Canon Selphy CP1500 Compact Photo Printer Review
In-depth review of Canon Selphy CP1500: portable dye-sublimation photo printer — color, speed, connectivity, and bundle value.
Introduction
Compact, creative and engineered for people who want lab-quality photos without the trip to a photo kiosk, the Canon SELPHY CP1500 is a portable dye-sublimation photo printer designed to put vibrant 4 x 6″ prints (and sticker-size photos) into your hands in seconds. Bundled here with a KP-108IN ink and 108-sheet paper pack plus useful accessories, the CP1500 addresses a common modern problem: how to get beautiful, tactile photos from a smartphone or memory card quickly, reliably, and without complicated settings.
Whether you’re preparing prints for a party, creating keepsakes on the go, or adding instant photos to scrapbooks and cards, this compact unit blends simple operation with surprisingly capable output. It solves pain points like slow kiosk queues, inconsistent color from inexpensive printers, and the limited portability of traditional photo labs — helping hobbyists, parents, and event hosts produce consistent, glossy photos wherever they are.
Overview
At roughly 10 x 8 x 6 inches and under 6 pounds, the SELPHY CP1500 is designed to be genuinely portable while still feeling robust. Canon’s signature matte black finish keeps it unobtrusive on a desk or party table, and the included postcard-size cassette and trial consumables mean you can start printing straight out of the box. The CP1500 uses a dye-sublimation-based inkjet approach — a hybrid printing method optimized for smooth tonal transitions and steady color reproduction rather than high-contrast document printing.
Connectivity focuses on wireless convenience: built-in Wi‑Fi pairs with the SELPHY Layout app for iOS and Android, while USB and memory card support provide offline options when you want to print directly from a camera or flash drive. With support for four print sizes (4 x 6″, 3.5 x 4.7″, 2.1 x 3.4″ stickers, and 2.1 x 2.1″), selectable glossy/satin/semi-gloss finishes, and simple app controls, this printer targets anyone who values fast, reliable photo output — from scrapbookers and small business owners who need quick product shots to families and travelers who want tangible memories instantly.
Features
Dye-Sublimation Photo Engine for Smooth Color Gradients: Uses inkjet-based dye sublimation to produce continuous-tone images without the banding common to low-end printers. Advantage: smooth skin tones, consistent color transitions, and vibrant mid-tones. Benefit: photos look professional and natural straight from your device, ready for albums, frames, or keepsakes.
Built-in Wi‑Fi and SELPHY Layout App Integration: Wirelessly print from iOS and Android devices using the companion SELPHY Layout app with easy layout tools, finish selection, and batch printing. Advantage: fast, intuitive setup and direct mobile workflow. Benefit: eliminates computer-only bottlenecks so guests or family members can print from their phones with minimal tech know-how.
Four Media Sizes + Finish Options: Supports 4 x 6″ postcard prints, smaller wallet and square formats, and 2.1 x 3.4″ adhesive stickers; app lets you choose glossy, semi-gloss, or satin. Advantage: flexibility for craft projects, party favors, and label-style stickers. Benefit: one device covers multiple creative needs — from photo strips to taped-in memory squares.
Compact, Portable Design with Optional Battery Support: Lightweight chassis and compact footprint make the CP1500 easy to carry to events, photo booths, or travel. Advantage: portable printing without a clumsy setup. Benefit: get prints on demand at weddings, graduations, markets, and travel stops — no power outlet required when paired with the optional battery pack.
Bundled Consumables and Accessories for Instant Use: This bundle includes KP-108IN ink and 108 sheets of 4 x 6 paper, a postcard paper cassette, and helpful extras like a memory card holder and screen protectors. Advantage: start printing immediately and store media safely. Benefit: more value up front and fewer trips to buy supplies right away.
Benefits
Instant Tangible Memories
Turn smartphone photos into physical keepsakes in under a minute — ideal for scrapbooks, gifts, or event giveaways, saving time versus ordering prints online.
Consistent, Vivid Colors
Dye-sublimation printing reduces posterization and keeps colors natural, so portraits and landscapes retain depth and lifelike tones for better display and framing.
Easy Mobile Workflow
The SELPHY Layout app streamlines printing from social apps and camera rolls so non-technical users can layout, crop, and print without a PC.
On-the-Go Flexibility
Compact size and optional battery compatibility let you create prints at events, pop-up shops, or while traveling — adding a tactile dimension to digital experiences.
Lower Startup Hassle
Bundled ink and paper plus a paper cassette mean plug-and-play convenience; newcomers avoid compatibility guesswork and can begin printing with confidence.
Usages
Perfect for Home Offices and Family Albums
Use the CP1500 to print highlights from vacations, birthdays, and school events directly at home. The 4 x 6″ standard size works with frames and albums, making it easy to rotate out new photos.
Ideal for Parties, Weddings, and Photo Booths
Quick prints and sticker-format options make the SELPHY a great fit for instant guest favors, booth prints, and on-the-spot keepsakes for attendees.
Great for Crafters and Small Businesses
Print labels, sample photos, or product shots for handmade items and use different finishes to match branding or craft project aesthetics.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-quality dye-sublimation photos with smooth color transitions
- Truly compact and travel-friendly design
- Flexible media sizes including stickers
- Simple wireless printing via SELPHY Layout app
- Bundle includes ink and 108 sheets for immediate use
Cons
- 300 x 300 dpi resolution and dye-sublimation method limit fine text and poster-scale use
- Not duplex-capable and not intended for documents
- Ongoing cost per print can be higher than bulk lab orders for large runs
- Optional battery sold separately for full portability
FAQs
Can the SELPHY CP1500 print directly from a smartphone?
Yes — the printer connects over built-in Wi‑Fi and works with the SELPHY Layout app for iOS and Android. You can print directly from your phone’s gallery or social apps via the app’s sharing features.
What sizes and finishes are supported?
It supports 4 x 6″, 3.5 x 4.7″, 2.1 x 3.4″ (sticker), and 2.1 x 2.1″ paper sizes. The app allows you to choose from glossy, semi-gloss, and satin finishes depending on your paper and preference.
Is the CP1500 battery-powered?
The CP1500 supports an optional battery accessory (sold separately). The printer ships with an AC power supply; adding the battery enables true portable use at events or during travel.
How long do prints last? Are they water-resistant?
Dye-sublimation prints typically have good durability and resist fading better than cheap inkjet prints, but longevity depends on storage and exposure to light. They are reasonably resistant to handling but not fully waterproof — store prints in albums or use protective sleeves for long-term preservation.
Product Specifications
| Printer Type | Inkjet-based dye sublimation (photo printer) |
| Print Speed (PPM) | Maximum color print speed up to 10 ppm (photo speeds vary by size and mode) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 300 x 300 dpi (color and black/white) |
| Connectivity | Wi‑Fi, USB (supports printing from memory card via USB host), SELPHY Layout app (iOS/Android) |
| Duplex | No (Simplex only) |
| Supported Media Sizes | 4 x 6 inch, 3.5 x 4.7 inch, 2.1 x 3.4 inch (stickers), 2.1 x 2.1 inch |
| Ink/Toner Type | Inkjet-based dye sublimation cartridges (KP-108IN included in bundle) |
| Dimensions | 10 x 8 x 6 inches (product dimensions in package listing) |
| Weight | 5.9 pounds |
| Max Input Sheet Capacity | 108 sheets (bundle includes 108-sheet KP-108IN set) |
| Warranty | Limited warranty (manufacturer) |
Ratings
| Color Accuracy & Detail | 4.5 |
| Print Longevity & Paper Support | 4.2 |
| Connectivity & Wireless Control | 4.4 |
| Print Speed for Photos | 4.1 |
| Ease of Use | 4.7 |
| Value for Money | 4.3 |
Recommendation
The Canon SELPHY CP1500 is recommended for anyone who prioritizes portable, high-quality photo output from mobile devices — hobbyist photographers, event hosts, crafters, and families who value instant tangible prints. The included KP-108IN kit and accessories make this bundle particularly attractive for first-time buyers who want zero-fuss setup.
If you need full office functionality, duplex document printing, or high-volume economical lab-style prints, consider a dedicated office printer or lab service instead. For mobile, social, and creative photo printing where color fidelity and finish options matter, the CP1500 is a smart, user-focused choice.
Conclusion
The Canon SELPHY CP1500 combines portability, simple wireless workflows, and dye-sublimation photo quality to deliver prints that look and feel better than many small-format alternatives. It shines in situations where immediacy and presentation matter — parties, travel, scrapbooking, and small business product shots — producing consistent, glossy photos with pleasant skin tones and saturated colors.
This bundle adds real value by including a full KP-108IN ink and paper set plus accessories that get you printing immediately. While it isn’t a replacement for an office laser or a professional 13″ photo printer, it fills a clear niche: fast, reliable, and portable photo production with minimal setup. For buyers who want dependable prints straight from their phone with creative finish options, the SELPHY CP1500 offers a compelling balance of quality, convenience, and portability.
