking the smallest model. The best ones combine smart design, strong performance, and easy connectivity to make printing on the go effortless.

Here’s what to look for when choosing the perfect fit.

1. Easy To Carry Design

A portable printer should be truly portable. Look for a lightweight, compact model that fits comfortably in your backpack or travel bag. A mini portable printer or small portable printer is perfect if you move between home, office, and travel frequently.

2. Hassle-Free Wireless Printing

You shouldn’t need cables to get things done. Choose a printer with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or app-based connectivity so you can print directly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The best portable printers make setup quick and wireless printing smooth.

3. Long Lasting Battery Life

If you’re always on the go, reliable battery performance is a must. Look for models that last several hours or handle dozens of pages per charge. USB-C or power bank charging support is a huge plus for easy recharging wherever you are.

4. Crisp Text and Vivid Images

Print quality matters, whether you’re producing invoices or printing vacation photos. A good portable photo printer should give you clear, detailed, and color-accurate prints. For work documents, look for even text quality and smudge-free output.

5. Works With All Your Devices

Your portable printer should connect easily to whatever device you use. Check compatibility with iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS so you can print seamlessly from your phone, laptop, or tablet without worrying about drivers or setup issues.

6. Low-Maintenance Printing Technology

If you prefer something mess-free, a portable thermal printer is a great option since it doesn’t use ink or toner. For colorful photos or creative printing, ink-based models are better suited. The right technology depends on how you plan to use your printer most often.

7. Flexible Paper and Label Options

From standard sheets to labels and photo paper, a printer’s paper support can make a big difference. If you often print product tags or barcodes, a portable label printer or portable thermal label printer is a smart choice. For general use, pick a model that handles both photo and document paper sizes.

The best portable printer should fit seamlessly into your routine, be easy to carry, simple to use, and powerful enough to meet your printing needs anytime, anywhere.

What Are the Types of Portable Printers Available?

When it comes to portable printing, there’s no one-size-fits-all option. Different types of portable printers are designed for specific needs, whether you want quick document prints, instant photo printing, or efficient label creation for your business.

Let’s look at some of the most popular types available today:

1. Brother RJ3250WBL | RuggetJet 3-Inch Rugged Mobile Receipt and Label Printer for 1.375" OD Media | Bluetooth / WiFi / Battery

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The Brother RJ3250WBL is built for professionals who need dependable printing power wherever work takes them. Whether you’re managing deliveries, field reports, or warehouse tasks, this portable thermal label printer blends speed, strength, and reliability in one compact design.

Tough enough for daily use and fast enough for demanding workflows, it’s made to keep up with your pace.

Here’s why users love Brother RJ3250WBL:

• Built to last: Designed to handle bumps, drops, and demanding environments, making it ideal for field or industrial use.

• Fast and efficient printing: Delivers speeds of up to 5 inches per second, so you can print more in less time.

• Sharp and precise output: With 203 dpi resolution, every label and barcode comes out crisp and professional.

• Wireless freedom: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity let you print straight from your phone, tablet, or laptop with ease.

• Battery-powered convenience: The rechargeable battery gives you hours of reliable use without being tied to a plug.

• Perfect sizing: Prints up to 3 inches wide, suitable for receipts, tickets, and labels on 1.375" OD media.

Durable, fast, and field-ready, the Brother RJ3250WBL is the kind of portable label printer you can rely on when performance truly matters.

2. TSC ALPHA-30L 3” Label and Receipt Portable Printer with Peeler | A30L-A001-0001

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The TSC Alpha-30L is designed for professionals who want performance, portability, and precision in one sleek device. Perfect for retail, logistics, and warehouse environments, this portable thermal printer delivers reliable, high-speed printing wherever work takes you.

With its sturdy design, built-in peeler, and impressive connectivity options, it’s a smart choice for those who value both speed and convenience.

Here’s why the Alpha-30L is a favorite among on-the-go professionals:

• Smart and durable design: Built to withstand everyday handling while staying compact and lightweight for effortless mobility.

• Fast printing speeds: Prints at 5 inches per second, making it ideal for high-volume tasks like shipping labels and receipts.

• Exceptional print clarity: The 203 dpi resolution ensures every label, barcode, and receipt comes out crisp and easy to read.

• Built-in peeler: Designed for efficiency, the integrated peeler saves time by automatically separating labels from their backing.

• Reliable connectivity: Equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for seamless printing from mobile devices, tablets, or laptops.

• Long-lasting power: A strong battery keeps you printing longer, perfect for extended use in busy work environments.

• 3-inch print width: Ideal for standard label and receipt sizes, giving you the flexibility to handle multiple printing needs.

Combining speed, portability, and professional-grade quality, the TSC Alpha-30L is a solid pick for anyone seeking a portable label printer that’s as reliable as it is easy to use.

3. Seiko MP-B30L 3" Mobile Rugged Receipt & Label Printer w/ WiFI MP-B30L-W46JK1U-E9

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The Seiko MP-B30L is a compact yet powerful portable thermal printer built for professionals who need reliability and performance in the field. Whether you’re issuing receipts, printing labels, or managing logistics on-site, this rugged printer combines speed, connectivity, and durability in one easy-to-carry device. Known for its precision and smooth operation, it’s a go-to choice for fast-paced business environments.

Here’s why the Seiko MP-B30L earns top marks for portability and performance:

• Rugged and travel-ready: Built to withstand rough handling, temperature changes, and everyday bumps, making it ideal for field work or outdoor operations.

• Fast printing performance: Delivers print speeds of up to 5 inches per second, allowing you to handle large print volumes efficiently.

• Crisp 203 dpi output: Ensures barcodes, labels, and text are clean, sharp, and easy to scan or read.

• Flexible 3-inch print width: Supports standard label and receipt formats, perfect for a variety of business tasks.

• Wireless convenience: Wi-Fi capability makes it easy to print directly from laptops, tablets, or mobile devices without any cables.

• Lightweight design: Despite its rugged build, the printer remains compact and easy to carry for all-day use.

• Quick setup and use: Designed for plug-and-play simplicity so you can start printing right out of the box.

Reliable, tough, and performance-driven, the Seiko MP-B30L is a practical portable label printer for professionals who need dependable printing wherever the job takes them.

4. Toshiba B-FP3D 3" Wide Mobile Label & Receipt Printer with Bluetooth / WiFi | B-FP3D-GH52-QM-R

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The Toshiba B-FP3D is a high-performance portable thermal printer crafted for professionals who need both speed and reliability in demanding work environments.

Designed for retail, logistics, and field service applications, it combines Toshiba’s trusted engineering with modern wireless connectivity to deliver seamless, high-quality printing anytime, anywhere.

Here’s what makes the Toshiba B-FP3D a strong performer in its class:

• Durable yet portable design: Compact and lightweight enough to carry all day, while tough enough to withstand daily use in busy workplaces.

• Blazing fast print speed: With an impressive 6 inches per second print rate, it outpaces many portable models, making it ideal for high-volume printing.

• Sharp and clear printing: The 203 dpi resolution ensures every barcode, logo, and line of text looks professional and easy to read.

• Generous 3-inch print width: Offers flexibility for printing receipts, shipping labels, and product tags with ease.

• Seamless wireless connectivity: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support make mobile printing quick and cable-free, no matter what device you use.

• Reliable direct thermal printing: Eliminates the need for ink or toner, reducing maintenance and operating costs over time.

• User-friendly operation: Intuitive controls and quick setup help you get started without technical headaches.

Fast, durable, and built for performance, the Toshiba B-FP3D stands out as a portable label printer that can keep up with your workload wherever your business takes you.

5. Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC 3" Wide 203 dpi, 4.5 ips Direct Thermal Label Printer BT4/WiFi/Linered Platen/0.75" Core | ZQ62-HUWA004-00

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The Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC is a professional-grade portable thermal printer built for speed, reliability, and precision. Designed for healthcare, retail, and logistics environments, it combines Zebra’s trusted printing technology with advanced connectivity and rugged durability.

Compact yet powerful, it’s made to handle demanding workloads while maintaining high-quality, accurate output every time.

Here’s why the Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC stands out as a top performer:

• Professional and durable design: Built to withstand constant use in busy settings while remaining lightweight and easy to carry.

• Fast and efficient printing: Delivers print speeds up to 4.5 inches per second, ideal for time-sensitive labeling tasks.

• High-resolution clarity: The 203 dpi resolution ensures crisp text, scannable barcodes, and professional-quality labels.

• Versatile 3-inch print width: Perfect for receipts, wristbands, product labels, or barcode tags across multiple industries.

• Smart wireless connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0 and Wi-Fi support enable quick, seamless, and cable-free printing from mobile devices.

• Linered platen support: Works with 0.75-inch core media for flexible printing options and consistent output.

• Healthcare-ready build: The HC model is made with disinfectant-ready materials, making it safe and practical for clinical and hospital environments.

Fast, accurate, and built for tough daily use, the Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC strikes the perfect balance of performance and portability, making it a reliable portable label printer for professional and high-demand work environments.

6. Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC 3" Wide 203 dpi, 4.5 ips Direct Thermal Label Printer BT4/Linered Platen/0.75" Core | ZQ62-HUFA004-00

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The Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC is a durable and high-performance portable thermal printer made for professionals who need fast, precise, and dependable label or receipt printing on the go. Perfect for healthcare, retail, and logistics, it offers superior wireless connectivity and excellent print quality, all packed into a compact, easy-to-carry design.

Here’s why the Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC is a reliable choice for mobile printing:

• Strong and portable build: Designed for daily professional use while being lightweight enough for easy mobility.

• Fast print speed: Prints up to 4.5 inches per second, allowing you to produce labels and receipts efficiently.

• Sharp print quality: With 203 dpi resolution, it delivers clear barcodes, text, and graphics for accurate and professional-looking output.

• Convenient 3-inch print width: Great for wristbands, product tags, shipping labels, and receipts in different industries.

• Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity: Provides stable and quick wireless printing directly from your mobile devices or tablets.

• Linered platen support: Compatible with 0.75-inch core media for smooth, consistent printing results.

• Healthcare-grade design: Constructed with disinfectant-ready materials, making it safe and durable for hospital and clinical environments.

Compact, fast, and dependable, the Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC offers everything you need in a portable label printer, making it a smart investment for professionals who demand precision and reliability wherever they work.

7. Zebra ZQ511 3" Wide 203 dpi, 4 ips Direct Thermal Label Printer BT4/WiFi/Std Battery | ZQ51-BUW0000-00

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The Zebra ZQ511 takes mobile printing to the next level. Compact yet powerful, it’s designed for professionals who need reliable performance in fast-paced environments. From warehouses to field operations, this mobile label printer delivers speed, durability, and seamless connectivity in one rugged device.

Built to handle tough conditions, the ZQ511 meets MIL-STD 810G standards for drop and shock resistance and carries an IP54 rating for dust and splash protection, making it a dependable companion for demanding on-the-go work.

Here’s what makes the Zebra ZQ511 a powerhouse in portable printing:

• Latest connectivity options: Stay connected anywhere with dual wireless support through WLAN 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.1 Low Energy.

• Smart printer fleet management: Zebra’s Print DNA suite with Mobile Device Management keeps you informed about printer status and performance in real time.

• Optimized power efficiency: The high-capacity PowerPrecision battery and automatic sleep mode help maximize battery life, reducing downtime during long shifts.

• User-friendly design: Simple controls and an intuitive interface make it easy for anyone to operate, even while wearing gloves.

• Military-grade durability: Tested to meet MIL-STD 810G and IEC68-2-32 standards, it withstands drops, shocks, and harsh handling with ease.

• Versatile and reliable printing: With a 203 dpi resolution and 3-inch print width, it delivers crisp, clear labels and barcodes for multiple applications.

Tough, efficient, and easy to use, the Zebra ZQ511 is more than just a printer. It’s a mobile printing solution built for professionals who need consistent, high-quality performance wherever the job takes them.

8. SATO WWPV31280 PV3 + Bluetooth v4.1 LE & WLAN (802.11 a/b/g/n) Direct Thermal Mobile Printer

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The SATO PV3 is built for professionals who need fast, reliable printing in a compact, easy-to-carry design. Ideal for logistics, retail, and warehouse operations, this mobile printer delivers top-tier performance with modern wireless connectivity.

Whether you’re generating receipts, product labels, or shipping tags, the PV3 ensures accuracy and efficiency with every print.

Here’s why the SATO PV3 stands out in portable printing:

• Compact and travel-ready: Lightweight and ergonomic, making it easy to carry during long shifts or field operations.

• Fast print performance: Prints up to 5 inches per second, helping you complete tasks quickly without compromising quality.

• High-resolution output: With 203 dpi resolution, every label, barcode, and text line looks sharp and professional.

• Smart wireless connectivity: Equipped with Bluetooth 4.1 LE and dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n) for smooth, cable-free printing from any device.

• Strong and durable design: Built to withstand everyday wear and tear in demanding environments.

• Wide 3-inch print format: Suitable for a range of business applications including receipts, shipping labels, and product tags.

• Energy-efficient operation: Optimized for longer battery life, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.

Reliable, fast, and easy to use, the SATO PV3 is a solid choice for professionals who need a compact label printer that keeps up with the pace of their work.

9. Godex MX30i Direct Thermal 3" Barcode Mobile Printer, 203 dpi, 4 ips, Bluetooth | 011-M3i011-000

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Compact, rugged, and efficient, the Godex MX30i is designed for professionals who need reliable mobile printing wherever work takes them. Ideal for retail, hospitality, logistics, and warehouse operations, this lightweight printer delivers clear, high-quality barcodes, labels, and receipts on demand.

With a durable build and long-lasting battery, it’s a smart choice for businesses that value portability and performance.

Here’s why the Godex MX30i is a standout in its class:

• Lightweight and portable: Weighing under one pound, it’s easy to carry for on-the-go printing in busy environments like warehouses, events, or retail stores.

• Long battery life: The high-capacity lithium-ion battery offers up to 72 hours of standby time and up to 300 label cycles per charge, ensuring all-day productivity.

• Rugged construction: Features IP54-rated water and dust resistance plus 1.5-meter shock protection, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

• Fast and precise printing: Delivers 203 dpi resolution at speeds up to 4 inches per second for crisp, professional-quality labels and barcodes.

• Flexible label support: Prints labels up to 2.8 inches wide and 45 feet long, ideal for a range of business needs.

• Easy label loading: The drop-and-fit design allows quick label roll replacement, minimizing downtime during busy shifts.

• Versatile connectivity: Equipped with Bluetooth, USB, and serial ports for smooth printing from computers or mobile devices.

• Ample storage and software support: Comes with 128 MB Flash memory (40 MB user-available), 32 MB SDRAM, and GoLabel software for easy label design and management.

With its combination of durability, speed, and ease of use, the Godex MX30i is the perfect mobile barcode printer for professionals who want dependable printing power in a truly portable package.

10. Citizen CMP-30IIWFUZL Mobile Printer | Mobile Ptr, CMP-30 Type II - Label, ZPL SER & USB, WiFi, 2.4GHz, ZPL II*

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The Citizen CMP-30IIWFUZL is a compact and efficient mobile printer built for professionals who need reliable, high-quality printing wherever work happens. Perfect for retail, logistics, and field service operations, it offers a smooth balance of speed, durability, and connectivity. With support for Wi-Fi and USB connections, this portable model ensures consistent printing performance while keeping your workflow fast and flexible.

Here’s why the Citizen CMP-30IIWFUZL is a smart pick for on-the-go professionals:

• Lightweight and travel-ready: Designed for mobility, this printer is easy to carry throughout your workday, whether indoors or outdoors.

• Fast printing performance: Produces crisp labels and receipts at up to 4 inches per second, helping you stay productive during peak hours.

• High-quality output: With a 203 dpi resolution, it delivers clear text, barcodes, and graphics every time.

• Flexible connectivity: Equipped with Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz), USB, and serial interfaces for seamless device pairing and wireless printing.

• Durable and dependable: Engineered to handle daily wear and tear while maintaining consistent printing performance.

• 3-inch print width: Ideal for printing receipts, product labels, and barcodes across various applications.

• ZPL II compatibility: Supports Zebra Programming Language, allowing smooth integration with existing printing systems.

Compact, fast, and versatile, the Citizen CMP-30IIWFUZL makes printing simple and efficient wherever you work. It’s a dependable wireless portable printer for businesses that value both performance and portability.

Portable Label Printers vs Regular Label Machines: What’s the Difference?

Choosing between a portable label printer and a regular label machine often comes down to how and where you plan to use it. Both are great for creating clear, professional-quality labels, but they cater to different work environments and printing needs.

Let’s take a closer look at how they stack up against each other.

Feature	Portable Label Printers	Regular Label Machines
Portability	Lightweight and compact, easy to carry for mobile use	Larger and designed for stationary desktop use
Power Source	Battery powered, ideal for on-the-go printing	Plugged into a power source for continuous use
Connectivity	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and mobile app support for wireless printing	Usually, wired connections or built-in keyboards
Speed	Moderate to fast; suitable for short to medium print runs	Generally faster for large, continuous printing
Print Quality	203 dpi or higher; clear for barcodes and labels	Similar resolution, often optimized for longer print jobs
Durability	Built to handle outdoor or field conditions	More suited for indoor or controlled environments
Maintenance	Low maintenance with direct thermal technology	May require ribbon or ink replacement depending on model
Cost	Slightly higher initial investment, but flexible for mobile teams	Often lower upfront cost but limited mobility
Best For	Field work, shipping, mobile businesses, event management	Office use, warehouses, or high volume labeling needs

In short, portable label printers bring freedom, speed, and convenience to mobile workflows, while regular label machines shine in high-volume, stationary setups. The best choice depends on whether you value flexibility or continuous, large-scale output.

Why Choose DuraFast Label Company for Your Portable Printer?

Finding the right portable printer can be tricky. With so many models and features to compare, it’s easy to feel unsure about which one truly fits your needs. That’s where DuraFast Label Company comes in. We make choosing simple by offering trusted brands, expert guidance, and everything you need for reliable printing in one place.

Here’s why professionals rely on DuraFast:

• Top brands, all in one place: Discover industry leaders like Zebra, Brother, TSC, Godex, Citizen, and SATO.

• Expert guidance: Our team helps you pick the right printer based on your workflow, budget, and goals.

• Fast and reliable shipping: Get your printer quickly with ready-to-ship stock and secure delivery.

• Complete solutions: From labels and ribbons to accessories, we have everything to keep your setup running smoothly.

• Reliable support: Our service doesn’t stop after your purchase. We’re here whenever you need help.

At DuraFast Label Company, we’re dedicated to making your printing experience effortless from start to finish.

Contact us today to find the portable printer that fits your business perfectly.

Conclusion

A great portable printer isn’t just about convenience; it’s about freedom. The freedom to print what you need, when you need it, wherever you are. Whether you’re running a business, traveling, or creating on the go, the right printer keeps you efficient, connected, and in control.

So choose smart, stay mobile, and let your next print be as flexible as you are.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I print photos from my phone with a portable printer?

Yes, absolutely. Many portable printer models are designed specifically to print photos from a mobile device. They use Bluetooth connectivity to easily pair with your phone, allowing you to create high-quality prints or even custom sticky labels in seconds.

How long do portable printer batteries last?

Battery life varies widely depending on the model and its intended use. A battery pack for a photo printer might last for 50-60 prints, while one for the best label printer could last for hours.

Can portable printers print full-page documents?

Yes, certain models can. All-purpose portable inkjets and some thermal printers are designed as a standard paper size version, handling letter- and legal-sized paper. 

Are portable printers compatible with laptops and tablets?

Most portable printers are highly compatible with a range of devices. They offer multiple connectivity options, including a USB cable for a direct link to a laptop, as well as Bluetooth connectivity and wireless connectivity for tablets and phones.

Which portable printers are best for personal or creative use?

For personal or creative use, look for a mini portable printer with wireless connectivity, photo-quality output, and cartridge-free or compact ink design. These models are ideal for printing travel snapshots, journals, or craft labels easily from your phone or tablet.

What makes a portable printer ideal for business use?

For a small business, the ideal portable printer is rugged, reliable, and versatile. The best small business printers often function as a durable label maker or a shipping label printer. They need to withstand fieldwork and efficiently print labels, invoices, or contracts on-site to streamline operations.

What are the best portable label printers available in 2025?

In 2025, the portable​ label printer machines include the Brother RJ3250WBL, TSC Alpha-30L, Zebra ZQ620 Plus-HC, Godex MX30i, and Citizen CMP-30IIWFUZL. These models combine speed, durability, and wireless connectivity, offering outstanding value for professionals on the go.

What are the top-rated portable label printers on Amazon right now?

On Amazon U.S., top-rated portable label printers from the blog include the Brother RJ3250WBL and the TSC Alpha-30L. Both models stand out for their durable design, fast print speeds, and reliable wireless connectivity, making them ideal for professional mobile printing.