7 Best Compact Polaroid Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Polaroid Go Generation 2 Mini Instant Camera is a compact and portable option for those who love instant photography. It's designed to be easy to carry around, measuring just 4.13 x 3.3 x 2.42 inches and weighing only 240 grams (8.5 ounces), making it ideal for spontaneous photo-taking adventures. The camera uses the new Polaroid Go format film, ensuring you get the classic Polaroid experience in a smaller size. This bundle includes 16 photos, so you can start capturing memories right away.

The lens quality is standard for instant cameras, offering automatic exposure control for ease of use. The built-in flash is useful for low-light conditions, and the self-timer feature allows for perfect selfies with the reflective selfie mirror. The internal lithium-ion battery is rechargeable via USB-C, which is convenient and environmentally friendly, given the camera's construction with 30% recycled materials.

However, the film format is exclusive to this camera, which may limit options for film types. The battery life and charging via USB-C are strong points, but users should note the proprietary film format might be more expensive and less readily available than standard instant film formats. This camera is best suited for casual photographers, social media enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a fun, easy-to-use compact camera that delivers instant prints.

The Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera + Film Bundle is a great choice for those who want to capture memories in a classic, tangible way. It comes with a double pack of Color i-Type Film, allowing you to start taking photos immediately. The camera uses instant film, which means you get physical prints of your photos on the spot – perfect for scrapbooking or sharing with friends.

The lens quality is decent for a compact camera, ensuring that your photos come out clear and vibrant. The built-in flash helps in low-light conditions, so you can take good pictures even at night or indoors. One of the standout features is the double exposure function, which lets you creatively combine two images into one. The self-timer is also handy for group shots or selfies.

This camera uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is more convenient than dealing with disposable batteries. You can charge it via USB-C, making it quick and easy to power up. The Polaroid Now is compact and lightweight, weighing just 445 grams, so it's easy to carry around. It's also environmentally friendly, being made with 40% recycled materials. On the downside, the cost of film can add up over time, and the automatic exposure control means you have less manual control over your shots. However, for someone looking for a simple, fun camera to capture instant memories, this is a solid choice.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera in Lilac Purple is designed with a compact and cute design, making it incredibly portable and easy to use. One of its standout features is the built-in selfie mirror and close-up mode with parallax correction, which makes snapping selfies and close-up shots simple and fun. The automatic exposure and flash control are beneficial for achieving bright, clear photos without them being washed-out, which is a crucial aspect for any instant camera user.

It produces 2” x 3” high-quality instant photos in approximately five seconds, with full development taking around 90 seconds. This camera uses INSTAX MINI instant film, which must be purchased separately. The inclusion of a hand strap, user manual, and two AA batteries is a thoughtful touch, ensuring you can start using it right out of the box.

Weighing just 0.67 pounds and with dimensions of 4.4 x 3.2 x 5.1 inches, it’s easy to carry around. The required two AA batteries are convenient, as they are readily available and included in the package. This camera is best suited for those looking for a lightweight, user-friendly, and stylish instant camera to capture fun moments on the go.