The best instant cameras and printers make photography a physical, tangible experience again. If you’re sick of pixels and screens and want to hold a real image in your hands, these cameras from Polaroid, Fujifilm Instax and more will allow you to do just that.
Instant cameras may be designed for fun rather than pin-sharp imagery, but that doesn’t mean we don’t take them seriously. Our reviewers spend extended, hands-on time with all of the instant film and digital instant cameras that we test, to make sure we have a thorough understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. In this guide, I’ve included only the cameras that have really impressed us.
As well as instant film cameras in the classic Polaroid model, you’ll find a few digital instant print cameras. While these don’t produce the same kind of quality, they are much cheaper to run, so they may be worth considering if you’re on a budget. Alternatively, for more analogue goodness, check out our guide to the best disposable film cameras. But for now, let’s get into the best instant cameras and printers.
The best instant cameras and printers – quick list
These are our picks for the best instant cameras and printers you can buy right now. We’ve opted for models to suit a range of budgets and ability levels, so whether you’re an absolute beginner or an old hand with a Polaroid, there should be a suitable camera here for you.
Best Instax camera: Fujifilm Instax Mini 99 – Buy now
Best for beginners: Polaroid Go Generation 2 – Buy now
Best Instax Square camera: Fujifilm Instax SQ40 – Buy now
Best instant camera for big prints: Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 – Buy now
Best budget instant camera: Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 – Buy now
Best hybrid instant camera: Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo – Buy now
Best for experimental instant photography: Polaroid OneStep+ – Buy now
Best instant printers
Best Instax printer for small prints: Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3 – Buy now
Best instant printer: Fujifilm Instax Link Wide – Buy Now
Looking for the best deal on instant cameras?Not only will you find the best instant cameras, but also some of the best cheap instant camera deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons are set to automatically take you to the best prices from trusted retailers. You’ll also find a list of other retailers below each camera, so you can find the right deal for you.
Why you can trust Amateur Photographer
We spend many hours testing every product we recommend, in detail, in a variety of situations and shooting scenarios, and only use experts for our reviews, so you can be sure that you’re getting the best products. Find out more about our expert writers.
Best Instax camera
Best Instax camera: Fujifilm Instax Mini 99
Instax Mini 99 front view. Photo: Isabella Ruffatti.
Amateur Photographer verdict
The Instax Mini 99 is easily the most capable Instax instant camera yet, with many fun features for photographers looking to take their instant photos to the next level.
Pros
Elegant look
Manual controls
Good closeup and action capabilities
Cons
Expensive
No selfie mirror
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Fujifilm Instax Mini 99
Lens
60mm f/12.7, manual focus (35mm equivalent)
Shutter speed
1.8 to 1/400 seconds, 10 sec Bulb mode
Film type
Mini Fujifilm Instax
Battery
NP-70S, USB-C rechargeable
Weight
12oz / 340g
The Instax Mini 99 looks and feels different to other Instax instant cameras. No longer is it all about pastel colours and simple controls – instead, the Mini 99 sports a new look reminiscent of Fujifilm’s X-range of mirrorless and compact digital cameras like the Fujifilm X100VI, as well as a host of manual controls including an exposure control dial.
Along with some colour effects similar to the Instax Mini Evo’s, the Mini 99 adds on shooting modes such as Sports Mode, Double Exposure Mode, and Bulb Mode. Does this make it the best instant camera you can buy? For our money, yes – while it’s more complex than average, it’s not difficult for the average user to get their head around, and the expanded creative options it offers make it a much more interesting camera to push and experiment with. It adds sophistication and depth without sacrificing the fun factor of using it.
Best instant camera for: Instant photographers looking to have more creative control.
Polaroid’s I-type film is more expensive than Instax, but it’s also larger, offering a greater tonal range and a more balanced image overall. The Polaroid Flip is one of the newest cameras in the revitalised Polaroid range, boasting a chunky flip-up flash that gives it a real retro feel. It’s also a more in-depth camera than many of the previous point-and-shoot entries, offering a zone focusing system that allows you to keep your chosen subject sharp and attractively blur the backgrounds of images.
While we did experience a technical hiccup in our testing of the Polaroid Flip, with two prints sticking together and resulting in two failed photos, it’s otherwise an enormously enjoyable instant camera to use. The more naturalistic look compared to Instax will likely appeal to anyone who wants to take their instant photography more seriously, while the settings controls allow you to get hands-on with your image-making. It’ll also work with old 600 film, if you happen to have any kicking around.
Best instant camera for beginners: Polaroid Go Generation 2
Polaroid Go Generation 2. Photo: Isabella Ruffati.
Amateur Photographer verdict
The ‘world’s smallest instant camera’, this one is great for those who want a point and shoot camera with minimal fuss.
Pros
Tiny and lightweight
Selfie mirror, self-timer and double exposures
Mostly produces bright, detailed images
Cons
Struggles in low light
Film is expensive
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Fujifilm Instax SQ40
Lens
f/9 – f/42
Shutter speed
1/300 seconds
Film type
Square Polaroid Go film
Battery
Built-in USB-C rechargeable
Weight
8.4oz / 240g
This pocket sized analogue instant camera is great for those who want a point and shoot camera with minimal fuss. There is a reflective selfie mirror and self timer mode meaning you can create the perfect portrait of yourself on the go. The dinky design is available in black, white, red or blue.
We were impressed in our review with the images it produced, which tended to be bright and punchy, exactly the way you want instant images to be. As long as the light was good, at least – in low light, the Polaroid Go Generation 2 suffers, even with the flash. Instax users may also miss the close-up mode, absent here. The Polaroid Go Generation 2 is only compatible with Polaroid Go film, which comes in at $22 / £19 for 16 shots.
Best instant camera for: taking everywhere with you and small square prints
Fujifilm Instax SQ40 camera body and design. Image credit: Isabella Ruffatti.
Amateur Photographer verdict
With the Instax SQ40, Fujifilm has provided yet another good option for instant photographers – this time in a redesigned retro body that uses the square print format.
Pros
Easy to use
Classy design
Selfie mirror
Cons
Underexposure can be a problem
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Fujifilm Instax SQ40
Lens
65.75 mm (32mm equivalent) F12.6
Shutter speed
Shutter speed Programmed electronic shutter 1/2 to 1/400 sec. Slow synchro for low light
Film type
Square Fujifilm Instax
Battery
Two CR2 lithium batteries
Weight
16oz / 453g
Much as with the Instax Mini 12, the Fujifilm Instax SQ40 incorporates the same simplified modes, built-in selfie mirror and automatic exposure that the Mini 12 has. A helpful addition is a light that turns on when the camera is on that starts blinking to alert you if it has been on for too long.
This is very much a camera for beginners and those who want an easy-to-use instant – as well as fans of the larger square format. However, in our review it definitely felt like a step up from the Instax Minis, and if you feel you want something a little more high-quality and versatile, it’s worth spending a little extra to play with Square SQ40. Alternatively, for those looking for a more colourful and less expensive option, the older Instax Square SQ1 is still available to buy new.
To make larger prints using Fujifilm’s Instax Wide film, then the Instax Wide 400 is your port of call. The wider format produces images with plenty of detail, and thanks to its point-and-shoot design, the Instax Wide 400 is very easy to use. To be honest, it’s a little too easy – in our review, our writer found herself crying out for some of the features that had been lost from the decade-old Instax Wide 300. Flash control, brightness control, double exposures, the LCD status screen – did all these things really need to be consigned to the dustbin?
The Instax Wide 400 is an uncomplicated camera for those who are not demanding. If you’re happy just pointing and shooting, don’t mind a few frames ruined by the unreliable close-up lens, and you’re not going to sweat it if the odd exposure is a bit off, then you’ll have a ball. Anyone who wants a bit more depth in their instant photography may come away disappointed.
Best instant camera for: beginners who want larger prints
Best budget instant camera: Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12. Photo: Isabella Ruffatti.
Amateur Photographer verdict
With simplified controls and quirky pastel colour options, this one is for photographers looking for an easy-to-use instant that’s on the affordable side and shoots Mini film.
Pros
Easy to use
Nice portrait and selfie-taking capabilities
Relatively inexpensive
Cons
Slippery surface
Boxy design might not appeal to everyone
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
Lens
60mm equivalent f/12 lens
Shutter speed
1/2 to 1/250 sec
Film type
Mini Fujifilm Instax
Battery
Two AA batteries
Weight
11oz / 306g
The Instax Mini 12 is a do-everything instant shooter that’s designed for people who just want to point, shoot and print. It lacks the more sophisticated exposure modes of instant rivals from Polaroid, as well as more sophisticated members of the Instax family. However, it does what it does very well, and spits out charming low-fi Instax mini prints within seconds of the shutter button being pressed.
There are a few upgrades to this camera compared to the previous Instax mini 11, such as in the close-up mode, which now has parallax correction to help you frame more accurately (the mini 11 had a reputation for producing wildly mis-framed shots in this mode). There are plenty of other instant cameras that offer deeper control and broader functionality, but for simple knockabout fun and beginner-friendly charm, the Instax Mini 12 is one of the best instant cameras you can buy.
Alternatively, if you shoot a lot of instant selfies, have a look at the Instax Mini 13, which has a built-in self-timer.
Best instant camera for: beginners and casual photography enthusiasts.
Best hybrid instant camera: Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo. Photo: Isabella Ruffatti.
Amateur Photographer verdict
As a hybrid instant camera, the Mini Evo promises to deliver the best of both digital and film. It doesn’t succeed – but it’s halfway there.
Pros
You get to choose what you print
Bluetooth connection and smartphone app
Some fun effects
Cons
4.9MP sensor
Can only send printed images to phone
No video
On the pricier side
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
Lens
28mm equivalent F2.0
Shutter speed
1/4 – 1/8000 second
Film type
Mini Fujifilm Instax
Battery
3-inch LCD rear screen
Weight
10.1 oz / 285 g
The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is very popular and has been experiencing stock shortages, so you may have to wait to grab it from major retailers. However, given that this instant camera received a prestigious Red Dot Award for its design, as well as being selected as a finalist in the International Design Excellence Awards, we feel pretty confident that it’s worth being a little patient for.
So what’s different about the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo? It’s intended as a hybrid between analogue and digital, and actually has a 3-inch LCD screen on the rear. This allows the user to easily browse and select images to be printed, as well as do minor edits and adjust settings.
The Mini Evo is designed to bridge the gap between an instant camera and an instant printer, and as such it can also be used to print photos directly off your smartphone’s camera roll. Another appealing feature the 10 integrated lens modes and 10 built-in filter effects, you can create unique looks.
Best instant camera for: analogue and digital shooting
Best for experimental instant photography: Polaroid OneStep+
Image credit: Polaroid
Amateur Photographer verdict
Despite its selection of smartphone-enabled shooting modes, this camera is designed for ease of use in its own right.
Pros
Stylish and retro design
Can shoot in manual mode
Tripod mount
Two built-in lenses
Cons
Film is expensive
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Polaroid OneStep+
Lens
Standard: 103mm; Portrait 89mm, F14-64
Shutter speed
1/3 – 1/250 second
Film type
Polaroid Originals i-Type, Polaroid 600
Battery
Built-in rechargeable
Weight
17oz / 493g
The Polaroid OneStep+ comes in a stylish and retro design that is reminiscent of its historical past yet this particular model is packed full of modern technology such as Bluetooth connectivity that can unlock creative features such as light painting and shooting in the manual mode. There is a tripod mount on the base of the camera for those wanting to get creative using a slower shutter speed.
The Polaroid OneStep+ comes with two built-in lenses: one for far-off landscapes and the other for portrait images. You can switch manually between the two with an on body switch.
Best instant camera for: experimental instant photography
Best Instax printer for small prints: Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3
Instax Mini Link 3. Photo: Isabella Ruffatti.
Amateur Photographer verdict
The Mini Link 2 consistently delivers gorgeous little prints with fine detail and vivid colour.
Pros
Makes vibrant detailed prints
Easy Bluetooth connection
Nicely designed app
Small and portable
Cons
Prints are quite small
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3
Film type
Mini Fujifilm Instax
Connection
iOS, Android, Bluetooth
Battery
Built-in lithium-ion battery, charges via USB-C
Weight
7.4oz / 210g
With the Fujifilm Instax Link 3 mini printer, you can link to your smartphone and print out images from your camera roll on Fujifilm’s Instax Mini film. The Mini Link 3 uses Bluetooth for communicating with your phone, rather than Wi-Fi, which has a couple of advantages – it’s much easier to set up, and it doesn’t require fiddling around with your phone’s Wi-Fi network every time you want to make a print. It also consumes less battery power.
In our review, we found the Mini Link 3 to be a fun and easy-to-use printer. You’re limited to Mini Instax film, so it’s not one for professional prints, but it’s definitely great value for parties, gatherings and holidays. The sleek, curvy design is attractive and will slip easily into a coat pocket or bag. We also found it to be really easy to use, with just a single external control in the shape of a large power button. Simply turn the printer on and it’ll connect to your phone and be ready to go.
There isn’t much difference between the Mini Link 3 and the Mini Link 2 (the main addition is a USB-C port), so it’s not worth upgrading if you have the older version. However, if you’re looking for a new mini instant printer, it’s an affordable and charming choice.
Best large instant printer: Fujifilm Instax Link Wide
Instax Link Wide Printer. Image credit: Instax
Amateur Photographer verdict
The Instax Link Wide is easy to use and produces lovely-looking prints with bright, strong colours. But now, they’re bigger and better than ever.
Pros
Makes beautiful prints
Intuitive smartphone app
Simple and reliable Bluetooth connection
Cons
Bulkier than smaller-format siblings
Printing from can be rather slow
Uninspiring colour options (grey or white)
Scroll to see more →
Specifications
Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 3
Film type
Wide Fujifilm Instax
Connection
iOS, Android, Bluetooth
Battery
Built-in lithium-ion battery, charges via micro USB
Weight
12oz / 340g
The Instax Link Wide uses the firm’s largest instant film format, giving a print area of approximately 6 x 10 cm – that’s more than double the size of Instax Mini, and 60% larger than Instax Square. Essentially, this printer works in the same way as the Instax Mini Link, but has been made 5cm wider to accommodate the larger film. The only control is a large power button on the front, with multi-coloured LEDs behind it to indicate the printer’s status. The film slots in under a large door on the back.
The device is powered by a built-in Li-ion battery that charges via micro-USB, which means you can use it anywhere.
The Instax Link Wide connects to your smartphone or tablet using Bluetooth, and is operated using the eponymous app for iOS or Android.
The pros of this little printer are that it makes beautiful prints, is intuitive to use and relies on Bluetooth connectivity. On the down side it’s bulkier than its smaller format siblings but makes slightly larger prints; so you need to weigh up your needs.
First up, in this article we’re dealing with both instant cameras and printers. Both do much the same thing in quickly producing a physical print of an image – an instant camera captures it too. Instant printers are generally built to receive images wirelessly, via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and print quickly onto a certain type of photo paper designed for the purpose.
Instant cameras come in two types: those that use actual instant film, such as Polaroids and Fujifilm Instax cameras; and those which use photo paper digital as do the instant print cameras of Kodak and Canon. Generally, instant film images will look much better, with improved tonality and image quality. However, instant photo paper tends to be much cheaper to buy.
The key to buying instant cameras and printers is figuring out how much you’re willing to spend on running costs for quality prints. Polaroid cameras generally produce the best prints, larger in physical size and richer in colour, tonality and detail while Instax film tends to be more reliable overall and comes in more sizes (Mini, Square, and Wide). Polaroid film costs significantly more per pack than both Instax film and Canon’s ZINK Photo Paper. Polaroid film packs also have 8 shots while Instax film packs have 10.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I use Instax film in Polaroid?
No. They use different film sizes, and film for one won’t fit in the other. Although both cameras essentially expose images onto a light sensitive paper using photo chemistry, the actual process also differs for each. Polaroid film can take up to 15 minutes to fully develop, where an Instax film is around 90 seconds.
How long do instant camera pictures last?
Just like any other photographic print, their longevity depends on how you handle them. Developed and stored under the right conditions, they can last for decades, but UV exposure, changes in temperature and moisture can significantly shorten their lifespan. Store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight; you can look for archival quality photo albums, for example. If you choose to display them, make sure you frame them using a UV protective glass.
Do instant cameras save pictures?
Most don’t – the process is purely analogue. However, some of the instant cameras have the ability to also save a digital copy of a file to an SD card or similar storage method. This is usually true of digital instant print cameras, which are just capturing a digital photo and then transferring it onto photo paper. On our list, the cameras that save a digital copy of your photos as well as produce a print are: the Instax Mini Evo, the Canon Zoemini 2 and the Kodak Mini Shot 2 Retro.
Should I shake the photo while it develops?
It’s a common misconception, but shaking a modern instant photo can actually damage the chemical layers, causing streaks in the image. Lay it flat in a dim area and let it work its magic.
What is the best way to scan instant photos for social media?
The quickest solution is to use the proprietary Instax UP! or Polaroid app or alternatively Google’s PhotoScan as these correct for glare and have reflection removal. For a higher quality scan, you can opt for a flatbed scanner or set up a digital camera on a tripod.
Can I take instant film cartridges through airport security?
Radiation can kill saturation in undeveloped instant film, so you get with washed-out, foggy photos often with an unwanted hue. To avoid this, keep your camera and undeveloped film in your carry-on bag, and ask for a hand check to avoid the X-ray machine.
How we test instant cameras and printers
We test instant cameras across a wide variety of lighting conditions, subjects, and shooting scenarios. Since these cameras are designed to be quick and fuss-free, we evaluate how intuitive their handling and controls are and how easy it is to change film cartridges.
Focus accuracy is tested across a range of different subjects and shooting scenarios to see how well the camera handles wider scenes as well as in some cases close-ups and macro. We also examine manual and auto exposure modes for accuracy and consistency. Image quality is evaluated based on sharpness, colour reproduction, contrast, and whether the camera produces consistent prints under the same conditions.
Additional features such as self-timers, creative shooting modes, and special functions—like sports mode on the Fujifilm Instax Mini 99—are also reviewed. For hybrid models and instant printers, we look at WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and file transfer speed.
All of these factors, along with portability and the cost of film cartridges, are factored into our final scores and conclusions. You can find the full breakdown of each camera’s performance in our detailed reviews.
Recent updates
March 2026: Frequently asked questions updated, prices checked.
December 2025: HelloBaby Instant Print Cat Camera was removed from the list as it is no longer available.
November 2025: List cleaned up to focus on the best products available, and speed up load times for this page.
October 2025: Several discontinued and unavailable cameras removed, including the Canon Zoemini 2. Polaroid Flip added as the new best Polaroid camera to buy. Instax Wide Evo judged to no longer merit inclusion, removed from list.
Text by Claire Gillo, with contributions from Jon Stapleyand Isabella Ruffatti.
Claire Gillo is a creative brand, commercial product and event photographer based in South Devon. She shoots all types of genres from portraits, music, interior, product to food & drink. Claire has much experience in the publishing industry too, and has worked across many of the big photography magazine publication titles from Amateur Photographer to Digital Camera. Find out more about her at www.clairegillo.com and follow her on Instagram @clairegillophotography.
