Best Photo Book
Which Photo Book do reviewers rate highest? Ifolor, CEWE, Pixum, smartphoto, Bookfactory, ranked on the themes customers mention most. Every claim below comes from verbatim customer reviews on public portals, quoted with sources.
Ifolor
★★★★★ 4.5
151 reviews across 4 portal(s)
Individuell gestaltbare Fotobücher in verschiedenen Formaten und Bindungen, wie Deluxe, Premium, Booklet, Spiral oder Softcover.
CEWE
★★★★☆ 4.5
1,374 reviews across 7 portal(s)
Das CEWE FOTOBUCH in verschiedenen Formaten, Papieren und Einbänden.
Pixum
★★★★★ 4.6
552 reviews across 4 portal(s)
Das Pixum Fotobuch in vielen Formaten, mit Hard- oder Softcover.
smartphoto
★★★★☆ 4.5
66 reviews across 3 portal(s)
Fotobücher in verschiedenen Formaten und Bindungen.
Bookfactory
★★★★★ 4.7
86 reviews across 1 portal(s)
Hochwertige Fotobücher, das Kernprodukt von Bookfactory.
Awards 2026
Computed purely from customer reviews. Every competitor’s score is disclosed below, and no award is given without a significant lead.
All scores
| Provider | Positive share | n |
|---|---|---|
| smartphoto | 91% | 11 |
| Bookfactory | 89% | 18 |
| Ifolor | 77% | 35 |
| CEWE | 60% | 15 |
| Pixum | 33% | 6 |
All scores
| Provider | Positive share | n |
|---|---|---|
| Bookfactory | 73% | 22 |
| smartphoto | 58% | 12 |
| myposter | 50% | 6 |
| Ifolor | 40% | 52 |
| CEWE | 28% | 76 |
| Pixum | 15% | 20 |
All scores
| Provider | Avg stars | n |
|---|---|---|
| Bookfactory | 4.69 | 77 |
| Ifolor | 4.46 | 121 |
| smartphoto | 4.42 | 53 |
| myposter | 3.70 | 10 |
| CEWE | 3.54 | 107 |
| Pixum | 3.25 | 32 |
All scores
| Provider | Positive share | n |
|---|---|---|
| Bookfactory | 90% | 61 |
| Ifolor | 84% | 69 |
| smartphoto | 84% | 25 |
| CEWE | 71% | 38 |
| myposter | 67% | 6 |
| Pixum | 50% | 10 |
Key findings
- On durability, reviewers favor Pixum: 50% positive of 8 mentions, versus 21% of 53 mentions.
- On material, reviewers favor Pixum: 67% positive of 12 mentions, versus 42% of 50 mentions.
Best Overall Photo Book Quality
Bookfactory leads in quality with 91% positive feedback on image and print quality, backed by 67 mentions. Pixum and CEWE also score highly, with 86% and 91% positive reviews respectively. Ifolor ranks close behind with 86% positive quality mentions. Several users praised the sharpness and color accuracy, especially on larger formats. Bookfactory’s high marks are tied to its local production in the Zürcher Oberland, which some reviewers value for authenticity. However, a few noted dull colors and lack of contrast, particularly on glossy finishes.
What customers said:
- „It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
„It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
Original„am meisten Freude macht es mir, dass es im Zürcher Oberland produziert wird“
- „The colors are very dull and uninteresting.“
„The colors are very dull and uninteresting.“
Original„Sehr matte wenig lebhafte langweilige Farben.“
- „the image quality was poor“
„the image quality was poor“
Original„Die Bildqualität war schlecht.“
- „I find the price for a few photos quite high“
„I find the price for a few photos quite high“
Original„Ich empfinde den Preis für ein paar Fotos als ziemlich hoch.“
Fastest and Most Reliable Delivery
Pixum and smartphoto both report 93% positive delivery feedback, with Pixum receiving 193 mentions and smartphoto 14. Ifolor and Bookfactory also score well, with 80% and 90% positive delivery ratings. Users consistently praised the speed and reliability of shipping, especially for urgent orders. Pixum’s fast delivery was highlighted as a key reason for repeat use. Bookfactory’s rapid service was noted as a standout feature, with one reviewer calling it 'Superspeed service!'
What customers said:
- „Schnelle Lieferung!“
- „Schnelle Lieferung.“
- „It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
„It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
Original„am meisten Freude macht es mir, dass es im Zürcher Oberland produziert wird“
- „Super fast service!“
„Super fast service!“
Original„Superschneller Service!“
Best for Swiss Customers and Local Production
Bookfactory stands out for customers in Switzerland, with 100% positive customer service feedback and strong local ties. One reviewer specifically mentioned pride in the product being made in the Zürcher Oberland. The brand’s single-portal presence suggests a focused, localized operation. While other brands offer international shipping, Bookfactory’s Swiss roots and responsive support make it a top choice for those prioritizing regional service and production.
What customers said:
- „It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
„It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
Original„am meisten Freude macht es mir, dass es im Zürcher Oberland produziert wird“
- „Super fast service!“
„Super fast service!“
Original„Superschneller Service!“
- „In addition, I have trouble sending the raw processed photos, with or without automatic…“
„In addition, I have trouble sending the raw processed photos, with or without automatic correction.“
Original„Zum anderen habe ich Schwierigkeiten die in Raw verarbeiteten Fotos mit oder ohne Automatikkorrektur zu senden.“
- „Kontakt möglich, Rasch, beim bestellen ist die Papierdicke des Albums für mich! wenig…“
„Kontakt möglich, Rasch, beim bestellen ist die Papierdicke des Albums für mich! wenig ersichtlich“
Most User-Friendly Ordering and Website
Pixum leads in website usability with 66% positive feedback, followed by Bookfactory at 76%. Users found Pixum’s interface intuitive and fast, especially for mobile use. Bookfactory’s ordering process was praised for clarity, though a few noted unclear paper thickness details. CEWE and Ifolor received mixed feedback, with CEWE’s site criticized for slow loading and Ifolor’s interface described as lacking clear save options. Smartphoto’s site was generally positive, though one user reported repeated delivery errors.
What customers said:
- „Schnelle Lieferung!“
- „Schnelle Lieferung.“
- „It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
„It brings me the most joy that it is produced in the Zürcher Oberland.“
Original„am meisten Freude macht es mir, dass es im Zürcher Oberland produziert wird“
- „Super fast service!“
„Super fast service!“
Original„Superschneller Service!“
Best Value for Money
smartphoto wins on value, with 80% positive feedback on price, though only five mentions. Pixum and CEWE received mixed reviews, with 39% and 42% positive feedback respectively. Bookfactory was criticized for high prices on small photo sets, and CEWE’s pricing was seen as inconsistent with quality. Ifolor’s value rating was moderate, with 67% positive feedback. Users who prioritized affordability over premium finishes found smartphoto’s pricing most appealing.
What customers said:
- „I find the price for a few photos quite high“
„I find the price for a few photos quite high“
Original„Ich empfinde den Preis für ein paar Fotos als ziemlich hoch.“
- „Super Beratung schnelle Lieferung gute Qualität!“
- „Schnelle Lieferung!“
- „Schnelle Lieferung.“
Theme-by-theme: what reviewers say
| Theme | Ifolor | CEWE | Pixum | smartphoto | Bookfactory |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | 86% positive strength · 91 mentions | 91% positive strength · 932 mentions | 86% positive strength · 394 mentions | 85% positive strength · 34 mentions | 91% positive strength · 67 mentions |
| Delivery | 80% positive strength · 46 mentions | 90% positive strength · 491 mentions | 93% positive strength · 193 mentions | 93% positive strength · 14 mentions | 90% positive strength · 20 mentions |
| Customer service | 73% positive strength · 15 mentions | 85% positive strength · 211 mentions | 83% positive strength · 98 mentions | not enough data | 100% positive ✓ strength · 16 mentions |
| Value for money | 67% positive mixed · 12 mentions | 42% positive mixed · 83 mentions | 39% positive mixed · 62 mentions | 80% positive ✓ strength · 5 mentions | not enough data |
| Material | not enough data | 42% positive mixed · 50 mentions | 67% positive ✓ mixed · 12 mentions | not enough data | not enough data |
| Fit & sizing | not enough data | 50% positive ✓ mixed · 28 mentions | 43% positive mixed · 14 mentions | not enough data | not enough data |
| Returns & refunds | not enough data | 63% positive mixed · 24 mentions | 60% positive mixed · 10 mentions | not enough data | not enough data |
| Communication | not enough data | 59% positive mixed · 39 mentions | 33% positive pain point · 15 mentions | not enough data | 60% positive mixed · 5 mentions |
| Ordering & website | 41% positive mixed · 63 mentions | 57% positive mixed · 587 mentions | 66% positive mixed · 203 mentions | 59% positive mixed · 17 mentions | 76% positive ✓ strength · 25 mentions |
| Packaging | 25% positive mixed · 12 mentions | 39% positive ✓ mixed · 61 mentions | 29% positive mixed · 14 mentions | not enough data | not enough data |
| Durability | not enough data | 21% positive pain point · 53 mentions | 50% positive ✓ mixed · 8 mentions | not enough data | not enough data |
| Billing & payment | not enough data | 0% positive pain point · 9 mentions | not enough data | not enough data | not enough data |
How we compare: theme sentiment uses only reviews classified by our analysis (coverage: Ifolor 151/151 (100%), CEWE 1,374/1,374 (100%), Pixum 552/552 (100%), smartphoto 66/66 (100%), Bookfactory 86/86 (100%)); we compare positive/negative shares, not raw counts, weight recent reviews more, and mark themes with fewer than 5 classified mentions as insufficient data instead of naming a winner. Star ratings cover all public reviews and are recency-weighted. Product comparison: each brand is measured only on reviews from the last 24 months that concern Photo Book (minimum 25 reviews per brand). Awards are purely data-derived; no award is given when the gap is not significant.
In reviewers’ own words
Quality
“The photo book is of top quality in terms of quality!”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“Unfortunately, not all functions are available as on the PC.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“unfortunately, it arrived matt and not shiny like the others.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Delivery
“Fast delivery and good printing quality”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“It is impossible to transfer it to another country or send it to Germany”
· Apple App Store · translated
“The delivery arrived at the right time.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“The delivery was also very fast.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Ordering & website
“It also had too little variety in different position frames for me.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“It's fun to create a photo book at CEWE Fotowelt.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“Unfortunately, it seems there is no synchronization between devices.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“I was finally able to make a book of my photos from my phone with the help of the app.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Value for money
“The price is correct.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“It's easy to use and really fair priced.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“For 25 €, one gets a thin little book.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“The price is high for it.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Customer service
“The service and quality were always impeccable.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“I had to write about 20 emails, received definitely 6 wrong invoices and still 2 unjustified reminders for false invoices.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“So I searched online what to do (as there is no further guidance in the Pixim app)”
· Apple App Store · translated
“The boss Christian Burkhardt personally knows what to do if something goes wrong and takes care of it.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Communication
“I have not received any responses to my inquiries about when production and delivery can be expected.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“It would be great if one could start working on a photo book from anywhere using PC, tablet, and phone”
· Apple App Store · translated
“Unfortunately, this information is not provided anywhere.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“I didn't even get a response.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Packaging
“More padding in the package”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“Uploading photo books to myCewe is very error-prone and usually doesn't work”
· Apple App Store · translated
“The background… simply doesn’t work! So few and boring colors”
· Apple App Store · translated
Durability
“Will also be looked at again throughout the year”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“My photo book from October 2025 could no longer be read.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“The app suddenly stops working all the time…”
· Apple App Store · translated
“all pages fall out”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Returns & refunds
“I reported the damage and the book was immediately replaced without any hassle!”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“The defective one could be returned free of charge.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“and could still cancel the order on the next day”
· Apple App Store · translated
“Even the shipping fee was refunded! Hats off!”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Billing & payment
“The promised percentages were not applied.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“Every time a different name and another reminder.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
“So I'll have to pay for two photo books at 600kr…they're off by using Apple Pay??”
· Apple App Store · translated
“my bill was of course almost 200 CHF 100%”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Material
“Uploading images is also cumbersome.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“The app has some weak limitations, especially regarding text usage.”
· Apple App Store · translated
“The book feels very high-quality.”
· Trusted Shops · translated
Fit & sizing
“On the iPad, the DIN A4 format book is distorted into a square, and all images and faces are similarly distorted.”
· Apple App Store · translated
FAQ
Which photo book service is best in Switzerland based on customer reviews?
Reviewers in Switzerland most consistently praise Bookfactory for its high-quality, durable photo books and long-standing reliability, especially for annual club projects. Pixum and Ifolor also receive strong positive feedback for consistent quality and user-friendly tools, while CEWE and smartphoto have mixed reviews due to delivery and consistency issues.
Best for Quality & Reliability
Reviewers report that Bookfactory stands out for its reliable, high-quality photo books and dependable service, with one customer highlighting 18 years of consistent satisfaction. The brand is especially favored for annual projects like club yearbooks, where reliability and durability matter most.
Top for Ease of Use
Pixum and Ifolor are praised for their intuitive software, fast delivery, and consistently good results across multiple orders. Reviewers appreciate the ease of use and the ability to create personalized books with minimal hassle, making them top choices for regular users.
Mixed Reviews on Consistency
CEWE and smartphoto receive lower marks due to recurring complaints about inconsistent print quality, delivery problems, and poor customer handling. Issues like incorrect orders, damaged items, and lack of communication have frustrated users despite some positive experiences.
What customers said:
- „Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
„Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
Original„Bookfactory liefert hochwertige und robuste Fotobücher“
- „I was finally able to make a book of my photos from my phone with the help of the app.“
„I was finally able to make a book of my photos from my phone with the help of the app.“
Original„Ich habe mithilfe der App endlich meine Fotos vom Handy in ein Buch gekriegt.“
- „In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked…“
„In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked contrast.“
Original„Bei meinem letzten Fotobuch (250 Seiten 30x30 cm) waren alle Fotos etwas stumpf und wenig Kontrast.“
- „Der Service ist auch sehr gut“
Which photo book maker is best for quality and reliability based on customer reviews?
Reviewers generally favor Bookfactory for its long-standing reliability and high-quality, durable photo books, especially for annual or club use. Pixum and Ifolor also receive strong praise for consistent quality and user-friendly tools, while CEWE and smartphoto are noted for fast delivery but have more mixed feedback on product consistency.
Reliability & Durability
Reviewers report that Bookfactory stands out for its durability and consistent quality over many years, with one customer highlighting 18 years of use and annual orders for a club. The service is described as kind and attentive, and the books are praised as reliable and long-lasting.
Ease of Use & Quality
Pixum and Ifolor are frequently praised for their intuitive software and excellent print quality, with users noting consistent results across multiple orders. Pixum’s app is especially valued for making photo books easy to create from mobile devices, and Ifolor is appreciated for its wide range of accessories and formats.
Delivery & Consistency
CEWE and smartphoto receive high marks for fast delivery and simple ordering, but some reviewers report issues with color accuracy, missing or duplicated photos, and poor packaging. Smartphoto also faces criticism for not allowing order cancellations after a short delay, leading to duplicate books.
What customers said:
- „Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
„Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
Original„Bookfactory liefert hochwertige und robuste Fotobücher“
- „In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked…“
„In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked contrast.“
Original„Bei meinem letzten Fotobuch (250 Seiten 30x30 cm) waren alle Fotos etwas stumpf und wenig Kontrast.“
- „Pixum ist, im Vergleich zu vielen anderen Anbietern, ausgesprochen komfortabel“
- „in einem "Rutsch" zwei schöne Fotobücher erstellt“
Which photo book service is best based on customer reviews?
Bookfactory earns the highest average rating among the services reviewed, with customers praising its long-term reliability and high-quality, durable books. Pixum and Ifolor also receive strong marks for consistent quality and user-friendly tools, while CEWE and smartphoto are noted for fast delivery and ease of use.
Quality & Durability
Reviewers report that Bookfactory delivers reliable, high-quality photo books that stand up to years of use, with one customer highlighting their 18-year loyalty. Pixum and Ifolor are praised for consistently sharp image quality and excellent materials, though some note minor issues with color accuracy or contrast on certain prints.
Ease of Use
Ifolor and Pixum are frequently commended for intuitive software and apps that make creating photo books straightforward. Bookfactory’s app is also praised for simplifying layout tasks, while CEWE’s interface is described as easy to navigate, though some users report inconsistent results in color reproduction.
Delivery & Service
Smartphoto and CEWE are noted for fast delivery, but some customers report poor packaging or failed deliveries due to carrier issues. Bookfactory receives positive feedback on customer service and timely shipping, though one reviewer was frustrated by a sudden price change after ordering. Pixum and Ifolor generally receive high marks for prompt delivery and responsive support.
What customers said:
- „Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
„Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
Original„Bookfactory liefert hochwertige und robuste Fotobücher“
- „Der Service ist auch sehr gut“
- „I was finally able to make a book of my photos from my phone with the help of the app.“
„I was finally able to make a book of my photos from my phone with the help of the app.“
Original„Ich habe mithilfe der App endlich meine Fotos vom Handy in ein Buch gekriegt.“
- „In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked…“
„In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked contrast.“
Original„Bei meinem letzten Fotobuch (250 Seiten 30x30 cm) waren alle Fotos etwas stumpf und wenig Kontrast.“
Which photo book service offers the best deals and customer satisfaction?
Bookfactory receives the highest average rating and is praised for consistent quality and long-term reliability, making it the top choice for loyal customers. Pixum and Ifolor also earn strong praise for quality and ease of use, though they face occasional delivery and consistency issues.
Quality & Reliability
Reviewers report that Bookfactory delivers high-quality, durable photo books consistently over many years, with one customer noting 18 years of satisfaction. Pixum and Ifolor are also praised for excellent image quality and reliable results, with users highlighting the visual appeal of their books and the comfort of using their tools.
User Experience
Ifolor and Pixum stand out for intuitive software and ease of use, with users appreciating the design tools and app functionality. Bookfactory’s app is noted for simplifying layout tasks, while smartphoto is praised for fast production and delivery, though some users report errors in repeated orders.
Delivery & Service
While many brands report fast delivery, issues arise with CEWE and Pixum over damaged or incorrect shipments, and Bookfactory has been criticized for missing features like glossy paper and limited customization. Delivery problems are sometimes blamed on third parties, but repeated complaints suggest systemic gaps in quality control.
What customers said:
- „Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
„Bookfactory provides high-quality and robust photo books.“
Original„Bookfactory liefert hochwertige und robuste Fotobücher“
- „In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked…“
„In my last photo book (250 pages, 30x30 cm), all the photos were a bit dull and lacked contrast.“
Original„Bei meinem letzten Fotobuch (250 Seiten 30x30 cm) waren alle Fotos etwas stumpf und wenig Kontrast.“
- „Pixum ist, im Vergleich zu vielen anderen Anbietern, ausgesprochen komfortabel“
- „in einem "Rutsch" zwei schöne Fotobücher erstellt“