Instant cameras have become a popular category for one simple reason: they’re fun. You can hit one up at a party or event and take a quick snap, and then a few minutes later you have a real, physical image that everyone can touch, feel and enjoy instead of staring at a screen. And it’s much cooler than smartphone shooting because of the retro, abstract vibes.
Given the large number of models on the market, choosing one can be difficult. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide to help you choose the best instant camera for you based on factors like price, film size, image quality and more.
What to consider before buying an instant camera
The main factor for many people is the size of the film. Fujifilm’s Instax alone offers three formats: Mini, Square and Wide, with film sizes of 3.4 x 2.1 inches, 3.4 x 2.8 inches and 3.4 x 4.3 inches. Compatible image sizes are 2.44 x 1.81 inches, 2.44 x 2.44 inches and 2.44 x 3.9 inches.
Leica’s Sofort 2 and Lomography models also use Fujifilm’s Mini format, while the smaller Polaroid Go format is 2.64 x 2.13 inches (1.81 x 1.83-inch image) and its i-Type size is 3.46 x 4.21 inches, with a square image size of 3.1 x 3.1 3.11 inches.
When most people think of retro instant cameras, they think of square footage. That’s why Instagram, which used to have a Polaroid-like app icon, only supported square photos for years. If that’s what you’re looking for, Fuji’s Square or one of Polaroid’s formats is best. However, if you want the largest possible photo, Fujifilm’s Instax Wide is the way to go.
As for prices, Fujifilm’s Instax films typically cost $1 per shot for square or wide color film and $.60 – $.75 for small color film. Those prices go up a bit if you choose custom models with colored or patterned borders, and down if you buy in bulk. Polaroid i-Type film is slightly more at about $1.50 per shot or $1.00 per shot for Go color film.
Image quality is not really a point with fast cameras, as it will always be blurry compared to digital photos. However, some models (especially Fujifilm and Polaroid models) are better than others.
And in terms of prices, cameras with large film are usually more expensive. It also expands when you add hybrid features like USB-C connectivity, smartphone sharing, the ability to print photos and more, as well as niceties like a selfie mirror. The best, most feature-packed cameras can cost upwards of $200 and basic versions can be under $100.
Fujifilm
The best instant camera is the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ40. It looks great thanks to the leatherette details and retro design, while offering small controls for easy use. It takes a 3.39 x 2.83-inch Instax Square print that fully brings out the retro vibes. You also get a flash, a selfie mirror, a front shutter and a wrist strap, and it’s light and easy to carry. The camera alone costs $150, but you’ll also need a film budget.
$149 at Amazon
Fujifilm
If you’d like to spend less money on both the camera and the film, check out the Instax Mini 12 by Fujifilm. A quick entry-level camera that lets you start shooting in minutes. The controls couldn’t be easier either, as you just need to twist the lens to the “on” or “off” position. It’s also small and thin, so it can slip into a pocket and fit well in the small hands of budding photographers.
$73 at Amazon
Polaroid
Polaroid is synonymous with fast cameras, and its Now+ model is the best choice for great film. Although the prints are slightly smaller than those produced by Fujifilm’s Instax Wide 400, I prefer the square format that evokes old-school Polaroid photos. It also offers a host of features such as an updated app with creative shooting modes including manual modes, timer, double exposure, light painting and depth of field aperture priority option. The main disadvantage is the very high price of Polaroid i-Type film.
$131 at Amazon
Fujifilm
For the largest possible print (as long as you don’t mind the rectangular format), Fujifilm’s new Instax Wide 400 is your best bet. It offers easy one-button operation, fully automatic shooting and a new close-up option to add sharp images to your music. The main downside is the lack of hybrid options, but the fact that it’s basic helps keep the price down. Film is also much cheaper than Polaroid’s i-Type.
$150 at B&H Photo
Fujifilm
For a fully featured instant camera, look no further than Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Evo. It marries the classic charm of instant photography with digital photography, giving you the ability to preview shots on the 3-inch rear display and print only the ones you want. Another great trick is that it can act as a photo printer for your smartphone.
Design-wise, it matches the aesthetics of Fujifilm’s iconic digital cameras like the X100 VI, and is more compact than other Instax models. And like the X series cameras, you have the ability to apply multiple simulations and effects to prints. The downside is that it is more complicated to operate than other fast cameras, but that flexibility will attract many buyers.
$200 at Amazon
Lomography
For serious instant photographers, Lomography’s Lomo’Instant Wide is the model to get. It offers a host of advanced features including exposure compensation control, built-in flash, multiple exposure capabilities, manual focus lens, external flash sync socket, selfie mirror and the ability to add optional wide and macro conversion lenses. . The main disadvantage is the large size and the high price.
$169 at Lomography
Polaroid
The Polaroid Go may be basic and cheap, but it offers a lot. You get a self-timer and dual exposure modes, as well as Polaroid’s square Go film format that delivers that nostalgic feeling. It’s also very small and light, so it’s an easy choice to bring to any occasion. The main drawback is the autofocus, which delivers spotty results unless you’re a good way from the subject.
$100 at Amazon
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