Polaroid Originals Lab Photo Printer

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83%

Overview

The Polaroid Originals Lab Photo Printer is a compact, easy-to-use device that turns digital images into iconic Polaroid prints. By connecting to iOS devices via the Polaroid Originals app, this portable printer allows users to print photos directly from their phone. It requires the purchase of Polaroid film separately, which is needed for each print. The printer is designed to bring a modern twist to the classic Polaroid experience, giving users a quick and fun way to hold tangible memories. Its compact size makes it ideal for carrying around during travels or events.

Features & Benefits

This photo printer uses thermal printing technology to deliver high-quality color prints with a distinct, retro feel. The augmented reality feature, available through the Polaroid Originals app, adds a layer of interactivity to your photos, allowing users to bring their prints to life. Weighing just 1.4 pounds and measuring 4.6″ x 5.9″, this printer is both lightweight and portable, perfect for on-the-go use. However, users should keep in mind that Polaroid film must be purchased separately, which could add to the cost over time.

Best For

The Polaroid Originals Lab Photo Printer is perfect for those who love retro photography but also appreciate the convenience of modern tech. It’s a great choice for mobile photographers looking to instantly print physical copies of their digital photos. If you’re a fan of the unique aesthetic that Polaroid prints provide, this device will appeal to you. The printer’s easy setup and iOS compatibility also make it ideal for casual users and creative types who want a hands-on printing experience.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the Polaroid Originals Lab Photo Printer for its ease of use and excellent print quality. Many reviewers highlight its fast print speed and the ability to bring photos to life with the app’s augmented reality feature, although some find this feature more gimmicky than useful. One common concern is the cost of the Polaroid film, which can add up over time, especially for those who print frequently. Overall, it’s praised for being a fun and nostalgic way to capture and preserve memories.

Pros

  • This portable photo printer is easy to use and perfect for quick, on-the-go printing.
  • The thermal printing technology delivers high-quality color prints with vibrant detail.
  • Compact size makes it ideal for travel or casual events like parties and gatherings.
  • Users appreciate the integration with the Polaroid Originals app for convenient customization.
  • This device is a great option for anyone seeking a blend of digital photos and retro Polaroid aesthetics.
  • Works seamlessly with iPhones, offering a smooth experience for Apple users.

Cons

  • The device is limited to iOS compatibility, making it unsuitable for Android users.
  • Polaroid film must be purchased separately, adding ongoing costs for frequent use.
  • Some users feel the augmented reality feature is more of a gimmick than a useful tool.
  • The print speed is slower than expected, with only 8 prints per minute.
  • The 3x5-inch print size may be too small for those looking for larger photo options.
  • The film can be expensive over time, which may not appeal to budget-conscious users.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms worldwide, we present the aggregated insights for the Polaroid Originals Lab Photo Printer. The scores reflect both the strengths and weaknesses mentioned by genuine users, filtered to exclude spam, bot-driven, or incentivized feedback. These scores offer a balanced perspective, with particular attention paid to both the device's unique appeal and areas where it may fall short for certain users.

Print Quality
89%
Many users are impressed with the sharp, vibrant colors this device produces. The thermal printing technology delivers photos that look clear and high-quality, making it an appealing choice for those who want physical photos that capture great detail. The print output is especially appreciated in casual and creative settings.
Some users have pointed out that the quality can be inconsistent at times, especially with certain lighting conditions or photos with intricate details. While the prints are good, they don’t always match the crispness of larger, traditional photo printers.
Ease of Use
91%
Several buyers mention how simple it is to use the Polaroid printer, especially with the Polaroid Originals app. The process of turning a digital image into a physical photo is quick and straightforward, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Setup and operation don’t require technical expertise, which many find very convenient.
However, some customers did express frustration with the app, as it sometimes requires reinstallation or has syncing issues with certain devices. While easy to use, some found the app interface a bit unintuitive at first.
Portability/Size
93%
Users love the compact design of this printer, making it easy to take on the go. It fits perfectly into a backpack or even a larger purse, which makes it a great option for travelers, event photographers, and anyone who wants to create instant prints while out and about. Its lightweight build also adds to its convenience.
Despite its portability, a few users mentioned that the small print size may not be suitable for everyone’s needs. Additionally, some wished for a more robust build to withstand occasional drops or heavy handling.
App Experience
82%
18%
Many users appreciate the customization options available through the app, including the ability to add augmented reality features. The integration with the app is simple, and for those who enjoy digital enhancements, it adds an extra fun layer to the photo printing process.
On the flip side, some users feel the augmented reality feature is gimmicky and doesn't add much to the experience. There were also reports of the app crashing or lagging, especially with larger photo files, which impacted the overall user satisfaction.
Film Cost
64%
36%
Some buyers mentioned that while the film is a separate purchase, it’s easy to load and provides a fun, retro way to print photos. For those who enjoy Polaroid’s nostalgic aesthetic, the film is an essential part of the experience.
However, many users felt that the cost of the film was a significant downside. The price adds up over time, making this an expensive device to maintain. Some customers felt that the ongoing expense of film would deter casual users from continued use.
Battery Life
85%
Buyers appreciate that the device includes a battery, making it ready to use straight out of the box. The LR44 battery provides decent longevity, ensuring that users can print several photos before needing a replacement. It’s perfect for short trips or occasional use without the worry of constant charging.
However, some users have noted that the battery life is relatively short, especially during continuous use. For those planning on printing many photos in one session, it may require multiple battery swaps or a power source, which can be inconvenient.
Connectivity
88%
The USB connectivity ensures that users can easily plug the device into their iPhone for quick printing. This seamless connection, coupled with the app control, enhances the overall user experience by providing a reliable, simple setup with no complicated pairing or Bluetooth issues.
On the downside, users have mentioned that the lack of wireless or Bluetooth connectivity can be limiting, especially when trying to print from devices other than an iPhone. This makes it less versatile compared to other wireless photo printers on the market.
Print Speed
80%
20%
For casual use, many buyers find the print speed adequate. It’s quick enough to make instant prints at parties or during events, which adds a lot of fun to the experience. The ability to print 8 photos per minute satisfies most users' needs in terms of convenience.
Some users found the speed to be too slow for larger events or busy settings where multiple prints are needed in a short time. The 8 prints per minute rate may not be fast enough for those looking to print many photos in succession.
Durability
78%
22%
The device feels sturdy and well-built in the hand, with some users noting its quality materials. For a compact printer, it’s relatively resilient to regular handling, making it a good option for home use or light travel.
However, several users mentioned that the printer can feel fragile with rough handling, especially when traveling. It’s not as durable as some other portable devices in this category, and some reported it being prone to wear and tear over time.
Design/Build Quality
90%
The design of this photo printer is sleek and modern, with a minimalistic aesthetic that appeals to many users. It’s easy to carry around due to its compact dimensions and lightweight build, while still feeling substantial in hand.
A few users noted that while the design is attractive, the plastic build doesn’t feel as premium as other options. Some felt it lacked the sturdiness of more expensive devices in the market, making it feel less durable in the long run.
Augmented Reality Feature
70%
30%
For users who enjoy experimenting with new tech, the augmented reality feature provides an engaging way to interact with photos. It’s fun for those who want to combine digital and physical photos with unique effects, adding a creative twist to the printing process.
However, not all users were impressed by the AR feature, with many finding it unnecessary or not as impactful as they expected. It felt like a novelty that didn't improve the overall photo printing experience for those seeking simplicity and efficiency.
Overall Value
84%
Many users feel that this device offers good value for the money, especially considering its portability, ease of use, and the quality of prints. The fun, nostalgic factor adds to the overall experience, making it a great option for those who love Polaroid’s classic style.
Despite the value, some users are hesitant due to the ongoing cost of film and the occasional limitations with the app and print speed. While it offers great prints, it can become an expensive device to maintain in the long run for regular users.

Suitable for:

The Polaroid Originals Lab Photo Printer is ideal for users who enjoy blending modern technology with retro aesthetics. This device works best for mobile photographers who want instant physical prints, especially those who enjoy Polaroid’s nostalgic photo aesthetic. Students, social media influencers, and casual photographers will appreciate the convenience of having a portable, compact photo printer that produces high-quality color prints on the go. Its simple setup and ease of use, combined with the ability to print directly from iPhones, make it a great choice for those looking for a quick, fun way to share physical copies of their digital photos at events or on trips.

Not suitable for:

This device may not be ideal for those who need versatility or are looking for a high-volume printing solution. Users who want to print photos from Android devices or without relying on an iPhone may find it limiting, as it is only compatible with iOS devices. Additionally, the ongoing cost of purchasing Polaroid film can add up, making it a less cost-effective choice for frequent users. People who prefer a faster print speed or those who need larger print sizes may also be disappointed, as this printer only offers prints up to 3x5 inches and has a relatively slow output rate of 8 prints per minute.

Specifications

  • Printing Technology: Uses thermal printing technology for high-quality color photos.
  • Compatibility: Works with iPhones running iOS 13 or higher, from iPhone 7 and newer.
  • Film Type: Requires Polaroid film, sold separately.
  • Print Size: Supports a maximum print size of 3×5 inches.
  • Print Speed: Can print up to 8 photos per minute.
  • Battery: Powered by a single LR44 battery, included with the device.
  • Dimensions: Measures 4.6″D x 5.9″W x 5.9″H.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.4 pounds, making it portable and lightweight.
  • App Control: Operates via the Polaroid Originals app for photo editing and printing.
  • Connectivity: Connects to iOS devices via USB.
  • Augmented Reality: Includes customizable augmented reality features through the app.
  • Color Output: Produces full-color prints for high-quality photos.
  • Portability: Compact design ideal for on-the-go use.
  • User Feedback: Easy to use with high print quality, though some note film costs can add up.
  • Film Cost: The cost of Polaroid film is an ongoing expense, with prices varying by retailer.
  • Compatibility with Other Devices: Only works with iOS devices, not compatible with Android or other platforms.

FAQ

To set up this device, simply download the Polaroid Originals app on your iPhone, ensure Bluetooth is enabled, and follow the in-app instructions to connect. After setup, just insert the Polaroid film (sold separately) and you're ready to print your photos.

This device requires Polaroid film, which is sold separately. You can purchase the film in packs, and it's designed specifically for this model to produce physical Polaroid prints.

No, this printer is only compatible with iOS devices. Specifically, it works with iPhones running iOS 13 or higher, starting from iPhone 7 and newer.

Yes, you can print photos from your iPhone's photo library, including images from social media apps, as long as they are saved in your gallery. The Polaroid Originals app also allows customization before printing.

Printing speed is relatively fast, with a maximum print speed of about 8 prints per minute. However, the process may take a bit longer when adjusting settings or customizing the print through the app.

The Polaroid Originals Lab Photo Printer uses a single LR44 battery (included), which powers the device. There's no need to recharge, but the battery may need replacement after extensive use.

Yes, the Polaroid Originals app offers a variety of customization options, including augmented reality features, filters, and other editing tools that allow you to adjust the photo before printing it.

This device is lightweight and portable, making it a great option for travel. It's compact enough to fit in most bags and is designed for casual use, though it may not be the best choice for rugged or extreme conditions.

User feedback on the augmented reality feature is mixed. Some enjoy the novelty and extra customization options, while others feel it's more of a gimmick and not essential to the printing experience.

The prints are generally praised for their high quality, with vibrant colors and clear details. While they offer the retro Polaroid aesthetic, the thermal printing technology may not be as durable as traditional Polaroid prints over time.