Pandigital Releases World is First ZINK Printer

It’s still too early to tell where ZINK technology fits in the big picture of the printing industry, but at least “zero ink” printers can now print bigger pictures. We’ve talked about how handheld printers like the ZINK-enabled Dell Wasabi and the Polaroid PoGo can print 2”x3” sticker pics by heating color crystals already embedded in the specialized ZINK paper. For those looking to print something a little bigger, Pandigital has recently introduced its new Portable Printer with ZINK technology, which is reportedly the first model with the ability to roll out 4”x6” ZINK prints.

The Pandigital ZINK Printer features a 1.44” screen, memory card connectivity, and an MSRP of $149.99. Of course, the big question in this case is whether bigger is actually better. Sure, you get a preview screen and the ability to print 4”x6” photos, but is it worth the current price difference with its competitors? The Polaroid PoGo currently sells for $49.99, and the Dell Wasabi goes for only $38. Personally, I’ll be curious to see if the Pandigital model offers notably better print quality, which has been a shortcoming in previous ZINK-enabled printers. Until the technology and its applications evolve, it’s safe to say that ZINK still has a ways to go before it strikes the right balance between fun and functionality.