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Canon SELPHY Square QX10 Review
An honest look at the Canon SELPHY Square QX10, a compact dye-sublimation photo printer that produces credit-card-sized square prints. We break down who it's for, who should skip it, and how it compares to alternatives.
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The Canon SELPHY Square QX10 is a fun, pocketable photo printer that delivers durable, water-resistant square prints with excellent color quality. It's perfect for scrapbookers, party hosts, and anyone who loves instant physical memories. However, its small print size and reliance on a smartphone app may not suit those wanting larger prints or standalone operation. If you prioritize portability and print quality over size, it's a solid choice, but the CP1300 offers more versatility at a similar price point.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Compact and lightweight, fits in a pocket
- Dye-sublimation prints are water, smudge, and fingerprint resistant
- Easy wireless setup with Canon Mini Print app
- No ink cartridges to replace, uses paper and ink cassette combo
- Prints are durable and long-lasting
- Small print size (2.7 x 2.7 inches) may be too small for some
- Requires smartphone app for printing, no standalone mode
- Per-print cost is higher than larger photo printers
- Limited to square format only
- Battery is built-in and not replaceable
The Canon SELPHY Square QX10 is a compact dye-sublimation photo printer that has carved out a niche for itself among instant photo enthusiasts. It's small enough to slip into a jacket pocket, yet it produces prints that are surprisingly rich in color and detail. But is it the right printer for you? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest assessment.
Design and Build Quality
The QX10 is a small, rounded device that looks more like a sleek gadget than a printer. It measures about 3.2 x 5.1 x 1.4 inches and weighs just under 8 ounces, making it one of the most portable photo printers on the market. The build feels solid, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints. A single LED indicator and a power button keep the interface minimal. The paper cassette slides into the bottom, and a small output slot is on the top. The design is clearly meant for on-the-go use, and it excels in that regard.
Performance and Print Quality
Print quality is where the QX10 shines. Using dye-sublimation technology, it applies a protective laminate over each print, making them water-resistant and smudge-proof. Colors are vibrant and accurate, with good contrast and detail for a 2.7 x 2.7 inch print. The resolution is 287 x 287 dpi, which is lower than inkjet printers, but for a small format, it's more than adequate. Skin tones look natural, and the square format is perfect for social media-style photos. One limitation is that it only prints in square format, so you can't do 4x6 or other sizes.
Ease of Use and Software
Setup is straightforward: download the Canon Mini Print app, pair via Bluetooth, and you're ready. The app offers editing tools like filters, frames, and text overlays, which are fun for creative projects. Printing is as simple as selecting a photo and hitting print. The app also allows you to print from social media or create collages. However, the printer is entirely dependent on the app, so if you lose your phone or the app crashes, you're out of luck. There's no standalone mode, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
Battery and Storage
The built-in battery is rated for about 20 prints per charge, which is typical for portable printers. It charges via USB-C, and a full charge takes about two hours. The printer has no internal storage, so you must print directly from your phone. The paper cassette holds 20 sheets, and each cassette includes an ink ribbon, so you replace both together. This simplifies maintenance but also means you must buy proprietary consumables.
Common Buyer Complaints
While many users love the QX10, there are some recurring complaints. The most common is the small print size; some buyers expected larger prints. Others mention that the app can be finicky with Bluetooth connections, though this is often resolved with updates. A few users note that the per-print cost is higher than printing at a store, but that's expected for instant printers. Finally, the lack of a replaceable battery is a concern for long-term use.
Comparison with Alternatives
When compared to the Canon SELPHY CP1300, the QX10 wins on portability but loses on versatility. The CP1300 prints 4x6 photos, has a built-in screen, and supports direct printing from cameras and memory cards. It's a better choice for home use or if you want larger prints. The Kodak Step Printer and HP Sprocket use Zink technology, which produces smaller, less durable prints but at a lower cost per print. The QX10's dye-sublimation prints are superior in quality and longevity, making it a better investment if you value print durability.
Value and Verdict
The Canon SELPHY Square QX10 is a niche product, but it excels at what it does. It's perfect for scrapbookers, party hosts, or anyone who wants instant physical memories without sacrificing quality. The print cost is higher than some alternatives, but the results justify it for many. If you need larger prints or standalone functionality, look elsewhere. But if you want a pocketable printer that produces gorgeous, durable square prints, the QX10 is a top choice.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the QX10 is a well-designed, portable photo printer that delivers excellent print quality for its size. It's not for everyone, but for its target audience, it's a delightful gadget. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.
Specs that matter
| Print technology | Dye-sublimation (thermal transfer) |
| Print size | 2.7 x 2.7 inches (square) |
| Resolution | 287 x 287 dpi |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth (via app) |
| Battery | Built-in rechargeable, up to 20 prints per charge (approx.) |
| Dimensions | 3.2 x 5.1 x 1.4 inches |
| Weight | 7.9 oz (without paper cassette) |
You want a truly pocketable printer for instant square prints at parties, events, or on the go. You value print durability and color quality over size, and you're comfortable using a smartphone app for all printing.
You need larger prints (like 4x6) or want a printer that works without a phone. You print frequently and are concerned about per-print cost, or you prefer a printer with replaceable batteries.
Questions before you buy
Does the Canon SELPHY Square QX10 require ink cartridges?
No, it uses a combined paper and ink cassette. Each cassette contains enough paper and dye-sublimation ink for a set number of prints (typically 20). You simply replace the entire cassette when empty.
Can I print without a smartphone?
No, the QX10 relies entirely on the Canon Mini Print app for printing. There is no memory card slot, USB port, or direct camera connection. You must use a compatible iOS or Android device.
How long does the battery last?
The built-in rechargeable battery is rated for approximately 20 prints per charge, which is typical for portable photo printers. Charging takes about 2 hours via USB-C.
Are the prints waterproof?
Yes, because it uses dye-sublimation, each print is coated with a protective layer that makes it water-resistant, smudge-proof, and fingerprint-resistant. This is a key advantage over thermal printers like Zink.
How does it compare to the Canon SELPHY CP1300?
The CP1300 prints larger 4x6 photos, has a built-in LCD screen, and can print directly from memory cards or USB drives. However, it's bulkier and not as pocket-friendly. The QX10 is smaller and more portable but limited to square prints and app-only control.
