Rongta PN81 Portable Inkless Printer

84%

Print Quality

Portability/Size/Weight

Setup and Installation

Connectivity (Bluetooth/USB)

Battery Life

App Experience (SoPrint)

Value for Money

Ease of Use

Paper Compatibility

Durability

Customer Support

Print Speed

Compactness

Overview

The Rongta PN81 Portable Inkless Printer is a compact, lightweight solution for those needing a reliable and space-saving printer. Weighing just 2 lbs and measuring 3.78″D x 10.63″W x 2.09″H, this portable thermal printer is designed to fit seamlessly into both home and travel setups. Offering both Bluetooth and USB connectivity, it ensures flexibility across multiple devices. Ideal for printing documents on the go, this inkless printer eliminates the need for cartridges, making it a cost-effective and low-maintenance option. Whether for home, office, or travel, the Rongta PN81 is a versatile choice.

Features & Benefits

The Rongta PN81 offers several standout features, starting with its inkless thermal printing technology, which not only reduces long-term costs but also eliminates the hassle of ink replacements. With a print resolution of 300 DPI, it ensures crisp and clear documents, making it perfect for professional use. The printer is compatible with multiple operating systems, including iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac. It also pairs with the SoPrint app for easy document and image printing, while its lightweight design makes it ideal for users who need a portable printing solution.

Best For

The Rongta PN81 is well-suited for users looking for a portable, wireless printing solution. It's perfect for home office workers who need a compact device without sacrificing quality, as well as travelers needing to print documents on the move. Students can benefit from this printer when printing study materials or notes while on the go. Additionally, small businesses will find it a cost-effective tool for printing contracts or invoices. With its versatile capabilities, this thermal printer is an excellent fit for a range of personal and professional needs.

User Feedback

The Rongta PN81 has earned praise for its easy setup and portability, with many users highlighting how simple it is to get up and running. The inkless printing technology has been a hit, with buyers appreciating its low maintenance and reduced long-term costs. However, some users noted that Bluetooth connectivity with the SoPrint app can occasionally be spotty, leading to minor frustrations during use. A few reviewers also pointed out the limitation of using only thermal paper, which may not suit every printing need. Overall, it has generally positive feedback, especially for its compact size and convenience.

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Pros

This portable thermal printer is lightweight, making it ideal for frequent travelers or people on the go.
The inkless printing technology saves users money on ink and reduces maintenance needs.
Users report that it is easy to set up, even for those with minimal tech experience.
Bluetooth and USB connectivity allow for versatile and wireless printing from multiple devices.
The compact design makes it a good fit for home offices with limited space.
Print quality is clear and sharp with a 300 DPI resolution, suitable for most everyday documents.

Cons

Some users find the Bluetooth connection with the SoPrint app unreliable at times, leading to occasional connectivity issues.
The printer only works with thermal paper, limiting its paper compatibility for various print jobs.
It has a relatively slow print speed, at 1 page per minute, which might not meet the needs of high-volume users.
The 12V battery may not last long enough for extended printing sessions, especially when not near a power source.
A few buyers have mentioned that the SoPrint app could be more intuitive and user-friendly.
While portable, the printer's plastic build feels somewhat flimsy, and some users question its long-term durability.

Ratings

After analyzing verified reviews from users worldwide, the Rongta PN81 Portable Inkless Printer has received generally positive feedback across multiple platforms and languages. We filtered out spam, bot-generated, and exaggerated reviews to ensure that only authentic user experiences contribute to these scores. Both the strengths and pain points of this device have been reflected in the ratings, giving a balanced view of its performance in real-world usage.

Print Quality

88%

Users appreciate the clear, sharp print output provided by this portable thermal printer, especially for documents and images. The 300 DPI resolution ensures that text and graphics come out crisp, making it suitable for professional and personal use alike.

Some users note that while the print quality is good for regular documents, it may not be ideal for highly detailed images or photos. A few have expressed concerns that certain text-heavy documents can appear slightly blurred at times.

Portability/Size/Weight

94%

The compact size and lightweight design of this device make it an excellent choice for on-the-go printing. Weighing just 2 lbs, it’s easy to carry in a backpack or briefcase, making it a great option for travelers and mobile professionals.

While the small size is generally a benefit, some users feel that the design could be slightly more robust. There are occasional concerns about the device feeling a bit fragile, especially when used in rougher conditions during travel.

Setup and Installation

90%

Most users find the setup process straightforward and easy to follow. The included SoPrint app is intuitive and makes pairing the printer with iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac devices simple and hassle-free.

A few users have reported that the initial connection with Bluetooth can sometimes be temperamental, requiring several attempts to pair. While this is not a universal issue, it can be frustrating for those who expect a more seamless setup experience.

Connectivity (Bluetooth/USB)

84%

The wireless Bluetooth functionality is praised for its convenience, especially for mobile printing. The added option of USB connectivity ensures that users can connect the printer to various devices, making it versatile for both personal and professional use.

Some users mentioned that the Bluetooth connection can occasionally be spotty, especially in areas with lots of wireless interference. This can lead to connectivity issues, requiring users to reconnect or reset the printer to regain functionality.

Battery Life

76%

24%

The rechargeable battery provides enough power for several print jobs, making it a solid option for short-term or occasional use. Many appreciate the convenience of being able to charge it with the included 12V battery.

A common complaint from users is the relatively short battery life, which can be limiting for heavy use. Some customers have reported that it may need to be recharged more frequently than expected, especially during extended travel or office use.

App Experience (SoPrint)

82%

18%

The SoPrint app simplifies the process of printing documents and images, especially for mobile devices. It's user-friendly and allows easy customization of print jobs, making it a popular feature for those who need quick results.

A few users have encountered occasional bugs or delays when using the app with specific devices or operating systems. While it works well overall, there are instances where the app’s responsiveness could be improved for smoother performance.

Value for Money

91%

Given its portable design and inkless technology, users find that this thermal printer offers great value for its price. It provides a cost-effective solution for anyone looking for a compact, reliable printer for everyday tasks.

While the printer offers excellent value in terms of portability and functionality, some buyers feel that the limited paper compatibility (only thermal paper) might restrict its versatility for certain tasks, making it less suitable for broader printing needs.

Ease of Use

89%

The simplicity of this device makes it very user-friendly. From setup to operation, the interface is clear and straightforward, with minimal steps needed to start printing from a phone or laptop.

A small number of users report that while it’s generally easy to use, some minor adjustments are necessary for optimal print quality, especially with different paper types. Additionally, the app interface could be streamlined for even faster printing.

Paper Compatibility

70%

30%

The use of thermal paper makes the printer maintenance-free and eliminates ink cartridges, which many users appreciate for its low ongoing costs. It’s a practical choice for those who primarily print documents or receipts.

The biggest downside here is the limitation to thermal paper. Some users would prefer the ability to print on a wider range of paper types, such as glossy or regular printer paper, making it less versatile for creative projects or photo printing.

Durability

80%

20%

The plastic body is sturdy enough for daily use, and the compact size makes it easy to store and transport. Many users find that it holds up well in typical office and travel scenarios.

Some customers have reported that the build quality feels a bit flimsy, especially when compared to larger, more expensive printers. For frequent travelers or heavy-duty users, the material could be a concern as it may not stand up to rough handling.

Customer Support

72%

28%

The manufacturer provides a decent level of customer support, responding promptly to inquiries and offering troubleshooting tips via the website. Several users have noted helpful responses to specific setup or app-related questions.

On the flip side, some users mention that customer support could be more responsive and offer clearer guidance, especially when dealing with more technical issues or complex questions about setup and compatibility.

Print Speed

78%

22%

The printer’s speed is adequate for most users’ needs, offering a reasonable balance between performance and portability. The ability to print 1 page per minute makes it suitable for quick print jobs in mobile or office settings.

However, some users have noted that the print speed can feel slow when compared to larger, more traditional printers. For those needing high-volume or time-sensitive printing, this could be a disadvantage, especially in a business setting.

Compactness

95%

The standout feature of this printer is its size. It’s incredibly compact, making it the ideal choice for people who need a portable, lightweight printing solution that doesn’t take up much space. Perfect for travel or small office setups.

Although the compact design is appreciated by most, a few users feel that the small size comes at the expense of sturdiness. For those expecting a more robust build, the lightweight plastic may feel too delicate during more demanding use cases.

Suitable for:

The Rongta PN81 Portable Inkless Printer is an excellent choice for users who need a compact, reliable, and cost-effective printing solution. It’s particularly well-suited for home office workers, students, and small business owners who need wireless, portable printing without the hassle of ink cartridges. For example, students can use this printer to print study materials or notes on the go, while small businesses will appreciate the cost-saving inkless technology. Additionally, travelers will benefit from its lightweight design and ease of use, making it perfect for printing documents or receipts while on the move.

Not suitable for:

However, the Rongta PN81 Portable Inkless Printer is not ideal for users who require higher print quality for detailed graphics or photo printing. Its thermal printing technology is limited to specific paper types, such as thermal paper, which may not be versatile enough for all users. For professionals in creative fields or those needing to print high-quality images, this printer may fall short. Additionally, those who need to print large volumes quickly may find its print speed of 1 page per minute too slow for fast-paced environments, such as busy office settings or events where high output is necessary.

Specifications

Print Technology: Uses inkless thermal printing for maintenance-free operation and cost savings.
Print Resolution: Provides a print resolution of 300 DPI, offering clear and sharp document output.
Print Speed: Prints at a speed of 1 page per minute, suitable for low-volume printing tasks.
Paper Size: Supports A4 and US Letter paper sizes, making it versatile for standard document printing.
Paper Type: Compatible with thermal paper only, designed for inkless printing.
Weight: Weighs 2 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to carry for portable use.
Dimensions: Measures 3.78″D x 10.63″W x 2.09″H, compact enough for travel and home office use.
Connectivity: Offers wireless Bluetooth and USB connectivity for flexible connection options.
Compatibility: Works with iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac devices, providing broad compatibility.
Power Source: Powered by a 12V rechargeable battery, included with the device for portability.
Mobile App: Comes with the SoPrint app, enabling easy document and image printing from mobile devices.
Build Material: Constructed from plastic, providing a lightweight yet sturdy design.
Printing Features: Supports basic text and simple image printing, ideal for documents, notes, and small graphics.
Battery Life: Battery life varies based on usage but typically lasts for several hours of continuous printing.
Setup: Quick and easy setup with simple installation steps via Bluetooth or USB.
App Functionality: The SoPrint app is user-friendly and allows for seamless printing directly from mobile devices.
Portability: Designed for portability with a lightweight build, ideal for travel and mobile printing needs.

FAQ

Setting up the Rongta PN81 is straightforward. Simply charge the included 12V battery, then connect the printer to your device via Bluetooth or USB. Download the SoPrint app, which is available for iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac, and follow the in-app instructions for pairing and setup.

This printer only works with thermal paper, which is designed for inkless printing. It supports standard A4 and US Letter paper sizes, making it suitable for most everyday document needs.

Yes, the Rongta PN81 is fully compatible with both Android and iOS devices. You can connect it wirelessly via Bluetooth to print directly from your smartphone or tablet using the SoPrint app.

No, this printer uses thermal technology, which typically produces black-and-white documents. It is ideal for text-based or simple graphics, but not suited for high-quality color prints.

The battery life can vary depending on usage, but generally, it can handle a few hours of continuous printing. For longer sessions, it is recommended to have access to a power source to recharge the 12V battery.

The Rongta PN81 offers a print resolution of 300 DPI, ensuring clear and sharp text and document prints. While it's suitable for most standard printing tasks, it's not intended for very high-resolution photo printing.

The printer has a relatively low print speed of 1 page per minute, which is adequate for casual or home office printing. However, it may not be suitable for high-volume or urgent printing needs.

Yes, you can connect the printer via USB to your computer (Windows or Mac) for direct printing. While the SoPrint app provides additional functionality for mobile devices, USB connectivity works well for computer users.

While the Rongta PN81 is lightweight and compact, it is made of plastic, which some users find less durable for frequent travel. It should be handled with care to avoid damage during transport, especially in rugged environments.

One key limitation is that this printer only works with thermal paper, which may not be compatible with all printing tasks. Additionally, some users have reported occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues with the SoPrint app, which may disrupt printing at times.