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There’s something nostalgic about holding a printed photo in your hand, especially in a world full of scrolling and swiping. That’s probably why the Kodak Step Instant Smartphone Photo Printer has been getting so much attention—it’s small enough to fit in a bag, quick enough to use on the go, and doesn’t rely on ink or toner. Right now, it’s down to $69.99 on StackSocial in black, white, or blue. And if awards matter to you, PCMag named it their Best Photo Printer of the Year for 2023 and gave it their Editor’s Choice stamp. Not bad for something made of lightweight plastic with a matte finish, weighing less than your phone and fitting neatly in your pocket.
This little gadget pairs with your smartphone—iOS or Android—via Bluetooth or NFC and spits out 2×3-inch prints in under a minute. There’s no ink involved—just ZINK (zero ink) photo paper that uses embedded dye crystals. That said, the starter pack includes just five sheets of photo paper, so you’ll need to stock up early if you plan on using it often. The prints aren’t pro-lab quality (but you’re not expecting that either), but they’re colorful, smudge-proof, water-resistant, come with a peel-and-stick backing, and are great for scrapbooks, mood boards, or slapping on your fridge. You can print up to 25 photos on a single charge, and everything runs through the Kodak app. The app isn’t mind-blowing, but it lets you do the basics—crop, add filters, toss in a few stickers, maybe a frame or two.
It also comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty, which is good peace of mind for a portable printer at this price. Shipping is limited to the contiguous US, so keep that in mind if you’re browsing from outside. But overall, this is a straightforward little printer that doesn’t overpromise, doesn’t overcomplicate, and actually delivers on the fun of printing your memories in real time.
