Importance Score: 3 / 100 🟠
Despite the prevalence of smartphones equipped with high-resolution cameras and global sharing capabilities, instant cameras retain a certain charm. With a simple press of a button, these devices capture fleeting moments, producing tangible photographs almost instantly. While images from instant cameras may lack the clinical perfection of modern digital counterparts, their inherent softness and minor flaws contribute significantly to their appeal. This guide explores the landscape of instant photography, helping you choose the best instant camera for your needs.
However, the world of instant cameras is diverse, with models varying significantly in features, performance and price. To navigate this selection, we rigorously evaluated several leading instant cameras from prominent manufacturers including Fujifilm, Polaroid, Leica, Canon, and Kodak.
Each model featured in this instant camera guide provides an enjoyable user experience, yet each presents a unique combination of features at different price points. Consequently, some are more appropriate for younger users or novice photographers, while others offer advanced functionalities and greater creative control, often reflected in a higher cost. Ultimately, print fidelity, user-friendliness, and affordability are key benchmarks for a superior instant camera. Based on these criteria, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 emerges as the top recommendation for most individuals, excelling across all three critical aspects.
Evaluation Criteria
Product testing typically involves a period of several weeks, or even months, for each camera. This extended evaluation allows for a comprehensive understanding of the ownership experience. Cameras are used in various scenarios, from casual gatherings with family and friends to capturing scenes encountered while exploring locations, including urban environments and coastal settings. Photography takes place both indoors and outdoors, with and without flash, to assess performance across diverse lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to dim interiors.
Feedback on image quality and usability is gathered from a diverse group encompassing various age ranges and technical proficiencies. Friends and family are encouraged to handle the cameras and provide their perspectives. Supplementary functionalities, such as integrated filters or companion applications, are also thoroughly assessed in practical scenarios. The evaluation process includes noting the ease of app navigation, the application of effects, and the visual outcome of these features.
Instant cameras are not typically recognized for delivering high-resolution, exceptionally sharp images, and many encounter challenges in low-light environments. However, a baseline expectation is that photos should possess sufficient clarity and brightness to ensure subject recognition and a reasonable representation of reality.
The ease of setup and photo capture is a crucial aspect of instant camera appeal, making them enjoyable and accessible to users of all ages. Operating an instant camera should not necessitate professional photographic expertise to derive pleasure from its use.
While instant cameras are not renowned for producing highly detailed, crisp photographs, and often struggle in dim lighting, the resultant images should at least be adequately clear and luminous to render the subject identifiable and maintain a degree of realism.
Instant cameras are available with varying feature sets and price tags. Typically, models enriched with more features tend to command higher prices. The core question is whether these additional capabilities warrant the increased expenditure. Certain cameras, for instance, offer companion apps or integrated selfie mirrors, while others incorporate the ability to print images directly from a smartphone. None are absolutely essential, but these added conveniences may justify the cost for some users.
The suitability of an instant camera varies depending on individual preferences and specific scenarios. For example, some instant cameras produce prints reminiscent of classic Polaroid photographs, which may lack sharpness. While this might be perceived as a drawback by some, enthusiasts of retro aesthetics may find it charming. Conversely, other cameras incorporate advanced creative modes, enabling photo editing and smartphone image printing, which might present a steeper learning curve for younger users.
Each instant camera necessitates a specific type of film, making the initial camera price only part of the overall cost. Prospective buyers should account for ongoing film expenses, as they can accumulate rapidly. Depending on the brand, the cost per print can range from approximately $0.50 to $2.
Film availability is another important factor. For instance, Instax Mini 12 cameras use credit card-sized Instax Mini film, widely available at major retail outlets. Conversely, film types like that required for the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Square Retro, while obtainable online marketplaces such as Amazon, may not be as readily stocked in brick-and-mortar stores.
Furthermore, instant camera brands typically offer films in diverse qualities and styles. Options include films with patterned or colorful borders, black and white film, and various sizes and shapes, from small wallet-sized rectangular prints to square formats. Wider prints are also available, and some brands even offer film with adhesive backing, transforming prints into stickers.
For those seeking enhanced creative control and features like filters, the Instax Mini Evo is a recommended alternative, celebrated for its superior image quality and selective printing capability. Other instant cameras, such as the Polaroid Now Plus (2nd Gen) and Kodak Mini Retro 3, also incorporate various advanced creative modes for users desiring greater artistic options.
Consult the following list of instant camera recommendations to determine the optimal model to suit individual requirements.
Top Instant Camera for General Use
$70
Pluses
- Produces relatively lifelike photos
- Extremely simple operation
- Very competitively priced
Minuses
- Instax film can become costly over time
- Limited manual controls
- Flash can be somewhat intense
Film Type: Fujifilm Instax Mini film (sold separately) / Film Size: 2 x 3 inches / Weight: 306 grams / Power Source: AA batteries / Companion App: None / Key Features: Integrated selfie mirror, film counter
For users prioritizing straightforward functionality and acceptable print quality at a fair price, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is highly recommended. This entry-level instant camera bears resemblance to its predecessor, the Instax Mini 11, yet offers subtle enhancements. The setup remains rapid, under five minutes, simplified further by a lens-twist mechanism for power and mode selection. This ease coupled with a slimmer profile makes it particularly suitable for photography beginners and younger demographics.
Image quality is notably better than many rival instant cameras, producing relatively true-to-life colors. Like most tested models, low-light performance is a weakness; however, the integrated flash partially compensates. Fujifilm asserts improved image optimization in varied lighting over prior models, though practical differences were marginal during testing. The non-disable flash can still cause overexposure, with images appearing slightly darker and less vibrant compared to its predecessor.
Accurate capture of facial features and skin tones in selfies is improved with the integrated front-mounted mirror feature.
A redesigned lens configuration facilitates easier zooming, activated by twisting to ‘Close-Up Mode’ instead of button operation. This mode introduces ‘Parallax Correction’, intended for better photo alignment. The lens manipulation is reminiscent of traditional point-and-shoot cameras but achieving optimal image quality with close-ups requires practice. Centering subjects in ‘Close-Up Mode’ remains somewhat challenging, even with lens refinements. However, alignment accuracy improved after some practice and referencing the user manual.
Additional conveniences include a larger viewfinder and a shot-remaining counter, absent on many tested instant cameras. Tracking remaining shots is beneficial, especially in social or travel settings where print costs are a factor.
In summary, the Instax Mini 12 is a user-friendly, basic instant camera appropriate for various age groups and skill levels, effectively fulfilling fundamental instant photography needs. It lacks Bluetooth, companion app-based editing (scan function only), and advanced features like filters or portrait modes, making it a purely analog experience, ideal for traditional instant photo enthusiasts.
Best Premium Instant Camera
$199
Pluses
- Intuitive dial and button interface
- Flexible print options
- Extended battery performance
Minuses
- Limited internal memory
- Micro USB connection (on older models) is outdated
- No optical viewfinder
Film Type: Fujifilm Instax Mini film (sold separately) / Film Size: 2 x 3 inches / Weight: 285 grams / Power Source: USB-C (newer models) / Companion App: Yes / Key Features: LCD screen, smartphone printing
The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo, a newer hybrid instant camera, is highly favored. Resembling Fujifilm’s X100 series, it presents an appealing design with retro-style dials and buttons attracting attention during public use. The tested black model joins brown and limited-edition silver and gold versions.
The $199 price may seem significant initially, however, the Instax Mini Evo offers cost-saving potential over time due to its preview and selection feature via a 3-inch LCD screen, reducing wasted film. This feature also promotes creative experimentation without film wastage concerns. Smartphone printing via the Instax Mini Evo app is another valuable feature. Furthermore, newer Evo models utilize USB-C charging, unlike the Micro USB of older black versions, eliminating disposable battery dependence.
Unlike the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12, the Mini Evo incorporates enhancements for improved photography. Flash deactivation and LCD screen viewfinder functionality are available. Brightness adjustment for prints is also possible via menu settings, useful as both Evo and Mini 12 struggle in dim lighting.
Dials provide access to lens effects and filters – from retro to monochrome, including mirror, vignette, and soft focus effects. App-based remote shooting enhances creative control, particularly for selfies, exceeding the standard selfie mirror’s capabilities.
Despite its advantages, limitations exist beyond price. The Fujifilm companion app, while offering filters and basic edits, lacks the sophistication of other hybrid instant camera apps. The extensive menu system is not particularly intuitive; flash control required some initial effort. Internal storage is limited to approximately 45 images. However, these are minor considerations relative to the portability, style, and ease of capturing quality photos quickly.
Refer to our comprehensive Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo review.
Ideal Instant Camera for Social Settings
$126
Pluses
- Smartphone photo printing capability
- Engaging companion application
- Includes initial film pack
Minuses
- Mediocre image clarity
- No onboard image storage
- Less aesthetically refined than Instax Mini Evo
Film Type: Kodak Instant Print 3 x 3-inch cartridge (included) / Film Size: 3 x 3-inch square prints / Weight: 467 grams / Power Source: Micro USB / Companion App: Yes / Key Features: LCD screen, smartphone printing
Contrasting the Instax Mini Evo app which is more about utility, the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro emphasizes entertainment. The associated mobile app enables applying frames, stickers, filters, and numerous customizations, ideal for scrapbooking projects. A beauty mode for blemish removal and Snapchat-style filters for playful additions like virtual dog ears make it suitable as a mobile фото booth at gatherings.
Similar to the Instax Mini Evo, the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro includes an LCD screen (smaller in size) for print preview selection and Bluetooth connectivity. The Kodak Photo Printer app facilitates social media uploads and printing acceptable, reasonably clear photos from smartphones. Priced around $170, often lower, the Mini Shot 3 Retro includes a film pack and uses less costly film; 60-sheet cartridges are approximately $17.99, roughly $.33 per print. This affordability fosters experimental and playful use, despite 3×3 inch square prints feeling less substantial in quality compared to Fujifilm and Polaroid films.
However, the Kodak Mini Shot 3 has notable downsides. Print sharpness and clarity are inferior to smartphone captures and generally less refined than Mini Evo or Mini 12 outputs. Photos sometimes exhibit a pronounced pink hue impacting overall quality. No image storage unlike the Mini Evo means immediate print decisions. It’s also heavier and aesthetically less appealing than the Mini Evo.
Nonetheless, for users prioritizing app-based fun and affordability over ultimate photo quality, the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro remains a sound choice.
Best Instant Camera for Retro Style
$102
Pluses
- Attractive, vintage design aesthetic
- Produces dreamy, classic photo prints
- Multiple creative modes available
- USB-C connectivity
Minuses
- Low-light performance is limited
- Film development takes up to 15 minutes
Film Type: Polaroid i-Type Color Film (sold separately) / Film Size: 4.2 x 3.5-inch prints / Weight: 451.5 grams / Power Source: USB-C / Companion App: Yes / Key Features: Lens filter kit, film counter
For the most authentic classic instant film experience, the Polaroid Now Plus (2nd Gen) excels. Its design strongly recalls vintage models like the Polaroid 600, boasting a timeless retro aesthetic. Square I-Type film and iconic Polaroid frames enhance the vintage photo appearance.
Concurrent with its retro appeal, the Polaroid Now Plus (2nd Gen) integrates modern features like USB-C charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and a companion app delivering creative modes for enhanced control. Remote shutter, self-timer, and ‘Polaroid Lab’ functionalities allow exposure and color adjustments. Shooting modes, including manual options, and five colored lens attachments further enable artistic flexibility.
Portability is a drawback for the Polaroid Now Plus. Its bulk and weight make pocket or casual carrying difficult. 15-minute print development time requiring light shielding adds inconvenience, especially outdoors in sunny conditions.
For users seeking simple, clear photo printing, the Polaroid Now Plus is less ideal. Low-light performance is weakest among cameras reviewed. Indoor shots were barely visible; optimal clarity required direct morning light. Even then, image clarity trailed Instax film, with reduced contrast and color saturation.
This contributes to a dreamlike vintage aesthetic, adjustable via the ‘Polaroid Lab’ app for saturation and exposure. However, adjustment is time-consuming. Film wastage owing to these image quality issues can become expensive: eight I-Type sheets for $16.99 adds to the $149.99 camera cost.
However, these perceived shortcomings can be viewed as fundamental aspects of the retro Polaroid instant camera experience. For those appreciating vintage traits and willing to invest, the Polaroid Now Plus (2nd Gen) remains compelling.
Polaroid has recently launched the $139.99 Now Plus Generation 3, a $10 MSRP reduction from its predecessor, while the second-gen model is currently discounted to $102. The new model is seemingly an iterative update, featuring a built-in tripod mount and four instead of three color options. Enhanced brightness and accuracy in high-contrast scenarios, and improved depth perception via sensor, meter, and autofocus upgrades are expected.
Most Portable Instant Camera
$73
Pluses
- Extremely compact and lightweight design
- Produces vintage-style photos akin to Polaroid Now Plus
- USB-C charging port
Minuses
- Limited performance in low illumination
- Film requires 15 minutes for development
- Lacks Bluetooth and companion application functionality
Film Type: Polaroid i-Type Color Film (sold separately) / Film Size: 2.6 x 2.1-inch prints / Weight: 239 grams / Power Source: USB-C / Companion App: No / Key Features: Self-timer, selfie mirror, film counter
In contrast to the bulky Polaroid Now Plus, the Polaroid Go (2nd Gen) is remarkably small, fitting comfortably in hand, making it the most portable option reviewed. It also produces the smallest prints, ideal for conserving space compared to Instax Mini format.
Weighing slightly over half a pound, the Polaroid Go is exceptionally light and easy to operate single-handedly – convenient given handling heavier models can be cumbersome at times. Better image realism and faster development time would make it ideal for travel or use by children.
At $79.99, the Polaroid Go is Polaroid’s most affordable camera, with film slightly more expensive than Instax Mini (around $19.99 for 16 sheets). Upgrades over prior models, despite a lower price, include USB-C support for faster charging and dispensing with AA batteries.
Polaroid claims improved image clarity, but the difference from the first generation was minor. Photos are slightly brighter; however, the original Polaroid Go arguably produced warmer, more realistic tones. Photos retain vintage charm with low contrast and color saturation mirroring the Now Plus.
Unlike the Now Plus, the Go lacks creative modes but offers a self-timer and larger selfie mirror. No Bluetooth or app support contributes to its simple point-and-shoot nature, similar to the Instax Mini 12 making it easily operable. Smaller prints compared to Instax Mini may be a disadvantage for some preferring traditional Polaroid size. While vintage-style shots are similar, design diverges from classic Polaroid cameras, potentially diminishing the retro appeal for some.
Considering older Polaroid cameras also lacked app integration, the Go’s simplicity suits users seeking a straightforward, traditional instant film experience, usable virtually anywhere at half the cost of the Polaroid Now Plus.
Additional Instant Cameras to Explore
The Kodak Smile Plus, another hybrid instant camera, facilitates printing smartphone photos. Smaller and more affordable than the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Retro 3 at $99.99, it’s available in vibrant colors appealing to younger demographics. It includes a physical lens filter and utilizes Zinc paper enabling sticker creation.
However, lacking a built-in display forces blind printing, increasing wasted shots due to image quality being only adequate, even compared to Retro 3. Clarity is significantly inferior to Instax Mini 12, especially in extreme lighting conditions.
Conversely, the Smile Plus includes a microSD card slot for photo storage and viewing elsewhere. App integration similar to Retro 3 provides filters and frames, though the software is less refined. Despite this, the Smile Plus serves as a viable budget-friendly alternative albeit the Retro 3, often under $120, is generally recommended.
Leica Sofort 2 closely mirrors the Instax Mini Evo in photo quality and features, from lever-activated printing to identical smartphone photo printing and 10 film/lens effects, including macro mode. The Sofort 2’s minimalist aesthetic is stylish, though less characterful than the Evo’s retro design.
The Sofort 2’s primary disadvantage is its doubled price versus the Evo. At $389, it’s challenging to recommend, given minimal differentiation. A smoother user interface, included lens cap, extended warranty and Leica-camera photo printing via app are minor advantages insufficient to justify the price premium.
For a more advanced analog instant camera, consider the Fujifilm Instax Mini 99 around $200. While pricier than the Instax Mini 12, it represents a significant upgrade with brightness settings, focus zones, color effects and dual shutter buttons for enhanced creativity. Tripod socket, aluminum extension column and Sports Mode for motion blur reduction further broaden its capability.
Customization elevates photo quality to a more realistic level than Instax Mini 12 and Mini Evo. Being analog-only, smartphone photo printing is absent unlike the hybrid Mini Evo. Complexity exceeds Mini 12, unsuitable for very young users. Yet, setup and operation remains relatively accessible, appealing to both amateur and seasoned photographers.
The Instax Square SQ1, while not a top pick, merits mention. It delivers good quality, user-friendly operation and a selfie mirror akin to the Mini 12. Its omission from top choices is primarily due to twice the Mini 12’s cost at $119.95, albeit occasionally discounted to $100.
It remains a worthy consideration for those favoring larger 2.4 x 2.4 inch square, realistic prints over vintage looks. The SQ1 is more affordable than Polaroid Now Plus and delivers superior image quality than the Kodak Mini Shot 3 Square Retro for similar square format prints.
Fujifilm also offers the newer Instax Square SQ40. Similar to SQ1 in performance but with a more striking vintage design, it’s pricier at $149. Given comparable photo quality and infrequent discounts, the Instax Square SQ1 or the more feature rich Instax Mini Evo at a $50 premium are generally recommended.
The Polaroid Flip, a new $199.99 model, introduces scene analysis to mitigate exposure and focus issues with a viewfinder LED warning. Polaroid asserts the Flip has its most powerful flash, adjustable for close-ups, and new sonar-powered autofocus selecting amongst four lenses. Launch is set for April 29th via Polaroid online and May 13th broadly; Polaroid members get early access.
Fujifilm recently announced the Instax Mini 41, successor to the $99 Instax Mini 40, retaining retro design but adding parallax correction from Instax Mini 12 to aid close-up centering. Availability is expected by end of April at $129.95.
Polaroid Now Plus Generation 3
Polaroid recently launched the Now Plus Generation 3, the successor to our retro-inspired camera recommendation. Near-identical to the second-gen Now Plus, it offers six colors and a built-in tripod mount. Autofocus and light meter advancements aim for improved photo quality. Testing is forthcoming.
Fujifilm’s $149.95 Instax Wide 400 is an updated Wide 300, its first wide-format instant camera in a decade, producing prints twice as wide as Instax Mini 12. New features include self-timer and rounded grip, available in sage green. Photo quality has been initially impressive, comparable to Instax Mini 12 in realism, but wider comparative testing is ongoing.
Fujifilm’s upcoming Instax Wide Evo Hybrid mirrors the Instax Mini Evo in features but supports wide-format pictures with a 15.67mm lens, widest for Instax cameras. Currently available in Japan and Australia, US launch details are pending.
Early testing suggests solid photo quality, equivalent to Instax Mini Evo and Mini 12. A minor delay between shutter press and capture, absent in Mini Evo, is noted, potentially frustrating for fast-moving subjects.
Update, April 18th: Links and pricing updated, and information added on Kodak Smile Plus, Polaroid Flip, and Fujifilm Instax Mini 41.