The Best Instant Cameras You Can Buy Right Now
In a world dominated by digital photos, instant cameras bring back the magic of tangible memories. Whether you’re a traveler, photography lover, or just want a fun way to capture moments, we’ve rounded up the best instant cameras available today—balancing quality, ease of use, and creativity.
1. Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 – Best for Beginners
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is the easiest instant camera for newcomers. It’s lightweight, affordable, and produces credit-card-sized prints. Features like auto-exposure and a selfie mirror make it perfect for casual use.
Pros:
✔ Budget-friendly
✔ Simple point-and-shoot operation
✔ Compact and portable
Cons:
✖ Small print size
✖ No advanced controls
2. Polaroid Now+ – Best for Creative Control
The Polaroid Now+ connects to a smartphone app for manual settings, double exposures, and creative filters. It’s ideal for photographers who want more than just basic shots.
Pros:
✔ Bluetooth app control
✔ Classic Polaroid-style prints
✔ Multiple shooting modes
Cons:
✖ Expensive film
✖ Heavier than other models
3. Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 – Best for Larger Prints
Want bigger instant photos? The Instax Wide 300 prints wide-format images, great for group shots or landscapes. It also has a built-in flash for low-light conditions.
Pros:
✔ Bigger, more detailed prints
✔ Reliable flash
✔ Tripod-compatible
Cons:
✖ Bulky design
✖ Fewer advanced features
4. Kodak Step Instant Camera – Best for Hybrid Use
The Kodak Step lets you preview shots on an LCD screen before printing, saving film. It also supports microSD storage—perfect for those who want digital backups.
Pros:
✔ Digital preview reduces waste
✔ Budget-friendly film
✔ Expandable storage
Cons:
✖ Lower print quality vs. Fujifilm
✖ Limited manual controls
5. Leica Sofort 2 – Best Premium Instant Camera
For top-tier quality, the Leica Sofort 2 offers sharp images, Bluetooth connectivity, and a stylish design. It’s the best choice for serious photographers.
Pros:
✔ Outstanding image quality
✔ Premium build
✔ Advanced shooting modes
Cons:
✖ Expensive upfront
✖ High film costs
6. Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 – Best for Square Format
Love square prints? The Instax Square SQ1 delivers Instagram-style photos with minimal effort. Its one-touch selfie mode makes it user-friendly.
Pros:
✔ Unique square format
✔ Sleek, simple design
✔ Great for social media lovers
Cons:
✖ Fewer features than Polaroid Now+
✖ Film is pricier than Mini size
Final Verdict: Which Instant Camera Should You Buy?
- First-time users: Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
- Creative photographers: Polaroid Now+
- Group photos: Fujifilm Instax Wide 300
- Hybrid shooters: Kodak Step
- Luxury option: Leica Sofort 2
- Square format fans: Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1
Instant cameras make memories feel special. Which one suits your style? Let us know in the comments!
For more tech reviews, stay tuned to NextMinuteNews. 📸
