GUTHERREN A81 Portable Printer Review
Review of the GUTHERREN A81 portable thermal printer. Learn about features, benefits, print quality, and whether it’s right for you. Inkless & wireless!
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, the need for accessible and convenient printing solutions extends far beyond the traditional office setup. Whether you’re a traveling salesperson, a student juggling multiple projects, or a small business owner constantly on the move, the limitations of bulky desktop printers can be frustrating. High ink costs, slow speeds, and a lack of portability often hinder productivity. The GUTHERREN A81 portable thermal printer aims to solve these challenges, offering a compact and inkless printing solution for those who demand flexibility and efficiency.
Overview
The GUTHERREN A81 is a remarkably compact thermal printer designed for ultimate portability. Roughly the size of two smartphones and weighing just 2 pounds, this device redefines on-the-go printing. Utilizing thermal inkless technology, it eliminates the need for expensive ink cartridges, making it both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. It seamlessly connects to iOS, Android, and laptop devices via Bluetooth, allowing for wireless printing from virtually anywhere. The A81 is an ideal choice for individuals and small businesses prioritizing portability, convenience, and a streamlined printing experience, particularly when dealing with document, label, or receipt printing.
This printer’s core design prioritizes ease of use and minimal maintenance. Its thermal printing system leverages heat to transfer images onto specially coated thermal paper, ensuring a clean, black and white output. The included phone holder allows for hands-free operation, further enhancing its usability. Compatible with a wide array of paper sizes – from US Letter to A5 and even narrow rolls – the A81 adapts to various printing needs, making it a versatile addition to any mobile workflow. The device’s reliance on Bluetooth connectivity grants a flexible, wireless printing ecosystem.
Features
Ultra-Portable Design: The A81’s diminutive size (2 lbs and the size of two smartphones) makes it incredibly easy to carry in a bag or backpack. This portability is further enhanced by the included phone holder, which allows for hands-free printing while on the go, boosting productivity in any location.
Multi-Size Compatibility: Unlike many other portable printers, the A81 isn’t limited to a single paper size. It comfortably handles a wide range of thermal paper options, including US Letter (8.5×11), Legal, A4, A5, and even narrower rolls (2”, 3”, and 4” widths). This flexibility ensures it can handle diverse printing tasks, eliminating the need for multiple printers.
Thermal Inkless Technology: This groundbreaking feature eliminates the recurring cost and hassle of ink cartridges. The A81 prints directly onto thermal paper using heat, resulting in a clean, black and white print. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to traditional inkjet printers, reducing waste and simplifying maintenance. Replace the paper, and you’re ready to print – simple as that!
Wireless & Bluetooth Connectivity: The A81 offers seamless wireless printing from iOS and Android devices via the dedicated SharpFox app. Laptop connectivity is also available through driver downloads. This eliminates the need for cables and complex setup procedures, creating a user-friendly printing experience across various devices.
Benefits
Significant Cost Savings: The inkless thermal printing technology virtually eliminates printing costs associated with traditional ink cartridges. You only need to replace the thermal paper, making it a budget-friendly option for frequent printing.
Unmatched Portability & Convenience: Its lightweight and compact design allows for effortless transport, enabling printing wherever you go – from client meetings to remote work locations. The included phone holder further enhances its convenience.
Eco-Friendly Printing: By eliminating ink cartridges, the A81 significantly reduces plastic waste, making it a more sustainable printing solution for environmentally conscious users.
Effortless Setup & Usability: Bluetooth connectivity and the user-friendly SharpFox app simplify the setup process and provide an intuitive printing experience.
Versatile Paper Size Support: Accommodates a wide variety of paper sizes, eliminating the need to purchase specific paper types and expanding its applicability for diverse printing needs.
Usages
Perfect for Home Offices: Ideal for individuals who work remotely or require occasional document printing outside of a traditional office setting.
Ideal for Small Businesses: Perfect for mobile sales teams, field service technicians, or entrepreneurs needing to print receipts, invoices, or labels on the go.
Great for Students and Frequent Document Printing: A convenient solution for students needing to print assignments, reports, or notes while at the library, in class, or during travel.
Useful for Photo Printing Enthusiasts (Black & White): While limited to black and white, the A81 can be used for creating basic photo prints or labels for scrapbooking or other creative projects.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Ultra-portable and lightweight
- Inkless thermal printing saves money
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- Compatible with various paper sizes
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Black and white printing only
- Printing speed is relatively slow
- Print quality may not be as sharp as laser printers
- Requires replacement thermal paper
FAQs
What is the cost per page?: Because the A81 uses thermal paper instead of ink, the cost per page is determined solely by the price of the thermal paper itself. This is considerably cheaper than ink-based printing.
What is the printing speed?: The printing speed is approximately 100mm/s, which is typical for a thermal printer. While not as fast as laser printers, it’s sufficient for most portable printing needs.
How easy is the wireless setup?: Connecting via Bluetooth is straightforward. Simply download the SharpFox app, enable Bluetooth on your device, and follow the app’s intuitive pairing instructions.
What type of thermal paper is compatible?: The A81 is compatible with standard thermal paper rolls, typically 57mm or 80mm in width. Ensure the paper is of high quality to ensure sharp and durable prints.
Does this printer require maintenance?: The A81 requires minimal maintenance. Simply replace the thermal paper roll when it runs out. Regular cleaning is not necessary.
Product Specifications
| Print Technology | Thermal |
| DPI Resolution | 300 dpi |
| Ink Type | Thermal Paper |
| Page Yield | Varies depending on paper usage |
| Print Speed | 100mm/s |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (via app) |
| Dimensions | 2.5 x 11.3 x 8.8 inches |
| Weight | 3.03 pounds |
| Duty Cycle | Not specified |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Ratings
| Technical Specifications | 4.2 |
| Printing Speed | 3.5 |
| Wireless Connectivity | 4.6 |
| Portability and Design | 4.8 |
| Overall Value | 3.9 |
Recommendation
The GUTHERREN A81 portable thermal printer is an exceptional choice for professionals who are frequently on the move and require a compact, cost-effective printing solution. Its inkless design, coupled with its wireless connectivity, eliminates the hassles associated with traditional printers, making it a valuable asset for salespeople, real estate agents, or anyone who needs to print documents on the go.
For students or budget-conscious users who require occasional document printing, the A81’s portability and low running costs make it an attractive alternative to larger, more expensive printers. While the monochrome printing may not suit everyone, the overall convenience and efficiency of this device are undeniable.
Conclusion
The GUTHERREN A81 portable thermal printer delivers on its promise of providing a convenient, compact, and cost-effective printing solution. Its inkless design significantly reduces long-term operating expenses, while its portability ensures it can be taken virtually anywhere. While the monochrome printing and relatively slow speed may be limitations for some, its unique combination of features makes it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing mobility and simplicity.
Ultimately, the A81 is more than just a printer; it’s a productivity tool that empowers users to print and work wherever life takes them. Its ease of use, portability, and eco-friendly design make it a smart choice for individuals and businesses seeking a flexible and sustainable printing solution.
